The Character and Conduct of A Christian Leader

Christian leaders as well as laity should be our authentic selves, having lives characterized by intrinsic value and worth as defined by God rather than others. What makes all the difference is that we strive to operate daily with a moral compass that is directed by biblical principles. We are accountable ultimately to God for our actions (right, wrong or indifferent) as well as to trusted others who can keep us in check. In God we are to place our trust, but it is also beneficial for every one to have a pastor or spiritual leader to whom we can go, and to pursue a relationship with others that we can identify with, confide in, and receive instruction and correction from for the purpose of remaining accountable and becoming responsible as we follow the path that leads to our purpose — a path that will allow us to release the greatness that lies within each of us.

Let’s define these critical words to examine who we should aspire to be and how we are to conduct ourselves accordingly:

Christian: of, relating to, or derived from Jesus Christ or His teachings; of, pertaining to, believing in or belonging to the religion based on the teachings of Jesus Christ; exhibiting a spirit proper to a follower of Jesus Christ; Christlike

Leader: a person that leads; a guiding or directing head

Leadership: the position or function of a leader; a person who guides or directs a group; ability to lead; an act or instance of leading; guidance; direction

Lead: to go before or with to show the way; conduct or escort; to conduct by holding and guiding; to influence or induce; to guide in direction, course, action, opinion, etc.; to go at the head of or in advance of; proceed first in

Given the definitions of the aforementioned words, how can we know and consequently exhibit the character and conduct of a Christian leader daily? Please consider the following 7 simple statements and read the accompanying scriptural references for further study:

1. A Christian Leader is a Christian. (Romans 3:23 & 6:23, Ephesians 2:8-9, 2 Corinthians 5:21, John 3:1-21)

2. A Christian Leader’s Source of Truth is Divine Revelation. (Psalm 19:1-11, 2 Timothy 2:15 & 3:16, John 1:18, 8:32 & 14:9, Titus 2:11, Romans 1:20-21, Acts 14:15-17 & 17:22-31 & Matthew 5:45)

3. A Christian Leader Emphasizes Godly Character. (Galatians 5:19, 22-23, 1 Peter 1:13-16, 1 Timothy 3:1-10 & 4:7, Titus 1:5-9)

4. A Christian Leader Understands the Importance of Motives. (1 Thessalonians 2:2-9, Matthew 19:27-20:16)

5. A Christian Leader Serves through the Power of the Holy Spirit. (John 14:15-17, Zechariah 4:6)

6. A Christian Leader Practices Godly Servant Leadership. (Matthew 20:25-28, John 13:1-17)

7. A Christian Leader May Have the Gift of Leadership. (Romans 12:8)

We are all called to be leaders in our own right, but we must know what area or sphere of influence has been given to us by God where our T.A.G.S. (Talents, Abilities, Gifts and Skills) will be most effective. God’s grace (unmerited favor) is always assigned and attached to our assignment.  However, we frustrate (abuse and misuse) the grace of God when we take our life, the capacity to learn, and the opportunity to effectively lead for granted.  Those who lead, as Christians, must first master the art of following Christ, the Greatest Leader of all.