“One of the most potent influences in the lives of most of us is that of example.” (Campbell, Leaders of Man, 1902,) In a more recent article, “real leaders are those who encourage others to act heroically, Leaders make more leaders”. (Memo to: CEO’s, Simon)
Many people feel the leader has all the power, authority and influence. Yet, this power and authority is governed and held by the people, the followers. The Servant Leader leads, knowing he is accountable to followers. It isn’t the title, the position, the power or the education that makes a leader successful. “The mantle of leadership is bestowed on you by those who grasp your mission and choose to follow you…the follower holds the final power to determine the leader.” (Wilkes Jesus on Leadership) Growing other leaders comes naturally to the Servant leader.
“One of the most important aspects of being a Pastor is fulfilling the role of servant-shepherd”. (London and White Leadership Journal) They also suggest, our communities will respond when they see the values of church leaders as “approachable, responsive, gentle, and genuinely filled with compassion. These characteristics are more significant for the leader of the flock than academic degrees, church growth numbers, or status achieved”. Imagine a church where the leaders were gifted with and lived these characteristics.
A key role for Healthy Ministry Leaders is to “equip his people for works of service” (Ephesians 4:12 NIV). Watchman Nee identifies “listening as an indispensable quality of the Christian Leader”. (What does God expect of a man, Lundy) He further suggests, “as a church leader, Men in leadership in the church must lead the people under their care, much as a shepherd leads, feeds, protects and nurtures a flock of sheep.”
Your Leadership influence is never neutral. It either moves people positively or negatively. Are your followers growing spiritually? Are they producing fruit? Are they living a Christ filled life? Are they challenged to grow, learn and demonstrate God’s love on a daily basis?
Leadership is … growing Healthy Servant Leaders
Yours in Service,
Laurie D. Kennedy
Leadership Coach
Jethro Group
ldkjethrogroup@gmail.com