It goes without saying that Jesus is the greatest leader in the history of the world, to this day. Matthew 3:13-4:25 provides a sequential introduction to Jesus’ demonstration of leadership. Look at each section and observe the early makings of the greatest leader in the world!

1.          Matt. 3:13-17- Jesus went to John to be baptized; John tries to deter him. Jesus doesn’t exempt himself from obedience though he was superior. Jesus submits to John in baptism as an act of obedience to the Father. Though endowed with authority, Jesus lays down his authority to submit to the Father’s authority. The Father responded by declaring loudly, “This is my Son…” Submission before authority.

2.          Matt. 4:1-11- Jesus is tempted by the devil while alone in isolation, and he overcames the temptations. Jesus maintains his integrity in the secret place and does not give in to temptation. He resists self-serving; self-aggrandizement; and resists sacrificing righteousness for power and influence. Integrity above platform.

3.          Matt. 4:12-16- When he heard about the imprisonment of John, he doesn’t wait for a safer time to begin his ministry. He moves immediately toward those who need his light in spite of less than ideal conditions. Need over convenience.

4.          Matt. 4:17 - Simple, clear, and effective messaging. Jesus begins preaching, “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven has come near.” His message is simple and summarized in one very clear, concise sentence that includes an expectation of action (Repent), a clear point of focus (the Kingdom of heaven) and a clear reason for the action, (has come near). Clarity over ambiguity.

5.          Matt. 4:18-22— Jesus immediately forms his leadership team and imputes vision and purpose to his recruits, speaking their own language: “Follow me, and I will send you out to fish for people” — he immediately begins developing other leaders before the crowds came. Imputed purpose over demanded allegiance.

6.          Matt. 4:23-24- Jesus leads by wisdom and example. He goes into synagogues— so, he identifies his initial target audience and where they congregate. He exemplifies his simple message while proclaiming the good news of the kingdom. He imparts something of value to the people, healing them as evidence of the kingdom he preaches about. Exemplified wisdom and service over empty self-seeking fame. 

7.          Matt. 4:25 — All of the above- Jesus’ humble obedience; integrity in temptation; bold and outgoing focus; clear and simple messaging; leadership development; leading by example through serving hurting people led to large crowds gathering around him and following him. He didn’t chase influence, but influence came to him as a natural outgrowth of the path he chose. 

Jesus’ leadership begins with humble submission and obedience to the will of God, is proven by integrity of character, moves by a simple and clearly defined mission, multiplies through developing leaders, and is demonstrated through action. 

Submission before authority.

Integrity above platform.

Need over convenience.

Clarity over ambiguity. 

Imputed purpose over demanded allegiance.

Exemplified wisdom and service above self-seeking fame.

This is how the greatest leader of all time was born!