What qualities should we seek in leaders, based on Jesus' actions in Mark 3:13? The Mountain Scene “Then Jesus went up on the mountain and called for those He wanted, and they came to Him.” (Mark 3:13) Divine Calling • Leadership begins with God’s initiative. • Jesus “called for those He wanted,” echoing John 15:16 and Jeremiah 1:5—God chooses before people volunteer. • Seek leaders who can testify to a personal call, not merely human ambition. Relational Desire • “Those He wanted” shows Jesus desired close fellowship with His leaders (cf. Mark 3:14). • Look for men and women who love Christ first and enjoy walking closely with Him (Philippians 3:8). Willing Response • “They came to Him.” Availability mattered as much as ability. • A leader should be responsive and obedient when Christ summons (Isaiah 6:8). Set Apart • The mountain separated the chosen from the clamoring crowd below. • Leaders need courage to step away from ordinary routines for God’s purposes (Exodus 24:12; 2 Timothy 2:4). Prayer-Soaked Selection • Luke 6:12 adds that Jesus spent the night in prayer before calling the Twelve. • Dependence on the Father marks authentic leadership (Proverbs 3:5-6). Checklist for Choosing Leaders – Evidence of a genuine call from God – Deep, growing relationship with Christ – Quick, willing obedience – Readiness to leave comfort zones – Life characterized by prayerful dependence Putting It All Together From one short verse we learn that the right leaders are God-called, Christ-centered, responsive, set apart, and prayer-dependent. Pursue these qualities, and you will follow the pattern Jesus modeled on the mountain. |
    |