Credibility: Luke’s Authority to Write About Jesus
Luke felt the need to establish his credibility as a biographer for Jesus. He wasn’t one of the twelve disciples, an eyewitness of Christ, or even a theologian. So he opens his book by explaining why he chose to write Jesus’ story. Good leaders recognize the need to establish their credibility.
Go to the Index of Leadership Articles.
Mary: Chosen Vessel for God’s Highest Purposes
Mary had to know that sooner or later, somebody would be chosen as the vessel of God’s very highest purpose. She must have realized that somebody would be chosen to bring the Messiah into the world, that somebody would be most blessed among all women.
But she couldn’t have known that, from the beginning of time, God had his eye on her as that somebody. He had prepared her for bearing, then rearing, the One who would be the Savior of the world.
This woman of faith responded with alarm when an angel of the Lord told her she had found favor with God and would give birth to the baby Jesus. “How will this be” she asked, “since I am a virgin?”
A legitimate question!
In short, the messenger answered, “With God, all things are possible. He has chosen you and honored you as the one to give birth to the Son of God.”
And Mary’s response? “I am the Lord’s servant! May your word to me be fulfilled.”
There may be times when we as leaders ask, “How can this be?” or wonder how God could do something through us. But wise leaders will respond the way Mary did: “I am your servant! May it be as you have said!”
Go to the Profiles in Leadership Index.
Listening: Jesus Did This to Connect with People
Even at 12 years of age, Jesus was listening and asking questions. He never grew out of the habit. Before ministering to needy people or telling them about the kingdom, he took the time to listen. He knew that to connect with people’s hearts, he had to use his ears.
Go to the Index of Leadership Articles.
PASSION | John Served God with Gusto
THE BEST single word to describe John the Baptist might be the word “passion.” John’s passion began even before he was born. He leaped in his mother’s womb when Mary spoke of her pregnancy (Lk 1:41). His passion for God grew so great, that before he began his public ministry, he lived alone in the desert, wearing camel’s hair and a leather belt and eating locusts and wild honey (Mt 3:4). He was a radical and unafraid to let anyone know it.
John needed passion to fulfill his God-given calling. Every pioneer needs passion. Pioneers cannot be satisfied with mere maintenance, for they have nothing yet to maintain. They create from nothing. The common folk often view them as eccentric—but their passion attracts other pioneers.
What gave John his passion?
1. He spent time in solitude.
Before John began his public ministry, he lived in the wilderness and spent much time with God. He boiled with the presence of God and could hardly stay quiet.
2. He felt consumed with his mission.
John knew of Jesus’ identity and his soon advent. John urgently tried to prepare the way for him.
3. He possessed a magnetic temperament and wiring.
John is described as a voice crying out (Lk 3:4) and as an exhorter (3:18). Like a magnet, he repelled some and attracted others.
4. He possessed a strong sense of justice.
When people asked John what they should do, he told them to do justice (3:10–14). This hunger for justice drove him. He wouldn’t sit still until he saw results.
5. He saw things as black and white.
Like others with prophetic gifts, John saw most issues as either black or white. While this sounds narrow to most pastors or businesspersons, this is part of what gave John his passion.
6. He felt dissatisfied with anything but action.
John was a doer. He didn’t want people to merely talk about repentance and faith. He told the Pharisees they should bring forth fruit to prove their repentance.
Passion makes for an effective ministry. So how can you increase your passion?
1. Take your temperature. Get an honest assessment from coworkers: Are you passionate about what you do? You can’t start a fire in your organization unless it first burns in you.
2. Return to your first love. Many leaders allow life to push them off track. Think back to when you first began your career. What drove you? What made you enthusiastic?
3. Associate with people of passion. Birds of a feather flock together. Hot coals stay hot when they remain in the fire. Find passionate people and let them rub off on you.
• • • • •
For a negative example of passion, see 21 Qualities: Passion: Absalom Ruins His Own Cause.
Go to the Index of Leadership Articles.
The role of the wilderness in the preparation of a leader cannot be overemphasized. Both Luke and Matthew record Jesus’ time in the wilderness at the beginning of his ministry. Jesus spent 40 days alone, in a desert, abstaining from food and noise and distraction. Both Gospel writers tell us this was a time ordained by the Holy Spirit.
So what happens to leaders in this wilderness season? Luke gives us a hint:
1. We recognize that God will lead us into seasons of growth, not gratification.
2. We fight battles and overcome temptations to take shortcuts.
3. We learn discipline and the art of depending on God.
4. We are broken of self-sufficiency and self-promotion.
5. We solidify our sense of mission.
6. We gain perspective.
7. We are prepared to enter our vocation.
Go to the Index of Leadership Articles.
Self-Discipline: Jesus Teaches That the First Person You Lead Is You
Jesus faced three major temptations during his 40 days in the desert. The enemy approached him and tried to entice him through the following temptations:
1. Legitimate needs (v. 3): He tried to get Jesus to act apart from God in order to meet his legitimate needs.
2. Spiritual gifting (vv. 6–7): He tried to urge Jesus to use his giftedness for self-profit or to draw a crowd.
3. Personal worship (vv. 9–10): He tried to convince Jesus to get ahead by linking up with a power other than God.
Jesus teaches every leader that the first person you lead is you. We earn the right to lead others when they see us lead well in our own lives.
Go to the Index of Leadership Articles.
Focus: Jesus Won’t Be Distracted from His Mission or Anointing
Jesus spoke from Isaiah 61 about his anointing (Lk 4:18). Even when his audience didn’t like what he had to say (4:28–29), he moved on to the next town to continue his work. He would not let anything drain his anointing or distract him from his mission.
Go to the Index of Leadership Articles.
The Law of Buy-In: Jesus Builds a Team Before His Men Understand It All
The Law of Buy-In reminds us that people buy in to the leader before they buy in to the vision of that leader. Jesus directed three seasoned fishermen to let down their nets in a certain part of the lake in order to get a catch. Peter responded that they had fished hard all night, without catching anything. Yet he gave Jesus’ word higher authority than his own experience.
This is crucial. Jesus’ leadership drew a buy-in from professionals who felt certain they knew the fishing business better than he did. When Jesus’ directions proved fruitful, they became willing to follow him anywhere. Even before they understood all the places they would be going, they left everything to follow him.
Go to the Index of Leadership Articles.
Communicating Vision: Jesus Shared a Compelling Vision
Jesus presented a compelling vision, using assuring terms (“Don’t be afraid”), familiar pictures (“you will fish”) and a challenging goal (“people”). He cast his vision in one sentence of 11 words! A vision that is short, sharp, and shaped to fit the people enables leaders to succeed.
Go to the Index of Leadership Articles.
The Law of Intuition: Jesus Saw Potential in Simon and Matthew
Would any of us have picked Simon the fisherman or Matthew the tax collector to be on our team? The former spoke more than he thought; the latter took more than he gave. But Jesus saw them both as diamonds in the rough.
Jesus could see beyond the imperfections, and he put a “ten” on their foreheads instead of the “three” or “four” they deserved. Unstable Peter became a solid leader of the church at Jerusalem, while Matthew became one of the most generous people in the Gospels.
The Law of Intuition enables leaders to spot potential. Consider the biblical record . . .
1. Who would have chosen a stammering Moses to be a spokesman for God?
2. Who would have chosen a shepherd boy like David to be King of Israel?
3. Who would have chosen an uncouth John the Baptist to prepare the way for Jesus?
4. Who would have chosen a converted prostitute, Mary, to herald the resurrection?
Go to the Index of Leadership Articles.
Mentoring: Jesus Spent the Majority of His Time with Twelve, Not Twelve Hundred
In less than one generation, the disciples of Jesus progressed from ignorant laborers to bold spiritual leaders in what is now the largest organization in the world. How could this transformation occur?
It happened because Jesus spent the bulk of his time with them. The Son of God invested the vast majority of his time with twelve, not twelve hundred. Jesus practiced the axiom: More time with less people equals greater kingdom impact.
Like all good mentors, Jesus provided:
1. Handles: He simplified truth into something his men could grasp, practice, and pass on to others. He took complex theology and made it usable.
2. Roadmaps: Roadmaps give you the big picture; they reveal where you are; they show you what roads to take; and they tell you what roads to avoid. Jesus did this consistently with the Twelve.
3. Laboratories: Labs are safe places for experimentation. Jesus didn’t just lecture, he provided labs for his disciples to practice what they learned.
4. Roots: Jesus gave his followers a firm foundation and a sense of heritage. They sunk their roots into solid ground and were willing to die for him and his teaching.
5. Wings: Jesus empowered his men to soar beyond where he went himself (Jn 14:12). He pushed them and cheered them on in their victories.
Go to the Index of Leadership Articles.
Positive Attitude: Jesus’ First Job Was to Change Their Perspective
What did Jesus do first when training his leaders? He transformed their perspective and attitude. He talked about the blessing of being poor, hungry, hated, insulted, or persecuted. Talk about a change of attitude! Effective training always begins with attitude and perspective, changing individuals from the inside out.
Go to the Index of Leadership Articles.
There exists no better example of a godly leader than the Lord Jesus Christ. Every word he spoke, everything he did, served to model what godly leadership looks like.
We see Jesus spending a day ministering, not to those who seemed by human standards to be most worthy, but to those who needed him most. He healed the sick and lame, cast out evil spirits, even raised the dead. And when he entered the home of one of the religious leaders of the day, he spent his time ministering to a lowly sinner.
All of those to whom Jesus ministered had one thing in common: They knew of their own need. They came to him with empty, outstretched hands, hoping he would show them compassion. And he did not disappoint their hope, for when the people saw Jesus’ loving power in action, they glorified God and said, “A great prophet has appeared among us,” and “God has come to help his people” (Lk 7:16).
Our world is full of needy people, overflowing with men and women who know they’re missing out on something, bursting with hurting individuals who come to us with hands outstretched. As leaders for Christ, it is our job to reach out to the whole world so that those who admit their need have a chance to come to him.
Go to the Profiles in Leadership Index.
Commitment: Solve Our Problems but Save Our Pigs
Jesus always approached people to meet their needs before he asked them to follow or obey him. After he delivered the demonized man in Gerasa, the man wanted to do something in return. Jesus told him to return to his hometown and spread the news of God’s kingdom. The man acted as he did in response to a leader who practiced the Law of Connection. Gratitude nearly always follows grace. Look at the connection and response in these verses alone:
The Leader Connects | The People’s Response |
1. Jesus calmed the sea for his disciples (8:24). | 1. They were sent out (9:1–6). |
2. Jesus delivered the demonized man (8:33). | 2. He was to preach at home (8:39). |
3. Jesus healed the woman’s blood disease (8:47). | 3. She was to exhibit peace (8:48). |
4. Jesus raised Jairus’s daughter from the dead (8:54). | 4. He was to feed and minister (8:55). |
Go to the Index of Leadership Articles.
The Law of Connection: Jesus Always Met Needs First
Jesus once met a man controlled by a legion of demons. The poor man had lost control and had to be chained and kept under guard. When Jesus cast the offending demons into some nearby pigs, the man instantly grew calm and whole.
Ironically, when the area’s residents took one look at the man, they asked Jesus to depart. No doubt they felt pleased to see this man healed—but not at the expense of their livestock! They feared the demon-possessed man, but they feared even more a Jesus who took complete control over the situation. It’s important to remember in any conflict: Jesus doesn’t want to take sides; he wants to take over!
Often we resemble the Gadarenes, those who wanted Jesus to solve their problems but save their pigs. “We don’t want to upset things or get radical,” we say. “We want change . . . as long as it doesn’t change us.” But this is not Jesus’ way.
Note several lessons this passage teaches us about leadership:
1. Leadership means discomfort.
If you’re going to be an effective leader, you must live outside of your comfort zone.
2. Leadership means dissatisfaction.
God uses dissatisfaction as a tool to move us to greater things and higher ground.
3. Leadership means disruption.
The status quo is never the goal of a leader. Disruption is our constant companion.
Go to the Index of Leadership Articles.
Delegation: Jesus Shared Both Responsibility and Authority
Jesus sent out his disciples, two by two, for some on-the-job training. Note how he got them ready for this ministry experience:
1. Motivation: He called them together (v. 1).
2. Impartation: He empowered them and gave them authority (v. 1).
3. Delegation: He sent them out to do a job (v. 2).
4. Communication: He gave them specific direction (vv. 3–5).
5. Evaluation: He held them accountable when they finished (v. 10).
If we are going to succeed in our mission (and live to tell about it), we must share the workload with a team. Jesus aimed to develop people as he shared the work. Consider three methods of distributing tasks among a team:
1. Dumping: Leaders unload a task, happy to relieve themselves of the burden. There is little to no preparation; the leaders focus on getting rid of a task. Major damage can be done to the people who receive the work.
2. Delegating: Leaders prepare ahead of time, then plan how to best give work away to the right people. Less damage results, but the leaders still focus on eliminating the task, not building the people.
3. Developing: This is the ultimate way to share work. Leaders prepare the people and the work, then focus on the training of the people. Both the leaders and the workers benefit.
Go to the Index of Leadership Articles.
The Law of Explosive Growth: Jesus Expands His Training to Seventy
Some time after Jesus sent out his twelve, handpicked disciples for on-the-job training (Lk 9), he expanded his training to include 70 unnamed disciples who followed him (Lk 10). We have reason to believe both men and women made up this group of 70 trainees, and what they accomplished greatly multiplied Jesus’ ministry in Judah.
Before they left, however, many felt apprehensive about being sent out—just look at the long briefing Jesus gave them. Also, after they returned, note their surprise at how well things went. Jesus expected a lot from them, but he also gave them a lot. This valuable team prepared each city for Jesus’ coming and in return received valuable training from the experience.
The Law of Explosive Growth teaches that success is determined by who and what the leader teaches. To multiply his or her influence, the leader must teach other leaders and equip them with skills and principles to enable them to influence others. When a leader does this, he or she moves from addition to multiplication.
Go to the Index of Leadership Articles.
Generosity: A Candle Loses Nothing by Lighting Another
God likes win/win situations. We see this in the account of the feeding of the five thousand. Jesus took one basket of fish and bread, blessed it, and fed multitudes. Whoever gave up his lunch basket in the beginning received 12 times more at the end of the day. This is how generosity works.
Go to the Index of Leadership Articles.
The Law of the Inner Circle: Jesus Prepared Men to Represent Him
Three of Jesus’ key men saw him transfigured on a mountain. He had specifically chosen these three to share the experience with him, one of several special times he arranged for Peter, James and John. While the other nine disciples waited at the foot of the mountain for their comrades to return, this “inner circle” witnessed a miracle.
Jesus, the ultimate Trainer and Mentor, did things this way to prepare some key players for future leadership. Watch how he did it. Jesus . . .
• selected a group of key men (v. 28)
• took them to a special place (v. 28)
• spent time praying with them (vv. 28–29)
• shared an unusual experience with them (vv. 30–31)
• provided a lasting memory for them (vv. 32–33)
• invested special time speaking with them (vv. 34–35)
• gave them a secret history with him that prepared them for the future (v. 36)
Go to the Index of Leadership Articles.
Focus: Jesus Resolved to Move Toward a Difficult Climax
Although Jesus saw the end coming, “He resolutely set out for Jerusalem” (Lk 9:51). His focus could be seen in his face (9:51–53) and in the arrangements to expedite his journey (9:52). Yet he never lost sight of the big picture (9:54–56). Jesus determined to reach his ultimate destination.
Go to the Index of Leadership Articles.
The Law of Empowerment: Jesus Empowered His Team to Work
Jesus gave away his power to a team of 70 leaders and sent them out. Although they felt apprehensive about this first ministry tour, Jesus gave them everything they needed to succeed. Note how he equipped these leaders:
1. He appointed them and sent them out (v. 1).
2. He gave them a meaningful task to prepare cities for his arrival (v. 1).
3. He told them why their mission was so important (v. 2).
4. He calmed their fears with a long preparation speech (vv. 2–16).
5. He cautioned them about possible hardship (v. 3).
6. He issued explicit instructions about potential scenarios (vv. 4–11).
7. He imparted his convictions about their work (vv. 12–15).
8. He rejoiced with them as they returned (vv. 17–18).
9. He evaluated and debriefed them on their experience (vv. 19–20).
10. He prayed with them and affirmed their gifts and their future (vv. 21–24).
Go to the Index of Leadership Articles.
Evaluation and Debriefing: Jesus Helps His Team Interpret Results
When the 70 workers returned from their ministry trip, they reported to Jesus what had happened to them. They felt elated at the power that flowed through them and with the fruit they bore (Lk 10:17).
Jesus helped them to reflect on the results. He rejoiced with them and affirmed their authority over the enemy. He didn’t stop there, however. He reminded them of the big picture and about what is really worth celebrating (10:20).
Practice doesn’t make perfect; practice with evaluation makes perfect. In this passage, we see a master Mentor who evaluated what happened, guided the learning of his learners, and helped them assess the take-away value of their experience.
Go to the Index of Leadership Articles.
Martha: Don’t Miss the Jesus Moments
When Jesus and his disciples arrived at Martha’s house, she welcomed them gladly and immediately saw to their needs. But the more she served, the angrier she got. While she was slaving away, her sister was sitting at Jesus’ feet, hanging on to his every word. Finally, Martha erupted in frustration, “Lord, don’t you care that my sister has left me to do the work by myself? Tell her to help me!” (Lk 10:40).
We might expect Jesus to tell Mary to help. But that’s not what Jesus did. Instead he took the opportunity to teach Martha that activity is not necessarily accomplishment. He explained, “Few things are needed—or indeed only one. Mary has chosen what is better, and it will not be taken away from her” (Lk 10:42).
Mary took advantage of Jesus’ presence and gave him her full attention. She demonstrated focus, an indispensable quality of leadership, by directing her priorities and concentration on the main thing. Martha had her priorities mixed up—she focused on the minor things—and nearly missed the Jesus moment. Martha’s experience teaches us that when Jesus is in the house (and remember, he’s always in the house), give him your full attention. Prioritizing attentiveness to Jesus focuses our energies on what really matters and increases our leadership influence and effectiveness.
Go to the Profiles in Leadership Index.
The Law of Priorities: Jesus Clarifies Priority One for Martha
When Martha became preoccupied with impressing her guests, Jesus clarified for her the most important activity. Jesus revealed to her that only “few things are needed—or indeed only one” (Lk 10:42). All through his ministry, Jesus helped people get clarity on the important things. It’s the job of the leader.
Go to the Index of Leadership Articles.
Jesus Teaches Paternal Leadership and the Priority of Prayer
Jesus answered his disciples’ request for instruction on prayer by giving them a model we call “the Lord’s Prayer.” In it, Jesus refers to God as “Father.” On the heels of that prayer, he teaches about paternal leadership (Lk 11:5–13).
The wonderful father image suggests the strength and respect of a leader as well as the love and concern of a leader. Consider the ingredients of a healthy paternal leader in the home:
1. His pattern for the family
He is to set an example for everyone else, to be a model.
2. His provision for the family
He is to provide for others, insuring they have the resources they need.
3. His protection for the family
He is to keep them from harm’s way and make sure they are safe and secure.
4. His prayer for the family
He is to pray for them to reach their potential and become all God intends them to be.
Go to the Index of Leadership Articles.
The Law of Navigation: Jesus Charts the Course for His Disciples
Jesus provided good instruction for his disciples on issues such as integrity, anxiety, convictions, problem solving, greed, jealousy, priorities and trusting God. Why these topics? Because Jesus intended to navigate life for his followers, to teach them how to live successfully.
If we were to condense the Lord’s perspective on success in life, we might say that success involves:
• Decisions: We must know the truth and accept it.
• Servanthood: We must find a need and fill it.
• Determination: We must face a challenge and meet it.
• Sacrifice: We must lose our life to find it.
• Preparation: We must develop a plan and follow it.
• Action: We must discover God’s will and obey it.
• A gift: We must find our talent and share it.
• Durability: We must be tenacious and finish well.
Go to the Index of Leadership Articles.
The Law of Navigation: Jesus Helps Listeners Interpret the Times
Like all good leaders, Jesus left his followers with a plan for the future and gave them some key tools, including:
1. Lenses: He modeled the right attitude to approach the future.
2. A road map: He warned them about rough roads ahead.
3. A barometer: He helped them interpret future conditions.
Go to the Index of Leadership Articles.
Commitment: The Best Leaders Vote with Their Lives
Jesus gave himself wholly to his cause and to his men. Consequently, he could ask them to do the same. When leaders vote with their lives, their followers gain all kinds of security. Jesus’ call for commitment both screened the uncommitted and attracted the committed.
Go to the Index of Leadership Articles.
The Law of Navigation: Count the Cost, Then Determine the Direction
In two small but wonderful parables, Jesus speaks about planning and preparation. He teaches listeners to count the cost before taking action, applauds evaluation before taking action and encourages damage prevention through preparation and negotiation. To calculate in this way is not a lack of faith, but foresight based on insight and hindsight.
Go to the Index of Leadership Articles.
COMPETENCE | A Necessary Step on the Road to Excellence
LABELING SOMEONE competent or incompetent may seem judgmental and narrow, yet all leaders must possess a level of competence that enables them to get the job done. The kingdom of God cannot do without competence.
Everyone knows that leaders must demonstrate a level of competence in order to gain the trust and respect of followers. No one chooses to follow an incompetent leader over a competent one, regardless of personality. Friendship is not synonymous with leadership; people can like you as a friend but not follow you as a leader. To the degree they feel you are incompetent to lead, they will distance themselves from your leadership.
Competence goes beyond words. It’s the leader’s ability to say it, plan it and do it in such a way that others know you know your business—and know that they want to follow you. Competence must be sought at every organizational level. Incompetence can be tolerated nowhere. John Gardner once wrote, “The society which scorns excellence in plumbing because plumbing is a humble activity and tolerates shoddiness in philosophy because it is an exalted activity will have neither good plumbing nor good philosophy. Neither its pipes nor its theories will hold water.”
Jesus highlights the issue of competence in the two stories recounted in Luke 14. In both stories, what is missing is competence. The builder and the king in these stories lacked what it took to get the job done. Therefore the tower never got built and the war never was won. According to Jesus, competence requires three ingredients:
1. Commitment
Jesus said our commitment to him must look like disdain for everyone else. We must pick up our cross and follow him.
2. Resources
Jesus spoke about a builder calculating whether he had enough to finish a tower. Determine whether your resources, gifts, talents and abilities are available to do the job.
3. Intelligence
Jesus spoke about a king seeking counsel to know whether he should go to battle. Part of competence is the insight to know what to do, when to do it, and how to do it.
The combination of these three components spells not only competence, but excellence. It’s what makes people follow a leader. So—in what area are you most competent? Where do you excel? What makes others follow you?
• • • • •
For a positive example of competence, see 21 Qualities: Competence: Joshua Got the Job Done.
Go to the Index of Leadership Articles.
The Law of Priorities: Jesus Focused On the Lost
Luke 15 is often called the “lost chapter.” In this passage, Jesus talks about the lost sheep, the lost coin and the lost son. The sheep got lost naturally; the coin got lost accidentally; and the son got lost willfully. In every case, someone went out to look for what got lost (Lk 15:4, 8, 20).
Jesus attempted to underscore God’s passion to seek and save the lost. He would not be diverted from this paramount activity. Jesus believed he needed to underscore this priority because the scribes and Pharisees grumbled about how much time he spent with tax collectors and sinners. Instead of retreating and appeasing the wishes of the religious leaders, he reminded everyone of priority one. Jesus communicated his top priorities using these tools:
1. Narrative
He told memorable stories illustrating his priorities.
2. Repetition
He repeated three accounts that all underscored the priority.
3. Familiarity
He spoke about familiar people and situations.
Go to the Index of Leadership Articles.
Jesus’ story of an unrighteous manager teaches us lessons about shrewd business and a few subtle truths about leadership. This lousy leader . . .
1. Violated rule number one: Leadership is not to be used for personal benefit (v. 1).
He forgot that leadership is about giving, not getting. Leaders lose the right to be selfish.
2. Learned that a leader cannot hide his heart (vv. 1–2).
Leadership rises or falls to the level of the leader’s integrity. Leaders are vulnerable.
3. Was proactive in facing problems (v. 3).
He surmised how he could address the problem. Good leaders aren’t afraid to face reality.
4. Understood the value of relationships (v. 4).
He utilized the relationships he had developed already. He received a return on his investment.
5. Understood the nature of his influence (vv. 4–5).
Since leadership is influence, leaders know with whom they have influence—and they go there.
6. Learned the keys to motivating others (vv. 5–7).
Everyone is motivated in different ways. He found ways to make friends and get results.
7. Reminds us of the value of godly leadership (vv. 8–10).
In the end, his master praised his shrewdness; but Jesus has a deeper lesson for us.
Go to the Index of Leadership Articles.
Commitment: The Rich Young Ruler Fails the Test
When a rich young man approached Jesus to ask about eternal life, the Lord gave him a radical imperative: Sell all you possess and give it to the poor, then come and follow me.
Jesus didn’t say this to everyone. In fact, he said it only to his disciples. He knew this man needed the challenge, even though he refused to accept it. Only greed held him back from freedom. Even though he claimed to obey all the commands, he miserably failed at the first one: “You shall have no other gods before me” (Ex 20:3).
Jesus went straight to the central issue, preventing him from making a commitment he desperately needed to make. The man walked away, full of sadness. He clung to what he had instead of committing to what he could obtain.
Go to the Index of Leadership Articles.
The Law of Influence: Jesus Knew Influence Had a Ripple Effect
During his time with Jesus, Zacchaeus pledged to give half of his possessions to the poor and to repay those he had defrauded four times what he had taken. Immediately afterwards, Jesus declared that good stewards will be rewarded. God rewards good stewardship, multiplying the influence of godly leaders.
Go to the Index of Leadership Articles.
Stewardship: Leaders Are Brokers of Resources
Jesus told a story about a landowner who gave three men some funds to spend, save, or invest. Each did as he saw fit, and when the owner returned, he rewarded them according to how wisely they used their resources. Those who multiplied what had been entrusted to them received even more to use. The one who failed had even his little money taken away.
Our Lord wants us to remember that leaders are brokers of the resources they have been given. Those resources may include people, budget, time, wisdom and talents. When leaders broker those resources well, God rewards them and gives them even more to invest. When they fail, they lose what little they have.
This is a sobering truth, but one that leaders would do well to remember. Do you want more resources? If so, what are you doing with what you already have?
Go to the Index of Leadership Articles.
The Law of Intuition: Jesus Discerned the Real Issue Was Surrender
One day the scribes sent spies to trap Jesus, asking about whether it was right to pay taxes to Caesar. They knew that if he said yes, they could label him a traitor. If he said no, they could report him to the Roman authorities. They thought they had a perfect plan to silence this radical leader.
In a classic reversal, Jesus turned the tables on them. Because he practiced the Law of Intuition, he was able to see past the facade they had erected. Taxes weren’t the issue; surrender was the issue. So Jesus answered their question with another question. Whose image was on the coin they showed him? He meant that any object stamped with a person’s image belongs to the individual pictured. This coin carried Caesar’s image, so they were to surrender that coin to Caesar. On the other hand, God had stamped his image on them! They had been made in his image and should therefore surrender themselves to God.
What a memorable lesson! No wonder they became silent. This intuitive Leader answered their question by quickly getting to the real issue.
Go to the Index of Leadership Articles.
The Law of Addition: Judas Fails the Test of Leadership
While Judas had accompanied Jesus for three-and-a-half years, enjoying the mentoring of Christ, he never learned the fundamentals of leadership. Luke 22 records Judas’s betrayal of Jesus on the night of the Passover feast. Even though Jesus had served Judas supper, and even washed his feet (Jn 13:1–7), Judas missed the lesson on servanthood. He didn’t add value in return. He joined the others in a discussion on who was the greatest (Lk 22:24), then left to betray Jesus, turning him over to the Jewish authorities.
That night Judas led the entire team of disciples in failing the test of Jesus’ style of leadership: servanthood.
Go to the Index of Leadership Articles.
At times all leaders feel alone, as when they pioneer new territory. Jesus endured one of his loneliest times in the Garden of Gethsemane. Just hours before he would be tried, tortured and crucified, every one of his team deserted him. His story in the garden provides us with one of the greatest examples in history of a leader’s commitment.
Every leader who does something significant for God experiences a Gethsemane. What can we learn about this lonely season? Gethsemane is the place where . . .
1. spiritual battles occur (vv. 40–44).
2. loneliness is felt (v. 41).
3. honesty is expressed (vv. 41–42).
4. submission is required (v. 42).
5. strength is received (v. 43).
Go to the Index of Leadership Articles.
COMMITMENT | Jesus Christ vs. Simon Peter
LUKE RECORDS a stark contrast between the commitment of two leaders, Jesus Christ and Simon Peter. While Jesus remained resolutely committed to his cause and his people in the face of betrayal and rejection, Simon Peter ran away. Although the big fisherman claimed he would never deny his Master, he did so three times before the night ended.
While Peter emphatically denied Christ around a little courtyard fire, that moment merely expressed the condition of his heart. His commitment level had already drained away in the Garden of Gethsemane. There he felt helpless, powerless to maintain the promise he had made (Mt 26:35).
When our commitment drains away, we follow the same progression as Peter:
Stage 1: His following became distant.
“Peter followed at a distance” (Lk 22:54). This is not what Jesus had in mind in Matthew 16:24. Peter is still following Christ, but incognito. He’s no longer ready to die.
Stage 2: His fellowship became divided.
“Peter sat down with them” (22:55). Now the guilty disciple is mixing with an uncommitted crowd. He’s a man without a country. He’s torn between the apathetic and the committed.
Stage 3: His faith became deluded.
“But he denied it. ‘Woman, I don’t know him’” (22:57). His words now reveal his weakness, even among men and women who pose no immediate threat to him.
Stage 4: His fervor became denial.
“Peter replied, ‘Man, I don’t know what you’re talking about!” (22:60). Peter rejects any association with Jesus. His words no longer display apathy, but rejection.
Levels of Commitment
Jesus always related to people at the level of commitment they were ready to make. Note four levels of commitment in Jesus’ disciples:
Level One: Come and See
This is the curiosity level (see Jn 1:35–51). At this stage Jesus’ interaction is light and easy. When people are here, look for chemistry and faithfulness.
Level Two: Come and Follow
This is the commitment level (see Lk 5:1–11). Jesus’ words now call for some commitment. The person is ready to be challenged. Look for hunger and teachability.
Level Three: Come and Surrender
This is the conviction level (see Mk 8:34–35). This step is appropriate only after deep relationship and mutual trust have developed. Look for initiative and determination.
Level Four: Come and Multiply
This is the commissioned level (see Mt 28:19–20). Here, Jesus calls his men to reproduce what he did with them. Look for leadership and people skills.
• • • • •
For a positive example of commitment, see 21 Qualities: Commitment: Stephen Knew What to Stand For and Not Stand For.
Go to the Index of Leadership Articles.
The Law of Sacrifice: Jesus Gave It All Up to Gain It All Back
Jesus stayed so committed to his mission that he allowed weaker men to seize him, arrest him, and crucify him. Jesus laid down his life, practicing the Law of Sacrifice. Leaders must give up to go up. Jesus paid the ultimate price because he knew what was coming.
Go to the Index of Leadership Articles.
Herod: Picture of an Ego-Driven Leader
Herod Antipas—ruler of Galilee and Nazareth, where Christ had grown up—eagerly looked forward to seeing Jesus. The king had heard a great deal about Jesus and the miracles he had performed. He had waited a long time to meet this intriguing man.
Finally, with this reputed “miracle worker” standing before him, Herod had a chance to see for himself what Jesus was all about. Herod questioned Jesus at length, challenging him to perform a miracle—any miracle. All during the interrogation, the religious leaders hurled their accusations at Jesus. A single miracle would have silenced his accusers—but Jesus remained mute. Instead of defending himself, he allowed this “trial” to move forward.
Herod no doubt felt disappointed that Jesus didn’t come through with a miracle, and he and his guards greatly abused Jesus that day. They insulted him and physically assaulted him. Then, to directly mock his title, “King of the Jews,” they dressed him in a royal robe and sent him back to Pilate . . . and a sure date with a cross of death.
Herod resembled a lot of leaders in Jesus’ day: As long as he performed miracles, they were fine with him. But when he refused, they not only lost interest in him, but they committed the gravest injustice in history. That’s what can happen when any leader habitually focuses on self.
Go to the Profiles in Leadership Index.
The Law of Intuition: Jesus Interprets Current Events
As two grieving men conversed about Jesus’ crucifixion, they struggled to understand what it all meant. Jesus saw their confusion and could tell they needed someone to guide them. So he joined them and began to explain his resurrection in light of Scripture (Lk 24:27, 45). By the end of their time together, it all made sense.
Leaders interpret reality for their people. They see a bigger picture and have a leadership bias. They offer clear perspective to those who need it. They understand current events and how they fit into the overall scheme of things. Remember: Who you are dictates what you see.
Go to the Index of Leadership Articles.
The Law of Empowerment: Jesus Turns His Work Over to His Trainees
Last words should always get our attention. Luke 24 records some of Jesus’ last words to his disciples. He had trained them for more than three years. Now they were ready to go out as leaders and trainers themselves.
Jesus’ work would have failed unless his followers had taken what he gave them and reproduced it in the lives of others. After his earthly ministry, Jesus trusted the future of his organization, the church, to former fishermen and tax collectors. Jesus employed at least twelve factors in empowering his followers:
2. Trust (Mt 10:8)
3. Commitment (Mt 16:24; Jn 13:1)
4. Launch (Mt 28:18–20)
5. Proximity (Mk 3:14; Lk 8:1)
6. Responsibility (Mk 6:7)
7. Initiative (Lk 6:12–13)
8. Knowledge (Lk 8:9–10)
9. Evaluation (Lk 10:17–24)
10. Example (Jn 13:15)
11. Friendship (Jn 15:15)
Go to the Index of Leadership Articles.
The Law of Victory: Jesus’ Resurrection Brings Victory to the Hopeless
What a difference in the behavior of Jesus’ disciples before the resurrection and after it! Just before, all they had was an executed Leader. They ran from everyone, hoping to save their own necks. Afterward, they became invincible. Leaders find a way for the team to win—something reflected in the team’s morale.
Go to the Index of Leadership Articles.