When we think about leadership, the world often points to power, authority, and control. Yet the Bible offers a perspective that’s radically different—and deeply transformative. Jesus Christ, the ultimate example of a leader, showed us a path rooted in love, humility, and selfless service. His approach challenged the norms of his time and continues to inspire today.
In this article, we’ll explore the powerful leadership qualities Jesus demonstrated and how we can embody them in our own lives. I’ve included scriptures for you to meditate on, offering deeper context and guidance as you reflect on each principle to uncover what it means to lead with the heart of Jesus.
1. Be A Servant
Jesus didn’t come to be served—He came to serve others. This stands in sharp contrast to the world’s typical view of leadership, where being in charge often means others serve you. In Matthew 20:28, Jesus says, “Even as the Son of man came not to be ministered unto, but to minister, and to give his life a ransom for many.” His entire life was a model of servant leadership, where the needs of others came first. He washed His disciples’ feet, healed the sick, and ultimately gave His life for humanity.
As leaders, we’re called to follow His example by serving those we lead. This means prioritizing their well-being over our own ambitions, showing compassion, and leading with a selfless heart. True leaders lift others up, not themselves.
Matthew 20:25-28
[25] But Jesus called them to him and said, “You know that the rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and their great ones exercise authority over them. [26] It shall not be so among you. But whoever would be great among you must be your servant, [27]and whoever would be first among you must be your slave, [28] even as the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.” (ESV)
Phillipians 2:7a
Instead he emptied himself by assuming the form of a servant, taking on the likeness of humanity. (HCSB*)
2. Be Humble
Jesus was the Son of God, yet He chose humility in ways that still inspire us today. Philippians 2:6-7 says, “Who, existing in the form of God, counted not the being on an equality with God a thing to be grasped, but emptied himself, taking the form of a servant, being made in the likeness of men.” Jesus didn’t hold tightly to His divine privileges. Instead, He embraced a life of service, teaching us that true leadership isn’t about elevating oneself but lifting others.
A leader with the mindset of Jesus knows that humility is a powerful strength, not a weakness. It’s the quiet confidence to serve without seeking recognition and to lead by putting others first.
Philippians 2:3–8
[3] Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves. [4] Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others. [5] Have this mind among yourselves, which is yours in Christ Jesus, [6] who, though he was in the form of God, did not count equality with God a thing to be grasped, [7] but emptied himself, by taking the form of a servant, being born in the likeness of men. [8] And being found in human form, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross. (ESV)
1 Peter 5:6–7
[6] Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God so that at the proper time he may exalt you, [7] casting all your anxieties on him, because he cares for you. (ESV)
3. Lead with Love
The love he showed defines Jesus’ leadership. In John 13:34-35, He commands, “A new commandment I give unto you, that ye love one another; even as I have loved you, that ye also love one another. By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another.” Jesus led with a love that was selfless, unconditional, and inclusive—a love that reached everyone, no matter the cost. This love isn’t just a feeling; it’s an intentional action.
True leaders are called to love those they lead, extending kindness, compassion, and grace, even when it’s difficult. In doing so, they set an example that draws others in and reflects a higher purpose.
John 13:34–35
[34] A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another: just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another. [35] By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another.” (ESV)
1 John 3:14
We know that we have passed out of death into life, because we love the brothers and sisters. The one who does not love remains in death. (CSB)
4. Lead by Example
Jesus didn’t just talk about love, service, and humility—He lived it out every day. After washing His disciples’ feet, He said in John 13:15, “For I have given you an example, that ye also should do as I have done to you.” His message was clear: true leadership isn’t about words alone; it’s about showing up in action. Jesus taught us that a leader’s credibility comes from the harmony between their words and deeds.
As leaders, we’re called to follow this example—to lead with integrity by embodying the values we encourage in others. In this way, we build trust and inspire others to follow.
John 13:12-17
[12] When he had washed their feet and put on his outer garments and resumed his place, he said to them, “Do you understand what I have done to you? [13]You call me Teacher and Lord, and you are right, for so I am. [14] If I then, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also ought to wash one another’s feet. [15] For I have given you an example, that you also should do just as I have done to you. [16] Truly, truly, I say to you, na servant3 is not greater than his master, nor is a messenger greater than the one who sent him. [17] If you know these things, blessed are you if you do them. (ESV)
Titus 2:7–8
[7] Show yourself in all respects to be a model of good works, and in your teaching show integrity, dignity, [8] and sound speech that cannot be condemned, so that an opponent may be put to shame, having nothing evil to say about us. (ESV)
5. Lead with Courage and Conviction
Jesus exemplified this, standing strong in His mission even when facing intense opposition. In John 18:37, He boldly declares, “Thou sayest that I am a king. To this end have I been born, and to this end am I come into the world, that I should bear witness unto the truth. Every one that is of the truth heareth my voice.” Jesus never wavered or softened His message, even when it led Him to the cross.
Leaders with a Christ-centered mindset stand firm in their convictions, grounded in truth and integrity. They remain steady, even when challenges arise, knowing that true leadership often calls for courage in the face of adversity.
John 18:37
[37] Then Pilate said to him, “So you are a king?” Jesus answered, “You say that I am a king. For this purpose I was born and for this purpose I have come into the world—to bear witness to the truth. Everyone who is of the truth listens to my voice.” (ESV)
Deuteronomy 31:6
[6] Be strong and courageous. Do not fear or be in dread of them, for it is the LORD your God who goes with you. He will not leave you or forsake you.” (ESV)
Psalm 1:1–2
[1] Blessed is the man who walks not in the counsel of the wicked, nor stands in the way of sinners, nor sits in the seat of scoffers; [2] but his delight is in the law of the Lord, and on his law he meditates day and night. (ESV)
Final Thoughts
As modeled by Jesus, the mindset of a true leader redefines leadership. It’s not about authority or control. It’s about service, humility, love, and the courage to live our values. Jesus showed us that real leadership lifts others up and guides with compassion. It’s a call to lead with a genuine desire to see others flourish. When we embrace these principles, we honor God and create a lasting impact. We must develop a leadership mindset that reflects the heart of Christ. One that transforms our lives and the world around us.
References:
Unless otherwise indicated, all Scripture quotations are from The ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), © 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
*Holman Christian Standard Bible. Nashville: Holman Bible Publishers, 200HCSB.
