Theology Thursday 25 – How to Recognize a Leader
Who exactly are we choosing to follow? If we are not careful the “leaders” that we choose to follow may lead us right of the end of a cliff. Watch TT25 as we discuss how to recognize a leader based on the characteristics of Jesus Christ.
Discussion Outline:
Mark 1
17 And Jesus said to them, “Follow me and I will make you fish for people.”[1]
Luke 4
18 “The Spirit of the Lord is upon me,
because he has anointed me
to bring good news to the poor.
He has sent me to proclaim release to the captives
and recovery of sight to the blind,
to let the oppressed go free,
19 to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor.” [2]
Discussion Questions
How do you recognize a good leader?
The Jesus Model of Leadership
He spoke to social issues
A good leader will challenge you to lead as well
- Luke 10 – Jesus sends out 72 to cast out demons in his name
Jesus loved those who weren’t worthy people
- 44 But I say to you, Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you,[3]
Jesus guarded his energy [4]
Jesus only requested noble things
Jesus saw life in dead situations despite others unbelief – (John 11 Lazurus)
He served others
- Matt 20 28 just as the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life a ransom for many.” [5]
Jesus was a good follower
- Followed the will of God all of the way to the cross
- Luke 22 42 “Father, if you are willing, remove this cup from me; yet, not my will but yours be done.”[6]
He was visible/always around the people he served
- Jesus often ate the those who were considered to be sinners
Jesus was open to criticism
- Matt 15: 25 But she came and knelt before him, saying, “Lord, help me.” 26 He answered, “It is not fair to take the children’s food and throw it to the dogs.” 27 She said, “Yes, Lord, yet even the dogs eat the crumbs that fall from their masters’ table.” 28 Then Jesus answered her, “Woman, great is your faith! Let it be done for you as you wish.” And her daughter was healed instantly.[7]
Jesus trained his replacements
Luke6 40 A disciple is not above the teacher, but everyone who is fully qualified will be like the teacher.[8]
Other Resources
How to Recognize Leadership Character in an Individual
[1] The Holy Bible: New Revised Standard Version. (1989). (Mk 1:17). Nashville: Thomas Nelson Publishers.
[2] The Holy Bible: New Revised Standard Version. (1989). (Lk 4:18–19). Nashville: Thomas Nelson Publishers.
[3] The Holy Bible: English Standard Version. (2001). (Mt 5:44). Wheaton: Standard Bible Society.
[4] Jones, Laurie Beth. Jesus, CEO: Using Ancient Wisdom for Visionary LeadershipNew York: Hyperion, 1995. 21+. Print.
[5] The Holy Bible: New Revised Standard Version. (1989). (Mt 20:28). Nashville: Thomas Nelson Publishers.
[6] The Holy Bible: New Revised Standard Version. (1989). (Lk 22:42). Nashville: Thomas Nelson Publishers.
[7] The Holy Bible: New Revised Standard Version. (1989). (Mt 15:26–28). Nashville: Thomas Nelson Publishers.
[8] The Holy Bible: New Revised Standard Version. (1989). (Lk 6:39–40). Nashville: Thomas Nelson Publishers.