Lead by Faith

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In his letters to the early Christian communities, the apostle Paul emphasizes the transformative power of integrity. In Ephesians 4:25, Paul writes, “Therefore each of you must put off falsehood and speak truthfully to your neighbor, for we are all members of one body.” This instruction emphasizes the communal aspect of integrity, highlighting its role in fostering genuine relationships within the body of believers.

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Week 10 Lesson Plan: Jesus Christ and Ethical Leadership – A Focus on Character and Integrity

• Identify key character traits of Jesus Christ relevant to ethical leadership.
• Explain how Jesus demonstrated justice, accountability, and honesty in his life and teachings.
• Analyze the implications of Jesus’ ethical leadership for contemporary leadership contexts.
• Reflect on personal application of these ethical principles.

Exploring Jesus’ Character and Integrity

• Integrity: The quality of being honest and having strong moral principles; moral uprightness.
• Justice: Fairness; rightfulness; giving each person his or her due.
• Accountability: The obligation or willingness to accept responsibility for one’s actions.
• Honesty: Truthfulness, integrity, freedom from deceit or fraud.

Concepts in Scripture

• Integrity:
  • John 8:46: “Which of you convicts me of sin? If I tell the truth, why do you not believe me?” (Jesus’ challenge to his accusers)
  • Matthew 22:16: “Teacher, we know that you are true and teach the way of God truthfully, and you do not care about anyone’s opinion, for you are not swayed by appearances.” (Testimony of others about Jesus)

• Justice:
  • Luke 4:18-19: “The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he has anointed me to proclaim good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim liberty to the captives and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty those who are oppressed, to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor.” (Jesus’ mission statement emphasizing social justice)
  • Matthew 23:23: “Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For you tithe mint and dill and cumin, and have neglected the weightier matters of the law: justice and mercy and faithfulness. These you ought to have done, without neglecting the others.” (Jesus’ critique of prioritizing ritual over justice)

• Accountability:
  • Matthew 26:39: “And going a little farther he fell on his face and prayed, saying, ‘My Father, if it be possible, let this cup pass from me; nevertheless, not as I will, but as you will.’” (Jesus’ submission to God’s will, demonstrating accountability to a higher purpose)
  • John 13:1-17: Jesus washing the disciples’ feet – an act of humble service and setting an example of responsibility for the well-being of others.

• Honesty:
  • Matthew 5:37: “Let what you say be simply ‘Yes’ or ‘No’; anything more than this comes from evil.” (Emphasis on straightforward and truthful communication)
  • The numerous parables where Jesus speaks plainly and truthfully, even when challenging the status quo.

• Discussion
  • What does this passage reveal about Jesus’ character?
  • How does this demonstrate justice, accountability, or honesty?
  • What are the implications for leadership today?

Deeper Dive: Justice, Accountability, and Honesty in Jesus’ Leadership

• Justice:
  • Discuss how Jesus advocated for the marginalized (the poor, the sick, women, foreigners).
  • Analyze instances where he challenged unjust systems and the abuse of power (e.g., cleansing the temple – Mark 11:15-19).
  • Explore the concept of restorative justice evident in his interactions with those who had wronged others (e.g., the woman caught in adultery – John 8:1-11).

• Accountability:
  • Examine Jesus’ accountability to his mission and his Father.
  • Discuss his willingness to confront his own followers when they were wrong (e.g., Peter’s denial – Matthew 26:69-75).
  • Highlight the concept of leaders being accountable not just for their actions but also for the well-being of those they lead.

• Honesty:
  • Analyze Jesus’ direct and truthful communication, even when it was difficult or unpopular.
  • Discuss the importance of transparency and authenticity in leadership, drawing parallels to Jesus’ example.
  • Consider the ethical implications of deception and manipulation in contrast to Jesus’ honesty.

Application and Reflection

• Which of these ethical principles (justice, accountability, honesty) resonates most with you? Why?
• In what areas of your own life or potential leadership roles can you better embody these principles?
• What are some practical steps you can take to cultivate these character traits?