Jesus the Lead Follower: Embodying Perfect Followership

In a world that often exalts leadership as the ultimate goal, the biblical narrative invites us to consider a more profound archetype of influence and authority—Jesus, the Lead Follower. This perspective is not only countercultural but also foundational for understanding the dynamics of true leadership as modeled by Christ Himself.

The Paradigm of Followership

Jesus’ life exemplifies perfect followership, characterized by an unwavering submission to the will of the Father. From His humble obedience to His mother at Cana to His spiritual fortitude in the wilderness, Jesus consistently demonstrated that His actions were in direct response to the Father’s leading. This submission was not a sign of weakness; rather, it was the ultimate display of strength and commitment to the mission of God.

Leading by Following

The gospel of John provides profound insights into Jesus' followership, particularly in John 5:16-30. Here, Jesus heals on the Sabbath, which stirs controversy among the religious leaders. His response is telling: He openly acknowledges His actions as flowing from the Father’s will, asserting, "The Son can do nothing by Himself; He can do only what He sees His Father doing" (John 5:19). This declaration is not merely theological; it is a practical blueprint for all who aspire to lead. Jesus confirms that true leadership is contingent upon faithful followership.

The Good Shepherd

Further exploring the theme of followership, Jesus identifies Himself as the Good Shepherd in John 10. This metaphor extends beyond mere care and guidance. It encapsulates the essence of sacrificial leadership—laying down one’s life for the sheep. Here, followership and leadership converge in the ultimate act of love and sacrifice. Jesus does not lead from a position of detached authority but from deep involvement and commitment to the well-being of His flock, those who know Him and are known by Him.

Implications for Today’s Leaders

For those called to lead in various capacities, Jesus’ model presents a radical shift from conventional leadership paradigms. Leadership, according to Jesus, is not about asserting one’s will but about aligning one’s actions with a higher purpose. It is about leading from a place of obedience and service, not for personal gain but for the collective good.

A Call to Action

As followers of Christ, we are invited to embody this model of "leading by following." This involves a continuous commitment to discern and align with God’s will, a readiness to serve rather than be served, and a heart oriented towards the needs of others before our own. By doing so, we not only honor the example set by Christ but also contribute to a legacy of godly leadership that can transform lives and communities.

In essence, Jesus’ life challenges us to reconsider our notions of influence and authority. By embracing His example of perfect followership, we discover the true heart of leadership and the path to making a lasting impact in our world and in the local church.

— AARON DININNY

[Multiply] Executive Director

Embracing True Leadership: Lessons from David, the Shepherd King

Leadership and followership are often seen as contrasting roles, yet in the spiritual journey, they are intrinsically linked, reflecting a profound biblical truth: to lead effectively, one must first learn to follow faithfully. This concept is beautifully exemplified in the life of David, a man after God’s own heart and a pivotal figure in the biblical narrative. David’s journey from a humble shepherd boy to the king of Israel is not merely a tale of ascension to power; it's a testament to his devoted followership and leadership under God’s guidance. His life offers crucial lessons on spiritual leadership that are still relevant to us today.

The Call to Follow

David's story begins with a divine summons. Unlike King Saul, who was outwardly impressive, David was chosen for his heart — his capacity to follow God. This choice underscores a critical lesson: God values our internal disposition more than our external qualifications. David was called to follow God, which was the first step toward his leadership. His journey reminds us that effective leadership in God's kingdom starts with a humble and obedient heart towards God.

The Heart of a Follower

Throughout his life, David demonstrated what it means to be a committed follower. His psalms, like the beloved Psalm 23, express deep reliance on and devotion to God. These were not just poetic words; they were reflections of his lived experience. From facing Goliath to evading King Saul’s attempts on his life, David consistently sought God’s guidance. His leadership was born out of these acts of faithful followership.

Followership in Action

David’s life as a follower and leader was marked by service and sacrifice. He served King Saul, even when Saul pursued him out of jealousy. He respected God’s anointing on Saul, illustrating his understanding that true leadership means respecting God’s order, even under duress. David’s eventual kingship was characterized by his role as a ‘nagid’ — the Hebrew word for ‘a ruler under God’s authority.’ This term captures the essence of his leadership style: ruling by following God.

Modern Implications

What does David’s model of leadership mean for us today? In a world that often values appearance and charisma over character, David’s life challenges us to rethink leadership. It’s not about being at the forefront or seeking personal glory. Instead, it’s about following God devotedly and leading others by example. This perspective is particularly crucial in church settings but is equally applicable in our personal lives and workplaces.

— AARON DININNY

[Multiply] Executive Director

Embracing Followership: The Lessons from Moses and Beyond

In a world where leadership often takes the spotlight, the true essence of leadership is sometimes obscured by the glare of charisma, power, and personal achievement. However, as Christians, our approach to leadership—especially within the church—should be profoundly different. It is not merely about leading but about following. This concept of "followership," as emphasized currently by The Multiply Family of Churches, draws from the biblical narratives of figures like Moses to redefine what true leadership looks like.

Moses: A Portrait of Biblical Followership

The story of Moses is a compelling illustration of followership that transcends the traditional boundaries of leadership. From his initial days in the Egyptian palace to his eventual role as the deliverer of Israel, Moses’ journey is a testament to the fact that God prepares leaders through a path of faithful following.

Moses, despite his royal upbringing and access to the best of everything, chose to align himself with the suffering of his people rather than enjoy the fleeting pleasures of sin (Hebrews 11:25-26). This decision marked the beginning of his transformation—a transformation that was not about rising to power in Egypt, but about learning to be a humble follower of God. His eventual escape to Midian, far from being a demotion, was a divine strategy to prepare him for greater responsibilities. In the quiet years of tending sheep, Moses learned patience, humility, and reliance on God—qualities that would define his leadership.

Followership in the Face of Modern Leadership Crisis

Today, the church faces a leadership crisis marked by a shortage of pastors and a changing religious landscape. We must face the stark reality: there are millions of churches around the world but not enough pastors, which puts the effectiveness of church ministries at risk. This crisis calls for a radical return to the principles of biblical followership where leadership is first an act of following God.

The local church, especially in organizations like Multiply, is a vibrant arena for practicing this biblical principle. By prioritizing the needs of the community and aligning with God's vision, churches can model a leadership style that is less about authority and more about service. This shift is crucial in a time when churches are increasingly regulated and challenged by societal changes.

The Theological Imperative of Followership

Theologically, the principle of followership aligns with the nature of God’s glory. God crafts leaders not to showcase their glory but to manifest His own through their lives. Moses’ life underscores this, as his leadership was clearly a testament to God’s power and not his own capabilities. The miracles in Egypt, from the plagues to the crossing of the Red Sea, were divine acts that no human leader, regardless of their charisma or skill, could replicate.

Furthermore, followership addresses the problem of longevity in ministry. The rapid turnover of pastors could be mitigated by cultivating a culture of followership. Leaders who see themselves primarily as followers of Christ are more likely to endure the pressures of ministry because their focus remains on God, not on their personal strength or public image.

Practical Steps Towards Effective Followership

For individuals wondering how to apply these principles in their lives, the call is to focus on followership. This means seeking a deeper relationship with God and allowing that relationship to influence all areas of life. Whether one is a church leader, a business professional, or a teacher, the quality of their leadership should be measured by how they are following Christ. The narrative of Moses teaches us that the environment where we find ourselves, no matter how humble or unexpected, is the training ground for divine purposes. Moses might have thought his life was off course when he ended up at a desert well, but in reality, it was the exact preparation he needed for what was to come.

Conclusion

The journey of followership is about embracing the places and situations God places us in, learning from them, and preparing ourselves for the roles He has ordained for us. As the Apostle Paul aptly put it, our call is to "follow me as I follow Christ." This model not only ensures a healthy leadership dynamic in the church but also fosters a community where the glory of God is the focal point of all endeavors.

Through the story of Moses it's clear that when we shift our focus from being leaders to being followers, we unlock the true potential of leadership as God intended. This paradigm shift can bring about a transformation in the church, marked by resilience, humility, and a deeper communion with God.

— Nic Lombardi

Pastor: The Grace Collective

The Art of Following Through: Lessons from Michael Jordan and Abraham

In the world of sports, Michael Jordan is a legend not just for his skill, but for his unparalleled commitment to excellence. One of the most notable aspects of his game was his ability to "follow through" on his shots, a technique that ensured his actions were carried out with intention and precision, leading to unmatched success on the basketball court. He did this so well that actually shot free throws once with his eyes closed during a game in 1991. And as amazing, competitive, and slightly disrespectful as this is, there's a very valuable lesson that we as believers should take from this: 

This concept of follow-through can extend far beyond the hardwood, serving as a powerful metaphor for commitment and persistence in our spiritual lives.

The biblical story of Abraham serves as a profound example of spiritual follow-through. In Hebrews 11:8-10, we see Abraham, called by God to leave his home without knowing where he was going, responding with unwavering faith. Abraham's journey was not just a physical relocation but a testament to the essence of true followership – a concept deeply rooted in the Christian faith and highlighted through the practice of following Jesus' call to "Come, follow me..." (Matt. 4:19).

In 1988, Robert Kelley introduced the concept of "followership," emphasizing the role of followers in shaping leadership and organizational outcomes. This perspective is crucial in the church's context, where the dynamic between leaders and followers transcends mere obedience to co-create the future through mutual engagement and faith.

Abraham's trial, as detailed in Genesis 22, underscores the essence of followership through his readiness to obey God's command to sacrifice his son Isaac. This narrative is not just about Abraham's willingness to follow God's instruction but also about his unwavering faith in God's provision. His actions, driven by obedience and trust, exemplify the depth of commitment required in our walk with God.

Following through, as Abraham did, involves more than mere compliance; it is about actively engaging in the process of faith, even when the path ahead is unclear. It requires us to lay down our "Isaacs" - our most treasured possessions, dreams, and even our future (just to turn up the intensity, I'll add that we may be asked to lay them down even if it seems God promised them to us Himself!) - trusting that God's plans for us are greater than anything we can imagine.  

Bible and theology professors Rick Langer and Joanne Jung argue that leadership is rooted in followership, suggesting that to lead well, one must first follow well first. Abraham's story illustrates this beautifully. Despite the potential loss of his son, he descended the mountain not with sorrow, but with the assurance of God's promise to make him the father of many nations (Gen. 22:18).

This narrative challenges us to examine our own lives: What is our "Isaac" that we need to lay on the altar? Are we prepared to follow through with the worship and sacrifice God is asking of us? Michael Jordan's follow-through on the basketball court was a result of discipline, practice, and commitment. Similarly, our spiritual follow-through requires us to act with intention, guided by faith and obedience, understanding that true followership is the foundation upon which leadership and purpose are built.

In conclusion, whether on the basketball court or in our spiritual journey, the principle of follow-through is crucial. It's about completing what we've started, trusting in the process, and believing in the promise of what lies ahead. Like Abraham, let us be remembered not just for the steps we've taken, but for how we faithfully followed through, even when the path was uncertain.

— Jordan Brown

Pastor (Ministries and Outreach) [OV] Church

Called to Follow: Abraham

INTRODUCTION

Welcome to the new [Multiply] blog!

Our first blog series is titled “Called to Follow” and supplements the current preaching series at the [Multiply] churches!

Churches are constantly talking about leadership, but how often do we consider the importance of followership? 

Have you ever thought about what it means to be a great follower, especially in your church community? 

Well, that's what we're going to explore here together over the next several weeks.

The term followership may not be a normal part of our everyday vocabulary, yet its significance is profound. 

Historical leadership studies have largely fixated on the notion of innate leadership qualities, epitomized by theories such as the “Great Man Theory." However, Robert Kelley introduced a pivotal shift in perspective by highlighting a frequently overlooked aspect: the follower. According to Kelley, our personal and church-related spheres are filled with followers whose contributions and significance we often neglect to acknowledge.

Followership critically examines the symbiotic relationship between leaders and followers, asserting that successful leadership is a collaborative endeavor. This perspective is especially relevant to our churches, echoing Jesus's invitation to His disciples: "Come, follow me." Thus, at the core of Christianity is the call to follow.

Effective followership transcends mere obedience. It entails:

• a deep-seated commitment to our collective mission,

• a fervent enthusiasm for our faith, 

• and a proactive engagement in the church's endeavors. 

It is about cultivating a community that learns, grows, and actively disseminates Jesus's teachings.

ABRAHAM

In our exploration of followership within a biblical context, we turn our attention to one of the most important figures in the Judeo-Christian tradition: Abraham. Abraham's journey, as detailed in Genesis, offers profound insights into the essence of true followership and its implications for our understanding of leadership, faith, and obedience to God's calling.

Abraham, originally called Abram, stands as a great example of faith and followership in the biblical narrative. His story begins with a divine call to leave his homeland, his people, and his father's house for a land that God promises to show him (Genesis 12:1). This moment marks a pivotal point not only in Abraham's life but also in the history of followership as it pertains to our faith tradition. Abraham's response to God's call embodies the core attributes of followership: 

1. deference to authority, 

2. zeal for the mission, 

3. and an unwavering commitment to follow, despite uncertain outcomes.

Abraham's followership is characterized by his readiness to listen and his willingness to act on God's commands without full knowledge of where it would lead him. This leap of faith is a testament to his trust in God's promise and his role as a follower. His journey reflects a relational dynamic between leader and follower that is not based on blind obedience but on trust, dialogue, and mutual respect. God's promise to make Abraham a great nation, bless him, and make his name great (Genesis 12:2) is contingent upon Abraham's active participation in this covenant relationship.

Moreover, Abraham's followership is not passive but active and dynamic. It involves making difficult decisions, such as the decision to leave his homeland and later, to agree to sacrifice his son Isaac, a test of faith that epitomizes the depth of his commitment to follow God's will (Genesis 22). These acts of faith and obedience highlight the complexity of followership, which entails both internal conviction and external action.

Abraham's journey also illuminates the concept of followership multiplication, a principle that is as relevant today as it was in biblical times. Through his willingness to follow, Abraham becomes the father of nations, and his followership catalyzes a chain of events that shapes the trajectory of biblical history. His story is a powerful reminder that the impact of true followership extends far beyond the individual, contributing to a larger narrative and mission.

CONCLUSION

In reflecting on Abraham's example, we are invited to reconsider our own approach to followership within our communities and our personal faith journeys. Abraham teaches us that followership is foundational to leadership, that trust and obedience are paramount, and that the path of followership is one marked by challenges, growth, and profound rewards.

As we continue to explore the rich tapestry of biblical followership, let us draw inspiration from Abraham's example, embracing the call to follow with courage, faith, and a heart open to where the journey might lead us. Abraham's story is not just a testament to his faith; it is a guiding light for all who seek to navigate the complex interplay between leading and following in a world that desperately needs both.

WHAT’S NEXT

Throughout this series, we will delve into biblical narratives showcasing the followership of figures such as Moses, David, and Paul, illustrating how their followership informed their leadership. Additionally, we will explore practical avenues for cultivating impactful followership within our own churches and daily lives.

We are thrilled to embark on this journey with you, exploring the transformative potential of followership in enriching our church life and deepening our connection with Jesus. Keep an eye out for our next installment, where we will further unpack the concept of followership and its pivotal role in our collective faith journey. Let us engage in this learning process together, aspiring to follow faithfully and lead in a manner that glorifies God.

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Robert E. Kelley, “In Praise of Followers,” Harvard Business Review. Volume 66, Number 6 (November 1988).

Richard Langer and Joanne J. Jung. The Call to Follow: Hearing Jesus in a Culture Obsessed with Leadership. Crossway, 2022.

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— AAron Dininny

[Multiply] Executive Director