A Serving Leadership Insight from the Life of Jesus Christ (Mark 13:3-6)

“As Jesus was sitting on the Mount of Olives opposite the temple, Peter, James, John and Andrew asked him privately, ‘Tell us, when will these things happen? And what will be the sign that they are all about to be fulfilled?’ Jesus said to them: ‘Watch out that no one deceives you. Many will come in my name, claiming, “I am he,” and will deceive many.’” (Mark 13:3-6)

In Mark 13:3–6, Jesus alerted his disciples to one of his primary concerns when they inquired about the future. “Watch out that no one deceives you,” he warned. “Many will come in my name, claiming, ‘I am he,’ and will deceive many.” His message was crucial. No one knows he is deceived when deceived. Hence the wisdom of Jesus in calling together a team of twelve, in sending his disciples out two by two, and in preparing them ahead of time to be on their collective guard. Many self-proclaimed saviors would come, claiming to be Messiah. They were common back then, just like today, promising positive change and a time of peace, safety, and financial security. However, any leader whose assurances include little or no hardship should be dismissed as a deceiver. True serving leaders define reality, prepare their followers for hardship and persecution, and provide hope for the journey ahead.

KEY QUESTIONS: Have I ever been deceived to the point that I believed with all my heart something that was not true? If that could happen, who are my true friends who would go to battle for my soul? Do I tend to sugarcoat reality or put a positive spin on everything? How can I prepare others for hardship while also providing hope?