Leadership That Influences: Leading the Jesus Way

This Sunday at Myrtle House Community Church, we continued our Growing Together series by exploring the theme of leadership. Ellen Chapman reminded us that leadership is not reserved for a select few—it’s something every follower of Jesus carries in some form. Whether at home, in church, at work, or in everyday relationships, our lives are always influencing others. The real question is not if we influence, but how we influence.

Looking at the story of Deborah in Judges 4, we saw a powerful example of godly leadership. Deborah was a prophet and judge who listened closely to God and courageously spoke truth. Through her influence, Israel moved from hardship into decades of peace. Her life shows us that God uses people of character and faith to bring transformation—not because of their position, but because of their obedience.

Biblical leadership looks very different from the world’s version. It isn’t about status or control, but about serving others with humility and love. Jesus modelled this perfectly when He washed His disciples’ feet, showing that true leadership begins with a servant’s heart. Leadership in God’s Kingdom is shaped by character more than charisma, and gifting is always strengthened by godliness.

We reflected on several qualities that define strong, Christ-centred leadership: servanthood, integrity, humility, wisdom and discernment, courage, self-control, and love. These are not just leadership traits—they are markers of a life being formed by the Holy Spirit. As we grow in these areas, we reflect Jesus more clearly to the world around us.

Ellen reminded us that leadership isn’t about gender, title, or platform—it’s about character and calling. God is still raising up people like Deborah today: people who will listen to Him, live with integrity, and influence others for His Kingdom. Every believer is called to lead in some way, and for some, that call includes greater responsibility. But for all of us, the foundation remains the same—become more like Jesus.

As we left, we were challenged with a simple but searching question: What do you need to work on? Growth in leadership begins with surrender. When we allow God to shape our character, our lives naturally begin to influence others in powerful and lasting ways.

As we continue this series, may we be people who lead not for recognition, but for impact—serving faithfully, loving deeply, and influencing the world the Jesus way.