Biblical leadership is servant-hearted, humble, and accountable to God. Jesus sets the standard in Matthew 20:26-28, “Whoever desires to become great among you, let him be your servant… just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve.” True leadership begins with submission.
God appoints leaders, and they bear great responsibility. Romans 13:1 says, “For there is no authority except from God, and the authorities that exist are appointed by God.” Whether in the home, church, or government, leaders are to govern under God’s authority.
1 Timothy 3 and Titus 1 lay out qualifications for church leaders: they must be blameless, temperate, self-controlled, hospitable, able to teach, and not given to greed or quick temper. Leadership is about character, not charisma.
Hebrews 13:17 says, “Obey those who rule over you, and be submissive, for they watch out for your souls, as those who must give account.” Leaders must shepherd with love and vigilance, knowing they will answer to the Chief Shepherd.
Proverbs 29:2 teaches, “When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; but when a wicked man rules, the people groan.” Leadership impacts others deeply, either drawing them closer to truth or driving them into oppression.
1 Peter 5:2-3 exhorts elders to “shepherd the flock of God which is among you… not as being lords over those entrusted to you, but being examples to the flock.” Leadership is never about control, it is about service and example.
Leadership, in God’s eyes, is not about power. It is about sacrifice, wisdom, and pointing others to Christ.
