Who has the power? ... In a church? 1 Corinthians 9-10

In our society we "Jockey" for positions.   In a union shop position is rather easy to define.   Your "hire in" date either gives you "position" or it doesn't.  If you are voted by the members to hold office, you have position.   In government we see position in a similar way.  The elder statesmen has some position over the novice.   In business it is well defined as well.  The guy who signs the checks calls the shots.   In sports position is also given to the veteran and the rookie takes a seat on the proverbial bench.   But, what about position in the church.   Does the "pastor" have the "power?" Or, does the "board" hold the power?  Does the member who pays the most tithe hold the keys to the kingdom or does the women who runs the kitchen.   Power struggles in churches is about as common as an old hymn book.  In this section we see Paul talking to the Corinth church about "who has da power."  Paul is not a weak leader here.  He believes Christ appointed him as an apostle and apostleship is the trump card in the early church.  But, Paul is careful how he inserts this power.   What he wants the believes in Corinth to realize is that it is a privilege and responsibility in the church to hold power.  That is what chapter 10 is all about.   He wants them to understand that power to the authority in the church is a chance to inspire, serve and encourage others.   It is not the "worlds" definition of power.  Power in the church is the opportunity to show more love to others.  The real person in the church is that old guy showing the younger generation how to serve when your legs fail and your back hurts.  The real person in the church is that teen who forgives his fellow teen because he comes to the knowledge that if Christ forgives he needs to forgive.   Power in the church is an action verb of service not an adverb to describe our station in life.   Paul tells us that whatever position we have we are to "boast" in the Lord.  That is real power.   Those who can praise God more with their actions and with their position.   Don't be like the world and "do" power.  Be like the church is supposed to be.  Use "power" to boast in the Lord.