The Session: Role models-who are/were your role models? Who do/did you look up to? What characteristics led you to make them a role model? We sort that out in this episode!

Show yourself in all respects to be a model of good works, and in your teaching show integrity, dignity, (Titus 2:7)

Characteristics of Jesus, Leadership

· Compassion Jesus demonstrated compassion in all interactions and advocated for a world of love and forgiveness.

· Selflessness Jesus' teachings and example of selfless leadership put leaders in a position of humility, where they may even suffer for the benefit of their followers. qqqw

· Integrity Jesus acted in a way that was consistent with what he said, such as when he laid down his life to take away sins.

· Servant leadership Jesus put the needs of others before his own and acted as a servant first. For example, he washed the feet of his disciples, even during difficult times.

· Visionary leadership Jesus had a clear vision of his mission and purpose, and he communicated it effectively to his followers, inspiring them to work towards a common goal.

“This knowledge provides a new vision that allows us to see God and His plan for our lives more clearly. Without this vision, we are left to wander in the dark down a path that ultimately leads to destruction. (Christianity.com)

· Emotional intelligence Jesus understood and managed his emotions well.

· Encouraging the heart Jesus encouraged people by showing concern for future benefits, rather than the immediate gratification often associated with success.

· Embracing other cultures Jesus had a cross-cultural gospel focus and was not afraid or offended by people from other cultures. For example, he went out of his way to talk with Samaritans, even when they rejected him

Leadership traits, excerpts from Gavin Adams

Truth-

· Jesus always told the truth

· Jesus set boundaries

He retreated to his own space to pray

· Jesus wanted heart transformation more than just behavioral change

· Jesus delegated

From Biblical Leadership

· He saw potential instead of perfection.

· He forgave even before he was forsaken

· Jesus asked questions.

· He served others rather than expecting to be served.

Biblical Role Models

Nehemiah

· A man of character, persistence, and prayer

· Brilliant, visionary, organizer, and motivator

· Calm in the face of opposition

Joshua

· Joshua was prepared and very encouraging

· Joshua trusted God

· Joshua was very committed to God

· Joshua held his people accountable

Contemporary Role Models

Dr. James Dobson

· Humble

· Sincere

· Authentic and genuine

Tom Hanks

· Forrest Gump

· Private Ryan

Scott-I’m going to push back on this a bit. Why do these roles make Tom Hanks a role model? The characters he played, yes, but not him. You could also toss Toy Story in there…

Denzel Washington

· Gives credit for his acting ability to God

· Remember the Titans

Tim Tebow

· Former Florida Gator and NFL quarterback, currently very involved with human trafficking prevention.

· Golfers who use their professional platform to glorify Jesus. Some include Tom Lehman, Steve Stricker, Scotty Scheffler and Rickie Fowler

Personal Role Models

· Phil Hall

· Tom Schuler

· Ray Nethery

What makes them role models to you?

What is one characteristic you could taken from them?