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