Fellowship Guide 9

Live it Loud: “Lead Me On” – July 27 Devotion

Bible Verses

Remember your leaders, who spoke the word of God to you. Consider the outcome of their way of life and imitate their faith. - Hebrews 13:7

Follow my example, as I follow the example of Christ. - 1 Corinthians 11:1

When he had finished washing their feet, he put on his clothes and returned to his place. "Do you understand what I have done for you?" he asked them. "You call me 'Teacher' and 'Lord,' and rightly so, for that is what I am. Now that I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also should wash one another's feet. I have set you an example that you should do as I have done for you. I tell you the truth, no servant is greater than his master, nor is a messenger greater than the one who sent him. Now that you know these things, you will be blessed if you do them. - John 13:12-17

Introduction

One of the most important elements of the Christian church is leadership. Would the church have survived the first century without the guidance of the Apostles' Paul and Peter? When we first become Christians how important is it for our spiritual growth to have someone lead us in our faith? What makes a great leader?

Sharing/Discussion Questions

1) When you think of a leader, who is the first person that comes to mind? Why? (It can be a famous person, or someone you know).

2) What do you think are the 2 or 3 most important qualities of a good coach or leader?

3) What qualities does Jesus possess that make him a great leader?

Ask a volunteer to read the Bible verses out loud.

Wrap up

Often times when we think of what makes a good leader, we think of someone who has knowledge and experience and can tell us what to do and how to do it. We might think of someone who is a great planner or administrator and can keep an organization or team running smoothly and efficiently. We might envision a coach barking out plays and correcting mistakes, or a boss asking us to work overtime, or a politician delivering a great speech.

During his time on earth, Jesus certainly displayed many of the qualities we would expect from a leader. However, he took it a big step further when he humbly washed his disciples' feet. Leaders often expect those who are under them to do the “dirty work”. Yet here Jesus demonstrated the “nature of a servant” (Phil. 2:7) and did what many leaders often fail to do: set an example to those following them. In war, a general sends his troops out to battle and possibly to their deaths. To pay the price for mankind's sinfulness, Jesus did not send one of his disciples to the cross. He went there himself.