Leadership has always been central to God’s plan for His people. From Moses guiding Israel through the wilderness to the apostles leading the early church, the Bible is full of examples of individuals called to step forward with courage and conviction. Leadership is not just about holding a title but about answering God’s call to act decisively in times of need.
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Pastor Travis Johnson recently shared a message on the importance of biblical leadership, drawing from the story of Deborah in Judges 4 and 5. In his sermon, Johnson outlined four kinds of leaders found in Scripture and how their qualities continue to apply to the church today.
1. Decisive Leaders
Johnson began with Deborah herself, describing her as a model of decisiveness in the face of chaos. Quoting Judges 5:7, he said, “There were few people left in the villages of Israel until Deborah arose as a mother for Israel.” Johnson explained that “your destiny is in the hands of decisiveness. You have to be able to make a decision.” He emphasized that indecision is costly, pointing to Israel’s oppression under King Jabin and Sisera for 20 years before the people finally cried out to God. Deborah’s willingness to act set her apart as a leader who brought clarity and direction.
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2. Collaborative Leaders
Next, Johnson turned to Barak, who partnered with Deborah when called to lead Israel into battle. He described Barak as the example of a collaborative leader who understood his own limitations and leaned on Deborah’s prophetic guidance. Johnson noted, “If you can recognize your blind spot and you can partner with someone that can help you make decisions, now you’re blessed.” This style of leadership demonstrates humility and the strength that comes from working together under God’s direction.
3. Courageous Leaders
The third type Johnson identified was the courageous leader, represented by Jael. Judges 5:24 praises her as “most blessed of women” for striking down Sisera when he sought refuge in her tent. Johnson highlighted her boldness, saying, “Courage. Courage. And we need a little bit more of that.” He stressed that courage often comes in moments when plans are uncertain but the opportunity to act is clear. Jael seized the moment to deliver victory for God’s people.
4. Indecisive Leaders
Finally, Johnson addressed the negative example of the tribe of Reuben, who failed to join the fight. Judges 5:16 records, “Why did you sit at home among the sheepfolds to hear the shepherds whistle for their flocks?” Johnson warned, “It’s not just what you do in the moment that God is breathing and moving. It’s also what you don’t do.” He called indecision “incredibly expensive” and urged Christians not to delay obedience when God calls them to act.
Johnson closed his message with a call to action for every believer, reminding them that leadership is not reserved for a select few. “If you are a Christian, you are a leader,” he said.
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The story of Deborah and the leaders around her illustrates that godly leadership can take many forms but always requires faith and a willingness to act. Whether in the church, the family, or the broader community, leadership rooted in Scripture has the power to change lives and point people back to God.
James Lasher is staff writer for Charisma Media.
