If you ask preachers whose style inspires them, they might say Tim Keller or TD Jakes, or John Bevere. Ok, maybe that’s just me.

As described in The Rise and Fall of Mars Hill, founding pastor Mark Driscoll would have told you he listened to shock jock radio hosts and comedians. He wanted inspiration from the people that had the ear of his generation so he could emulate their style. No matter that their style was brash and offensive. It got attention, which was his objective.

He built a brand on defying church norms by cursing, broaching topics normally considered indecent in the pulpit, and publicly berating people. His techniques played well at the advent of social media, earning him fame and a book deal. The blunt message and straight talk seemed to be exactly what young disaffected men needed to get their lives in order.

At what point did he cross the line from boldly challenging people, to showmanship? And how did he get away with it?

Abishai was one of David’s “mighty men” who fought by his side while he was being pursued by Saul and his army. The young man was known for brave exploits, like killing 300 men with his spear and slaying a giant who threatened David’s life.

Yet Abishai’s bravery turned to bravado at times, which David could not abide.

After David became king, Abishai colluded with Joab to chase down Abner and exact vengeance for the death of Asahel. Later, he had a hand in the death of Absalom. The agility and audacity that made him a powerful warrior became a weakness when he failed to wield it wisely.

What can we take away?

  • Check our motives before an act of boldness. Pride blinds us to the repercussions of our actions.
  • Use caution when tempted to celebrate bravery. It just may be bravado and we can inadvertently encourage behavior that is detrimental to our strategic objectives.