A true leader lifts others up
“Tell the daughter of Zion, ‘Behold, your King is coming to you, Lowly, and sitting on a donkey, A colt, the foal of a donkey.’”
Matthew 21:5
The four Gospels of the New Testament offer us four distinct but complementary accounts of Christ’s Earthly ministry.
Each Gospel offers a distinct account, because each one is meant to convey a particular message about Christ. The Gospel of Matthew conveys the message that Christ is the God-appointed King of the Jews, and the world.
This, of course, explains why Matthew’s account is placed immediately after the Old Testament. The Old Testament remained incomplete until Christ came to fulfil the law, as He says in Chapter 5, Verse 17 of Matthew.
Christ came to fill the role prophesied in the Old Testament, and Matthew goes to great lengths to demonstrate this.
Another great use of Matthew’s Gospel is the example of leadership provided for us.
Note in Chapter 21, Verse 5, the King comes on a donkey.
Christ, preparing to fulfill the Mosaic Law by sacrificing Himself for all humanity, comes in utter humility and meekness. A true leader does not need to impress, draw attention, or force anyone.
A true leader is concerned, first and foremost, with the completion of the goal and the well-being of the people.
Just as Christ ensured the goal of salvation was accomplished, and all those in His care were well taken care of, we, too, can learn from this example of leadership.
To be a dictator is not the example Christ set. To be an uplifter is the way Christ leads, and encourages us to lead.
A final closing point on the theme of Matthew is the immense comfort it provides. We are loved by, and able to trust our lives to one who has all authority and power (Matthew 28:18).
Not only does Christ have this power, but the New Testament is rich with encouragements and commands to take our concerns to Christ. We are given assurance that our King is able to solve all problems, and equally important, is willing to do so.
Looking at Matthew we find simple but powerful guidance and encouragement. A true leader uplifts others, just as Christ uplifts us all.
