Credibility—The Foundation of Leadership

Some would question why Jesus is considered a great leader. The church, after all, didn’t begin till after he went back to heaven. Furthermore, one of his guys turned out really bad. But consider this: ten of the twelve disciples, according to Christian tradition, became martyrs for the cause. Not to mention the millions of other followers down through history that had given up their lives for this movement. The organization Jesus began is thriving today, in fact, it’s greater in numbers and influence than any other entity in the world. Did Jesus have credibility? Absolutely!

Credibility is the quality of being trustworthy and believable due to your integrity and character. Most people are looking for credible leaders—they admire those who are:

(1) Honest: they tell the truth and “do what they say they will do.” Jesus was never sidetracked from his mission of going to the cross (See Matthew 16:21-23 and Luke 9:51 ).

(2) Forward-looking: they think ahead, living in the present but staying focused on the future. Jesus prepared his disciples for the persecution they would face, grounding them in the reality of the present with both hope and encouragement (see Matthew 10:16-20 and John 14:1-4 ).

(3) Inspiring: they raise others to higher levels by helping them dream and move forward to reach their goals. Jesus set his disciples up for success (see Matthew 4:18-22 and John 14:12 )

(4) Competent: they continually improve their skills and expertise. Jesus grew in favor with God and people, doing only what the Father revealed to him (see Luke 2:52 and John 5:19 ).

Credibility, like reputation, is something that is earned over time. It does not automatically come with the job or the title. The credibility foundation is built brick by brick, a little at a time, as we prove ourselves to those we lead. Followers of credible leaders willingly follow a common purpose. Threats, power, position, and money do not earn commitment; they only earn “compliance,” and compliance can never produce greatness.

The Apostle Peter is talking about credibility when he exhorts leaders to, “Be shepherds of God’s flock that is under your care, watching over them—not because you must, but because you are willing, as God wants you to be; not pursuing dishonest gain, but eager to serve; not lording it over those entrusted to you, but being examples to the flock” (1 Peter 5:2-3).

[Next week we will discuss stages of organizational decline as a result of poor leadership.]