Servant-leadership, the kingdom way

Rev. Enoch Thompson | July 7, 2023 | Matthew 20:24-28

KEY VERSE:

²⁸just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many." Matt 20:28 (NIV).

MESSAGE:

The natural way of humans is to seek to dominate, to domineer and to make others insignificant, and servants to us. The response of the Master to the Apostles in the aftermath of the Zebedee Petition shows that He saw this natural tendency working among His immediate followers, everyone wanted to be the first and most important so that all others will serve them.

The Master taught them the Kingdom way;

²⁵Jesus called them together and said, "You know that the rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and their high officials exercise authority over them. ²⁶Not so with you. Instead, whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, ²⁷and whoever wants to be first must be your slave— ²⁸just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many." Matt 20:25-28 (NIV).

The best example of how we should live as Kingdom citizens wherever we find ourselves, and especially when we are placed in leadership positions is to adopt the attitude of humble service to others, servant-leadership.

To the unbeliever it is laughable and unthinking to talk about servant-leadership, indeed it is a contradiction of terms for the natural human. But to the Kingdom citizen, who realizes that it took the service of the King, by His incarnation, His life of simplicity and humility, His love for the lowly (children, women, lepers), His willingness to die, and to die on a cross. That humility and service is summarised in Philippians 2:6-11. It also shows that servant -leadership leads to exaltation.

FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE:

What is your orientation and attitude? How do you weigh the scales of pride and humility? Are you high-up in your mind and see all others as insignificant, only worthy of serving you? Revise any shortfalls in this matter, and determine to practice servant-leadership, always.

PRAYER:

Lord, I’m tempted to be proud, and domineering, at least in mind. I pray for forgiveness. Please help me to develop a heart and attitude like your willing servant-leadership. May I serve others, whether I am a leader or a follower. For your dear Name’s sake, Amen.

THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING.

SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!!