Guiding Question
What does biblical leadership look like, and how should elders in the church lead with the right spirit, motivation, and manner?
Summary
This message explores the nature of spiritual leadership as taught in the New Testament, particularly focusing on the role of elders in the church. It warns against common corruptions of leadership—seeking power, privilege, and recognition—and contrasts these with the humble, servant-hearted leadership exemplified by Jesus Christ.
The sermon unfolds in several parts:
The Perils of False Leadership Motivations
Leaders tempted by personal power, privilege, and recognition
Jesus’ strong condemnation of such attitudes in Matthew 23
The Proper Motivation for Eldership
A genuine eagerness to serve others, not to exalt self
Caring, guiding, admonishing with a servant’s heart
The Right Manner of Leadership
Leading by example, not intimidation or coercion
Authority is earned through godly living worthy of imitation
The Role of the Senior Pastor
Jesus Christ as the ultimate Senior Pastor
Elders as His associates fulfilling His commands
The Responsibility of Those Led
To know, appreciate, and imitate their leaders
To follow with trust and confidence in their godly example
Encouragement for Leaders and Congregation
Leaders humbly seeking God’s strength
Congregation embracing their role in supporting leadership
Key Takeaways
Leadership is not about personal gain: The desire for power, privilege, or recognition perverts the office of elder.
Servant leadership is essential: Elders must lead with a heart to serve others eagerly and selflessly.
Authority comes from example: Elders lead by living lives worthy of respect and imitation, not by demanding obedience.
Jesus is the true Senior Pastor: All church leaders are His representatives, serving under His authority.
Followers must respond rightly: Christians are called to know their leaders, respect them, and follow them with faith and trust.
Leadership requires humility and dependence on God: Leaders should recognize their own insufficiency and rely on God’s strength.
Scriptural References
Matthew 23:1-12 — Jesus’ rebuke of leaders who seek power, privilege, and recognition, and His call to humility.
1 Peter 5:1-4 — Instructions to elders to shepherd the flock willingly, not lording over, and leading by example.
1 Thessalonians 5:12-13 — Call to know and appreciate those who labor in leadership.
Hebrews 13:7, 17 — Remember and imitate leaders’ faith; obey them with confidence and joy.
Recorded 11/9/80
