Christian leadership functions according to Bible teachings

The Bible teaching about Christian leadership functions provides critical insight in being successful. They fall into three general areas: the person, their action skills, and their people skills.

Put another way, if you want to master the Christian leadership functions, you need to have certain qualities and traits, you need to learn and possess a specific skill set, and you must be able to effectively deal with people. Let me break down each area.

The Leader's Character:

The Bible teaching about Christian leadership functions reveals that character and core values are crucial. Paul said those in Christian leadership are servants and stewards of the mysteries of God, and that, “it is required of stewards that one be found trustworthy” (1 Corinthians 4:2). 

In another place, Paul wrote, “And the things which you have heard from me in the presence of many witnesses, these entrust to faithful men, who will be able to teach others also” (2 Timothy 2:2; cf. 1 Thessalonians 2:5, 6). 

The political detractors and accusers of Daniel concluded, “they could find no ground of accusation or evidence of corruption, inasmuch as he was faithful, and no negligence or corruption was to be found in him” (Daniel 6:4).

At the heart of the Christian leadership functions must be integrity and honesty. The leader must be genuinely committed to the goals and values of the group they lead. The group also must recognize that quality in their leader. 

For Christian leadership, then, the leader must be devoted to the values and purposes of Jesus Christ – and of the organization served. In fact, Christian leadership must be more than a role that is played, but be reality that is lived. 

Lapses in Morality

Lapses in morality occur in Christian leadership. As I write this essay, the 2007 shootings at the huge New Life Church in Colorado Springs USA is still in the headlines. It was tragic. 

But also tragic is that in almost every news article the scandalized former pastor is mentioned. He was fired for having homosexual relationships with a male prostitute. I recall my mentor in seminary and professional life saying that the road of Christian service is littered with fallen Christian leaders. He was right. That is why integrity is one of the most important functions of Christian leadership.