Biblical Leadership Leadership philosophies can have both positive and negative traits. Leaders have an obligation to impart knowledge to their followers, and those who follow can experience both positive and negative outcomes. To make progress, it is necessary to raise ethics and morals from
a state of inactivity in order to strengthen both sustainability and leadership (Slater, 2023). However, many leaders have fallen as a result of immorality and selfish desires. Notable issues that ethical leadership must address frequently encompass climate change, pervasive poverty, corruption, social inequality, and even political structures (Slater, 2023). Despite this, some exceptional leaders have embraced humility and selflessness, inspiring others to do the same. These leaders are remembered for their integrity and ability to create positive change through transformational leadership. What exactly does biblical leadership include, and how does it manifest itself? In the context of the Bible, leadership is defined by a reliance on the wisdom and direction of God. This perspective is reinforced by Proverbs 3:5–6, which advises having complete faith in the Lord and not relying solely on one's own comprehension (
New International Version Bible
1978/2011) The key characteristics of biblical leadership include humility and integrity, a dedication to serve others, and a steadfast commitment to honesty and trustworthiness according to God's principles. Leaders are often depicted as shepherds who have the duty of caring for their
flock. As it reiterates in the Bible “The lord is my shepherd, I shall not lack.” (
New International Version Bible
, 1978/2011, Psalms 23:1). Further emphasizes the need to submit to the Lord in all
aspects of life, promising that he will guide one's path in a direct manner. Jesus, often regarded as the epitome of leadership, highlights the need of servant leadership by declaring that those who want greatness must assume the position of servants.
King Asa’s Leadership Leaders in the Bible actively pursue God's desires, placing their confidence in his direction while making decisions and depending on the knowledge and insight given in scripture.
The biblical depiction of King Asa's rule in Judah provides compelling proof of the significant effect that following God's teachings may have. Asa succeeded his father, Abijah, as ruler of the country and took on the responsibility with a commitment to upholding the divine principles established in the Bible. Asa used his power and influence to discourage idol worship and encourage the worship of one God, demonstrating his unwavering dedication to obeying the instructions of God. As it states in John 14:6, I am the way and the truth and the life. No man comes to the father except through me (
New International Version Bible
, 1978/2011). The elimination of the deeply rooted traditions of idolatry that were prevalent in the nation was a significant accomplishment for Asa. According to (Bottomley, 2023) idolatry occurs when the work of human hands cloaks itself in silence to hide the truth about its human roots, to claim for itself a god-like status. After destroying the pagan altars and elevated sites and taking down the Asherah poles, the man went so far as to depose his grandma Maakah as queen mother for her role in idolatry. Obedient to God’s warning as it states in the Bible, "You must worship me alone. You may not create an idol in heaven, earth, or water. I, the Lord your God, am jealous, so
do not fall down or worship them."(New International Version, 1978/2011, Exodus 20:3-5).
