Leadership RevealedSample

The apostle Paul had many roles in the early church, and experienced various trials throughout his ministry. He found himself in many crucial moments that we can use to study his leadership skills. This study will highlight four lessons from Paul’s leadership which include: self-identity, prayer, diplomacy, and mentorship. 

1. Leaders know their identity.

The first lesson we learn from Paul is that he was confident in his new identity in Christ. He could have easily allowed his past to hold him back from embracing his new identity in Christ. When his identity changed from Saul to Paul, so did his purpose and lifestyle. Like Paul, we can live in freedom as children of God, despite our past. Christ makes us new and our identity is found in Him. 

2. Leaders Pray

As Paul accepted his new identity as a follower of Jesus, he readily embraced prayer in his normal life. In the passages you read, you will see the importance of prayer. Paul always reminds the early churches of his continual practice of prayer and encourages them to do the same. We learn from Paul that prayer is absolutely essential and beneficial as a Christian leader. Prayer keeps us humble before God and men, always looking for God’s intervention in our affairs. 

3. Leaders have Diplomacy

In addition to communicating with God, we also need to know how to communicate with people. As we learn from Paul’s letters, the best way to handle relationships with others is through diplomacy. Reconciliation is crucial for the sake of ministry. In Galatians 6:10 and Romans 12:18 we are encouraged by Paul to do good to one another and live in peace with all men. As leaders for Christ, we must live honestly, peaceably, and justly in the world.

4. Leaders need to value mentorship.

In Paul’s encouragement to do right, he also teaches us how to seek wise counsel through mentorship. God made us relational beings to build up ourselves and others. Good leaders develop healthy relationships with mentors to learn from, as well as seeking individuals to pour into. Paul adopted many spiritual sons and brothers. He spoke hard truths and firm instruction to those learning from him, from a place of love and concern. 

In conclusion, Paul is a caring mentor and prolific leader. His leadership encourages us to be confident in our identity, while maintaining a life of humble prayer. He exemplifies how to operate diplomatically with others and how to grow under the influence of good leaders. As you study Paul’s example, practice his leadership skills to live a life of purpose and influence for Christ. 

Reflection Questions:

How has your identity changed since you came to know Christ?

 Who or what can you pray for today? Are there any unresolved conflicts in your life? How can you resolve them? 

Who can you seek out as a mentor, and who in your life could you be a mentor to?