Discussion Jumpstarter
Study leader reference - not a definitive answer
Question 4
Peter grounds apostolic teaching in being “eyewitnesses of his majesty”; in the transcript the speaker defines majesty as Jesus’ character and leadership rather than “apparel” or “military prowess”—what specific features of Jesus’ way of leading should function as a test for teaching and authority in the church?
Another way to ask: Peter says the apostles taught as eyewitnesses of Jesus’ “majesty,” meaning his character and leadership. What parts of Jesus’ leadership should we use to test who should be trusted to teach and lead in the church?
Discussion Jumpstarter
Direct Answer
According to the speaker, Jesus’ “majesty” is chiefly his character—how he led, handled situations, and gathered followers—so church authority and teaching should be tested by whether it reflects Christ’s way rather than showmanship or power displays. The transcript doesn’t give a detailed checklist, but it points us to evaluate leadership by alignment with Jesus’ commands and example.
- The speaker clarifies: majesty is not “apparel” or “military prowess,” but “the very character of our King.”
- He urges listeners to think about “how Jesus did lead… how he did handle things… how he gathered the following.”
- The apostles’ goal was to “point others to Christ… the hope, the beauty, the excellent character of their King,” not gather a following to themselves.
- He quotes Matthew 28: Jesus claims “all power… in heaven and in earth” and commands teaching people to “observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you.”
- He highlights Acts 4 where apostolic witness produced shared life and generosity, calling that “power at work in the people’s lives.”