Day 31/40 Biblical Leadership – Men and Women as Servants of God
- Margit Kresin
- 3 days ago
- 4 min read
Servant leadership as a biblical principle
In the Bible, leadership is primarily understood as servant leadership. It means taking responsibility for the people and tasks entrusted to one. In contrast to worldly leadership, the focus is not on power, prestige, or self-interest, but on serving one's neighbor and aligning oneself with God's will. Jesus emphasizes:
Whoever would become great among you must be your servant. (Matthew 20:26)
Leadership means using God-given gifts and abilities for the benefit of others and taking on a serving role. It is closely connected to divine guidance, following God's Word, and the example of Jesus Christ. The Bible often compares leadership to herding a flock and emphasizes the servant character and submission to God's will as central principles. It is not about dominion or titles, but about serving others and leading them for the good of the community.
Male role models for leadership in the Old Testament
The Bible shows many examples of leadership in different situations:
Moses led the people of Israel out of slavery and had to repeatedly face challenges and his own weaknesses.
David was a king who, despite personal flaws, was considered "a man after God's own heart" and humbly sought God's guidance.
The apostles, such as Peter and Paul, took on responsibility in the young church, delegated tasks (Acts 6:1-7) and taught the believers.
Joshua took over the leadership after Moses and led the people of Israel into the promised land.
Nehemiah demonstrated leadership in rebuilding the walls of Jerusalem and motivated the people to cooperate.
Joseph rose from slave to administrator in Egypt and saved many people from starvation through his wisdom.
Daniel served as an advisor and leader at Babylonian and Persian courts, remaining true to his faith.
Jesus Christ is the perfect example of leadership: He came to serve and to give his life for others.
Women in leadership roles in the Old Testament
Women also take on leadership roles in the Bible:
Miriam was a prophetess and leader in the worship of Israel.
Deborah was an outstanding prophetess and judge who led the people of Israel,she dispensed justice and even led men into battle (Judges 4-5).
Esther , as queen, saved her people through courage and wisdom.
Abigail demonstrated wisdom and courage when, through her level-headed actions, she prevented David from shedding blood (1 Samuel 25).
Hannah was a woman of prayer and devotion. Through her persistent prayer and faith, she became the mother of Samuel, one of Israel's greatest prophets. Her praise and devotion to God are a model of spiritual leadership (1 Samuel 1–2).
Sarah , Rebekah , Rachel and Leah acted as matriarchs and influenced the development of the people of Israel.
Bathsheba acted wisely and strategically within the royal household when she ensured Solomon's accession to the throne. She was later given a throne in the throne room by King Solomon and allowed to advise him.
Female Leaders and Role Models in the New Testament
In the New Testament we encounter numerous women who played a significant role in the early church through their faith, devotion and service:
Mary, the mother of Jesus , lived a quiet, servant-like leadership, characterized by faith, obedience, and devotion to God's will. She is the best-known female role model in the New Testament. Her faith, humility, and willingness to fulfill God's will make her a central figure in God's plan of salvation (Luke 1–2).
Mary Magdalene : She was a faithful disciple of Jesus who accompanied him on his journeys, served him, and played a key role as the first witness of the resurrection (John 20:16-18).
Martha and Mary of Bethany : The sisters of Lazarus were close friends of Jesus. Martha demonstrated practical leadership as a hostess, while Mary, through her devotion to Jesus' words, became a model of spiritual discipleship (Luke 10:38–42; John 11).
Priscilla : Together with her husband Aquila, she was an important teacher and collaborator of Paul. She instructed Apollos, a learned preacher, in the faith (Acts 18:24–26; Romans 16:3).
Junia : She is described in the Epistle to the Romans as “highly regarded among the apostles” and was probably a leading figure in the early church (Romans 16:7).
Phoebe : She is described as a deacon (servant) of the church in Cenchreae and as a supporter of many Christians. Paul entrusted her with the important letter to the Romans (Romans 16:1–2).
Lydia : She was a wealthy purple cloth merchant in Philippi who was the first European to convert to Christianity. Her house became the meeting place of the first Christian community in Europe (Acts 16:14–15, 40).
Tabitha (Dorcas) : She was known for her mercy and good works and served the church in Joppa. After her death, she was raised from the dead by Peter (Acts 9:36–41).
Evodia and Syntyche : Two women from the church in Philippi whom Paul refers to as his co-workers in the gospel (Philippians 4:2–3).
Diverse forms of leadership
These examples show that leadership in the Bible is not reserved for men alone. Women and men assume responsibility in different ways—sometimes publicly and directly, sometimes discreetly and through influence, example, or family decisions. Indirect and symbolic leadership can also have a powerful impact.
Conclusion: Leadership as a shared responsibility of women and men
Leadership in the Bible is a God-given task to be carried out with humility, integrity, and a deep commitment to the well-being of others and the glory of God – regardless of gender.
Exchange and reflection
Which biblical role models for leadership inspire you most personally – and why?
How do you understand servant leadership in everyday life?
Do you know of any examples of "hidden" or indirect leadership that have impressed you?
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