What Makes a Biblical Leader

Biblical leadership isn’t about having a title or being the most powerful person in the room. It’s not about being in control or bossing people around. The Bible shows us that true leadership is defined by character and the way you serve others, not by how much authority you have. A biblical leader is someone who models their life after Jesus, who serves selflessly, and who seeks to glorify God in everything they do. Throughout this class and the first three assignments, I’ve learned that a biblical leader leads by example, putting humility, service, and integrity above their own desire for recognition or control.

Romans 12 has a lot to say about how we should live and lead. In verse 2, Paul says, “Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.” This verse is key when it comes to understanding leadership from a biblical perspective. The world often sees leadership as being in charge, having power, or being the most important person in the room. But Paul is telling us to think differently as Christians. Our leadership should come from a heart transformed by God, not from worldly ideas of success. This means that biblical leaders don’t seek to control or dominate; instead, they let God’s Word shape their actions and attitudes.

The Idea of humility is also central to biblical leadership. In Romans 12:3, Paul warns us not to think too highly of ourselves, but to be humble. This is so important because a leader who is proud or only cares about their own interests isn’t leading the way God intends. Biblical leadership is about serving others, not elevating yourself. In verse 10, Paul says, “Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves.” This speaks to the heart of what it means to lead biblically—you don’t lead to make yourself look good; you lead to serve others and lift them up. A biblical leader puts the needs of others ahead of their own, following the example of Jesus, who came to serve and not be served.

When Paul writes to Titus, he also highlights the importance of character in leadership, which ties closely to what we see in Romans 12. Paul tells Titus to appoint leaders who are blameless, faithful to their spouses, self-controlled, upright, and disciplined. Leaders should also be hospitable, love what is good, and not be quick-tempered or given to drunkenness. These qualities show that biblical leadership isn’t just about words—it’s about living in a way that others can look up to. A leader who has integrity, who is fair and disciplined, sets an example for others to follow. Just like in Romans 12, where Paul emphasizes humility and service, Titus reminds us that biblical leaders need to live out their faith in real, tangible ways.

In Romans 12:11, Paul says to “never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord.” This is another key aspect of biblical leadership—passion. Biblical leaders need to be passionate about serving God and helping others. It’s not about going through the motions or doing things because you have to. True leaders are driven by a desire to serve God and make a difference in the lives of others. This passion for service is one thing which sets biblical leaders apart from worldly leaders. They don’t lead out of duty or obligation, but out of a deep love for God and for the people they serve.

Another important lesson I’ve learned is that biblical leadership involves using your gifts to
serve others. Romans 12:6-8 talks about how we all have different gifts, whether it’s
prophesying, serving, teaching, encouraging, giving, leading, or showing mercy. The point of having these gifts isn’t to make ourselves look good or to gain status. Instead, we’re called to use whatever gifts God has given us for the benefit of others. This shows that biblical leadership isn’t just for a specific type of person or personality. Anyone can be a leader if they use their gifts to serve others and glorify God. Whether you’re leading through teaching, helping others, or even just being a kind and encouraging presence, you’re leading in a biblical way when you use your gifts for God’s purposes.

In Titus, Paul emphasizes that leaders must be people who uphold sound doctrine and live out what they believe. This means they aren’t just people who talk the talk, but who walk the walk. A biblical leader doesn’t just give orders or preach from a platform. They live out the teachings of Christ in their daily lives. This ties back to Romans 12, where Paul says to “be transformed by the renewing of your mind.” Leaders are called to constantly grow and allow God to shape them so they can better serve others. They’re not perfect, but they strive to live in a way that reflects Christ, knowing that others are looking to them for guidance and inspiration.

Ultimately, what makes a biblical leader is someone who follows the example of Christ. Jesus was the ultimate servant leader, and everything He did was for the benefit of others. He didn’t seek fame or power, but instead humbled Himself, even to the point of dying on the cross. This is the kind of leadership we are called to as Christians. Whether it’s through humility, serving others, or using our gifts to help those around us, biblical leadership is all about putting God first and others second. It’s not about having a title or being in charge—it’s about loving others and leading them toward Christ through our actions and our example.

A biblical leader is someone who reflects the character of Christ. They lead with humility, selflessness, and a passion for serving others. They use their gifts to help those around them and are constantly growing in their faith, letting God transform them from the inside out. Biblical leadership isn’t about power or authority; it’s about serving others with love and pointing them to God. When we follow these principles, we can lead in a way that honors God and makes a lasting impact on the people around us. That’s what makes a biblical leader.

Elsa Bueno