SCRIPTURE: John 10:11-21
As a leader in a church, I often focus on different aspects of leadership.
Casting vision, mobilizing believers, setting S.M.A.R.T. goals for success.
Providing inspirational, helpful leadership through challenging situations.
But Jesus reminds me of another important aspect of being a good leader (shepherd).
“I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep.” (John 10:11)
Jesus is contrasting Himself with leaders who look out for themselves.
He is using the language of Ezekiel – “Woe to you shepherds of Israel who only take care of yourselves! Should not shepherds take care of the flock? You eat the curds, clothe yourselves with the wool and slaughter the choice animals, but you do not take care of the flock.” (Ezekiel 34:2-3)
Self-serving leaders who serve and protect themselves, who care nothing for the sheep.
In that prophecy Ezekiel promises that one day God Himself will come to shepherd the sheep.
“I myself will tend my sheep and have them lie down, declares the Sovereign Lord. I will search for the lost and bring back the strays. I will bind up the injured and strengthen the weak, but the sleek and the strong I will destroy. I will shepherd the flock with justice.” (Ezekiel 34:15-16)
Now THIS is a good shepherd, the kind of leader we need, the kind of leader our world needs.
I believe that Jesus is the One Ezekiel is talking about.
Not only do I look to Him as my Leader (Lord), I want to be a good leader like Him!
“Be shepherds of God’s flock that is under your care, watching over them—not because you must, but because you are willing, as God wants you to be; not pursuing dishonest gain, but eager to serve; not lording it over those entrusted to you, but being examples to the flock. And when the Chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the crown of glory that will never fade away.” (1 Peter 5:2-4)
What do you sense the Lord saying to you?
PRAYER
Lord, You are the Leader we need. Your leadership is what our world needs. Lead me and guide me, so that I may lead and guide like You.
I think Jesus is the best leader as well! He knew who He was and what His purpose was, therefore He lead in strength, rather than in uncertainty. Just like you stated above, a leader has potential, vision, followers, etc. I mean, you could look at Hitler’s life and say he had all those things. Though, the difference is Hitler ‘lead” based on his own selfish reasons that lead followers into darkness and tragedy. What’s captivating about Jesus’s teachings and leadership is that in Matthew 4:10 it says ‘Follow Me and I will make you fishers of men’. Therefore, in this context we can take from this, that a good leader must also be a good follower of Him. Jesus doesn’t ‘lead’ in a way that’s seeking of power, but in love.