Focus Scripture:

• ESV: Mark 10:45 – “For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.”
• NIV: Mark 10:45 – “For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.”

Opening Prayer (5 minutes):

Heavenly Father,
We thank You for the example of Jesus Christ, who came not to be served but to serve others with love and humility. As we study Your Word today, open our hearts and minds to embrace the call to servant leadership. Help us to reflect Christ’s character in our daily lives and to lead others by serving them. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Introduction to the Topic (5-10 minutes):

The world often views leadership as a position of power and authority. However, as Christian men, we are called to lead in a way that mirrors the humility and service of Jesus. Mark 10:45 teaches us that Jesus, though He was the Son of God, did not come to be served but to serve others, even to the point of giving His life as a ransom for many. Servant leadership is about putting others before ourselves, showing love, humility, and dedication in our relationships. In today’s lesson, we will explore what it means to lead by serving, following Christ’s example.

Bible Verses for Discussion (20 minutes):

John 13:14-15

• ESV: “If I then, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also ought to wash one another’s feet. For I have given you an example, that you also should do just as I have done to you.”
• NIV: “Now that I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also should wash one another’s feet. I have set you an example that you should do as I have done for you.”

Philippians 2:3-4

• ESV: “Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves. Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others.”
• NIV: “Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others.”

Matthew 20:26-28

• ESV: “It shall not be so among you. But whoever would be great among you must be your servant, and whoever would be first among you must be your slave, even as the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.”
• NIV: “Not so with you. Instead, whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, and whoever wants to be first must be your slave—just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.”

1 Peter 4:10

• ESV: “As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God’s varied grace.”
• NIV: “Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms.”

Discussion Questions (15-20 minutes):

1. Jesus set an example of servant leadership by washing His disciples’ feet (John 13:14-15). How does this act challenge your perspective on leadership? What practical ways can you serve those around you?
2. Philippians 2:3-4 urges us to value others above ourselves. In what areas of your life do you find it challenging to practice this kind of humility? How can you begin to lead by serving in those areas?
3. Matthew 20:26-28 highlights that true greatness comes through serving others. Can you share a time when you experienced the blessing of serving someone else? How did it impact your spiritual growth?

Life Application (10 minutes):

Servant leadership is about shifting our focus from self-centered goals to a Christ-centered mindset of serving others. This week, make it a point to identify one area of your life—whether in your home, workplace, church, or community—where you can practice servant leadership. This might look like helping someone in need, supporting a friend through a difficult time, or simply serving your family with a humble heart. Remember, leadership is not just about being in charge; it’s about showing Christ’s love through service.

Reflection and Encouragement (5-10 minutes):

Reflect on Jesus’ example of servant leadership. He gave everything for others, even His life, and He did so with humility and love. As Christian men, we are called to follow His example in our daily interactions. Ask yourself: How can I lead more like Jesus in my family, my work, and my church? Take courage in knowing that as you lead by serving, you are fulfilling God’s purpose for your life and making an eternal impact.

Closing Verse:

• ESV: Galatians 5:13 – “For you were called to freedom, brothers. Only do not use your freedom as an opportunity for the flesh, but through love serve one another.”
• NIV: Galatians 5:13 – “You, my brothers and sisters, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the flesh; rather, serve one another humbly in love.”

Closing Prayer (5 minutes):

Lord Jesus,
Thank You for the perfect example of servant leadership that You demonstrated. Help us to follow Your example by serving others with humility, love, and grace. May we lead our families, friends, and communities by putting their needs above our own. Guide us as we grow in our walk with You, and give us the strength to be faithful servants in every area of our lives. In Your holy name, Amen.

Takeaway Challenge:

This week, take intentional steps to serve someone in your sphere of influence. Whether it’s offering help, lending a listening ear, or meeting a practical need, seek to lead by example and show Christ’s love through service. Write down how it impacted you and how you felt God working through your actions.