A Serving Leadership Insight from the Life of Jesus Christ (Mark 10:41-45)

“When the ten heard about this, they became indignant with James and John. Jesus called them together and said, ‘You know that those who are regarded as rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and their high officials exercise authority over them. Not so with you. Instead, whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, and whoever wants to be first must be slave of all. For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.’” (Mark 10:41-45)

In Mark 10:41–45 Jesus responded to the disciples’ indignation over James’s and John’s request for positions of prominence. Their response exposed their concept of greatness and ambition for power and glory. Jesus called them all together and said, “You know that those who are regarded as rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and their high officials exercise authority over them. Not so with you. Instead, whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, and whoever wants to be first must be slave of all. For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.” His leadership paradigm is the very antithesis of the world’s system of power. Greatness is defined by servanthood. Kingdom authority is gained through humble service, not through a title or position of power. The greatest are unaware of their greatness. They focus on serving their Audience of One. 

KEY QUESTIONS: What are some practical ways for me to be “slave of all?” How might I leverage my current position and power for the good of others? What “legacy of greatness” do I want to leave behind?