4. Christ-Centered Focus: Anchored Leadership
Scripture Reference: Philippians 1:21
“For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain.”
Anchoring Leadership in Identity
Philippians 1:21 is one of the most radical leadership declarations in Scripture. Paul isn’t just making a personal statement; he’s demonstrating a leadership identity completely centered in Christ. This identity isn’t rooted in title, position, or even legacy—but in the living presence of Jesus.
In a world where leaders often tether their worth to success, reputation, or influence, Paul’s example teaches a better way: anchored leadership—a leadership that is unshakable because it is grounded in who Christ is, not what the world offers.
Authentic Leadership: Leading from Identity
Bill George’s model of Authentic Leadership provides a helpful framework here. According to George, authentic leaders lead from their true north—a deeply held sense of calling, values, and self-awareness. They are guided by:
Purpose (why they lead)
Values (what they stand for)
Relationships (genuine connection)
Self-discipline (consistency)
Heart (compassion and passion)
Paul embodies every one of these. His purpose? Preaching Christ. His values? The advancement of the gospel. His relationships? Deep bonds with the Philippians and others. His self-discipline? Obedience in prison. His heart? Overflowing with love and affection for the church.
Christ is Paul’s “why.” Without that, leadership becomes either self-serving or directionless. Leaders today desperately need the same clarity and conviction.
Spiritual Leadership: Transcending Outcomes
Spiritual Leadership theory, developed by Louis Fry, also complements Paul’s approach. It emphasizes the importance of calling and membership—helping others experience a sense of spiritual meaning and community. According to Fry, spiritual leaders:
Create a vision grounded in altruistic love.
Foster hope and faith in followers.
Enable holistic well-being.
Paul’s letter is filled with visionary statements and spiritual encouragement. He views hardship as meaningful because it advances Christ’s kingdom. He fosters hope among his followers. And he treats them not as employees but as brothers and sisters.
When Christ is the center, leaders don’t panic when things fall apart. Their value doesn’t rise and fall with attendance, profits, or promotions. Their leadership flows from being, not just doing.
Why Centering on Christ Matters
In Philippians 3, Paul lays out his résumé—his status, achievements, education—and then throws it all away: “Whatever were gains to me I now consider loss for the sake of Christ” (3:7). This is the kind of clarity that allows leaders to:
Make bold, countercultural decisions.
Endure criticism without unraveling.
Lead sacrificially, not transactionally.
When Christ is your center, you are free from comparison, secure in your identity, and unshaken by success or failure.
Reflective Questions:
What truly defines you as a leader—title, outcomes, or your identity in Christ?
When have you led from a place of insecurity rather than from centeredness?
How would your leadership change if Christ became your core motivation?