Mastering Servant Leadership Inspired by Jesus' Example

Servant leadership is an approach to leadership where the leader puts the needs of others before their desires and acts as a servant first. Unfortunately, many overlook this idea today, where leadership equates with power and authority. However, Jesus Christ is the ultimate example of true leadership, and His life and teachings demonstrate how important it is to lead with love, compassion, and a servant's heart.

With an increasing need for true servant leaders to guide God's Kingdom, those called to leadership positions must look to God's word for guidance. The ultimate servant leader follows Jesus Christ's example. Let's look at several examples of Christian leadership in Jesus' words.

Jesus Christ demonstrated servant leadership by washing His disciples' feet, which was typically the job of the lowest servant in a household. Even though Jesus was God in human form, He humbled Himself to serve His disciples. This act of service showed His humility and love for His followers. In John 13:14-15, Jesus said, "Now that I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also should wash one another's feet. I have set you an example that you should do as I have done for you."

Jesus also taught about the importance of serving others. Mark 10:45, He said, "For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many." These words show that Jesus not only believed in servant leadership, but He practiced it Himself. This is reiterated in Philippians 2:3-4, "Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others." Understanding the common good of God’s people means putting your desires second. Humility is a hallmark trait of Christian leadership.

Another way Jesus demonstrated servant leadership was through His compassion for others. He showed care and concern for those sick, oppressed, or rejected by society. Matthew 9:36 says, "When he saw the crowds, he had compassion on them, because they were harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd." This compassion led Him to heal the sick, feed the hungry, and befriend the outcasts of society.

As Christians, God calls us to follow Jesus' example and become servant leaders in our spheres of influence. Compassionate leadership is critical. Showing compassion means being willing to listen, care for, and help those in need. For example, in Matthew 25:35-36, Jesus said, "For I was hungry, and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty, and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger, and you invited me in, I needed clothes, and you clothed me, I was sick, and you looked after me, I was in prison, and you came to visit me." When we show kindness and compassion to hurting people, we serve them with love, just as Jesus did.

Another way we can become servant leaders is by empowering others. When we empower someone else, we encourage and support them to use their gifts and talents to make a positive difference in the world. As leaders, we should create opportunities for others to grow, learn, and succeed. However, we should also be willing to step back and allow others to take the lead when it is appropriate. This kind of discernment requires a certain level of humility but also creates a culture of collaboration and respect.

One example of a servant leader in the modern world is Dan Cathy, the CEO of Chick-fil-A. Under his leadership, Chick-fil-A is one of the most successful fast-food franchises, with a culture that values customer service and community involvement. A devout Christian, Cathy said his faith drives his leadership style. Yet, Cathy also comes to his job with an attitude of humility.

Cathy exemplifies an attitude of Christian leadership by being humble and compassionate, all while empowering his employees. By acknowledging and valuing the needs of others and the value they bring, Christian leaders can better serve their followers and create a culture of respect and trust.

Servant leadership is an approach to leadership where the leader puts the needs of others before their desires and acts as a servant first. Jesus Christ is the ultimate example of a servant leader, and His life and teachings show us how important it is to lead with love, compassion, and a servant's heart. Christians are called to follow Jesus' example and become servant leaders in our spheres of influence. We can become great leaders by showing compassion, empowering others, and creating a culture of respect and collaboration. Leading with love and humility for God’s glory makes a positive difference.