The Five Leadership Characteristics of Jesus

Written by Jim Zabloski

Various leadership programs will tell you that there are anywhere from three to twelve dominant characteristics of a leader, including things like a desire for purpose, self-knowledge, persistence, daring, and life itself. After studying the life of Jesus, I have narrowed His leadership style down to five characteristics.

1. Be an Authority Figure
One thing that stands out in Jesus’ lectures is the frequent use of imperatives. He never said, “Gee, if you’d like to do this, then…” or “If you’re up to it, why don’t you…” No, His words were demanding. No matter which translation of the Bible you read, you find Jesus speaking with authority. When He went head to head with those in authority, He usurped them by answering their question with a question. He did not become defensive in their presence. He had full authority, and He intended to exercise it when necessary. He did the same with His followers. He told them to love their enemies and to do good to those who hated them. He didn’t suggest it. He spoke the truth without apology.

2. Be an Example
Jesus told his staff what to be as well as what to do. He encouraged them to be perfect. Among other things, He told them to love, obey, pray, walk, listen, and follow. Yet He did it without a hint of pride or a sarcastic smirk. Imagine walking into your office Monday morning, gathering your staff together, and asking them to follow you and become like you. Like it or not, many of your staff will become like you. They will see your ways and will emulate them. The good? Yes, perhaps. The bad? Yes, probably. It isn’t important for you to ask your followers to imitate you – they will. That is a given.

3. Be a Decision Maker
There are a number of things that play into making good decisions: an innate gut reaction, emotions, logic, history, experience, responsibility, accountability, and knowledge. You shouldn’t make decisions because of emotions, whether yours or others. Leadership decisions must often be made on the basis of common sense and management principles. Business decisions are best made in light of what is good for the business. Being decisive and earning respect may mean standing up to the one in charge of you and holding your ground. It may mean humbling yourself and offering an apology later if the thing goes awry. It may mean taking risks. George C. Marshall said, “Don’t be afraid to take a big step when one is indicated. You can’t cross a chasm in two small jumps.” Make decisions and move on.

4. Be a Friend
Can you honestly say that you are genuinely friendly with your employees? Do you know your subordinate’s favorite color? How many kids do they have, and what are their names? It was not part of Jesus’ leadership style to be aloof. He touched the shoulders (and feet) of all His staff members. There were no unimportant people in His life. One well-known businessman said he learned early on that the secret to being a leader on campus was to speak to people coming down the sidewalk. He determined to speak to people and not divert his eyes away as most people do. That recognition and simple act did more to build friendships than anything else. It is just that attitude that made the man into a billionaire. How many leaders can you name who would pass people on the street or in a store and genuinely greet them with warmth and sincerity? How many people do you greet with the same attitude?

5. Be an Inspiration
In all of Jesus’ teachings, there are no rah-rah rallies. There are no pep talks. He motivated and motivates people without the expected tape series, seminars, or best-selling books. Well, OK, one best-selling Book. He had something that no promo gimmick can outsell or over promote. He had integrity. Abraham Lincoln said that “nearly all men can stand adversity, but if you want to test a man’s character, give him power.” Nothing will motivate your people greater than the knowledge that their leader is a man or woman with integrity, one who cannot and will not be bought, who will die before compromising his or her convictions.

So, do you still want to pattern your leadership style after Jesus? It may take some soul-searching, but it is not an impossible task. Remember, good leaders know their strengths and weaknesses and are willing to make changes where necessary to become better role models. If you are going to follow a role model, why not go for perfection?

This article is excerpted from The 25 Most Common Problems in Business (and How Jesus Solved Them) by Jim Zabloski (© 1996, Broadman & Holman, Nashville, Tennessee). Used by permission. 

Jim Zabloski is Editorial Director of Vida Publishers International and is an experienced business manager and negotiator.

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