The Leadership of Jesus in the Succession Process of the Disciples: A Dual Focus of Servanthood in Small Groups

Organizational structure is experiencing an increase in the use of small groups and teams as solutions to strategic concerns. The issue of succession planning within a group or organization is vital to a successful strategy. In addition, servant leadership is experiencing a resurgence of interest in organizations and in leadership research. However, servant leadership in the succession process of small groups is meager in the literature. Fortunately, fascinating incites regarding the integration of these concepts are provided through the leadership of Jesus. This endeavor explored the servant leadership of Jesus during the succession process with his small group of disciples. The narrative found in John 13 of Jesus washing the feet of the disciples was used as a basis for exploration. It was established that Jesus served God’s plan and mission while simultaneously serving his team of disciples as he prepared the team to assume their leadership roles in his subsequent absence. Therefore, it was concluded that Jesus operated in a dual-focus of servanthood. This type of servant leadership may prove beneficial to organizations in a period of leadership succession.