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Key Bible Verse: Jesus said to the disciples, "Let's cross to the other side of the lake." … so they started out, leaving the crowds behind (Mark 4:35-36). Bonus Reading; Mark 4:33-34

Even those who lead masses of people must have a small inner core of followers who receive special attention. A leader who keeps everyone at arm's length never accomplishes the maximum.

I know a brilliant, capable, and personally charming college president who seemed more at ease with crowds than with members of his administrative teams. He represented each school well, but always moved to another location before he'd accomplished the most good there. Insiders cited a lack of close relationships with those he led as a reason for his shortened tenures.

Jesus, by contrast, devoted concentrated attention to an inner circle. Scripture tells us that he spoke to the crowds but taught his disciples. He saved some of the most important lessons for only three—Peter, James, and John. And he often imparted more vital messages individually. A leader who imparts special insight and inspiration to a select few will have tremendous long-term results. That's because those few will continue to implement the leadership objectives in which they've come to believe. Consider the amazing results Jesus' disciples achieved after he left them.

—Bob Briner in The Leadership Lessons of Jesus

My Response: To hone my small group skills, I need to …

Thought to Apply: Leaders who work most effectively, never say "I." They think "we"; they think team." —Peter Drucker (management consultant)

Adapted from The Leadership Lessons of Jesus (with Ray Pritchard, B&H Publishing, 1997, 1998, 2008) by permission.

Copyright © 2008 by the author or Christianity Today International/Men of Integrity magazine.
Click here for reprint information on Men of Integrity.

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Prayer for the Week

Grow me, Lord, into an unselfish leader who stimulates other disciples to increasing commitment and effectiveness.

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