The Servant-Leader

TEXT: Phil. 2:5-10, MORE LESSONS: Jn. 13:4-5.

In the process of redemption, Jesus not only brought into existence a new and redeemed type of power, He came up with new ideas of and modelled a new kind of leadership to handle power. Jesus’ response to His disciples is revealing ...Ye know that the princes of the Gentiles exercise dominion over them, and they that are great exercise authority upon them. But it shall not be so among you: but whosoever will be great among you, let him be your minister Matt. 20:25-26.

He cancelled the legitimacy of all existing concepts of leadership and introduced the model leader who can be entrusted with power.

Two kinds of leaders exist: the strong natural leaders who are always trying to take charge of things, make decisions and give the order, and the strong natural servants who assume leadership simply because they see it as a way of service. Jesus exemplified the servant-leader who ...made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men: Phil. 2:7.

Joshua was a type of Christ who naturally served Moses for about 40 years. No wonder God chose him as the natural successor to Moses, acceptable to God and His people. What a challenge!

Are you faithfully serving a man of God, a ministry, a fellowship or even in the circular? Never be in a hurry, allow God enough time to train you for the position He has for you (Heb. 10:35). If you serve faithfully and committedly, you will reap the harvest, you will receive the crown and you will get divine promotion. Let the servant-leader mind be in you as it was in Christ. Whether in church, family or politics, let authority be for the purpose of service; you are not qualified for power if you are not going to use it for service. Jesus is our perfect example, He took a towel and washed the feet of His disciples to teach humility and service. That should be an example to follow in every opportunity of leadership.

PRAYER/ACTION

* Ask God for the spirit of service as it was in Christ.

* Pray that you will be an example of faithfulness in service.

* Rebuke any trace of pride in your life.

Like and share