What is a leader?  Here are a couple of definitions.  (1) “Leadership is a process of social influence, which maximizes the efforts of others, toward the achievement of a goal” (Kevin Kruse, Forbes Magazine, April 09, 2013).  There is in this case a conscious effort to move people to achieve a goal.  This definition fits the kind of leadership which is seen in team sports, and in business.  (2) “If your actions inspire others to dream more, learn more, do more and become more, you are a leader” (John Quincy Adams).  In this case there may not be a specific goal in mind.  This is speaking of influence, positive influence; there is also negative influence (e.g. Matthew 15:14).  What kind of influence are you having with others?

1.  Examples of Positive Leadership.    

a.  Abraham.  The LORD said of him, “For I have known him, in order that he may command his children and his household after him, that they may keep the way of the LORD, to do righteousness and justice, that the LORD may bring to Abraham what He has spoken to him” (Genesis 18:19).  God had revealed Himself to Abraham.  It was Abraham’s responsibility to lead his family in the way of righteousness.  William W. Grasham comments, “The final clause of God’s statement clearly indicates that Yahweh’s promises to Abraham were conditional, contrary to what some assume. They were fulfilled because of the patriarch’s obedient faith.  Abraham kept ‘the way of the LORD’ (see 22:15-19; 26:5; Romans 4:16).  Such a response was essential so that the LORD (could) bring upon Abraham what He has spoken about him” (Truth for Today Commentary, Genesis Vol. 1, p. 507). 

Are we spiritually leading our families in the way of righteousness? 

b.  Joshua.  He said to the people, “Chose for yourselves this day whom you will serve… But as for me and my house, we will serve the LORD” (Joshua 24:15).  We are told, “Israel served the LORD all the days of Joshua, and all the days of the elders who outlived Joshua, who had know all the works of the LORD which He had done for Israel” (Joshua 24:31).  The LORD’s works affected them.  Joshua’s influence also may have played a part.

What kind of lasting influence will we have?

c.  Lois and Eunice.  Paul wrote to Timothy, and spoke of “the genuine faith that is in you, which dwelt first in your grandmother Lois and your mother Eunice” (2 Timothy 1:5).  Again, he wrote, “from childhood you have known the Holy Scriptures, which are able to make you wise for salvation…” (2 Timothy 3:15).  What an influence these women had on Timothy!

Are we having a positive influence on our children and grandchildren?

d.  Paul.  He wrote, “Imitate me, just as I also imitate Christ” (1 Corinthians 11:1).  What a bold statement!  Paul not only preached truth, he lived it.  He tried to be an example of true Christian living.  Of course, there is only one flawless one, and that is Christ.  He is the ultimate example.  However, Paul said, “you would do well to imitate me.”

Can we say this?  Would people be better Christians and more Christ-like by following us? 

e.  Timothy.  Paul told Timothy, “Let no one despise your youth, but be an example to the believers in word, in conduct, in love, in spirit, in faith, in purity” (1 Timothy 4:12).  Some young people do things that cause others to look down on young people, or not take them serious.  However, Timothy was to live as an example to believers in the church.  Young people can be great positive examples in the church.  I have heard some say things like, “Young people are the future of the church.”  I understand what some are trying to express.  However, the truth is a young person, who is in Christ, is not just the future of the church; he is a part of the current church. 

Are you a good example to others in word, conduct, love, spirit, faith and purity?