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The term “Servant Leadership” does not appear in the Bible. However, it has been used as a model in the church and even adopted by commercial organizations. To Christians, to lead means to serve; leadership is a call of God (1 Cor. 3:5-6) and a gift of the Holy Spirit (Rom. 12:8). The example of Jesus washing His disciples’ feet can teach us a few principles of “Servant Leadership” – how to lead as Jesus led.
First, Jesus’ servant leadership was motivated by His relationship with His Father (Jn. 13:3). His act of washing the disciples’ feet was done in the full understanding of His relationship with His father and His unwavering zeal to bring glory to God. In John 17, Jesus affirmed that His earthly life has been focused on glorifying His Father. His ministry was drenched in prayer, dwelling on the steadfastness and growth of His disciples. This relationship with God through prayer is all important for us as we seek to meet the needs of others in their spiritual and physical lives. This is important if we are to maintain our ministry in the long run. Hence, our actions will also reveal the depth of our relationship with Jesus to others under our leadership.
The second lesson to be drawn is that Jesus had great love and He demonstrated it (Jn 13:3). He knew that Judas would betray Him. Yet He was willing to wash his feet, without discrimination. He took the initiative when none of His disciples were willing to make the move. Who would willingly wash 12 pairs of grimy feet? Jesus washed their feet and told them to do the same for others to empatise a vitally important aspect of leadership in His kingdom. Humility is a vital characteristic of the inner life of the leader. Humility in service comes from a spirit genuine praise and thanksgiving towards Jesus that compels us to set aside our pride and our desire to impress.
Jesus did not lay down His divine authority but only His pride and dignity (Jn. 13:13). To be a servant leader is not to be a doormat for all! Apostle Paul wrote: “the kingdom of God is not a matter of talk but of power” – he could lead the Corinthians with whip or love, whichever approach was required for the occasion (1 Cor. 4:20-21).
Within the family, Christian men are especially called to be servant leaders and their godly leadership is most needed. Where does it start? It should spring from willingness, being eager to serve, and should not be lording over, but setting an example (1 Pet. 5:2), like Jesus the Good Shepherd over His sheep.
