Some theologians - as well as some pastors and other leaders - have an air about them of sternness, rectitude, and distance. To be in their presence may be an honor and would surely be edifying, but it would make a person nervous, leery of making a mistake or saying something wrong. That would not be the case with Luther, who - however ferocious he could be in print - was jovial, self-deprecating, and fun to be around in person.
Some leaders are so taken with their sense of authority, their lofty status, and their pride that they lift themselves up over those they are leading, coming across as cold, superior, and unpleasant. Emperor Charles V, who opposed Luther at Worms and Augsburg, was said to have a dour personality and a sour disposition. Someone with great power, of course, can lead that way, intimidating his followers and using force and rewards to keep them in line. But for people to follow voluntarily - of their own free will - and to develop personal bonds of loyalty, they almost always need to like the person they are following, to have affection for the person as well as the cause. -- Gene Edward Veith
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