Christ's Leadership

“And there were set there six waterpots of stone, after the manner of the purifying of the Jews, containing two or three firkins apiece. Jesus saith unto them, Fill the waterpots with water. And they filled them up to the brim. And he saith unto them, Draw out now, and bear unto the governor of the feast. And they bare it.”

John 2:6–8

Leadership does not come by developing followers but by developing yourself.

Former President Dwight Eisenhower once wrote, “In order to be a leader a man must have followers. And to have followers, a man must have their confidence. Hence the supreme quality of a leader is unquestionably integrity. Without it, no real success is possible, no matter whether it is on a section gang, on a football field, in an army, or in an office. If a man's associates find him guilty of phoniness, if they find that he lacks forthright integrity, he will fail. His teachings and actions must square with each other. The first great need, therefore, is integrity and high purpose.”

Leadership is a coveted role in today’s world. Whether it’s a position at work or simply leading a children’s sports team, many people covet being in a position of leadership. But leadership isn’t about being in charge of people; it is about a lifestyle you live.

Let’s notice Christ’s display of leadership in our verses today. Why did the servants obey Him? Was it because Mary had commanded them to? Perhaps they listened to Mary, but what Christ commanded them did not make sense.

The water pots they used were pots used for cleansing or purifying. These pots had already been used and put to the side. Yet the Lord commanded them to take the pots and fill them with water. Why water? Surely the guests would know the difference between the water and the wine. Their jobs were at stake! Yet they obeyed Christ.

Jesus’ influence over these men was not a result of a great leadership style, but of a humble, godly life. His life was above reproach, and they may have even heard of His testimony before the wedding. They followed Him because of His actions.

Too many times people force leadership. They “rule with an iron fist” so that others will respect and obey them, yet not many people respect a tyrannical ruler. Follow Christ’s example of leadership; lead with your life, not your words. Anyone can command, but few people wish to live a life of holiness and honesty.

Are you in a position of leadership in your life? Maybe you aren’t an executive at a company but are you a teacher, Sunday school teacher, or parent? We all have people who look to us for leadership, people who follow our actions. Rather than trying to exert authority or talk of leadership, simply show them leadership through your actions.

As you lead your team, your coworkers, or your family today; remember to lead through your actions. Live honestly, never compromise your beliefs, and show others that you can be trusted and respected. As you live a holy life, others will more willingly follow your lead.