by Dave Griffiths
Early at the start of 2020, the world as we know it, began to change. Normal has been replaced by the “new normal”, whatever that is, and the essential need for leadership is apparent to any thinking person.
But what is a leader? What makes a leader? Is it Rank, Status, Clout, or Style? Is leadership automatically the CEO, or President, or Head of State?
According to Jesus, the truest kind of leadership demands service, sacrifice, and selflessness. He said,
“The Son of man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life a ransom for many,” (Matt. 20:25-28).
Today, these are not characteristics most people associate with leadership, but they are essential qualities of a biblical approach to leadership. A biblical approach is the only approach that Christians should consider.
Most people fear the end of the world is coming when a virus of this magnitude affects the entire world, but they have no idea what the word Eschatology means! And our world leaders aren’t going to elaborate or suggest that we should be waiting for the glorious return of our Saviour.
Our culture today, is crying out for solutions, formulas, one, two or three-step programs to answer every human need. Jesus said “I am the Way” the only way. (John 14:6). We can count on Him in every situation.
All Christians in every kind of leadership, are called to remember that the leadership role is a spiritual responsibility, and will one day be called to give an account (Matt. 25:14-30).
To put it simply, leadership is influence. The ideal leader is someone whose life and character motivate people to believe and to follow. The apostle Paul was a dynamic leader, and still leads, having written most of the New Testament. Acts 27 and 2 Corinthians show Paul at his best as a leader. He was a true example of a Christlike leader.
A real leader is an example to follow, not just believe, and the best example to follow, as Paul knew, is the one who follows Christ. Paul measured his own success as a leader by a single criterion: he had kept the faith, meaning that he had remained faithful in following Christ, and that he had kept the Gospel intact. He had proclaimed the Word of God faithfully wherever he went.
I take this opportunity to thank you, New Harvest, for your leadership characteristics. Leadership that is all about character, honour, decency and faithfulness. Leaders that are Christlike.
Love to all our fellowship. One day we will meet again, together, and it will be wonderful to lift our voices in praise and thankfulness.
Dave.