Module 3: Essential Principles of Leading Like Jesus
- Servanthood and humility
- Authenticity and integrity
- Focus on spiritual growth and character development
Story: The Foot Washing Lesson
As the Passover approached, the disciples were gathering with Jesus in Jerusalem. Eager yet unaware of the events to unfold, Andrew, James (son of Zebedee), and the others found themselves in a familiar debate about who among them was the greatest—a reflection of their misunderstanding of true leadership.
On the evening of the Passover meal, Jesus did something unexpected. As they settled around the table, He rose, wrapped a towel around His waist, and began washing the disciples’ feet—an act usually reserved for servants.
Servanthood and Humility:
Andrew watched with a mix of confusion and awe as Jesus knelt before each disciple. When it was his turn, he was overwhelmed by the humility and love in Jesus' actions. Andrew realized that true leadership was not about status but serving others selflessly. Jesus taught them: “Now that I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also should wash one another’s feet” (John 13:14).
Authenticity and Integrity:
James, known for his passionate and fiery nature, recognized something profound in this act. Jesus displayed an authentic love and integrity that transcended words. In this moment, James understood that genuine leadership required consistency between actions and beliefs—a harmony of words and deeds that inspired trust and respect.
Focus on Spiritual Growth and Character Development:
As the evening continued, Jesus spoke of his coming departure and the new commandment to love one another. The disciples grasped that leading like Jesus meant focusing on the inner transformation of the heart—nurturing spiritual growth and developing their character to reflect Christ’s likeness. This call to love selflessly was the foundation for their mission and leadership.
Outcome:
As they left the upper room, Andrew, James, and the other disciples felt the weight of a new understanding settle over them. They had witnessed firsthand the essential principles of leading like Jesus: the beauty of servanthood, the power of authenticity and integrity, and the importance of continuous spiritual growth. The foot washing had not just cleansed their feet but had also washed away their misconceptions of leadership.
In the following days, strengthened by the Holy Spirit and guided by Jesus’ example, these principles became the cornerstone of their ministry—transforming them into leaders who would change the world by living and leading like Jesus.
keys and tips for learning and applying the Essential Principles of Leading Like Jesus:
1. Embrace Servanthood
- Lead by example through acts of service and humility. True leadership according to Jesus involves putting others’ needs first.
2. Cultivate Authentic Relationships
- Be genuine and transparent in interactions. Authenticity builds trust and fosters a culture of openness and respect.
3. Embody Integrity
- Align actions with beliefs consistently. Integrity involves doing the right thing even when it’s difficult or no one is watching.
4. Prioritize Spiritual Growth
- Engage in regular spiritual disciplines, such as prayer, meditation, and reading scripture. Personal spiritual maturity is foundational for effective leadership.
5. Commit to Character Development
- Continuously evaluate and refine your character traits. Reflect on the fruits of the Spirit and seek growth in areas like patience, kindness, and self-control.
6. Show Empathy and Understanding
- Practice active listening and seek to understand others’ perspectives and needs. This builds a supportive and compassionate leadership environment.
7. Empower Others
- Delegate tasks and responsibilities, encouraging others to step into roles where they can use and develop their gifts.
8. Stay Humble in Success
- Acknowledge the contributions of others and give God the glory. Humility keeps leaders grounded and open to continual learning.
9. Model Forgiveness and Grace
- Be ready to forgive and extend grace, reflecting Christ’s love and mercy. This fosters a resilient and unified community.
10. Live with Purpose and Vision
- Keep the mission central and communicate it clearly. Leading like Jesus means aligning actions with a higher purpose, inspiring and guiding others toward shared goals.
6 Verses for Meditation (One Verse a Day)
1. John 13:14-15
"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."
Reflection:
Jesus demonstrates that true leadership involves servanthood. Reflect on ways to serve others in your community, embracing humility as a core principle of leading like Christ.
2. 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."
Reflection:
Authentic leadership is rooted in humility and considering others’ needs. Let this scripture guide you in assessing motivations and striving for selfless, compassionate leadership.
3. Colossians 3:23-24
"Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving."
Reflection:
Integrity in leadership involves working wholeheartedly and with excellence, knowing you’re ultimately serving God. Let this perspective shape your daily actions and decisions.
4. Galatians 5:22-23
"But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law."
Reflection:
Character development is central to leading like Jesus. Focus on nurturing the fruits of the Spirit in your life, aiming to reflect these qualities in your leadership style.
5. 1 Peter 5:2-3
"Be shepherds of God’s flock that is under your care, watching over them — not because you must, but because you are willing, as God wants you to be; not pursuing dishonest gain, but eager to serve; not lording it over those entrusted to you, but being examples to the flock."
Reflection:
Leadership in Jesus’ model involves willingness and eagerness to serve rather than wield power. Consider how you can shepherd others with care, leading by example.
6. Matthew 5:16
"In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven."
Reflection:
Let your actions be a testament to your faith and leadership. Seek ways to inspire others by living out your values consistently, pointing them toward God’s glory.
Prayer
Heavenly Father,
I come before You humbly, acknowledging that true leadership begins with a heart aligned with Yours. I thank You for the example of Jesus, who led with humility, servanthood, integrity, and love. Today, I commit myself to learn from Him and to follow His example in every area of my life.
Lord, I ask for Your Holy Spirit to guide me in embracing the principles of leading like Jesus. Help me to serve others selflessly, never seeking personal gain or recognition, but always pointing others to You through my actions. Cultivate in me a heart of humility, where I value others above myself and am willing to lay aside pride.
Teach me to be authentic and truthful in all I do. Help me develop integrity that Honours You at all times, especially when no one is watching. Fill me with the fruits of Your Spirit—love, patience, kindness, and self-control—so that my character reflects Christ’s character.
Father, I pray that You will deepen my spiritual growth, sharpening my character day by day. Help me to lead with compassion, wisdom, and perseverance, especially when I face challenges. May I remember that true authority flows from dependence on You, and that leadership is about serving others, not controlling them.
Empower me to be a servant-Leader, humble in success and gracious in failure. Remind me that my ultimate goal is to glorify You by living and leading like Jesus, shining Your light through my actions.
In Jesus’ powerful name, I pray, and I ask that You strengthen me to apply these principles faithfully, so I may be a vessel for Your kingdom and a true follower of Christ.
Amen.