Applying Servant-Leadership to Pastoral Ministry

“But he that is greatest among you shall be your servant.” -Matthew
23:11

The Lord Jesus used the arrogance and hypocrisy of the religious authorities of His day
as an opportunity to instruct His disciples regarding those who seek to obtain title and
position over others. The scribes and Pharisees sought after recognition and praise,
but were not interested in actually meeting the needs of the people. Jesus taught His
followers to not look for the honor a title brings, but rather to fulfill the role that the
position demands. In short, the instruction is that if you would be the greatest among
your peers, look for ways to serve them.

Many will credit Robert Greenleaf as the first to introduce the idea of
servant-leadership in a 1970 essay. His idea of servant-leadership entailed that those
holding leadership positions should be the ones who prioritize the needs of others
over their own and focus on the personal growth of those they lead. However, Jesus
Christ offered this style of leadership nearly 2,000 years before Greenleaf.

In pastoral ministry, the servant-leadership approach can be particularly powerful
and relevant because it aligns closely with the teachings and example of Jesus Christ,
who is often seen as the ultimate Servant-Leader. Here's how a pastor can activate
servant-leadership within his ministry:

1. Put other people before yourself- Pastoral ministry involves caring for the
spiritual, emotional, and physical needs of others. Servant-leadership
emphasizes prioritizing the needs of church members, listening to their
concerns, and offering support and guidance.

2. Empower other people and multiply yourself- A servant-leader in pastoral
ministry empowers others to serve and lead within the church community. This
can involve delegating responsibilities, providing opportunities for growth and
development, and encouraging individuals to use their gifts and talents for the
greater good.

3. Lead other people through a service-centric example- Servant-leadership is
not just about words, for it is also about actions. Pastoral leaders who embody
the principles of servant-leadership demonstrate humility, compassion, and
selflessness in their interactions with others, inspiring others to follow their
example.

4. Foster in other people a sense of belonging- Servant-leadership emphasizes
building strong relationships and fostering a sense of community within their
local church. Pastoral leaders who practice servant-leadership create an
environment where people feel valued, supported, and connected to one
another.

5. Facilitate to other people growth and development- A key aspect of
servant-leadership is helping others grow and develop to reach their full
potential. In pastoral ministry, this can involve providing pastoral care,
offering guidance and mentorship, and creating opportunities for spiritual
growth and formation.

Overall, servant-leadership aligns well with the values and mission of pastoral
ministry, which is centered on serving others and fostering spiritual growth and
community. By adopting a servant-leadership approach, pastors can create a
supportive and empowering environment where individuals can flourish and thrive in
their faith journey. Best of all, by becoming a servant-leader, a pastor will be
following the pattern of the Lord Jesus Christ.