Leadership Challenge: John 13:1-17 In The Context Of Nigerian Church

John 13:1-17 presents a style of leadership that is quite different from the traditional understanding and practice of leadership. This model of leadership in John’s gospel is manifested in the symbolic example of Jesus’ act of servant leadership also known as the foot-washing. Foot-washing is basically the work of a slave. It was regarded a menial job that even disciples would not do it for their own teacher. However for Jesus the act of foot washing is an expression of ardent love humility and service. This symbolic act of leadership by Jesus as presented in John’s gospel aims to challenge believers to lead by example and by the power and wisdom of God’s abiding words. Jesus invites the disciples to lead the people as he himself has done that is by dealing with his disciples as his friends and covenant partners. This book therefore is an attempt to critically examine this symbolic act of leadership in the context of John 13:1-17 and its implication on church leadership in Nigeria today.