Leadership is not complete until someone walks in the footsteps of a leader. In the Bible, it was no coincidence that we see a marked change in the original disciples from the end of the Gospel according to Luke to the first few chapters in Acts. Out of genuine love for His disciples, Jesus trained and empowered them for this moment to shine. The Apostle Paul did the same for Timothy, Titus, and many other church leaders. A leader replicates himself because he loves those who follow him. The leader’s greatest investment is in the those who will take the baton.
Throughout my high school years, I enjoyed the sport of Track and Field. The relay races were some of the most interesting. Four runners who were faster than any other team did not necessarily win the relay race. A smooth transition of the baton between runners is critical to maintaining speed and balance. Christ-honoring leaders pass the baton though intentional preparation and Spirit-led timing.
Business leaders understand the value of intentional mentoring. This concept is embraced by corporate leaders and first-year laborers alike. Mentoring builds stronger organizations and ensures a brighter future. Yet, long before Donald Trump hired his first apprentice, Jethro mentored Moses, Moses instructed Joshua, Samuel guided David, and Solomon shared his wisdom with his sons.
Unlike business which are focused on profits, Christ-honoring leaders mentor out of love. A deep love for Christ will result in obeying His command to “…make disciples of all nations…” A genuine love for people will result in leaders investing in those who will take the Gospel into the next generation and beyond.
Unfortunately, discipleship in many churches has been redefined and reduced to a video course to watch or a class that is offered at the least opportune time during the week. A Christian leader must be a disciple-maker in order to be obedient to the call of Christ. Gene Wilkes says, “Servant leaders are not a success until they mentor successors to carry on the mission.”
No person is biologically born a leader, but every born again believer in Christ has been given spiritual gifts and a calling to lead. When Jesus called the first disciples, he commanded them, “Follow Me… and I will make you fish for people.”In this, Christ has given us a vision to embrace, gifts to be used, goals to be met, and a legacy of faith to leave with the next generation.
Christ-honoring leadership occurs when a believer follows the commands of Christ, utilizes his gifts for ministry, wholeheartedly seeks God’s will, and makes disciples of others. Jesus is Lord and the master leader. He was worthy of trust, inspired multitudes, was humble at heart, and displayed perfect love. He guided, empowered, encouraged, and replicated His mission to those He led. Leading as Christ led brings personal fulfillment and glory to our God. Becoming a leader is who we are created to be.
Three Suggested Resources that I have read and highly recommend (click on the image for a link to CBD or Amazon):
This article is the last of a series on Christ-honoring Leadership. If you missed one of the previous posts, the inks are provided below:
Everyone Leads Others, Somewhere (Leadership Overview)
Can You See to Lead (Leadership Distinctive- Vision)
Trust Me… (Leadership Distinctive- Encouragement)
How to Get People to Follow You (Leadership Distinctive- Inspiration)
How Good Leaders Get Things Done (Leadership Distinctive- Humility)
Feel free to post your opinions on these topics in the “Comments Section” below.
Shepherding Well 