A servant-Leader is characterized by an overwhelming desire to accomplish a purpose through service. A Leader's heart should compel him/her to assume a servant role. Jesus of Nazareth and the apostle Paul fit this definition of servant-leaders to the core, along with Moses, Joshua and Caleb.

The Bible decribes Moses as the Lord's servant. Moses did not seek power, prestige or material gain, but assumed his leadership role reluctantly. He used his prophetic authority with Humility(Gen 12:3), knowing that he was subject to God (Deut 34:10-12). Every event in Moses life indicates that he understood his leadership as derived from his service to God. He was submissive, selfless, and faithful. His interactions with his fellow Israelites were characterized by empathy, persuasiveness, and vision. Moses stood in the gap at a critical moment in Israelites history and fulfilled a role comparable to that of the Apostle Paul during early Christianity. Like Paul, Moses' outstanding attribute was his humble submission to God; his humility was the basis for his role as a dedicated servant who became a great leader.

Jesus Christ of Nazareth is the Ideal servant leader. The Gospels protray Jesus as the Lord's "Suffering Servant"(Isa 52:13 - 53:12) especially in his sacrificial death, which was his ultimate act of service (Mark 10:45). Jesus spoke with great authority (John 13:12-16), but humbly understanding his role as a shepherd who sacrifices his life. for his sheep (John 10:11). He spent time with Children and used them as models for those who desire to follow God wholeheartedly (Mat 18:4). When James and John asked him to give them an elevated rank in his Kingdom, Jesus criticized their worldly ambition (Mark 10:35-45). He set their priorities straight by instructing them to follow his example (Matt 20:24-28, 23:11-12). As a model for all who want to lead others thru a life of service, Jesus understood that his purpose was to bring glory to God's name (John 12:27-28).

CONCLUSION

The apostles Paul and Peter followed Christ's example and fulfilled his ideal of servant - leadership. Pauls life of service demostrates humility and tireless efforts on behalf of others. He taught Christians to do the same and praised those who did so, 

Peter also exemplified self-sacrificing service to Christ. His instructions define the character of a servant-leader clearly and concisely.

Bethern, let us follow the footsteps of those who pleased God.

1 Perer 4:10-11

God has given each of you a gift from his great variety of spiritual gifts. USE THEM WELL TO SERVE ONE ANOTHER. Do you have the gift of speaking? Then speak as though God himself were speaking through you. Do you have the gift of helping others? Do it with all the strength and energy that God supplies. Then EVERY THING YOU DO WILL BRING GLORY TO GOD THRU JESUS CHRIST. All glory and power to him forever and ever! Amen.

God bless