Lead by Faith

When He had called the people to Himself, with His disciples also, He said to them, “Whoever desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me. For whoever desires to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for My sake and the gospel’s will save it. Mark 8:34-35

Week 9 Lesson Plan: Jesus – The Servant Leader

• Define servant leadership.
• Reflect on how Jesus’ example can be applied to their own lives.
• Understand more completely the concept of sacrifice as a part of servant leadership.

Servant Leadership

• “What qualities do you associate with a good leader?”
• “What are some examples of leaders you admire, and why?”
• Servant Leadership is a leadership philosophy where the leader’s primary goal is to serve others.

Biblical Foundation

• Read and discuss relevant biblical passages:
  • Mark 10:42-45: Jesus teaches his disciples about true greatness through serving. (“For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.”)
  • John 13:1-17: Jesus washes his disciples’ feet, demonstrating humility and service. (“Now that I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also should wash one another’s feet. I have set you an example that you should do as I have done for you.”)
  • Philippians 2:5-8: Paul encourages believers to have the same attitude as Christ, who humbled himself and became a servant. (self-emptying and obedience.)

• Thoughts for Journaling:
  • What are the key characteristics of Jesus’ leadership demonstrated in these passages?
  • How did Jesus redefine the concept of leadership?
  • What does “wash one another’s feet” mean in a modern context?
  • What does it mean to have the same mindset of Christ?

Key Characteristics of Jesus’ Servant Leadership

• Examples of Jesus’ Servant Leadership:
  • Humility: Jesus consistently placed the needs of others before his own.
  • Sacrifice: Jesus gave his life for others.
  • Compassion: Jesus showed empathy and care for the marginalized and suffering.
  • Love: Jesus’ actions were motivated by love for God and humanity.
  • Empowerment: Jesus equipped his disciples to serve others.
  • Obedience: Jesus was obedient to God’s will.
  • Selflessness: Jesus consistently placed others first.

• How is sacrifice a part of servant leadership? How does the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus relate to this concept?

Application and Reflection and Journal

• How can we apply Jesus’ example to their own lives?
  • “How can we demonstrate humility in our daily interactions?”
  • “How can we serve others in your family, work, or community?”
  • “How can we show compassion to those who are suffering?”
  • “What sacrifices might be required to serve others effectively?”