MEMORY SCRIPTURE
The integrity of the upright will guide them, but the perversity of the unfaithful will destroy them.
(Proverbs 11:3)
Society goes a long way to shape the ethical standards and character of leaders; it influences their behaviour and expectations.
DEVOTIONAL BIBLE READINGS
Mon. 17: The Upright: The City’s Blessing (Prov., 11:11)
Tue. 18: The Upright: Delivered By Righteousness (Prov.2:7)
Wed. 19: The Upright: Abomination To The Wicked (Prov. 29:27)
Thur. 20: The Upright Gets Favoured And Flourishes (Prov. 14:9-10)
Fri. 21: The LORD Shields The Upright (Prov. 11:6)
Sat.22: The LORD Delights The upright’s Prayer (Prov.15:8)
DEVOTIONAL THOUGHT
Guard your reputation zealously, for once tarnished, it stains your life irreparably. Therefore, cherish your name above all wealth.
INTRODUCTION
TEXTUAL SOURCE: Proverbs 11:3; 22:1; Jeremiah 23:5; Matthew 5:13-16; Luke 12:2-3; Romans 14:12; Galatians 1:10; 5:22-23; Ephesians 5:15-16; Philippians 2:3-4; 1 Timothy 3:1-2; James 1:5
Glory to God for the lessons learnt from last week’s study, “Maximising Leadership Influence Beyond the Church Walls.”‘ We
discovered that as Christians serving in public offices, we have the opportunity to influence both believers and unbelievers by shining the light of Christ through our exemplary work, bringing glory to God.
Today, we will delve into the topic of “Societal Influence on Leadership Character and Ethical Standards.” While the Bible provides guidance on virtuous character, societal influences often distort ethical standards, leading individuals astray. Despite societal pressures, may we remain steadfast in upholding biblical principles and maintaining integrity in our
leadership roles.
LESSON OUTLINE
- SOCIETAL INFLUENCES ON LEADERS’ CHARACTER
- SETTING MORAL STANDARDS FOR LEADERS IN SOCIETY
LESSON EXPOSITION
SOCIETAL INFLUENCES ON LEADERS’ CHARACTER (Prov. 11:3; 22:1; Matt. 5:13-16; Gal. 1:10; 5:22-23; Eph.5:15-16)
A good name is to be chosen rather than great riches, loving favour rather than silver and gold.
(Prov.22:1)
a) Character is how we know a person, shaped by societal values, norms and expectations. The negative one needs change (Prov. 22:1; Rom 12:2).
b) Prov.11:3:Leaders face societal pressure to conform, risking integrity and ethical dilemmas shaped by societal expectations (1 Jn. 2:15-17). They must uphold integrity, resisting negative influences (1 Cor.15:33), and serve as examples of righteousness.
c) Gal. 5:22-23: The Holy Spirit cultivates God-pleasing virtues to make leaders Christ-like, while biblical standards guide them to keep integrity both inside and outside the Church(1 Tim.3:1 -2).
d) Matt. 5:13-16: Christian leaders positively impact society by embodying Christ-like virtues, like love and humility. They cultivate counter-cultural traits rooted in biblical principles, and inspire others to pursue goodness and righteousness (Php.4:8).
e) Gal. 1:10: Godly leaders resist cultural expectations and peer pressure, prioritising God’s approval, maintaining integrity, and reflecting godly values in their leadership character (Prov. 22:1; Jas. 4:17).
f) Eph. 5:15-16: Recognising diverse cultures helps leaders include everyone, respect different opinions and create unity (Gal. 3:28), while good use of social media and technology is crucial for effective leadership in communication and decision-making.
SETTING MORAL STANDARDS FOR LEADERS IN SOCIETY (Jer. 23:5; Lk. 12:2-3; Rom. 14:12; Php. 2:3-4; 1 Tim. 3:1-2; Jas. 1:5)
Behold, the days are coming,” says the LORD, “That I will raise to David a Branch of righteousness; A King Shall reign and prosper, and execute judgment and righteousness in the earth”.
(Jer. 23:5).
a) 1Tim. 3:1-2: Biblical guidelines (Tit. 1:7-9) advocate godly character and adherence to sound doctrine for leaders; qualities they should uphold This contrasts with the oppression under wicked rulers (Pro. 29:2; Isa.32:1-2).
b) Jer. 23:5: Leaders must uphold moral standards, promoting integrity, justice fairness and accountability in their sphere of influence (cf. Ezk. 34:2-4). They must serve as godly models inspiring others to uphold ethical standards (Prov.20:7).
c) Lk. 12:2-3: Godly leaders prioritise honesty and transparency, by which they build trust and integrity in their leadership. They resist temptation and corruption, and remain steadfast in moral principles despite challenges (cf. 1 Cor. 10:13).
d) Jas. 1:5: They ask God for wisdom to handle moral challenges, make right choices, and ensure fairness. They equally advocate for justice and equity, ensuring the rights and welfare of all individuals within the society (Mic.6:8).
e) Php. 2:3-4: Leaders show compassion and humility, prioritising the needs of others and treating everyone with respect and dignity.
f) Rom.14:12: Ultimately, leaders are accountable to God’s standards of righteousness and justice for their actions and decisions.
LESSONS DERIVED
- Character is cultivated both at home and in the society, thus the values embraced in these environments significantly shape the development of people and leaders.
- Adhering to the ethical standards of righteousness, integrity and honesty aligns with biblical principles, and benefits society.
QUESTIONS
- Mention some similarities between biblical standards and societal values.
- What will you do when ethical standards are under societal pressure?
