Military Leadership

Introduction

There is much taught in the Bible from which we can derive key principles relevant to leadership. In this sense, the Christian officer has a “leg up” on his peers both in the insights gained from his/her study of the Word, from the motivation to apply the principles which the military desires of its leaders, and from the confidence s/he has of God’s work in his/her life.

Scripture references

Study the following biblical references and consider how they address the questions listed below. If using this outline with a Small Group, consider assigning different Scriptures to different individuals and relating them to one or more of the questions below. Then scroll down the page to review our recommended resources for the topic of Military Leadership and consider how the various articles or podcasts provide further insights relating to this topic.

Colossians 3: 17; 23-24; II Timothy 2:3-4; Proverbs 22:29; Matthew 8:5- 10; Matthew 20:25-28; Luke 16:10; Micah 6:8; Genesis 39: 4-10; Psalm 75:6-7; Matthew 10: 28-31; Proverbs 27:2, 21; Proverbs 3:5-6; Isaiah 26:3; Psalm 72:1-4; Proverbs 21:15

Questions

1. Much is said and written about professional excellence for the Christian officer. Why should we do our best in all that we do? What does it communicate if we are sloppy or incompetent in our work?
2. Obviously the use of authority is a necessary and important requirement of a leader. However, what should be the attitude of Christian officers in exercising their authority?
3. How important is the character of the leader?
4. What should be our attitude toward promotion (or lack thereof) and assignments? Toward praise?
5. How does our faith help to give us confidence in the difficult and often dangerous responsibilities of military leadership?
6. What should be the atmosphere and outcomes in a unit or section an officer is leading?