Leadership
Leading by Serving, Following Christ’s Example
“42 But Jesus called them to him, and saith unto them, Ye know that they which are accounted to rule over the Gentiles exercise lordship over them; and their great ones exercise authority upon them.
43 But so shall it not be among you: but whosoever will be great among you, shall be your minister:
44 And whosoever of you will be the chiefest, shall be servant of all.
45 For even the Son of man came not to be ministered unto, but to minister, and to give his life a ransom for many.”
Mark 10:42–45, KJV
There are many ways to understand the idea of leadership.
Some think leaders are there to lead others from a top-down perspective.
And this leadership position gives these leaders the ability to rule over others, at times with iron fist.
This kind of leaders expect others to go while they themselves only give orders.
However, this is not the Christian type of leadership.
In Christian leadership, we are called to be servants of others - each according to their ability.
Instead of going last, we are to go first, and set an example for others to follow.
Jesus is the best example of this type of leadership.
His ministry here on earth was a prime example of service and self-sacrifice.
Jesus led through example - and we are to follow it.
Now, we as sinful humans may not be able to do exactly what Jesus did, but that doesn’t mean we can’t still serve others in self-sacrificial manner.
This means putting others first, denying ourselves and picking up our cross, daily.
These verses will help us understand more what to do:
“3 This is a true saying, if a man desire the office of a bishop, he desireth a good work.
2 A bishop then must be blameless, the husband of one wife, vigilant, sober, of good behaviour, given to hospitality, apt to teach;
3 Not given to wine, no striker, not greedy of filthy lucre; but patient, not a brawler, not covetous;
4 One that ruleth well his own house, having his children in subjection with all gravity;
5 (For if a man know not how to rule his own house, how shall he take care of the church of God?)
6 Not a novice, lest being lifted up with pride he fall into the condemnation of the devil.
7 Moreover he must have a good report of them which are without; lest he fall into reproach and the snare of the devil.”
1 Timothy 3:1–7, KJV
This long list gives us the attributes that we are to have as Christian leaders.
We must be loyal, hospitable and ready to teach others.
We must also be patient in all things.
Just being patient in our decision making will help tremendously on our walk with Christ.
The position of leadership is also not suitable for a novice for the simple fact that he may be lifted up with pride, which is to be avoided.
If you are called to be a Christian leader, then let the Bible be your guide.
Don’t let the worldly example be a stumbling block for you.
We are to reflect Christ’s character in our thoughts, words and actions.
Let Jesus be your solid foundation.
I hope you’ve been blessed by today’s message.
May you have a wonderful rest of your day.
Reflection:
How does biblical leadership differ from worldly leadership?
What qualities should a servant-leader display?
Prayer Suggestion:
”Father, I ask for wisdom and humility as I lead in the places You’ve called me—whether at home, work, or church. Teach me to put others first, to guide with integrity, and to reflect Christ in all I do. I pray this in Jesus’ name, Amen.”