Primary command
Reject domineering leadership and become a servant, following the Son of Man who gives Himself for others.
Read the Scripture
Primary passage
Matthew 20:25–28
25 But Jesus summoned them, and said, “You know that the rulers of the nations lord it over them, and their great ones exercise authority over them. 26 It shall not be so among you; but whoever desires to become great among you shall be your servant. 27 Whoever desires to be first among you shall be your bondservant, 28 even as the Son of Man came not to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.”
World English Bible
Luke
Luke 22:24–27
24 A dispute also arose among them, which of them was considered to be greatest. 25 He said to them, “The kings of the nations lord it over them, and those who have authority over them are called ‘benefactors.’ 26 But not so with you. Rather, the one who is greater among you, let him become as the younger, and one who is governing, as one who serves. 27 For who is greater, one who sits at the table, or one who serves? Isn’t it he who sits at the table? But I am among you as one who serves.
World English Bible
In context
Hear the whole passage.
Amid ambition and arguments about greatness, Jesus contrasts worldly authority with His own presence as one who serves.
What Jesus is forming in us
Jesus forms leaders whose authority is expressed through sacrificial service rather than control, image, or privilege.
Practice this command
Take one clear step.
Choose one necessary task beneath your status or preference and do it quietly for someone else.
Discuss
Talk about it.
Where are you tempted to seek recognition, control, or repayment when you serve?
Pray
Pray this.
Ask Jesus to replace self-importance with attentive, joyful service.
Teach
Teach it simply.
How does Jesus distinguish servant leadership from passivity, people-pleasing, or control?