Slide 1Spheres of Leadership
God’s Family
Jesus on Leadership
“But Jesus called them together and said, “You know that the rulers in this world lord it over their people, and officials flaunt their authority over those under them.
Jesus on Leadership
But among you it will be different. Whoever wants to be a leader among you must be your servant, and whoever wants to be first among you must become your slave.
Jesus on Leadership
For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve others and to give his life as a ransom for many.”” (Matthew 20:25–28, NLT)
Essence of Leadership
Spiritual Followership
“Responding cooperatively, willingly, and joyfully to the influence of God-given leaders in our lives out of devotion to Christ.”
Healthy Culture of Leadership
Leadership in Our Community
Chris Cizzilla, "The remarkable collapse of our trust in government, in one chart," The Washington Post (12-4-14)
Leaders Are Placed by God
God’s Design for Leadership
12
Authority Is on Loan – Hold It Loosely
“For all authority comes from God, and those in positions of authority have been placed there by God.” (Romans 13:1, NLT)
Authority Is Representative – Cooperate with It
“So anyone who rebels against authority is rebelling against what God has instituted, and they will be punished.” (Romans 13:2, NLT)
Authority Is Representative – Honor It
“Give to everyone what you owe them: Pay your taxes and government fees to those who collect them, and give respect and honor to those who are in authority.” (Romans 13:7, NLT)
What about Immoral Laws?
““Didn’t we tell you never again to teach in this man’s name?” …But Peter and the apostles replied, “We must obey God rather than any human authority.” (Acts 5:28–29, NLT)
A Christian Manifesto, by Francis Schaeffer
When spiritual leadership and spiritual followership embrace God’s view of authority, communities thrive.
Leaders Are to serve the purposes of God
God’s Design for Leadership
19
Serve the Good of Others
“The authorities are God’s servants, sent for your good.” (Romans 13:4, NLT)
Serve the Good of Everyone
“If a king is fair, he makes his country strong, but if he takes gifts dishonestly, he tears his country down.” (Proverbs 29:4, NCV)
Serve the Most Vulnerable
““Give justice to the poor and the orphan; uphold the rights of the oppressed and the destitute.” (Psalm 82:3, NLT)
Serve with Fairness
“Masters, be just and fair to your slaves. Remember that you also have a Master—in heaven.” (Colossians 4:1, NLT)
When spiritual leadership serves the purposes of God, everyone is cared for and a city is blessed.
We Serve Christ when We Serve Others
God’s Design for Leadership
25
Use Your Freedom to Serve
“For you are free, yet you are God’s slaves, so don’t use your freedom as an excuse to do evil. Respect everyone, and love your Christian brothers and sisters. Fear God, and respect the king.” (1 Peter 2:16–17, NLT)
Serve with Respect and Sincerity
“Slaves, obey your earthly masters with deep respect and fear. Serve them sincerely as you would serve Christ.” (Ephesians 6:5, NLT)
Serve Faithfully
“Try to please them all the time, not just when they are watching you. As slaves of Christ, do the will of God with all your heart.” (Ephesians 6:6, NLT)
Serve from the Heart
“…do the will of God with all your heart. Work with enthusiasm, as though you were working for the Lord rather than for people.” (Ephesians 6:6–7, NLT)
Serve Prayerfully
“I urge you, first of all, to pray for all people. Ask God to help them; intercede on their behalf, and give thanks for them. Pray this way for kings and all who are in authority…” (1 Timothy 2:1–2, NLT)
February 18 to March 29, 2015