The Leadership Paradox: Servant Leaders

All leaders should be in submission to Christ.? Given our submission to Him, leaders may still ask, “In what sense are we to be the servants and slaves of the people we lead?” With regard to them, the work agreement between the leader and the group defines the relationship. For example, a pastor may have a defined working relationship with the board which includes matters of authority. However, we are speaking of something which is deeper than this. We are speaking about what we must do to meet the needs of the people.

Are leaders under obligation to the wants and sometimes frivolous desires of the people we lead? Our example is Christ. He did not do everything people wanted. Rather, He did what was in their best interest. I believe this is our obligation. We are servants and slaves of the best interests of those we serve. At times, this requires some serious and profound thought. We do not have the strength, time, energy, or obligation to be on-call for every frivolous demand. We do have an obligation to serve people in such a way that their long-term and highest needs are met. I will continue this discussion in my next post.