Leadership: A SERVANT and a STEWARD

1 Corinthians 4:1 This is how one should regard us, as servants of Christ and stewards of the mysteries of God.

Paul was concerned with how those he was leading viewed him. He wanted those under his care and under his leadership to see him as a SERVANT of Jesus and as a STEWARD of God’s mysteries, or God’s word. Notice how Paul didn’t want people to view him… He didn’t say, you need to see me as YOUR AUTHORITY. He didn’t say you need to view me as the APOSTLE and MAN OF GOD. He said I want you to view me as a SERVANT of Jesus and as a STEWARD of His Word.

So what does it look like when a leader, leads knowing they are a SERVANT of Jesus?

SERVANTS are HUMBLE and GRATEFUL

If I really believe that what I have (leadership giftings, musical talent, positional authority, etc) is all a gift from God, I can't help but be more humble. It's when I lose sight of this simple fact that I can get puffed up in pride and start being a dictator and not a servant. When I realize that in spite of me and my sin God chose me, I can't help but be more grateful. He chose me and gave me the gifts I need to accomplish His will. There’s no place for pride in the heart of a servant. Every good thing I have is given to me by God. It’s not something I’ve deserved nor is it something I earned!

STEWARDS are FAITHFUL and FRUITFUL

I’ve heard it said it’s my job to be faithful and it’s God’s job to make me fruitful. While that may sound good... I disagree. In the parable of the sower (see Matthew 25:14-30) being a good steward isn’t just about faithfulness it’s also about fruitfulness.

A good steward takes the gifts and talents they received from God and faithfully develops them in order to be more fruitful.

If you don’t work hard to develop and multiply your gifts or talents, God’s word says you’re a lazy steward. I know that’s harsh, but I didn’t say it, God did!

When you’re motivated by HUMILITY and GRATITUDE it becomes easier to be FAITHFUL and FRUITFUL!