There are many examples in the Bible of Jesus's leadership qualities and how he inspires the desire to lead in others. Let's take a look at some of them.
Be a Leader, Not a Ruler
Jesus was, and is, the ultimate leader, as opposed to a ruler. Leaders inspire people to do their very best. Rulers expect people to follow them. While Jesus is very adept at getting people to follow him, it is always a choice, not an obligation. This is a true sign of leadership.
Jesus offers so many examples of what a good leader is as opposed to a dominating ruler. We are, after all, children of God — not rulers ourselves.
Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves Philippians 2:3
Work on Yourself First
In order to be a great leader you have to be clear on your own beliefs and morals and not waiver. Integrity, accountability, trustworthiness, and a servant heart will make people want to follow you for the right reasons.
Dear children, let us not love with words or speech but with actions and in truth. 1 John 3:18
Serve Others Before Yourself
True leaders put others before themselves and will sacrifice themselves for the greater good. This could mean staying up all night to finish a project, taking the blame for the whole team, stepping down so someone else can lead, etc. It is not always a dramatic gesture like dying on your sword. Real leaders often go unnoticed and don't seek appraisal for their good deeds.
Great leaders are always right in the trenches and would not expect others to do something that they themselves were not willing to do.
It must not be like that among you. On the contrary, whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, and whoever wants to be first among you must be your slave; just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life — a ransom for man. Matthew 20:26-28
Handle Issues as They Arise
Leaders are good under pressure and deal with things as they come. They know that putting the hard stuff off will just make life harder in the end. They also help others handle their problems in a loving and steadfast way. A true leader will not ignore the struggles of others, but instead recognize them and help.
Hot tempers cause arguments, but patience brings peace. Proverbs 15:18
Offer Constructive Criticism
As a leader, you may be charged with having to help someone overcome issues or wrongdoings. Always do it in a loving and teachable fashion, without judgement. All Christians have the duty to help each other in this way.
If your brother sins against you, go to him and show him his fault. But do it privately, just between yourselves. If he listens to you, you have won your brother back. Matthew 18:15
Grant Forgiveness
If you move through life with the understanding that most people are doing the best that they can at the time with the resources and knowledge that has been granted to them. then it is much easier to be forgiving. Be the most generous you can be in your thoughts and actions toward others.
If someone has done you wrong, do not repay him with a wrong. Try to do what everyone considers to be good. Do everything possible on your part to live in peace with everybody.Romans 12:17-18
Lifelong Leadership Learning
Leadership skills are developed over a lifetime. Some people are born with natural skills, but they still need to work on them. Anyone can learn leadership skills. If you are interested in developing your leadership skills we have on-campus and online courses available through Great Lakes Christian Colleges.
