The Savior Taught the Apostles about Leadership

Study John 13:1–17; Luke 22:24–30; Mark 10:43–45. Write a paragraph or two about how the application of these teachings makes leadership in the Church of Jesus Christ different from what the world usually describes as leadership.

As we read in John 13:1-17, Christ washed the feet of his disciples. We learn that “the servant is not greater than his lord; neither he that is sent greater than he that sent him.” We once again find Christ serving in Luke 22:24-30. It reads, “…but he that is greatest among you, let him be as the younger; and he that is chief, as he that doth serve.” In Mark 10:45 it goes on to say, “For even the Son of man came not to be ministered unto, but to minister, and to give his life a ransom for many.” What we learn is that Christ was here to serve others. He ultimately gave his life so that we could gain the ability to return to our Father.  

In the world today, when we think of leadership, and the leaders that we have; we are reminded of the corruptness that can come along with that position. Just as in biblical times, in reference to the Pharisees, we find those who have let pride come in the way. They act opposite of our Savior and his example/teachings. We see CEOs and other company leaders who get paid the big bucks to oversee others that do the “dirty work”. They are in charge and are served by people who make far less money to make sure their needs are met on a personal level. It is not uncommon to find “leaders” that have been corrupted by power and on occasion get caught and receive prison sentences. Political leaders can be found to have the interest of lobbyists and others willing to give them money at the center of their heart, rather than what the people want that they are there to “serve”. All of these examples are not what Jesus taught.

2. Write a paragraph or two about a time when one of your Church leaders or someone in the scriptures served and led in the way Jesus Christ taught.

One of the more recent examples of someone who served and led in the way the Savior taught would be a former bishop that I had. I think of the countless hours that he spent ministering to the people in our area. One of the families in our area has a son who was wrongfully accused of a crime and given excessive time, so that the judge could appear in a better light. This bishop spent many hours trying to get the wrong righted, assisting this family in trying to get the son out of prison for the day to attend his father’s funeral, and countless hours lobbying for his freedom. He was involved in service projects and looking after elderly sisters in our area. Seeing to that people in our area, regardless of religious affiliation, had their needs met. This bishop is not a wealthy man, but would give of what he had (his home, time, energy, etc.) to those in need, not judging them either. Although he has since been released, he continues to advocate for those in dire need, attend court proceedings, and watching out for families in our area.