In Mark 6:8–12 Jesus multiplied his influence through his disciples. Note several things about leadership development. First, it takes time. Leaders are not immediately produced but matured through a slow process. Jesus took at least three years to develop his leaders. Second, young leaders need a more directive than supportive approach. Early on in their development, Jesus gave his young leaders very detailed information without welcoming their input. He taught, modeled, and commissioned them with specific directives. Knowledge plus experience produces wisdom. Only when young leaders have had some experience can they participate in the decision process, help create solutions, and act more independently. At that point, a leadership developer moves into a more supportive role and coaches his protégés based on their level of wisdom. Jesus intentionally developed leaders through a defined process.

Lead, love, and serve, like Jesus!

KEY QUESTIONS: How would I describe my own leadership development in terms of directive and supportive? Did some leaders use one approach more than the other? Do I tend to be too quick or too slow in allowing others to help make decisions? How might I discern when to move from a directive to a more supportive approach when leading others?