Servant Leadership.
Christianity, the Bible, and Jesus are all very clear that leaders are in the service of others, not the other way around. [Luke 4:5-8, Luke 22:26, Matthew 20:26, Proverbs 29:2, Mark 10:45, Luke 1]. Effective leaders prioritize the well-being and interests of those they serve over personal recognition or gain. This kind of mindset sees others as equally valuable, nurtures trust, encourages collaboration, and strengthens relationships for the betterment of the whole. The fruit of servant leadership reveals its true nature: the health and flourishing of the community. A servant leader measures success by how people thrive.
Christianity roots guidance for good leadership in integrity, humility, and a deep respect for others. “Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others.” [Philippians 2:3-4] Romans 13 puts a fine point on keeping government in its place. Governments are institutions for maintaining public order, but they are not divine and they will be judged for their policies: “All the nations will be gathered before him…” [Matthew 25:32]
Great wisdom for today’s leaders lives in these ancient words.
Authoritarian-style of leadership is good when it aligns with religious and political goals based on their interpretation of biblical law. Manipulation, excessive control, intimidation, and creating a climate of fear and division are paths to strong leadership. These leaders are decisive and willing to break rules and norms to achieve desired outcomes, even at the expense of democratic processes and civil liberties. They may also question the Christian identity and allegiance of those who do not speak, act, and vote as they demand.
Some Christians believe certain leaders are ordained by God, above the law, and even their weaknesses and misdeeds are part of God’s plan. Violence can be a Godly mission. Christian soldiers who follow Jesus the “warrior-king” justify violence in support of leaders who are ordained by God.
If you are part of a community, you are a leader in some capacity. Leaders are elected to the highest offices, business elite, and faith leaders; and they are organizational managers, volunteers, and moms and dads, too. Any leader who seeks power and recognition above all else will neglect the well-being of the community. The failure to model values like integrity, empathy, and unity will create conflict, fracture a community, and spiritual growth will fall victim, too.
When politicians and pastors are turned into prophets, personal ambitions are prioritized over the common good, and the servant leader becomes the served. This kind of leader, no matter their politics, is a clear threat to Christianity. And to our American Democracy.
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