Leaders who Serve

The Gentiles rule by Domination
The Godly rule by servanthood - Declared
The Godly rule by servanthood - Demonstrated

James and John wanted great positions in Christ’s kingdom so their egos could be stroked and they could exert tyrannical rule over the people. Instead, Jesus pointed out that the great ruler (who would be rewarded greatly in heaven) was one who served the needs of the people so they could be effective in his kingdom.

Brothers and Sisters in Jesus Christ:

1. You must teach, love, discipline, and be ready to die for those under your charge. This is what a great leader would do. You are not be in leadership for what you can get. You will get your reward later.

2. It doesn’t matter if the people under you charge are not the best! It doesn’t matter if they really like you, if they are from a different background, if they are pretty, or if treat you with respect. You are to serve their needs. (Of course serving their needs does not mean you give them whatever they want. Serving them is to do what God says is best for them.)

3. Why would you do this? You would serve others because your heart has been changed by Jesus. Remember Isaiah 53:11 “He shall see the labor of His soul, and be satisfied. By His knowledge My righteous Servant shall justify many, For He shall bear their iniquities. 12 Therefore I will divide Him a portion with the great, And He shall divide the spoil with the strong, Because He poured out His soul unto death, And He was numbered with the transgressors, And He bore the sin of many, And made intercession for the transgressors.” And you would do this because you are following his example of sacrifice.