Jesus Style Leadership 1 - Call & GraceSample

He Must Increase

Leadership Lesson

Jesus-style leaders hold on to their position and power lightly.

Read John 3:25-30

Comment

John the Baptist was a charismatic leader who was very popular with ordinary people. His fiery message about repentance in preparation for God’s new powerful kingdom struck a chord in their hearts. He caused quite a stir and built quite a following. These were exciting times. But when Jesus came along things changed. The crowds who were following John found Jesus and his message more attractive. This would have been tough for John and his disciples and a “certain Jew” (3:25) knew how to rub it in. But John understood that God in his grace had given him a job to do, and it was largely done. John had promised that the Messiah would come, and now he needed to step back and let Jesus take over. John held on to his position and power lightly. As John himself said, “He must become greater; I must become less” (3:30). When we see leadership as something we deserve and have earned, we hold on to our position and power tightly. But when we see leadership as a grace call from God, we hold on to it more lightly. Jesus becomes more important, and our role becomes less important.

Prayer

This is my prayer Lord: “May you become greater and may I become less.” I really do want you to get the attention and the praise for the things you do through me. May I readily slip into the background like John the Baptist did so that those I lead will follow you. May I hold on lightly to my responsibilities and achievements. This is your work, not mine.

Personal Reflection

Put yourself in John’s shoes. How would you have responded to your disciples’ concerns about your followers abandoning you and joining Jesus (3:26)? Why? Is there something you’re doing this week where you need to pray, “May Jesus become greater, and may I become less”?