A Serving Leadership Insight from the Life of Jesus Christ (Mark 15:16-20)

“Again and again they struck him on the head with a staff and spit on him. Falling on their knees, they paid homage to him. And when they had mocked him, they took off the purple robe and put his own clothes on him. Then they led him out to crucify him.” (See Mark 15:16-20 for full text)

In Mark 15:16–20, Jesus was beaten, spat upon, mocked, and led away to be crucified by Roman soldiers. Their scornful taunt, “Hail, king of the Jews!” was a parody for their expression addressing the Emperor. Although considered innocent by governor Pilate, the soldiers exhibited their concept of strength by brutally torturing a defenseless man. As sovereign ruler of the universe, Jesus revealed his strength by forbearing quietly under the cruelty of those who ultimately derived life from his Word. Their cowardice speaks to the void of leadership evident in so many power structures that overpower and bully the weak. Jesus' resignation to a plan that served the best interests of all humanity was no simple feat. It took the greatest form of power to resist proving who he really was. As their future judge, Jesus extended mercy by not prosecuting them for using their authority to abuse, destroy, and humiliate.

KEY QUESTIONS: When have the best interests of others collided with my desires? When do I find it most difficult to forbear quietly? Have I ever used my strength to overpower and possibly bully others? How could I have responded differently? When has my strength been under control?