In this message, Pastor Ortiz emphasizes the universal role of leadership in every individual’s life, explaining that leadership is not confined to positions of authority but is demonstrated through influence and example. Drawing from Acts 27, where the Apostle Paul is a prisoner on a Roman ship, the sermon outlines key principles of spiritual leadership.

Leadership in Everyday Life

Everyone is a leader in some capacity—whether as a parent, an employee, or a church member. Parents, for example, shape their children through their actions, not just their words. At work, individuals should conduct themselves with integrity and diligence, leading by example. In church, every member has the opportunity to influence others positively, even without a formal title.

Leadership Principles from Paul’s Example

Paul’s journey as a prisoner showcases his rise to leadership despite his circumstances. The first principle is that leaders naturally rise to the top, even in challenging situations. Paul’s character and wisdom earned the trust of Julius, the centurion overseeing him, allowing Paul to influence decisions on the ship.

When Paul warned of the dangers ahead, his advice was initially ignored. This highlights a second principle: leaders are persistent and patient, understanding that people may not always heed their guidance immediately. When the ship encountered a storm, Paul reassured the crew with a message from God, demonstrating that leaders encourage and uplift, especially in times of fear and uncertainty.

Trust and Influence

Trust is a cornerstone of leadership. Paul earned the crew’s trust by remaining calm, consistent, and faithful. This trust culminated in the crew cutting away the lifeboats—a significant act of reliance on Paul’s guidance. Pastor Ortiz emphasizes that trust must be built through actions, not just words, and that influence grows from consistent, godly behavior.

Staying in the Ship

A pivotal moment in the story occurs when Paul urges everyone to stay on the ship, even as it breaks apart. This serves as a metaphor for remaining steadfast in faith, relationships, and responsibilities during difficult times. Whether in church, family, or personal life, abandoning ship at the first sign of trouble leads to missed opportunities for growth and restoration. Commitment to the ship—despite its flaws—is essential for survival and success.

Leadership Goals: Commitment and Unity

Good leadership fosters commitment and unity among followers. The crew’s decision to stay together, despite the breaking ship, reflects the importance of collective trust and perseverance. Leaders should strive to encourage their followers to be “all in,” fully invested in their roles and responsibilities.

Building Trust in Leadership

Trust in leadership is built on three foundations:

1. Trust in God: True spiritual leadership starts with following God. By placing faith in Him, leaders can ensure they take the right steps for their families, churches, and communities.

2. Trust in Others: While people may fail, relationships are vital to God’s plan. Leaders must trust those around them, recognizing that God often works through others.

3. Trust in Friends: Friends provide refreshment, encouragement, and support. Surrounding oneself with trustworthy companions strengthens leadership and provides resources for challenging times.

Final Encouragement

Paul’s leadership saved everyone aboard the ship, despite its physical destruction. This illustrates that even when structures or plans fail, the influence of spiritual leadership ensures that lives are preserved and hope remains. Leaders must build trust, commit fully to their roles, and lead others toward unity and perseverance.

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