Implications of the Genesis Account
In the beginning – infamous words that have shaped the ages of history. So this is where mankind began, this is the start, and this is where we find understanding of our foundational establishment. But why are beginnings so important? Beginnings provide structure, foundational sustenance, and a launching pad that all else springs forth from. Without a well-defined and reliable account of any beginning, all other created processes, structures, and truths begin to erode.
Simply stated if a beginning can be found to be flawed or unsound, then all other related doctrine is nothing more than fruit of the poisonous tree and subsequently flawed as well. Have you ever wondered why many non-believers aggressively attack the Book of Genesis, the Great Flood, or the Doctrine of Original Sin - which finds its roots firmly planted in the Garden of Eden? The answer is simple, attack the foundation and all else crumbles. There is no need to attack Christ if you can prove that the history leading up to Christ is false. The Genesis account is so crucial to Christianity, that if any slight variance from what is actually told could be proven factual, then all accounts of Christ would be subject to the same demise. In this light, beginnings not only have meaning but also have real consequences.
Foundations are essential! In Christendom our foundation is representative of an ultimate reality that is non-negotiable. As Christians we cannot accept portions of our beginning and shun others, we cannot allow daylight between any cracks of truth because cracks cannot exist.
Another point to be made about the Christian beginning is that from the onset, the Genesis account promotes absolute truth. This entire writing thus far has culminated in the statement that there can exist no cracks in our biblical account of Genesis. There are no grey areas, no room for individual interpretation, and no room for re-creating or explaining away what is written. For indeed what is written is of God, it is holy, and it is inspired by the Perfect Creator of the World.
Hence, we have a need, no a duty, to boldly stand on the truthful account of Genesis, to confidently proclaim the truth, and to never modify or intentionally amend the Genesis account in order for our sinful and fallen minds to better accept or understand what is written. Such actions only weaken the Genesis account and begin to allow daylight to seep in between the fabrics of truth that are so perfectly woven in the Book of Beginnings.
As my opening article to a series of writings that I plan to present, I find it critical to set a foundation that emphasizes the importance of proper beginnings. Leadership studies are not an exception to this rule. However, many fail to understand or appreciate the importance of a sure foundation of understanding regarding Christian leadership skills and the importance of building upon a solid foundation that acknowledges what Christian leadership is and what it is not.
In my upcoming articles we will begin to define leadership, seek to learn leadership as a process not a naturally occurring behavioral gift, and start to explore the various ramifications of process-oriented leadership.
