What is Servant Leadership?

There are many different types of leadership styles that are represented in the Bible. One of those is
Servant Leadership which is demonstrated by a well known biblical figure and Savior of the world named Jesus Christ. Elmer Towns writes that this type of leader is defined as a leader who “recognizes that the real secret of leadership is found in identifying the needs of others and ministering to them”. This leader believes people will follow if their needs are being met by the leader. Jesus definitely fits this mold because He “both taught and modeled the principle of servant leadership throughout His public ministry and private mentoring.” To really understand this type of leadership it must be analyzed in light of how Jesus modeled it and what principles are associated with it.

Jesus is the ultimate shepherd, he is the Great Shepherd. The Old Testament prophecies of Him being shepherd to the people of Israel and in the New Testament Jesus lives out this designation to all. Jesus is the “Way the Truth and the Life and no one comes to the Father except through Him” (John 14:6). Jesus is the way into the sheep fold, in order to enter one must go through Him. He is the only one who allows entrance, and those in the sheep fold are protected and kept by Him. In ancient times a sheep fold was a circular area with a fence, one to two feet high, with only one entrance point. This demonstrates us being a part of God’s sheepfold. The shepherd would lie down in front of the entrance and any oppressive force must go through Him to get to the sheep. Jesus said, “I am the good shepherd; the good shepherd lays down His life for the sheep” (John 10:11). Jesus did just that when He offered Himself as a sacrifice for our sins, He was laying His life down in order that we may have Salvation. He stood in the way of the enemy in order to keep His sheep safe. Also, as the great shepherd, Jesus grew His relationships with His sheep. He had very close friendships with His disciples, especially; Peter, James, and John. His relationships were intimate, real, and gentle, “He will feed His flock like a shepherd; He will gather the lambs with His arm, and carry them in His bosom, and gently lead those who are with young” (Isaiah 40:11). These relationships are very significant and develop as Jesus cares for the needs of the sheep writes Elmer Towns.

It is so very important that we are servant leaders in our personal lives, which includes our families, churches, businesses and every activity we find ourselves participating in. In tomorrows blog entitled ‘Servant Leadership: Part 2’ we will discuss several principles that can be gained from this type of leadership and how we can more specifically use this in our faith, family and business. Blessing to everyone who is reading this!