Deeper Reflection
Fallen human beings, including those who are redeemed, can become beastly leaders – in government and corporations, as employers and bosses, in the family and church. It can be us becoming such leaders, or us being under such leaders.The powerful but humane leader (v.4)¹⁵ : The “lion” with “wings of an eagle” is powerful on land and in the air. But its wings are “plucked” and it is brought down to earth. The leader is humbled and becomes more human, “standing like a man” with “a human mind.” The hungry for success leader (v.5)¹⁶ : With three ribs already in its mouth, the never satisfied bear wants to “devour much meat”. People under a leader who is always hungry for more success are driven beyond proper limits to do more, to accomplish more and to achieve more for him. The rising fast and high leader (v.6): The “leopard” with “four wings of a bird” suggests “swiftness and speed”¹⁷ . This leader rises quickly high and above all others with swift success and advancement. However, it can be too fast and too high too soon. The “just a monster” leader (vv.7-8): Who is “dreadful and terrifying and extremely strong” and egocentrically “devoured and crushed and trampled down” all who stand in the way.We may not be able to stop, change or be saved from beastly leaders. But one thing we must ensure: “Though you cannot change the ‘monsters’, do not succumb to them. Even if you cannot change them, you must not¹⁸ let them change you. Do not succumb to becoming one of them.”

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¹⁵ Gordon Wong, 92 ¹⁶ Gordon Wong, 93 ¹⁷ Gordon Wong, 95 ¹⁸ Gordon Wong, 99