What Do Power Do to Man
A king was chosen from among the people. He was good, kind, handsome, and strong. He did not seek power, yet power was thrust upon him. Over time, however, the young king became hardened. His virtues were slowly spent, and the man who once hid among the baggage would later throw spears at his harpist, murder priests, attack his son-in-law without cause, and deceive others about his most loyal general. Saul is remembered as the first king of Israel, but more famously as the one who attempted to destroy the “man after God’s own heart” (1 Samuel 13:14, ESV). What drove Saul to such an irrational and violent state? How did he become this man?
It is commonly believed that power itself transformed Saul. Literature and popular media often portray him as a man corrupted by the throne and the pressures of kingship. Though not speaking specifically of Saul, Lord Acton famously expressed this idea: “Power tends to corrupt and absolute power corrupts absolutely.” While Acton’s words are eloquent and influential, they deserve careful examination. Does power truly corrupt a man, or does it instead reveal the sin already present within him? Power does not corrupt the human heart; rather, it exposes the corruption that already exists.
All Have Sinned
Scripture is clear regarding the nature of humanity: “There is no one righteous, not even one” (Romans 3:10), and “all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God” (Romans 3:23). Humanity is corrupt with or without authority. Power does not create sin, nor does it increase one’s sinful nature; it magnifies both the expression and consequences of sin. Authority becomes fertile ground in which existing sin can grow unchecked.
The life of David illustrates this principle clearly. David did not sin because he possessed power; rather, power gave him the ability to act upon sinful desires already present in his heart. As a shepherd, David could have lusted after another man’s wife, but he would not have possessed the authority to act upon that desire. As king, he did. The sin existed beforehand, but power intensified its effects. While some might argue that David’s responsibilities as king caused him to drift from God, responsibility itself was not the source of corruption. His failure was idolatry—placing his position and desires above obedience to God.
Great Men Are Almost Always Bad Men, But Not Because Of Power
In the latter portion of Acton’s quote, he claims that “Great men are almost always bad men, even when they exercise influence and not authority.” This statement contains partial truth, but again misidentifies the cause. Scripture teaches that the world opposes righteousness: “If the world hates you, know that it has hated me before it hated you” (John 15:18). To be considered “great” by worldly standards often requires conformity to worldly values. A truly godly man, who rejects the sins and folly of the world, is unlikely to be celebrated by it. Thus, such men are not made wicked by power or influence; rather, they are elevated because their wickedness already aligns with worldly desires.
It is impossible for any man to remain completely pure, whether he holds authority or not. Perfection is unattainable in this life, regardless of status. Power does not change this reality; it simply raises the stakes.
A helpful illustration can be found in The Lord of the Rings. Gandalf possesses great power, yet he refuses the Ring of Doom when it is offered to him, knowing that its influence would corrupt him. His greatest strength is displayed not in wielding power, but in surrendering it. While Gandalf is fictional and untainted by sin, the example demonstrates that power itself is not inherently corrupting. God provides the ultimate example: He possesses absolute power and yet remains wholly uncorrupted, perfectly holy. Power, therefore, does not necessitate corruption.
Humanity is always corrupt, but those in authority face greater consequences for their corruption. This reality explains why unchecked, singular leadership is dangerous. Accountability is essential, as it restrains sin and promotes integrity. When one individual holds power, their motives and actions must be examined to ensure they serve the common good, honor God, and uphold what is true and right.
Finally, it is crucial to remember that God is sovereign. No matter how corrupt or wicked leaders may become, God remains both powerful and perfectly good. He has also provided a way for since to be atoned for. Leaders, like all people, are corrupt by nature, but they are also given a path to follow, an example to imitate, and a choice to make. They may pursue righteousness or surrender to their sinful desires. This choice is not unique to leadership—it is the responsibility of every human heart.
Works Cited
“Quotes from Corrie Ten Boom.” Live at the Well, www.liveatthewell.org/quotes-from-corrie-ten-boom.html.
“2 Samuel 6.” ESV Bible, www.esv.org/2+Samuel+6/.
Williamson, David. “Power without Corruption | Understanding the Gospel.” Understanding the Gospel, 2022, understandingthegospel.org/blogs/david-williamson/power-without-corruption/.
MacArthur , John. “Chaos, Corruption, and the Christian Response.” Grace to You, 2020, www.gty.org/articles/45CHAOS/chaos-corruption-and-the-christian-response.
