19-Jul-21

Over the past several months, our team at Owana has been memorizing and engaging with the second chapter of the Book of Philippians. We gather in small groups not only to commit to memorizing the Bible but also to discuss and interact with it, allowing it to impact our daily lives. Through this passage, with the Lord Jesus being a great example for us, Paul provides us with some wonderful guidance on the meaning of life and leadership.

Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus: who, being in the form of God, did not consider it robbery to be equal with God, but made Himself of no reputation, taking the form of a servant, and coming in the likeness of men. And being found in appearance as a man, He humbled Himself and became obedient to the point of death, even the death of the cross.” (Philippians 2:5-8)

So, as leaders in service, what are the applications of this passage for us in our daily lives, as well as in our roles in leading service? How should we read and apply these instructions? Regardless of your role – whether you’re a senior pastor, children’s pastor, youth pastor, whether you’re full-time or volunteer, part-time or full-time – you hold a certain level of position and authority. But how do we apply this position in terms of leadership?

Personally, I find that this passage is not so much about a “to-do list” as it is about a series of considerations worthy of our ongoing pursuit. As followers of the Lord Jesus, we strive to live our lives like Him, while being aware that we will never be exactly like He was. So, how do we view this passage in a way that leads to continuous growth? Below is a series of questions that I find myself constantly reflecting on:

.In my leadership position, should I focus on bringing the Lord Jesus to those I lead or on exercising my authority as a leader?

.In my leadership position, am I more concerned with getting things done or with following the example of Christ?

Saint Paul tells us to have the mind of Christ. How I answer the above questions indicates where my mind truly is. . In my leadership position, do I focus on my progress and role path, or do I continue to focus on the mission? .In my leadership position, am I often concerned with authority and power, or can I truly say that this doesn’t matter to me?

Saint Paul tells us that the Lord Jesus did not consider equality with God something to be used for His own advantage. The Lord Jesus—who had everything at His disposal—did not seek to benefit personally from it. How I answer these questions gives an idea of whether I care about Christ in my leadership or about myself.

In my leadership position, am I more inclined to serve those around me with humility, or do I ask them to serve me and meet my needs?

In my leadership position, am I willing to do anything I ask others to do, or is it more likely that I will avoid difficult or uncomfortable tasks?

Saint Paul tells us that the Lord Jesus took on the very nature of a servant and humbled Himself. How I respond to these questions is an indication of whether I am ready to be humble and serve, or if I see my position as a platform for authority.

I often tell my children: “Be a leader, not a manager.” Everyone needs great leadership (and truly desires it). But if we’re honest, most of us don’t enjoy having a “manager” or being controlled by one. The way we manage ourselves in positions of authority and responsibility will have a significant impact, not only on those we serve, not only on the success of our tasks in service, but most importantly, on our ultimate mission of leading the world to know the Lord Jesus, the giver of life.

It’s very easy in our world today to see leaders who live the complete opposite of Christ’s leadership, and unfortunately, this is the case within the church as well. Let us acknowledge that godly leadership is leadership that resembles Christ, and that each one of us has the opportunity to live this way, regardless of the position we hold.

“How has the example of Lord Jesus helped you become a more impactful leader? Tell us in the comments.

For further benefit: Read and reflect on the passage (1 Corinthians 9: 16-23).