Jesus the Game ChangerSample

Leadership

Jesus redefined leadership through humility and service.

In the ancient world, humility was not a virtue. Leaders were expected to project strength, honour, and superiority. Humbling yourself to someone of lower status was seen as a weakness.

But Jesus turned leadership upside down. On the night before his death, he wrapped a towel around his waist and washed his disciples’ feet (John 13). This was usually the task of the lowest servant because it was dirty, unpleasant, and undignified. Yet the Son of God knelt down and served in this way.

Paul later describes Jesus as the one who, though in very nature God, humbled himself and became obedient to death on a cross (Philippians 2). For Jesus, leadership was not about power but about service.

This is revolutionary.

From that turning point in history, humility in leadership came to be seen as admirable, essential, and even a virtuous choice. This was a dramatic shift. In the ancient world, leaders were expected to project power, demand honour, and never show weakness. Yet Jesus turned that model upside down.

Through his teaching, his way of life, and ultimately his death on the cross, Jesus demonstrated that true greatness is found in humility. He washed his disciples’ feet, welcomed the overlooked, and laid down his life for others.

To choose to lower oneself and serve is not weakness but strength. It is to follow the very pattern of Jesus, who showed that leadership rooted in humility has the power to transform lives and reshape communities.

Reflection Questions

• How does Jesus’ example of washing feet challenge your view of leadership?
• Where in your life do you need to lead through service rather than status?
• How can you follow Jesus’ example of humility in your relationships this week?