What does Jesus' glorification teach us about humility and servanthood in leadership? The Setting: John 13:31 in Context “Now the Son of Man is glorified, and God is glorified in Him.” (John 13:31) • Moments earlier, Jesus had washed the disciples’ feet (John 13:4-5). • Judas had just left to betray Him (John 13:26-30). • The cross is only hours away—yet Jesus speaks of “glory.” Defining “Glorification” • In John’s Gospel, “glory” refers to the public display of God’s character through Jesus’ person and work (John 1:14; 17:1-5). • For Jesus, glory and suffering are inseparable (John 12:23-24). • Therefore, His glorification highlights humility before it exalts authority. The Paradox: Glory Reveals Humility 1. Glory follows obedient submission – “He humbled Himself and became obedient to death—even death on a cross. Therefore God exalted Him…” (Philippians 2:8-9). 2. Glory magnifies service, not status – “Whoever wishes to become great among you must be your servant” (Mark 10:43-45). 3. Glory validates sacrificial love – Love “to the end” (John 13:1) culminates in the cross, then resurrection glory. How Jesus Models Servant Leadership • Foot washing: taking the lowest household role (John 13:14-15). • Enduring the cross: bearing sin for others (Hebrews 12:2). • Seeking the Father’s will above personal comfort (John 6:38). • Restoring and empowering followers instead of replacing them (John 21:15-17). Lessons for Today’s Leaders • Measure influence by how willingly you serve, not how many serve you. • Pursue obedience to God’s Word; He determines exaltation (James 4:10). • Lead with transparent love—people trust leaders who lay down rights for their good. • Remember that visible honor often comes only after unseen sacrifice (1 Peter 5:2-4). Connecting Scriptures • John 12:26 — “If anyone serves Me, the Father will honor him.” • 2 Corinthians 4:5 — “For we do not proclaim ourselves, but Jesus Christ as Lord, and ourselves as your servants for Jesus’ sake.” • Isaiah 53:10-12 — The Suffering Servant is “allotted a portion with the great.” Take-Home Summary Jesus’ declaration of glory in John 13:31 teaches that genuine leadership bows first, serves first, and suffers first. God then lifts up such leaders so His own character shines through them. |
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