Servant-Style Leadership: A Christian Perspective

As of late, I've been spending some time in reflection, prayer, and my favorite personal development book, the bible, regarding some changes that are on the horizon. These questions revolve around leadership, what it means, how to do it well, and how to lead in a way that honors God. I want to take some time to walk through the idea of servant-style leadership. It’s a concept, for me, that’s deeply rooted in Scripture and has the power to transform not just how you lead, but how you live. Even if you’re not a Christian, Jesus’ life and teachings offer a timeless example of humility, compassion, and selfless service that can inspire and guide anyone striving to lead with integrity and love. let’s talk about what it means to lead like Jesus.

What Is Servant-Style Leadership?

Servant leadership is the opposite of what most people think of when discussing leadership. This style isn’t about power, prestige, or position. It’s about putting others first. It’s about leading with humility, compassion, and a heart to serve. It is the backbone of my personal mission statement “I seek to add value to myself and those around me”.  Robert Greenleaf, who coined the term “servant leadership,” described it as a leader who prioritizes the needs of others and helps them grow and flourish (Greenleaf, 1977). But long before Greenleaf, Jesus modeled this kind of leadership perfectly.

In Mark 10:45, Jesus says, “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.” That’s the essence of servant leadership. It’s not about climbing the ladder; it’s about bending low to lift others up.

What’s In Your Heart?

To be a servant leader, you’ve got to start with your heart. It’s not just about what you do; it’s about who you are. Philippians 2:3-4 says, “Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others.”

This kind of humility doesn’t come naturally, does it? We live in a world that tells us to look out for number one, to fight for our own rights, and to make sure we come out on top. Climb and strive, strive and climb. But servant leadership flips that script. It’s about valuing others, listening to their needs, and being willing to sacrifice for their good.

John Maxwell puts it this way: “True leadership must be for the benefit of the followers, not to enrich the leader” (Maxwell, 2007). That’s a powerful reminder, isn’t it? Leadership isn’t about us; it’s about the people we’re called to serve.

Walking The Walk

So, what does servant leadership look like in practice? Let’s break it down.

First, servant leaders listen. Really listen. They employ a form of listening known as “active listening”. They don’t just hear words; they seek to understand the hearts of the people they’re leading. They don't listen just for the sake of responding, they listen with the intent of understanding. James 1:19 reminds us, “Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to become angry.” When you listen intentionally, you show people that they matter to you.

Second, servant leaders empower. They don’t micromanage or hoard power. Instead, they create opportunities for others to grow and shine. Think about how Jesus empowered His disciples. He didn’t just do all the work Himself; He trained them, trusted them, and sent them out to do the work of the Kingdom.

Third, servant leaders serve. They don’t just talk about serving; they actually do it. They roll up their sleeves and get involved. They’re not afraid to do the hard work. There is a passage in the Bible where Jesus washes His disciples’ feet in John 13, this is a powerful example of servant leadership in action.

The Challenges of Servant Leadership

I don't want this to seem easy, there is an innate resistance to this kind of leadership. Servant leadership is simple but isn’t easy. It goes against our natural instincts. It requires us to die to ourselves daily, to lay down our pride, and to put others first.

One of the biggest challenges is dealing with criticism. When you’re a servant leader, not everyone will understand your approach. Some people might see your humility as a weakness. They might question your decisions or even try to take advantage of your kindness. There is a higher purpose for engaging in servant leadership. Peter says in 1 Peter 2:20: “But if you suffer for doing good and you endure it, this is commendable before God.” You are fulfilling a high calling when you seek to elevate others.

A big challenge for me is burnout. When you’re constantly pouring into others, it’s easy to feel drained. That’s why it’s so important to engage in self-care and stay connected to the ultimate Servant Leader, Jesus. He’s the one who gives us the strength to keep going, even when it’s hard.

The Impact of Servant Leadership

When you lead with a servant’s heart, the impact can be profound. Research shows that servant leadership leads to higher levels of trust, engagement, and job satisfaction among team members (van Dierendonck, 2011). But beyond the research, there’s something even more powerful: the spiritual impact.

When you lead like Jesus, you point people to Him. You show them what it looks like to live a life of love, humility, and service. And that, my friend, is the greatest impact of all.

Try Something New

I'm going to encourage you to put this into practice. First, if you're not one to journal go read that article, you can access it here.

The “One-Week Servant Challenge” For the next seven days, commit to doing one act of service each day for someone you lead. You do not need to be in a professional leadership role to do this. It could be something small, like writing an encouraging note, or something bigger, like taking on a task that’s outside your job description. The key is to do it with a humble heart, not expecting anything in return.

At the end of the week, take some time to reflect. Journal about it and really flesh out the details, taking time to explore the experience. How did it feel to serve others in this way? What did you learn about yourself and your leadership? How did it impact the people around you?

Go Forth

Servant leadership isn’t just a style; it’s a way of life. It’s about following the example of Jesus, who came not to be served, but to serve. It’s about leading with humility, compassion, and a heart to put others first.

As you continue on your leadership journey, I encourage you to keep coming back to this truth: the greatest leaders are the ones who serve. When you lead like Jesus, you’re not just making a difference in the here and now; you’re storing up treasures in heaven.

Keep seeking, keep growing, and keep serving. You’ve got this.

References

Greenleaf, R. K. (1977). Servant leadership: A journey into the nature of legitimate power and greatness. Paulist Press.

Maxwell, J. C. (2007). The 21 irrefutable laws of leadership: Follow them and people will follow you. Thomas Nelson.

van Dierendonck, D. (2011). Servant leadership: A review and synthesis. Journal of Management, 37(4), 1228-1261. https://doi.org/10.1177/0149206310380462

The Holy Bible, New International Version. (2011). 1 Peter 5:7. Biblica, Inc. (Original work published 1973)