Leadership is not about a Position

Titus 1:5–9 ESV

This is why I left you in Crete, so that you might put what remained into order, and appoint elders in every town as I directed you— if anyone is above reproach, the husband of one wife, and his children are believers and not open to the charge of debauchery or insubordination. For an overseer, as God’s steward, must be above reproach. He must not be arrogant or quick-tempered or a drunkard or violent or greedy for gain, but hospitable, a lover of good, self-controlled, upright, holy, and disciplined. He must hold firm to the trustworthy word as taught, so that he may be able to give instruction in sound doctrine and also to rebuke those who contradict it.

There it is: the perfect job. It’s the one you’ve dreamed about, prepared for and always wanted. It’s there in the ad, an email, or at the end of the boss’s sentence—‘We’d like to talk to you about an opportunity.’

In Titus 1:5-9, Paul lists the job description for such an opportunity—church leadership. His want ad used words we still find in effective leaders today: blameless, faithful, not overbearing, not quick-tempered, self-controlled, holy and disciplined—even being a good parent is covered.

As individuals, spouses, and parents, we have the responsibility to lead.

But, maybe thoughts of leadership bring feelings that say, "not worthy, ill-equipped—terrified!"

We may shy away from leadership. We don’t have or want a title or position that includes it. What we do have is a Savior who says ‘Lead!’

In John 21:15-17, Jesus tells Peter to feed and care for His sheep. As Christ followers, we lead others to know who Jesus is and share what He is doing in our own lives.

Each Christ follower is a leader—with a job description just like Paul gave to Titus—whether we are at home, with friends or on the job. As individuals, spouses, and parents, we have the responsibility to lead.

Most of us look into the future dreaming of the position we wish we had. God calls us to be responsible for the one we already have—showing the world Jesus by being like Him.

Reflect:

What qualities do you see in those who lead you? Where do you see Jesus in their lives?

What is one way you can be a leader in front of your friends and family this week?