Go Ye Therefore

The Law of Buy-In Part 11

 Examples Beat Exhortation-2 Thessalonians 3:6-13

Paul wanted desperately to challenge the Thessalonians regarding their lifestyle. He instinctively knew the Law of Buy-In—that people buy into the leader before they buy in to his words. Consequently, he reminds them of the model that he and Silas left them. He knows that example is always stronger than exhortation. So, before he exhorts them to work hard, he reminds them of how hard his team had worked while among them (2 Thess. 3, 8) Consider Paul’s argument:

The Issue Paul’s Example Paul’s Exhortation
1. Discipline 1. We’re not undisciplined (v. 7) 1. Some are undisciplined (vv. 11, 12)
2. Work 2. We worked hard (v. 8) 2. No work, no food (v. 10)
3. Burdens 3. We weren’t a burden (vv. 8, 9) 3. Don’t be a burden (vv. 11-13)

Passion Draws People-Revelation 13:1-18

The Beast demonstrates that leaders can have a passion for evil. This man builds a large following despite his immoral vision. This illustrates the awesome power of passion. People flock to passionate leaders, even when their cause is wrong. When people are attracted to the leader, they buy in to his vision.

Join me next time for Leadership Qualities: Problem Solving Part 1