Holy Week, Day 2 - Disciple Makers Series #22Sample

Having a habit of humility  

Thoughts on the message

Jesus deals with leadership here. He rebukes the kind of leadership shown by the spiritual leaders of the day. They had been given this position by God – therefore Jesus told people to honor them. However, He rebukes their pride, their abuse, their demand for people to honor them and their sense of entitlement. How did Jesus tell the disciples to demonstrate leadership? Two ways. First, remember that we are all equal before God. Second, leaders serve and lead through serving. 

In terms of calling a pastor as “father”: 

There are lots of discussions about this and not all are in agreement. Some say it is fine and it is the concept of not elevating the person above those he serves that Jesus is explaining. Others take it literally and refuse to call anyone by the title. I leave that for you to decide. I am comfortable with either understanding.

What does this kind of leadership look like?

Pastors. We are not better or more important that the people we serve. I must never forget this.

Leaders. Honoring them and submitting to them is right (God ordained all authority). Elevating them to a higher position than others is not okay.

All of God’s children. God declares that we must see everyone as our equal before God.

The Greatest? The servant.

Prayer

Father, I know that it is important to honor those You put in authority over us. It is a principle that You have instituted and I must be obedient. How do I treat them with honor and yet recognize all as equal before You? It is such a difficult balance. For me, the role of leadership is the role of the servant. Without that mentality, I will elevate myself and my role. Keep my heart focused on serving, on being a servant leader and teaching everyone to serve with this kind of heart. In Jesus’ name, Amen.