The Problem of the "Cacique"

This posting continues some of my thoughts on obstacles to discipleship in Latin America.

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Since the time of the Conquistadores, Latin America has suffered from the complex of the Cacique, or, strongman. In most countries in Latin America, the conquistadores were motivated by the system of “encomienda” imported from Spain. This medieval, feudalism encouraged the Europeans in the difficult work of conquering the New World indigenous cultures and lands by granting soldiers the privilege of exploiting the natural resources of a defined area and to impress the indigenous people into a type of serfdom. Since that inauspicious beginning, the image of the strong, virile leader has been an accepted form of government in Latin America.

This type of leadership is reflected today in the political arena by the examples of Chavez (Venezuela), Evo Morales (Bolivia) and, of course, Fidel Castro. The hopes of other countries have been dashed when their chosen leaders have not proven capable of rising to the traditional role of the strongman. Fox (Mexico) and Toledo (Peru) serve as contemporary examples. The jury is still out on leaders like Lulu in Brazil.

Unfortunately, church life in Latin America often reflects the political realities explained above. As such, Christians have the tendency to follow the latest, newest and strongest leader rather than take responsibility for their own personal growth and discipleship. It is this tendency to follow the strongman, rather than individually growing strong in faith and practice, which is ultimately very destructive in the discipleship process.

One characteristic of a disciple that is often not mentioned or discussed is the need for a disciple to show willingness to take personal responsibility to follow hard after the priorities of Christ without regard to what is popular around them. Disciples essentially believe they can influence their own destiny (and the destinies of others) while followers or believers tend to be more fatalistic and respond to exterior stimuli.

If we are going to succeed in creating a multiplication movement of youth leaders in Latin America it will be essential that we confront this difficult cultural issue. Unless individuals accept their own responsibility, rather than following the most popular leader with his current, pop version of Christianity, we will not be successful in deeply impacting next-generation leaders with Christ’s values and priorities.