Servant Leaders and Hope

A qualified servant leader should always be prepared to give a reason for his faith and the hope that is in him. Paul emphasizes the need for a thorough study, in his letter to Timothy, to be able to divide the word of God rightly (II Timothy 2:15 KJV). Peter emphasizes the same truth by introducing the subject of hope; that through study, a servant leader will be able to give the reason for the hope that he holds (I Peter 3:15 KJV). Thus, the servant leader cannot be prepared to give hope to his followers if he is not grounded on the biblical truths and has personal experience in life. The scripture is filled with inspirations of hope; battles that were won such as the crossing of river Jordan, the healings done by Jesus and the apostles, and many personal experiences. These historical records can be recalled and brought before the followers with each story meeting the needs of specific situations.

The gospel of Christ has a transforming power that can change the vilest sinner to a hopeful saint. Again, Paul states in I Timothy 1:7 (KJV) that God has not given His children the spirit of fear but one of courage and a sound mind. The servant leader through an understanding of the scripture and acceptance of the responsibility to lead others will move forward through the initiation of programs aimed at giving hope to men lost in corruption, jailed and in poverty to exercise their God-given power. The servant leader should lift the gospel of Christ and his exemplary life and personal testimony to the saving nature of the spirit of God to others who are hopeless. Smaller units should be established that would attend to the need of each person in the community; the movement can be local, but it will grow if the results are noticeable (Kinnison, 2016). Such an initiative will change the hearts of men from crimes as they see that they have transgressed the law, as they appreciate the kindness of Christ and the need of helping fellow humans. The rich, poor, righteous, and sinful will collaborate to empower the entire community.

References

Kinnison, Q. P. (2016).  Transforming Pastoral Leadership: Reimagining Congregational Relationships for Changing Contexts . Wipf and Stock Publishers.

I Timothy 1:7 KJV

II Timothy 2:15 KJV

I Peter 3:15 KJV