To be an educator is to be a leader. This statement rings even more true in Christian education, as Christian teachers have a higher calling and purpose. In their book Biblical Leadership: Becoming a Different Kind of Leader, Ken Collier and Matt Williams draw from Scripture and their own life experiences to discuss the paradoxical traits required to become a biblical leader. Because the biblical view of success differs from a secular one, these traits may be antithetical to the world's view of a successful leader. Yet, because of the nature and purpose of Christian education, our schools desperately need teachers who are striving to be the "different kind of leaders" that Collier and Williams describe.
Context
In Mark 10:42-45, Jesus discusses the nature of leadership with the twelve disciples, contrasting the Gentiles' leadership style with what he envisions for them: “You know that those who are considered rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and their great ones exercise authority over them. But it shall not be so among you. But whoever would be great among you must be your servant," (vv. 42-43, ESV). Christ introduced to them the concept of servant leadership and used his leadership as a tangible example for them: "For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many” (v. 45, ESV).
What makes this passage all the more interesting is the context in which it comes. Throughout Chapter 10, Christ uses lessons to others (Pharisees, followers, etc.) to instruct the disciples in true devotion and leadership. In verses 13-16, he rebukes the disciples for not allowing the children to come to him, sending the clear message that all are welcome. Next, He instructs the rich young ruler in the sacrifices required to follow Him (vv. 17-31). Immediately afterward, He foretells His death to the disciples for a third time, although they obviously miss His message yet again. James and John felt it was the right time to ask about sitting at Christ's right and left hands. I can only imagine the frustration that Jesus must have felt at this point, as the disciples were missing the entire purpose of His coming to earth. Regardless, His response is our original passage in verses 42-45, which encourages them to lead others by serving them, just as He had done throughout His earthly ministry.
The Paradox of Biblical Leadership
The great paradox of biblical leadership (and what sets it apart from secular leadership) is that biblical leaders must first be great followers. While the world often praises and rewards leaders who are ambitious and exert authority, Scripture exalts those who demonstrate the most humility. Christ is the ultimate example of the servant leadership that we are to practice, as His entire purpose on earth was to sacrifice Himself for us (Mark 10:45). By following Christ's example of using their position to serve others, Christian educators can become the different kind of leaders that make a lasting difference.
What Does It Mean to Be a Different Kind of Leader?
Being a biblical leader who follows Christ's example of leadership requires a change in thinking and a different benchmark for what success looks like.
The biblical leader must buy in to a bigger purpose--influencing others for Christ. As many have noted, leadership is influence. Christian educators must use that influence to be salt and light to the students they teach.
The biblical leader must have a different goal--Christlikeness. In our modern world, it has never been truer that the world's values are not God's values. Yet, the world is increasingly aggressive with its agenda to press us into its mold; we must be equally aggressive with God's plan of helping students conform to the image of Christ.
The biblical leader serves God while serving others. As leaders, we must see and minister to the needs of those around us. In Philippians 2:3-5, the Apostle Paul instructs us to have the mind of Christ, whose purpose was serving others. Collier and Williams describe this mindset as having a "spiritual antenna for the needs of other people" (p. 62).
The biblical leader will make God's Word the final authority in his choices and decisions. 2 Timothy 3:16-17 is clear that Scripture is "profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness," so Christian educators should seek to utilize it every opportunity they get.
The biblical leader must have a submissive spirit, not one of pride. Biblical leadership is not about authority or power but rather, about service. Christ exemplified this principle in washing the disciples' feet. He submitted himself to the Father's leading and the disciples (his "subordinates"). Likewise, the biblical leader must submit himself to the Father, yield to the Holy Spirit's leading, and demonstrate a sacrificial spirit.
The biblical leader should be known for Godly love. This might very well be the most important part of biblical leadership. The old saying goes, "Nobody cares what you know until they know how much you care." We should seek to practice God's love in all our relationships. The biblical model of love laid out in 1 Corinthians 13 is focused on others. True love does not envy others’ success, is not self-seeking, and does not “present the love of God in an ugly, misshapen way” (p. 73). Unfortunately, I believe that in our attempt to emphasize order and control, we are often guilty of presenting God's love incorrectly to our students. While order and control are necessary and expected in any classroom, the biblical leader will balance these with love and genuine concern for their students.
How Can I Be a Different Kind of Leader?
Seek to please God with your choices.
Align your actions and attitudes with God's standard, not past experiences or worldly standards.
Be intentional in relationships, seeking to help both sides to become more like Christ.
Demonstrate love in all your interactions--with authorities, co-workers, and students alike. Submit to the Holy Spirit's leading and be willing to sacrifice your time to serve someone else.
Discipline with consistency and compassion. Treat all students the same, and speak the truth in love.
Reference
Collier, K., & Williams, M. (2015). Biblical Leadership. Ambassador International.
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