Servant Leadership: Emulating the Example of Jesus

Servant leadership is a powerful and transformative approach to leadership rooted in the teachings and example of Jesus Christ. Rather than leading through power, position, or authority, servant leaders put the needs of others first and seek to serve those they lead. 

The greatest example of servant leadership is found in the life of Jesus. When his disciples argued about who would be the greatest, Jesus responded by washing their feet – an act typically reserved for the lowest servant. He said, “The greatest among you should be like the youngest, and the one who rules like the one who serves.” 

Jesus modelled a leadership style characterized by humility, compassion, and a willingness to sacrifice for the good of others. He did not demand recognition or special treatment, but instead “made himself nothing by taking the very nature of a servant.”  This servant mindset should be the hallmark of all Christian leaders.

Servant leadership is important because it changes people and impacts them for service. When leaders serve others sacrificially, they inspire those around them to do the same.  As the Bible says, “Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will lift you.”  True influence occurs when people willingly serve because of the example set by their leader.

Leaders are called to “act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.”(Micah 6:8) By putting the needs of others first and leading with a servant’s heart, leaders can have a profound and lasting impact. This is the kind of leadership that Jesus modelled and calls us to emulate.