Leadership in the church ought to look different than leadership outside of the church for one primary reason. The church ought to consist of disciples of Christ. As disciples learn from Jesus, they begin to live like Jesus. So, leaders in the church ought to lead like Christ. Here are 5 qualities to look for in a leader in the church:

1. They love God’s Word

Christ-centered leaders must be shaped by God’s Word since it is what Christ himself fulfilled and challenged His disciples to teach others to obey.

2. They serve those they lead

Christ-centered leaders will understand the importance of serving those they lead because this kind of leadership does not seek to accomplish the leaders mission, but the Christ’s mission. Leadership in the church often sounds like a pyramid model, but the difference is that the leader gives to his followers, not the other way around.

3. They engage people with humility

Christ-centered leaders will be the ones who recognize their role in God’s kingdom. Leaders who own spaces, own roles, and own ministry opportunities are probably not releasing those opportunities because they fulfill their own needs instead of seeking to fulfill God’s call. Leadership and humility are inseparable in God’s kingdom.

4. Their actions look like Jesus actions

Christ-centered leaders emulate Jesus leadership strategies. This is modeled well in the book, Lead Like Jesus which has been revised well and can be found on Amazon.

5. Their words sound like Jesus words

Christ-centered leaders speak with grace and truth, like Jesus. A leader who sounds different than Jesus ought to examine their own leadership by God’s Word. The words of Jesus shape not only our spiritual growth but our leadership abilities as well!

What are some other qualities of a Christ-centered leader that you find necessary?