The Masters and the Truth About Leadership
The Masters and the Truth About Leadership: Lessons from the Greatest Leader
The Masters Tournament, often heralded as the greatest spectacle in the world of golf, showcases the best golfers in the world competing for the legendary green jacket. These men are at the pinnacle of their profession, recognized globally as the greatest at what they do. And yet, no matter how elite their skills, every single one of them arrives early to practice—with a coach.
It may seem counterintuitive: why would the greatest need a coach? But this reality underscores a profound truth: no matter how skilled, experienced, or successful you become, you will always need guidance, leadership, and influence to reach new heights or maintain your direction.
This truth isn’t limited to golf or sports. It applies to every area of life. As Proverbs 11:14 (ESV) states, “Where there is no guidance, a people falls, but in an abundance of counselors there is safety.” Leadership is an essential component of success—not just receiving it but also providing it. Leadership is both a calling and a responsibility, and embracing this dual role is critical for personal and communal growth.
So, how do we lead well? The life and teachings of Jesus provide the perfect model for leadership. Let’s explore five principles of leadership based on the words and actions of the greatest leader of all time.
#1 – Leadership Through Serving
Jesus said,
"But among you it will be different. Whoever wants to be a leader among you must be your servant, and whoever wants to be first among you must become your slave. For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve others and to give his life as a ransom for many." (Matthew 20:26-28, NLT)
Principle: True leadership is rooted in serving. No matter how many people follow you, you can never escape the responsibility of serving them. Leadership is not about being exalted but about lifting others up.
Ask yourself: How can I serve those I lead today?
#2 – Leadership Through Example
Jesus taught His disciples through action, saying,
"And since I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you ought to wash each other’s feet. I have given you an example to follow. Do as I have done to you." (John 13:14-15, NLT)
Principle: Leaders demonstrate what they expect. Actions speak louder than words, and those who follow you will often mimic your behavior rather than your instructions.
Take a moment to reflect: Are my actions setting the standard I want others to follow?
#3 – Leadership With Heart
Jesus declared,
"I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd sacrifices his life for the sheep." (John 10:11, NLT)
Principle: Leadership is about putting others' needs above your own. Great leaders show compassion, prioritize the well-being of their team, and are willing to make sacrifices for the greater good.
Challenge yourself: Am I leading with heart, or am I prioritizing my own agenda?
#4 – Leadership Accountability
Jesus emphasized the weight of responsibility, saying,
"When someone has been given much, much will be required in return; and when someone has been entrusted with much, even more will be required." (Luke 12:48, NLT)
Principle: Leadership carries responsibility—to God, to others, and to the mission. Leaders must remain accountable for their actions and the outcomes of their influence.
Consider: Am I taking my responsibility as a leader seriously, and am I accountable to those I lead?
#5 – Leadership That Empowers
Jesus gave His followers a mission, saying,
"Therefore, go and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit. Teach these new disciples to obey all the commands I have given you. And be sure of this: I am with you always, even to the end of the age." (Matthew 28:19-20, NLT)
Principle: Great leaders equip and empower others to continue the mission. Leadership isn’t about holding onto power but about replicating yourself in others so that the work continues and multiplies.
Ask yourself: Am I empowering those I lead to grow and succeed beyond me?
Conclusion: Lead Like Jesus
Leadership is influence. It’s about moving others toward a desired direction and inspiring them to embrace a higher purpose. Whether you lead in your home, workplace, church, or community, you are called to influence those around you.
The Masters golfers know they need guidance, no matter how great they are. Similarly, we all need leadership in our lives. But we are also called to lead others. Model your leadership after Jesus—serve selflessly, lead by example, show compassion, embrace accountability, and empower others.
When you lead like Jesus, you reflect the ultimate example of leadership and leave a lasting impact on the world around you.