The Christian Leader - Part 2
The Christian leader is going to look different than a corporate, sports, military, government or institutional leader. If they don’t something has gone awry. The Christian is motivated by an entirely different set of circumstances and desired outcomes. (I am not sure the word ‘outcome’ is the correct word to use – it smacks of production values, something largely antithetical to Christ’s kingdom.)
Leadership is example. A leader in church context is not so much the dominant voice; more the one who shows how to live the Christ-life, a life in conformity with Jesus. Paul confidently stated that people were to follow him as he followed Christ. “Be imitators of me, as I am of Christ.” (1 Cor 11:1). This can be costly, and at very least is death to self. A dying leader is one who lives for Jesus Christ – in his word, by his spirit, with his church.
Example is pictured for us by the terms: servant and bond slave. These terms weren’t, and still aren’t, romantic. A servant was at the behest of masters and liable to poor treatment. This is not to say that we are hapless servants, anticipating poor treatment and harsh conditions. It is saying we are to take on the role of a servant – where the well-being of others is the reason for our indentured (to Jesus) existence. Whereas slaves were compelled, we are willing, otherwise you can’t really tell the difference.
Jesus was a leader; people did things for him, took care of his financial needs, and took note of his requests (e.g. before the last supper where he washed their feet). So, it was a shock when he washed his disciple’s feet – that was surely the task of a servant girl or boy. But he was making a point we still barely get – or, I still don’t fully comprehend. Peter was incensed that Jesus would identify with a foot washer – could he possibly be more base, less dignified, which was exactly his point. A Jesus like leader can do this. It is not debasing or belittling - on the contrary it is part of his/her nobility to be able to serve, when needed. If anything is beneath our dignity, we haven’t gotten low enough. We aren’t masters, nor lords – we are slaves to Christ, servants to others.
Part 2 of 3