Describe how servant leadership is viewed from both the secular and the biblical perspectives.
Next, research the differences and similarities between the biblical and secular perspectives of power and authority. What do you consider to be the most significant differences between the two?
Nefertari Gray
Servant leadership from the biblical perspective is majorly embraced by those who believe in the bible. These people argue that leadership is insufficient to describe a leader’s strong attributes and propose that servant should be added to the term leadership. According to the biblical perspective, a person is said to be a servant leader if he serves others well. This sentiment arises from the belief that Jesus Christ the son of the almighty God, did not come to the earth to do his master’s responsibilities but rather to perform servant’s function (Craun & Henson,2022). Those who advocate a biblical approach to leadership ascertain that people should learn and practice Jesus’s leading skills.
A difference between biblical and secular leadership perspectives is that in secular leadership, leaders make their own decision based on facts and figures instead of making decisions based on emotions or impressions (Craun & Henson,2022). On the other hand, biblical leaders do not make their own decisions but seek God’s will in the decision-making process. Secular leaders know more about men, but spiritual leaders know God and men.
The similarities between the secular and biblical perspectives are that both leadership focuses on the growth, well-being, and success of the people they lead and fosters leadership in others. The most significant difference between the secular and biblical perspectives is that biblical leaders always seek God’s guidance, while secular leaders may or not believe in God.
References
Craun, J. R., & Henson, J. D. (2022). Transitioning to a Servant Leadership Culture Through the Teachings of Jesus. European Journal of Theology and Philosophy, 2(2), 1-8.
Expert Solution Preview
From a secular perspective, servant leadership is viewed as a leadership style that emphasizes the well-being and growth of the individuals being led. It focuses on serving others and meeting their needs, rather than focusing solely on one’s own power and authority. A secular servant leader is someone who leads by example, supports their team members, and empowers them to reach their full potential.
From a biblical perspective, servant leadership is viewed as a calling and a way of life for those who follow the teachings of Jesus Christ. It is rooted in the belief that true leadership is not about dominating or exerting power over others, but rather about humbly serving and putting the needs of others first. A biblical servant leader is someone who consistently demonstrates love, compassion, and servitude towards others, following the example set by Jesus.
The differences between the biblical and secular perspectives of power and authority are significant. In secular leadership, power and authority often come from one’s position or title. It is based on formal authority, expertise, and control. On the other hand, biblical leadership sees power and authority as coming from a higher source, namely God. It is not about personal ambition or control, but about aligning oneself with God’s will and seeking guidance from Him in decision-making.
Furthermore, secular leaders rely on rationality, logic, and data-driven decision-making processes to make their choices. They prioritize objective considerations and measurable outcomes. In contrast, biblical leaders believe in seeking divine guidance through prayer, discernment, and faith. They prioritize subjective considerations, such as moral values and spiritual insights, in addition to objective factors. For them, the ultimate authority lies with God, and they strive to align their decisions and actions with His teachings and principles.
In summary, servant leadership is viewed differently from secular and biblical perspectives. While both perspectives emphasize the well-being and success of those being led, the secular perspective focuses on individual and organizational growth, while the biblical perspective emphasizes serving others and seeking divine guidance. The most significant difference lies in the source of power and authority, with secular leaders relying on personal expertise and control, and biblical leaders submitting to God’s will and seeking His guidance.
