Oregon Ministry Network

Followship & Leadership

Follow my example, as I follow the example of Christ.
1 Corinthians 11:1

While I was driving, I got stuck behind a very slow car. The driver appeared to be uncertain about the direction they were going. Ironically, this was the bumper sticker on the back of the car: Don’t follow me, I’m lost. Perhaps you’ve been behind that car.

It got me thinking about the people who have been the leaders in my life and how they have influence my life. I have never been inspired or excited about leaders who have been uncertain about where they were going. It gives me a feeling of insecurity, uncertainty and a lack of destiny. For the most part, I have been blessed with a number of remarkable leaders who have been both positive models and progressive mentor for me. Beginning with my parents, there have been a host of key people who have helped me develop my commitment to becoming a Christ Follower and Church Leader. Wow have I been blessed.

When it comes to Leadership, there a couple of questions I keep asking myself.
   1. Who am I following? 2. Who am I leading?

The 1st question is the FOLLOWSHIP question. Who is are the influencers in my life?
The 2nd question is the LEADERSHIP question. Who am I influencing and leading with my life?
Paul the Apostle was an extraordinary Leader. His line in 1 Corinthians 11 speaks to us of both these questions and provides a perfect pattern for me to follow. Note that Followship is necessary before Leadership.

Speaking of Leadership, my friend John Maxwell has shared this illustration.

3 Leadership Mistakes General Custer Made

1. He Underestimated The Enemy.
   Custer’s last words…"Don’t be afraid, there’s enough for us all."
   Our Action: Be alert to the Devil. Don’t underestimate him.

2. His Personal Agenda Was Greater Than The Needs of His Soldiers.
   Custer wanted to President of the United States. So he attempted to use this battle as his 1st platform.
   Our Action: Our Priorities should be:
        a. Heart for God
        b. The needs of those we lead.
        c. Your own needs.

3. He Didn’t Use All The Weapons Available To Him.
   He left 2 big guns behind, because he didn’t think they would need them.
   Our Action: Develop a Prayer Life and Develop a Godly Vision.
          "He who thinks he leads and has not one following is only taking a walk."

What is your favorite Leadership Illustration?

For more on this topic, read Proverbs 29 and discover more insights about being a Leader.