It seems that most Christians want to be leaders. I count myself among them. But I’m not talking about exclusively holding an official leadership position in a local church congregation. I’m talking about the noble desire to lead others to Christ. We want others to be aware of the freedom that exists in Christ— the freedom that is power over sin and eternal death, and the freedom to love others.

To effectively lead others to that reality, it must be done the Christian way. Being a Christian, you have probably noticed that the Christian way, more times than not, is the opposite way of the world. Therefore, a Christian leader, though royalty in God’s kingdom, is not to present him or herself as having the authority to impose or demand.

The most effective, spiritual way for the Christian to lead is from behind. That’s what the King of kings did, isn’t it? He stripped Himself from the prerogatives of the highest ranking that exists. He did that in order to be heard where it matters the most—the heart. So he became a servant.

Considering others more important than Himself, He lived to meet their needs. And He did so with caring and compassion. Those traits were His first impact on their lives, having loudly resonated within their hearts. That then allowed for His message of freedom to register in their ears and minds for consideration.

There is nothing wrong with a Christian wanting to be a kingdom leader, be it in the church or in the world. It’s commendable. The pattern has been set and commissioned by Christ Himself. So the one thing we need to remember, in pursuit of leadership, is to not think of ourselves first, but last; to not be a master, but a helper. Supportive actions speak louder than words.