This sermon from John 21 explores the concept of spiritual leadership, emphasizing its fundamental qualities of care, service, and relationship-building. The pastor begins by highlighting the importance of making biblical teaching accessible to everyone, ensuring it is neither too high-minded nor overly simplistic. Spiritual leadership, unlike worldly leadership, is about influencing others in alignment with God’s will, prioritizing relationships over results.

The message underscores that all individuals—whether as parents, spouses, employees, or church members—are leaders in their spheres of influence. It calls on husbands to lead their homes, wives to exercise their leadership through supportive and loving partnerships, and parents to model behavior consistent with their teachings. Leadership is described as not merely directive but transformative, achieved through personal example and relationship.

Drawing from Peter’s decision to return to fishing after Jesus’ crucifixion, the sermon illustrates the dangers of abandoning spiritual commitments for worldly pursuits. Despite Peter’s failure, Jesus’ response was not condemnation but care. Jesus asked Peter, “Do you love me?” three times, demonstrating a leadership style that values restoration and growth over reprimand. This moment reveals Jesus' desire to build Peter's character and strengthen their relationship, a lesson in leading with empathy and grace.

The pastor contrasts caring leadership with driving leadership. Caring leadership focuses on empathy, service, and fostering relationships. It prioritizes the well-being and spiritual growth of others over achieving immediate goals. On the other hand, driving leadership emphasizes authority, results, and often neglects the personal and spiritual needs of followers. While driving leadership may yield results, it risks burnout and alienation.

The sermon delves into Jesus’ example as a servant-leader, especially during significant moments like washing the disciples' feet in John 13. This act, culturally considered a servant's role, demonstrated humility and service. Parents, spouses, and managers are urged to adopt this mindset, serving their families and teams in ways that build trust, love, and lasting relationships.

Key qualities of spiritual leadership include:

1. Empathy: Understanding and respecting others’ feelings.
2. Servanthood: Actively seeking opportunities to help and uplift others.
3. Relational Focus: Valuing people over tasks or goals.
4. Modeling Christ-like Behavior: Leading by example in every area of life.

The sermon also warns against the pitfalls of driving leadership, including the risk of burning out followers, losing genuine connections, and prioritizing metrics over people. The pastor challenges leaders to evaluate whether their actions set a positive example for others to follow, whether in their homes, workplaces, or ministries.

The message concludes with an exhortation from 1 Peter 5, where Peter, now an elder, advises church leaders to "feed the flock of God." This directive encapsulates spiritual leadership as a call to care for others humbly, willingly, and with a focus on service, not personal gain.

Ultimately, the greatest achievement of a caring leader is fostering meaningful relationships. By following Jesus’ example, leaders can inspire others to grow spiritually and build a legacy of love, service, and godly influence.