“For I gave you an example that you also should do as I did to you.” (John 13:15)

Here Jesus gave His disciples — and all us reading His word today — one of the most important lessons about leadership: lead by example. SHOW those who are following you, what to do by your own example.

The Apostle Paul did that: he wrote to the Thessalonians “You know what kind of men we proved to be among you for your sake. You also became imitators of us and of the Lord …”. (1:5-6)  Paul and the others led by example, and the Thessalonians followed that example to spiritual maturity.

This was Peter’s word to pastors: “Nor yet as lording it over those allotted to your charge, but proving to be examples to the flock.” (I Peter 5:3) Even though the pastor is a preacher and teacher, one of his most effective means of leadership is not just TELLING his people what to do; but SHOWNG them, with his own life.

These apostles had learned well the lesson the Master taught us that day: if you want to lead people, then don’t merely TELL them what to do; SHOW them!  “Lead by example.”