In what ways can we discern true leadership within the church today?

Learning from Judas the Galilean (Acts 5:37)

“After him, Judas the Galilean rose up in the days of the census and drew away people after him. He also perished, and all who followed him were scattered.”

• Judas offered charisma without divine calling; the movement collapsed as soon as the leader was gone.

• His influence produced scattering, not spiritual growth or unity.

• From this negative example we receive a simple test: enduring fruit versus temporary hype (cf. John 15:16; 1 John 2:19).

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Red Flags of Counterfeit Leadership

• Self-promotion that centers on personality more than Christ (Colossians 1:18).

• Teachings that drift from the apostles’ doctrine (Galatians 1:6-9).

• An atmosphere of fear, manipulation, or secrecy (3 John 9-10).

• Followers who fragment when hardship comes—mirroring the scattering in Acts 5:37.

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Core Tests for Authentic Leaders

1. Character

– Above reproach at home and in public (1 Timothy 3:1-7; Titus 1:5-9).

– Humility and willingness to serve rather than dominate (Mark 10:42-45).

2. Doctrine

– Faithful handling of “the whole counsel of God” (Acts 20:27).

– Guarding the gospel from error (2 Timothy 1:13-14).

3. Fruit

– People growing in holiness and love, not just numbers (Matthew 7:15-20).

– Ministries that remain strong if the leader steps aside, proving Christ—not charisma—is the glue (1 Corinthians 3:6-7).

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Shepherd, Not Celebrity

• True leaders echo the Good Shepherd who “lays down His life for the sheep” (John 10:11).

• They shepherd “not under compulsion, but willingly” and “not lording it over those entrusted” to them (1 Peter 5:2-3).

• Authority is exercised for protection and growth, never for personal gain (Acts 20:28-30).

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Healthy Accountability

• Plurality of elders provides mutual oversight (Philippians 1:1; Acts 14:23).

• Congregations are urged to “test all things; hold fast to what is good” (1 Thessalonians 5:21) and imitate only leaders whose faith proves genuine (Hebrews 13:7).

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Putting It All Together

A leader is worth following when:

• His life aligns with Scripture.

• His teaching exalts Christ and guards sound doctrine.

• His ministry produces enduring, Christ-centered fruit that outlasts his presence.

• His authority is exercised through humble, accountable shepherding.

Anything less echoes Judas the Galilean—impressive for a moment, scattered in the end.