Leadership, as we have come to know and understand it, is a sacred responsibility that extends beyond personal ambition or organizational success. It is a divine calling to serve, inspire, and advance God’s purposes on Earth. For example, in Exodus 18:21-23, the Bible says: “Moreover you shall select from all the people able men, such as fear God, men of truth, hating covetousness; and place such over them to be rulers of thousands, rulers of hundreds, rulers of fifties, and rulers of tens. 22 And let them judge the people at all times. Then it will be that every great matter they shall bring to you, but every small matter they themselves shall judge. So it will be easier for you, for they will bear the burden with you. 23 If you do this thing, and God so commands you, then you will be able to endure, and all this people will also go to their place in peace.”
The above Bible verses provide timeless principles for leadership as both a divine call and a divine responsibility. It underscores the importance of godly character, the necessity of delegation, and the responsibility to serve others selflessly. Just as Moses was called to lead with wisdom and humility, leaders today are called to partner with God in advancing His purposes, ensuring justice and order, and fostering the growth and well-being of those they serve. Leadership in God’s Kingdom is a high calling that requires dependence on Him, a heart for service, and a commitment to His glory. The question, “Is your leadership expanding the frontier of the Kingdom of God?” compels us to evaluate our actions, motives, and influence in light of God’s will.
Leadership in God’s Kingdom is not about building personal empires or securing earthly accolades; it is about partnering with God to extend His love, grace, and truth to the world. Kingdom leadership is rooted in servanthood, humility, and obedience to God. Jesus Christ Himself exemplified this when He declared, “The Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life as a ransom for many” (Matthew 20:28, NIV). Leadership in this context is not defined by titles or positions but by the ability to influence others toward God’s purposes. It involves leading with integrity, seeking justice, loving mercy, and walking humbly with God (Micah 6:8).
Moses is a quintessential example of a leader who expanded the frontier of God’s Kingdom by leading the Israelites out of slavery in Egypt. Despite his initial hesitation and feelings of inadequacy (Then Moses said to the LORD, “Please, Lord, I am not a man of words (eloquent, fluent), neither before nor since you have spoken to your servant; for I am slow of speech and tongue.” But he said, “O my Lord, please send by the hand of whomever else you may send. “Exodus 4:10&13), Moses obeyed God’s call and became a vessel for His miraculous power. Through Moses, God parted the Red Sea, provided manna in the wilderness, and established His covenant with His people.
“Then Moses stretched out his hand over the sea; and the Lord caused the sea to go back by a strong east wind all that night, and made the sea into dry land, and the waters were divided. 22 So the children of Israel went into the midst of the sea on the dry ground, and the waters were a wall to them on their right hand and on their left.” Exodus 14:21-22
Moses’ leadership teaches us the importance of relying on God’s guidance and trusting Him even in the face of seemingly insurmountable challenges. Leaders today can expand God’s Kingdom by leading others out of spiritual bondage and guiding them toward freedom in Christ.
Nehemiah was a cupbearer to the Persian king, but his heart was burdened for the ruined walls of Jerusalem (So it was, when I heard these words, that I sat down and wept, and mourned for many days; I was fasting and praying before the God of heaven. Nehemiah 1:4). With a clear vision, fervent prayer, and bold action, Nehemiah led the effort to rebuild the walls, despite opposition and discouragement (Then I said to them, “You see the distress that we are in, how Jerusalem lies waste, and its gates are burned with fire. Come and let us build the wall of Jerusalem, that we may no longer be a reproach.” Nehemiah 2:17). Nehemiah’s leadership illustrates the power of vision and determination in advancing God’s Kingdom. Modern leaders can take inspiration from Nehemiah by identifying areas of brokenness in their communities and working to restore them, whether through social justice initiatives, community development, or spiritual revival.
Queen Esther’s leadership was pivotal in saving the Jewish people from annihilation. When faced with the opportunity to intercede for her people, she courageously declared, “If I perish, I perish” (Esther 4:16). Her willingness to risk her life for the greater good demonstrates the sacrificial nature of Kingdom leadership. Esther’s story reminds us that expanding God’s Kingdom often requires courage and the willingness to stand in the gap for others. Contemporary leaders today can follow her example by advocating for the oppressed, speaking out against injustice, and using their influence for God’s glory. More like Queen Esther, the Apostle Paul also dedicated his life to preaching the gospel and planting churches across the Roman Empire. Despite persecution, imprisonment, and hardships, Paul remained steadfast in his mission, declaring, “I have become all things to all people so that by all possible means I might save some” (1 Corinthians 9:22). Paul’s leadership underscores the importance of evangelism, discipleship, and adaptability in expanding God’s Kingdom. Leaders today can emulate Paul by sharing the gospel, mentoring others, and equipping believers to fulfill their God-given purpose.
Expanding the frontier of the kingdom of God requires leaders who are rooted in faith, guided by the Holy Spirit, and committed to serving God’s purposes. By following the examples of Moses, Nehemiah, Esther, Paul, and, most importantly, Jesus Christ, leaders can make a lasting impact on their communities and beyond. The question remains: Is your leadership expanding the frontier of the kingdom of God? As you reflect on this, may you be inspired to lead with courage, humility, and a steadfast commitment to God’s glory. Let your leadership be a beacon of hope, drawing others into the marvellous light of His Kingdom.
Article Source: Centre for new Dimension Leadership
