Humility: The Measure of Leadership
- Raymond Melendez
- 3 days ago
- 3 min read
A growing demand for accountability is casting a spotlight on humility as the trait of effective leadership. From political chambers to religious pulpits, the message is clear: authority stems from a posture of humility. This principle is deeply rooted in Matthew 11, where Jesus and John the Baptist exemplify that authority begins with submission to authority.
Humility before Power: From the Wilderness to the Vatican
From the wilderness ministry of John the Baptist to the halls of the Vatican, the message is the same: leadership begins with humility. In Matthew 11, Jesus honors John for his deep humility and role in preparing others for the coming Kingdom. Likewise, Pope Francis, in an address to church leaders, warns that pride erodes the Church’s mission, while humility opens the path to a clear vision. Just as John called Israel to repentance through humility, the Pope now calls the Church to the same posture (Vatican News).
Leading like Christ: Humility at the Heart of Authority
Whether in the public square or the pages of Scripture, the call to humble leadership rings clear. Zimbabwean President Emmerson Mnangagwa has recently urged his government officials to lead with humility at heart, marking a deliberate shift from authoritarian legacy toward people-centered governance (Chingono). This echoes a deeper, timeless principle embodied by Jesus in Matthew 11. Though misunderstood and criticized, Jesus offers what the world wants—health and prosperity—and what it needs: authority rooted in submission to God. Leaders everywhere are encouraged to embrace humility as its cornerstone.
"Learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart" (Jesus v. 29).
From Galilee to Zimbabwe, the lesson is the same: humility precedes leadership.
Power without Humility: A Warning
The political turmoil surrounding former UK Prime Minister Liz Truss highlights a growing crisis of humility in leadership. Her refusal to acknowledge policy missteps drew sharp criticism, emblematic of a broader public frustration with leaders who wield power without humility. As columnist Daxa Patel observed, “Leadership without humility is not leadership at all.” This modern crisis echoes a timeless truth: authority without humility leads to downfall. In Matthew 11, Jesus rebukes unrepentant cities for their pride, warning that miracles cannot save a heart unwilling to submit to God's authority. Likewise, the Book of Mormon teaches that authority is given to those who humble themselves before God. From Holy Scripture to modern politics, the lesson is clear— humility and correction are the foundations of authority.
The Future: Authority with Submission Leading the Way
Across the Vatican, Zimbabwe, and the UK, a common truth is rising: in a world weary of pride-driven leadership, humility is no longer optional—it’s essential. From Pope Francis’s rebuke of clerical arrogance to President Mnangagwa’s call for humble leadership to the UK public’s demand for accountable governance, a pattern emerges. People want leaders who embody humility as the foundation of authority.
This longing aligns with the message of Matthew 11, where Jesus reveals that the path to abundance and prosperity lies in submission to God. Jesus gives the people what they desire—healing and prosperity—but also what they need: a humble spirit. As he teaches, life under God’s rule is not restrictive but prospers with humility leading the way.
In an era marked by disillusionment and division, the way forward is clear for the humbled.
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