“I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep.” – John 10:11 (NIV)
In the corporate world, leadership often conjures images of authority, strategy, and performance metrics. But in Scripture, one of the most powerful and repeated images of leadership is a shepherd.
When Jesus described Himself as the “Good Shepherd,” He wasn’t just using a familiar metaphor—He was redefining leadership. He painted a picture of a leader who doesn’t dominate from above but walks closely with those he leads. A leader who knows, protects, guides, and even lays down His life for the people under His care.
This is the model for us as Christian business leaders. The shepherd’s approach is not weak or passive—it’s intentional, personal, and deeply courageous.
1. A Shepherd Knows His Sheep
Shepherds in biblical times spent long hours with their flocks. They knew each sheep by name and could recognize them individually. This kind of familiarity came from time, observation, and care.
In the workplace, this translates to relational leadership. Knowing your team—their strengths, fears, goals, and personalities—equips you to lead more effectively. You can’t shepherd well from a distance. You need to walk among your people, not just send emails from behind a desk. When your team knows you care about them as individuals, they’re far more likely to follow you with loyalty and trust.
2. A Shepherd Leads from the Front
Unlike cattle drivers who push from behind, shepherds lead their sheep. They go ahead, navigating danger and setting the pace.
As a leader, you’re called to model the behaviors and values you expect from your team. Your example sets the tone for the organization. If you want a culture of integrity, excellence, or humility—you must embody those traits first. People follow what they see more than what they hear. Leadership influence flows from credibility.
3. A Shepherd Protects
Shepherds faced threats—wolves, thieves, and treacherous terrain. Their job was to protect the flock, even at great risk.
As a leader in today’s marketplace, you’re also a protector. You protect your people from toxic culture, unreasonable demands, and unethical pressures. You create safe environments where truth can be spoken, mistakes can be admitted, and people can grow. Protecting your team may not involve physical danger, but it will require boldness and vigilance.
4. A Shepherd Sacrifices
Jesus said the Good Shepherd lays down His life for the sheep. That’s the ultimate example of servant leadership.
While few leaders will face life-and-death scenarios, true leadership still involves sacrifice. It may mean giving up personal credit so your team gets the spotlight, staying late to support someone in crisis, or making decisions that serve others even if they don’t benefit you directly. This kind of selflessness is rare—but it reflects Christ.
When you lead like a shepherd, you reflect the heart of Jesus. You show the world that leadership isn’t about power—it’s about presence. It’s about stewardship. And it’s about pointing people to the One true Shepherd through your example.
Reflection Question:
Who has God placed in your care right now—employees, colleagues, clients? What would it look like for you to shepherd them rather than simply manage them this week?
