Relational leadership is a leadership idea that places relationships at the core of leadership practice. It emphasizes collaboration, trust, empathy, and servant-hearted leadership. Unlike autocratic or transactional leadership styles, relational leadership fosters a culture of shared vision, empowerment, and personal development. In the Bible, leadership is often portrayed as a relational process rather than a mere position of power. Jesus Christ, the ultimate model of leadership, demonstrated relational leadership by building deep relationships with His disciples, empowering them, serving them, and leading with love, humility, and purpose. His leadership was transformational, shaping not just behavior but the hearts of those who followed Him.
In Mark 3:13-19, the Bible showed us how Jesus modelled relational leadership to us, and it is important that every leader (in whatever sphere) should absolutely glean from this. The Bible says:
“And He went up on the mountain and called to Him those He Himself wanted. And they came to Him. 14 Then He appointed twelve, that they might be with Him and that He might send them out to preach, 15 and to have power to heal sicknesses and to cast out demons: 16 Simon, to whom He gave the name Peter; 17 James the son of Zebedee and John the brother of James, to whom He gave the name Boanerges, that is, “Sons of Thunder”; 18 Andrew, Philip, Bartholomew, Matthew, Thomas, James the son of Alphaeus, Thaddaeus, Simon the Cananite; 19 and Judas Iscariot, who also betrayed Him. And they went into a house.”
The first key element in relational leadership seen in this passage is that Jesus personally called those He wanted (v.13). This demonstrates that leadership is not merely about authority but about forming relationships with those who share the vision and mission. Jesus did not select disciples randomly; He chose them deliberately, emphasizing that leadership involves discernment and intentionality. He did not force anyone to follow Him but extended an invitation, allowing them to respond willingly. This mirrors how relational leaders today should invite, inspire, and engage their team members rather than impose authority on them.
Verse 14 states that Jesus appointed the twelve “that they might be with Him.” This is a profound statement about relational leadership. Before sending them out to preach and perform miracles, Jesus spent time with them, teaching, mentoring, and modeling His values. Jesus understood that leadership is first about relationship before responsibility. By living closely with His disciples, He developed trust, friendship, and mentorship, shaping them into transformational leaders. Also from the passage, it is evidenced that Jesus did not call His disciples just to follow Him; He empowered them to preach, heal the sick, and cast out demons (v.14-15). This is the essence of empowering leadership, where leaders equip and entrust their followers with authority and responsibility. Rather than keeping all power to Himself, Jesus delegated authority, giving His disciples a clear purpose. He believed in them, invested in them, and prepared them for greater works.
Again, and as seen in the passage, we can also see that the twelve disciples Jesus chose came from diverse backgrounds. Peter, James, and John were fishermen. Matthew was a tax collector (considered corrupt by society). Simon the Zealot was a political revolutionary. Judas Iscariot, the one who later betrayed Him, was included in the group. Now, despite their differences, Jesus brought them together into a united team, demonstrating that effective leadership embraces diversity. Jesus saw potential, not just past experiences, when selecting His leaders. Verse 19 mentions Judas Iscariot, who later betrayed Jesus. Jesus, in His wisdom, still chose Judas as part of the twelve, knowing his eventual actions. This reveals an important truth about leadership: not everyone a leader invests in will remain faithful or aligned with the mission. Jesus did not let the fear of betrayal stop Him from leading relationally. He continued to pour into His disciples, knowing that His leadership impact would extend beyond immediate failures.
Haven examined the forgoing, what then are the fundamental tenets of relational leadership, as gleaned from the verses read and explained above? The fundamental tenets of relational leadership, as drawn from biblical principles, are explained below.
- Servant Leadership
At the heart of relational leadership is servant leadership; a concept deeply rooted in the teachings of Jesus Christ. Servant leadership prioritizes the well-being of others over personal ambition. A relational leader does not seek power or control but instead focuses on serving those they lead, guiding them with humility and a heart of service. Jesus exemplified servant leadership when He washed the feet of His disciples, a task usually reserved for servants: “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 should do as I have done to you.” (John 13:14-15, NKJV). True leadership in God’s kingdom is about lifting others up, meeting their needs, and leading by example. Servant leadership fosters respect, loyalty, and a spirit of cooperation among team members, creating a culture where everyone is valued and motivated to contribute meaningfully.
- Trust and Integrity
Relational leadership thrives on trust; the confidence that leaders act in the best interest of their followers. Trust is cultivated through integrity, honesty, and consistency in actions. Leaders who are reliable, fair, and ethical inspire confidence and create a secure environment where individuals feel safe to express their ideas and grow. Proverbs underscores the importance of trust in leadership: “The integrity of the upright will guide them, but the perversity of the unfaithful will destroy them.”(Proverbs 11:3, NKJV) When leaders operate with integrity, their followers are more likely to trust them, making communication smoother and collaboration stronger. Jesus Himself was a leader of impeccable integrity, never compromising on truth and always leading with righteousness.
- Empowerment
Relational leaders understand that their role is not to dominate but to empower others. They recognize the strengths and potential in those they lead and provide opportunities for growth, mentorship, and self-development. Jesus exemplified empowerment when He entrusted His disciples with spreading the gospel, giving them authority to teach, heal, and cast out demons: “Behold, I give you the authority to trample on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy, and nothing shall by any means hurt you.” (Luke 10:19, NKJV). By equipping His followers with knowledge, faith, and power, Jesus set a model for leadership that fosters independence, initiative, and responsibility. Modern relational leaders must likewise invest in their people, equipping them with skills, knowledge, and opportunities to excel.
- Love and Compassion
A defining characteristic of relational leadership is love and compassion; a deep concern for the well-being of others. Jesus led with love, showing compassion to the poor, the sick, the outcasts, and even His enemies. Paul, in his letter to the Corinthians, highlights love as the greatest virtue in leadership: “And now abide faith, hope, love, these three; but the greatest of these is love.” (1 Corinthians 13:13, NKJV). Leaders who genuinely care for their followers create a positive and nurturing environment. When people feel valued, they become more engaged, motivated, and committed to the mission. Love in leadership is expressed through encouragement, support, and acts of kindness.
- Collaboration and Teamwork
Relational leadership promotes collaboration over competition, fostering a sense of teamwork and shared responsibility. Effective leaders recognize that success is not a solo effort but a collective achievement. Ecclesiastes emphasizes the power of teamwork: “Two are better than one, because they have a good reward for their labor. For if they fall, one will lift up his companion. But woe to him who is alone when he falls, for he has no one to help him up.” (Ecclesiastes 4:9-10, NKJV). Jesus built a team of disciples, teaching them the value of working together for a greater purpose. Likewise, relational leaders build strong teams by fostering trust, encouraging cooperation, and ensuring that every member feels a sense of belonging and contribution.
- Communication and Active Listening
Effective relational leadership requires clear, honest, and transparent communication. Leaders must not only convey messages effectively but also practice active listening; ensuring that their followers feel heard and understood. James emphasizes the power of listening: “So then, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath.” (James 1:19, NKJV). Jesus often asked questions, engaged in meaningful conversations, and listened attentively to those who approached Him. His ability to connect with people through dialogue made Him an impactful leader. Today’s leaders should strive to create open channels of communication, where feedback is encouraged and concerns are addressed.
- Emotional Intelligence and Self-Awareness
A crucial component of relational leadership is emotional intelligence, which includes self-awareness, empathy, and the ability to regulate emotions. Leaders who understand themselves and others can navigate interpersonal relationships with wisdom and discernment. The Bible encourages wisdom and self-control: “He who is slow to anger is better than the mighty, and he who rules his spirit than he who takes a city.” (Proverbs 16:32, NKJV). Jesus displayed emotional intelligence throughout His ministry, responding to people with wisdom, patience, and grace. Leaders today should cultivate emotional intelligence to enhance their ability to connect, inspire, and lead effectively.
In conclusion, relational leadership, as modeled by Jesus Christ, is a powerful and effective leadership approach. Biblical relational leadership is not about position or power but about influencing others through service, integrity, and love. It is a calling to lead with humility, to uplift others, and to build strong, godly relationships that glorify God and benefit His people.
Article Source: Centre for New Dimension Leadership
