What do a first-century Roman governor, a power-hungry CEO, and a scandal-ridden politician have in common? The answer lies in our complex relationship with power. 

Let’s look into the intriguing case of Antonius Felix to illuminate this timeless issue.

Antonius Felix, a 1st-century Roman procurator of Judea, might seem like an ancient and irrelevant figure, but his story is oddly familiar.

His actions, documented in the Bible and by historians like Josephus, paint a picture of power abused and justice perverted.

Felix’s tenure was marred by accusations of bribery. He notoriously kept the Apostle Paul imprisoned, hoping for a bribe, despite recognising his innocence.  

Bribery in the justice system? Rings a bell. According to the Corruption Perception Index, “Corrupt acts like bribery and abuse of power are infiltrating many courts and other justice institutions across the globe” even today, in both democratic and authoritarian countries.

Modern politics also provides no shortage of scandals. In the UK, for instance, it seems there’s always a political figure embroiled in an expenses scandal. Despite their comfortable positions, they misuse taxpayer funds for personal enrichment.

Power, unchecked by ethical constraints, inevitably corrupts.This principle applies equally to leaders of powerful organisations. A CEO might embezzle funds, use insider information for personal gain on the stock market, or manipulate the cryptocurrency market with their influence, to name just a few examples.

But let’s look deeper, psychologically. 

Felix was a freed slave. Imagine this: a man once at his master’s beck and call, suddenly propelled to a position of authority. Was he truly prepared for such a transformation? His actions suggest his instincts remained those of a slave, in survival mode, still focused on taking as much as possible rather than serving the greater good, even when he no longer lacked anything.

Let’s forget about people in high positions for a moment and look within. I’ll start.

Despite periods of discouragement where I abandoned artistic pursuits, I always find myself drawn back. Why? The pursuit of significance.

My drive is twofold: I enjoy bringing joy to others, making them laugh, entertaining them, and offering an escape to harsh reality. 

But I also yearn to be taken seriously every now and then, to contribute meaningfully to people’s lives, to inspire breakthroughs and positive change.

Knowing this, I can anticipate some potential traps laying ahead.

If my art becomes popular and I gain a large following, I might start ‘believing my own hype’, become overly defensive against criticism, seeing it as a threat to my status rather than an opportunity for growth. 

Or perhaps I might become overly focused on maintaining my popularity, compromising the integrity of my art in the process.  

Or I may succumb to the allure of my newfound status and explore things I never had access to, but that are in conflict with my values.

What is it for you? What is that yearning you have that may go too far if left unchecked?

The story of Felix serves is a cautionary tale for all of us to remain vigilant against the seductive nature of power and to prioritise service, integrity, and the well-being of those we influence.

To avoid falling into these traps, we need a good dose of humility and self-awareness, sprinkled with diverse perspectives, and fight to remain true to our values. 

Antonius Felix, the power-hungry CEO, and the scandal-ridden politician: all cautionary tales reminding us that power, like fire, is a dangerous servant and a fearsome master. 

True significance comes not from the amount of power we wield, but from the positive impact we have on others.

Reflect , Redefine, Rise!

R.