Five Characteristics of Spiritual Leaders
“Be
imitators of me, just as I also am of Christ.”
1 Corinthians 11:1
Character is “the aggregate of features and traits that
form the individual nature of some person or thing.”[1] It is the core of who you are, the building
blocks, if you will, upon which every other aspect of your life flows. (Proverbs 23:7) As a spiritual leader it is vital that your
character be rooted in Christ and your relationship in Christ. How are these five foundational
characteristics revealed in you?
1. As a spiritual leader you must deny yourself and
follow Jesus. (Luke 9:23) This is the most basic of the characteristics
needed to lead others in Christ. Until
you begin to live apart from yourself and for Christ you will stand between
those God has given you to lead and Christ.
Taking up your cross is part of the denial process if you are to be a
spiritual leader.
2. Abiding in Christ is a must. (John 15:4-5) Who you are, what you do, how you think and
your desires all flow from Christ when you abide in Him. Energy, direction, strength, and wisdom come
through Christ into you when you abide in Him.
It is from this relationship that discipling flows. Without this relationship the best you can
offer is sound theology.
3. You are drawn to that which has your attention. As a spiritual leader you must have your eyes
fixed on Jesus. (Hebrews
12:2) Jesus is the author and perfecter of your
faith. Jesus is the perfect example for
you of life and godliness. When your
eyes are fixed on Jesus you know how to point others to Him in every situation
and circumstance.
4. When your eyes are fixed on Jesus you are also able to
view others humbly, as more important than yourself, and serve them as Christ
serves you. (Philippians
2:3-4) Freedom from selfishness and empty conceit
gives great clarity of mind in the service of others.
5. Christ’s model and command is for leaders to be
servants to those whom God gives to them (Matthew 20:25-28). You are able to be a servant leader only when
you have emptied yourself, you are abiding in Christ, your eyes are fixed on
Jesus and you have a proper view of yourself and others.
The unique thing about these characteristics is that they are commanded
of every Christian, not just spiritual leaders.
At the very least, these characteristics should be foundational to
spiritual leaders and growing in their disciples.
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© Written by Dr. Richard L. Roberts,
Founder/Director of Life Focus Ministries.
You can reach him at
Richard@GrowLeaders.org or (423) 790-4994.
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[1] Dictionary.com
Unabridged (v 1.1) Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random
House, Inc. 2006.
