What Jesus teaches about Leadership
Introduction
Welcome dear reader to this insightful journey into Jesus’ teachings on leadership. A rewarding encounter awaits you as we delve into the wisdom and teachings of our Savior. Leadership is a quality that touches every aspect of our lives, from our homes, workplaces, to our churches. Hence, understanding Jesus’ perspective on leadership can have a transformational impact on our lives. So, join us here for an insightful look into the leadership style of Jesus – the most influential leader in history.
We hope this devotional ignites your curiosity and consideration, prompting you to embrace the heart-humble, service-driven model of leadership that Jesus embodies. Join us as we unearth the depth of meaning in His words and actions, applying them to our contemporary context by taking tangible actions.
Bible Verse
“Jesus said, “You know that the rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and their high officials exercise authority over them. Not so with you. Instead, whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, and whoever wants to be first must be your slave—just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.” – Matthew 20:25-28 (NIV).
Meaning
These verses mark a radical departure from the common conceptions of leadership. Jesus completely flips the script on what constitutes true leadership. Unlike the Gentile rulers who exercise authority with dominance and control, Jesus urges His disciples to embrace servanthood as a pathway to greatness. This is antithetical to worldly wisdom, where leaders are often viewed as the ones to be served.
The ultimate demonstration of this principle is Jesus Himself – the Son of Man who came to serve and give His life as a ransom for many. He did not use His position for His advantage but employed it in a selfless act of sacrifice and love for humankind. This is the real essence of leadership according to Jesus: not to be served, but to serve.
Actions to Take
- Develop a servant’s heart: Seek out ways to serve others in your community, workplace, or home.
- Shift your perspective of leadership: Remind yourself daily that leadership is not about dominion or control but about service to others.
- Embrace humility: Cultivate an attitude of humility, acknowledging that just as Jesus submitted to the Father’s will, we too must submit to the concept of servant leadership.
- Exercise empathy: Make a concerted effort to understand the needs, fears, troubles of those you lead and serve them with compassion.
- Practice selflessness: Strive to put the needs of others before your own, taking your cues from Jesus who gave up His life for mankind.
Journal Prompts
- How did Jesus’ teaching on leadership challenge your current views?
- In what specific ways can you apply the principle of servant leadership in your context?
- What feelings or fears does the concept of ‘servant leadership’ stir in you?
- Are there people you have struggled to serve? How can you begin to break down those barriers?
Prayer
Dear Lord, thank You for the ultimate display of servant leadership through Your Son Jesus. Help me to mirror His model of leadership, making service to others my priority. Grant me the wisdom, humility, and courage to be a servant-leader, putting others’ needs before my own. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Social Posts
- “Jesus: The ultimate servant leader. May we follow His example in our homes, workplaces, and churches #ServantLeadership”
- “Leadership is not about being served, but to serve. Jesus shows us how #JesusOurModel”
- “Ready to make a radical shift in your leadership style? Look no further than Jesus #LeadershipGoals”
- “Embracing servant leadership is embracing Jesus’ path to greatness. Are you ready? #ServantLeader”
Conclusion
Gleaning from Jesus’ teachings on leadership requires us to embrace the servant’s heart, a disposition that may seem strange in a world that often considers leadership synonymous with dominance and control. As we look to our Savior’s perfect leadership model, we find in His teachings and actions a refreshing perspective that can radically transform how we lead and interact with those around us.
We hope that this devotional has sparked a new understanding and appreciation of Jesus’ servant leadership model. Continue exploring these truths and applying them in your life. The path to true greatness is through service. We invite you to join us on this journey here at BGodInspired.com.
Do you want to know more about what Jesus teaches about ANY topic? Then try our What Jesus Teaches GPT. This is a great modern-day companion – simply search any topic and see what Jesus has to say about it.
