The Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life as a ransom for many.
Matthew 20:28
Servant leadership represents the way of the kingdom. The example of Jesus sets the standard for how Christians love, serve, and minister in the home, the community, and the church. Jesus’ example does not offer a suitable option but forms the absolute standard.
When you consider your life of service and influence, regardless of status, position, or reputation, how do you measure up against the example of Jesus? Jesus once said, “anyone who wishes to be first must be a servant (translated, a bond slave, Matthew 20:27). In Greek terminology, the meaning of “bond slave” (doulos) offers the idea of one who is tied to another in service and love. Therefore, “bond servant” represents our standard of influence in every area of life. To make certain we embrace the fullness of this standard, considering 6 characteristics of a bond servant found in the Scriptures.
- A bondservant stands defined by kingdom standards and not merely by good deeds. In Matthew 20:25-26, Jesus called His followers together and said, “You know that the rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and their high officials exercise authority over them. Not so with you.” This phrase, not so with you, represents the opposing standard of the culture – the standard of the Kingdom.
- A bondservant reflects the attitude of Jesus. In John 13:5, Christ our Lord “poured water into a basin and began to wash the disciples’ feet and to wipe them with a towel with which He was girded.” A bondservant always expresses lowliness and meekness to effectively serve others.
- A bondservant mirrors Christ’s incarnation. Philippians 2:5 instructs, “have this attitude in yourself which was also in Christ Jesus.” A bondservant demonstrates Jesus “in the flesh” through loving and serving as He loved and served.
- A bondservant expresses self-renunciation. Philippians 2:3-4, reminds us to “do nothing from rivalry or conceit, but in humility count others more significant; let each of you look not only to his own interest, but also the interest of others.”
- A bondservant proves him or herself privately as much as publicly. I Timothy 3:12 instructs that “church leaders must manage their personal households well, for those who serve well obtain a high standing.” A bondservant is genuinely proven in the privacy of homelife.
- A bondservant comes from inner consecration. Romans 12:1-2 calls us to “present our bodies a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God . . . not conformed to this world but transformed by the renewing of our mind.” The only way one can truly serve like Jesus is through the consecration of our heart to Him.
Constantly rehearse these 6 standards prayerfully in your mind until they genuinely get into your actions and attitudes.
So today, recommit to serving and influencing others like Jesus. Someone’s life could be changed for all eternity.
BLESSINGS.
Ken
