Leading From Behind: BFG Handbook Chapter 66 (Path to True Leadership)
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Discover the highlights of this chapter shaping the New Evangelization today: https://www.builtforgreatness.com/tao-te-ching-chapter-66-leading-from-behind/
What if the most powerful leadership position isn't at the front, but behind everyone else?
Chapter 66 of the Build for God Movement Handbook challenges conventional wisdom by exploring a radical concept: leading from behind. Drawing inspiration from natural imagery, the text reveals how rivers and oceans become "kings of valleys" precisely by taking the lowest place – a perfect metaphor for leadership through humility rather than dominance.
This episode unpacks Jesus's countercultural leadership model, where washing disciples' feet wasn't just symbolic but demonstrated the essence of divine influence. "Whoever wants to be first must be last of all and servant of all" (Mark 9:35) isn't just beautiful theology – it's a revolutionary framework that creates environments where people feel unburdened, supported, and inspired to follow without growing weary.
We dive deep into the Trinitarian MAP (Mindset, Aim, Practice) that transforms these principles from theory to lived experience. From cultivating genuine humility to practicing selfless service and choosing cooperation over competition, these accessible daily practices reshape how we lead in families, workplaces, and communities.
Perhaps most fascinating is how these principles transcend religious boundaries. The core tenets of servant leadership resonate across diverse spiritual traditions – Islam, Hinduism, and Buddhism all contain teachings emphasizing humility and selfless service. As St. Thomas Aquinas noted, "Truth cannot contradict truth" – these shared values point to universal wisdom about effective leadership.
Whether you're leading a Fortune 500 company, a community organization, or simply wanting deeper influence in your relationships, this exploration of servant leadership offers a refreshing alternative to power-driven models. When we embrace the paradox that true greatness comes through service, we discover authentic influence that transforms both ourselves and those around us.
Chapters
1. Introduction to Leading from Behind (00:00:00)
2. Jesus's Model of Servant Leadership (00:02:37)
3. Practical Benefits of Humble Leadership (00:05:16)
4. The Trinitarian MAP: Mindset (00:09:45)
5. Setting Aims for Servant Leadership (00:16:33)
6. Practical Application: Daily Actions (00:21:13)
7. Universal Truths Across Traditions (00:25:50)
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