What does it mean to lead like Jesus?

Leadership is a word that conjures up images of power, influence, and authority. But for those who look to Jesus as their example, leadership takes on a radically different meaning. To “lead like Jesus” is to embrace a style of leadership that is rooted in humility, service, and love. It is a model that challenges conventional wisdom and invites us to put others first, just as Jesus did throughout his life and ministry.

The Foundation of Servant Leadership

At the heart of Jesus’ approach to leadership is the concept of servant leadership. Unlike the leaders of his time, who often used their positions for personal gain or power, Jesus demonstrated a willingness to serve others, even at great cost to himself. In John 13, Jesus famously washed his disciples’ feet, a task typically reserved for the lowest servant. By taking on this humble role, he taught that true leaders must be willing to serve rather than be served. Leading like Jesus means prioritizing the needs of others and being willing to undertake even the most menial tasks for the sake of those we lead.

Leading with Humility

Humility is a hallmark of Jesus’ leadership. Although he was revered by many as a teacher and miracle worker, Jesus never sought the spotlight for his own glory. Instead, he consistently pointed people to God and deflected praise. When we lead like Jesus, we recognize that leadership is not about elevating ourselves, but about elevating others. Humble leaders listen more than they speak, admit their mistakes, and are open to learning from those around them. By leading with humility, we create environments where trust and respect can flourish.

Love as the Guiding Principle

Perhaps the most striking aspect of Jesus’ leadership was the love he showed to everyone he encountered. Whether he was interacting with outcasts, sinners, or his closest friends, Jesus led with compassion and empathy. His command to “love your neighbor as yourself” (Mark 12:31) was not just a moral teaching, but a practical guide for how leaders should relate to those in their care. Leading like Jesus means making decisions based on what is best for others, even when it is inconvenient or difficult. It requires us to see the inherent worth in each person and to treat them with kindness and respect.

Courage and Conviction

Leading like Jesus does not mean avoiding difficult conversations or decisions. On the contrary, Jesus often spoke truth to power and challenged the status quo. He was unafraid to confront injustice and call out hypocrisy, even when it put him at risk. To lead like Jesus is to have the courage to stand up for what is right, even when it is unpopular. It means being guided by a strong sense of conviction and integrity, and refusing to compromise on core values.

Empowering Others

Jesus was intentional about empowering his followers. He invested time in teaching, mentoring, and equipping his disciples so they could carry on his mission after his departure. Rather than hoarding power, he shared it freely and trusted his followers to continue his work. Leading like Jesus means developing the potential of those we lead, encouraging them to grow, and giving them opportunities to take on new challenges. An effective leader creates other leaders, not just followers.

Conclusion

Whether in the workplace, the community, or the home, anyone can choose to lead like Jesus by following his example and striving to make a positive difference in the lives of others. In doing so, we not only become better leaders, but also help to create a world that reflects the values Jesus embodied.