Delegation and authority are interesting concepts. At work we have a whole structure of delegation and authority, parts of which are formal and parts of which are informal. When those who hold authority and responsibility are traveling over an extended time period, an email is sent out delegating authority for their responsibilities to someone to act as if they had that same authority. Others are expected to honor that delegation in the same manner they would honor the delegator. While everyone acknowledges the delegation, they still are very conscious of who actually holds that authority and who will reclaim it at a future date.
Sometimes there is a permanent delegation or extension of authority. I hold a certain authority and set of responsibilities but I also delegate or extend some elements of that to someone else regardless of whether I am on vacation or available. I am still ultimately responsible for those decisions even if I don’t directly make them.
I only delegate my authority to those who I trust to make decisions similar to those I would make. In general, that trust is well-founded. On the rare occasions when it is not, it is often because I have not communicated clearly my expectations or my background knowledge necessary to make the decision.
As a Christian, I have been delegated enormous authority and responsibility to “go into all the world and preach the gospel” (Mark 16:15). My trustworthiness is often a bit suspect but I’m still delegated – appointed – to take this on. I frequently fail both in the going and in the preaching. It turns out I’m pretty comfy on the couch with potato chips.
It is worth noting I am not instructed to make anyone do anything or achieve a desired outcome. I’m not responsible for the response to preaching the gospel. I am responsible for preaching the gospel – for telling the Good News. For living my life in a manner that opens ears – for “going”.
A Good News Delegate. I’ll take that job.
Just Sayin' 