Every disciple
may not necessarily be a “born leader” or even a gifted one.
Still, a true disciple is an
example, which is the core of excellent leading and training.
Such a person will obviously
be followed.
Therefore, any disciple should consider the
role,
function, and
model of leadership.
They should exhibit the
personal qualities and actions of good leaders.
Leaders Share
This excludes dominating actions of a strong personality (III John 9-10).
No person has all the gifts or all the wisdom necessary.
Leaders Initiate Action
This requires positive action to carry forward Biblical commands.
They must bear responsibility before God for the outcome of their stewardship, whether it is that of weakness or spiritual strength (I Peter 5:2-4; Hebrews 13:17).
Responsible leadership never just prays and leaves to God what requires human action.
Leadership should take all necessary steps to assure that fellow believers function according to the mind of God.
This includes soundness of spiritual life as well as sound doctrine.
Leaders Model
Leaders should model the life and character of the Lord Jesus Christ, being examples to the flock, as those spiritually qualified (Hebrews 13:7-8).
Spirituality, not seniority, should be the chief qualification.
They are not “lords over God’s heritage” (I Peter 5:3).
Proper function must accompany spirituality (Acts 20:28).
TEN PERSONAL QUALITIES OF A GOOD LEADER
Rate yourself on each quality – (1) Definitely
(2) Somewhat
(3) Doubtful
1.
Spiritual
Wholeheartedly seeking to live for Christ.
2.
Sacrificial
Willing to lay down your life for fellow believers.
3.
Servant
Ready like Jesus to willingly serve others
4.
Disciplined
Your life is well managed in time use.
You can make yourself do what is required when you don’t feel like it.
5.
Decisive
Ready to make a decision when required (not vacillating, procrastinating, avoiding).
6.
Energetic
Not easily wearied in serving the Lord.
7.
Sense of Direction
You know where you are going in life and where the church needs to go (vision).
8.
Courageous
You are able to handle criticism and opposition without giving up.
9.
Positive Outlook
You expect to achieve success in areas to which you are committed; not pessimistic, negative.
10.
Discerning - Perceptive
Generally you have good judgment about the abilities and character of others.
TEN ACTIONS OF A GOOD LEADER
Rate yourself on each quality – (1) Definitely
(2) Somewhat
(3) Doubtful
1.
Stands in front as needed
Steps forward rather than remaining in background in most situations.
2.
Imparts Vision
Frequently inspires confidence in others with your ideas and influence.
3.
Initiates
Frequently begins new efforts to meet needs rather than waiting for others to act.
4.
Communicates
Listens well, expresses ideas persuasively and without frequent misunderstandings.
5.
Organizes
Spends necessary time in planning and organizing things needed to be done.
Not haphazard, nonsystematic.
6.
Delegates
Draws others into activities, according to their ability, and utilizes them well.
Checks results and accepts responsibility for their performance.
7.
Motivates Others
Inspires others to make decisions and take action.
One who exercises a great positive influence.
8.
Overcomes Obstacles
Sees problems as opportunities.
Is not easily discouraged.
An achiever – not an excuse maker.
9.
Accepts Responsibility
Willing to accept blame when things go wrong in their areas.
Does not blame others for failures.
10.
Handles Pressure Well
Remains calm in crisis or when duties multiply heavily.
Perseveres rather than quits.