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During the Intentional Discipleship Conference 2025, Rev. Paul Jeyachandran presented a framework outlining five stages of leadership development:

1. Mission
2. Admission
3. Submission
4. Permission
5. Commission

He pointed out that failing in submission leads to intermission, creating a cycle that prevents forward movement until submission is rendered:

1. Mission
2. Admission
3. Submission

-- Intermission --

1. Mission
2. Admission
3. Submission

Rev. Paul emphasized that "moral authority begins with submission, is strengthened by self-control, and is fulfilled through a life of service," showcasing submission as foundational to leadership. He also noted that "if you are unwilling to submit, you are unable to commit," making submission central to Pillar 1: A Life Anchored in Submission.

While his principles are undoubtedly sound and aimed at encouraging leadership rooted in humility and service, their impact depends on how submission is understood and applied. Unfortunately, some attendees quickly weaponized submission, equating it with blind obedience and taking Rev. Paul's words as an imprimatur for unquestioning compliance. My stance has always been that submission must come from thoughtful, informed decisions, not compulsion. Rev. Paul's framework remains valuable when submission is respected rather than exploited. Without that respect, intermission may serve as a necessary pause—creating the space for commission in environments where submission isn't manipulated for control.