A leader’s character is obvious even to those who may not agree with their values, leadership style or philosophy. Read Luke 20:19-26.

As Jesus became more widely known among the people of Judea He drew the attention of some of the religious leaders who felt threatened by His popularity with the people. Much like what happens in an election year in America, the first order of business by Jesus’ opponents was to discredit Him before the crowds. Individuals were sent with specific questions that were designed to entrap Jesus. Interesting that they prefaced their questions with “Teacher, we know that you speak and teach what is right, and that you do not show partiality but teach the way of God in accordance with the truth…” God-honoring leaders demonstrate such integrity with their character that even those seeking to do them harm can’t discredit their example.

Every effective leader has clearly defined core values. Read Mark 12:28-34.

When Jesus arrived in Jerusalem the religious leaders were determined to have Him executed but it was several days before Jesus was actually arrested. During that time the religious leaders and teachers of the law questioned Jesus often about His beliefs and values. Jesus’ answers always hit a truth that honored God and pointed to His core values.

A leader’s vision must always be credible—in the good times and when things get difficult. Read Mark 8:31-33.

Throughout His ministry Jesus inspired His team with His vision for both the present and the future. He consistently described the character and conduct that would define the citizens of the Kingdom of God. His vision energized His team to leave everything they had to follow Him. His team applied the skills, talents, and resources acquired over a lifetime to see Jesus’ vision become a reality. They believed that if Jesus’ vision became a reality the world would be a more desirable place. Even when Jesus talked about His death and the very difficult things that lay ahead for Him, He did it as part of His overall vision.

God-honoring leaders translate standards into values/principles that guide personal conduct and relationships with others. Read Mark 7:1-23.

The Pharisees, the religious leaders in Jesus’ day, held to the fine points of Scripture and religious tradition but they had not translated those standards into values to live by. They lived by the letter of the law and in verse nine Jesus says, “You have a fine way of setting aside the commands of God in order to observe your own traditions.” They had let go of the reason for the command from God and turned it into something legalistic that demanded unquestioned adherence, ignoring the original intent.

When they understand team dynamics, leaders choose team members carefully. Read Mark 3:13-19.

Jesus’ ministry had amassed hundreds of faithful followers. These were individuals that actually spent time with Jesus and followed Him from town to town to listen to His preaching and to minister to His needs. From this large pool of followers, Jesus selected twelve men to become His apostles, His entrusted messengers and ambassadors. This was such a significant decision that Jesus prayed all night to prepare for it. This was a decision that Jesus made alone with only the guidance of God.