TSIYON NEWS

Had they lived then, modern human resource experts would likely have criticized Yeshua's top pick leader 'hires' for building His Kingdom. Most of them lacked the sort of items on their respective resumes that seem so important today. Actually, they didn't even have resumes. They generally lacked education from the best schools, high powered connections with the leaders and famous people of the day, and, of course, wealth and power.

Yet, the twelve apostles of Yeshua Messiah turned out to be timeless exemplars of leadership, and we can learn much from them. Their individual faith journeys, recorded in the Bible and historical tradition, offer invaluable insights into qualities that define effective leaders. Each apostle's life, characterized by transformation in the Spirit, accomplishments of faith, and ultimate sacrifice, highlights unique aspects of leadership. Let's take a brief look at these

Leadership Lessons from the Twelve Apostles.

Peter (Shim’on, called Kefa)
Peter, originally a fisherman named Simon, exemplifies transformative leadership. Initially impulsive and often doubtful, Peter's faith and courage grew through his time with Yeshua. Empowered by the Holy Spirit, he became a central figure in the early Assembly, boldly preaching and performing miracles. Peter's leadership, according to tradition, culminated in his martyrdom, having been crucified upside down, demonstrating humility and unwavering commitment to the end.

Andrew (Andreas)
Andrew, Peter's brother, showcased the power of quiet influence. Known for bringing people, including his own brother, to Yeshua, Andrew's leadership style was characterized by honesty, humility and evangelism. His missionary journeys took him to places like Greece, where he was crucified for his faith. Andrew's life teaches the importance of personal connections and quiet determination in leadership.

James the son of Zebedee (Jacob, Ya’akov)
James displayed zeal and courage. As part of Yeshua's inner circle, he witnessed the Transfiguration and other pivotal moments. James's fearless proclamation of the Gospel led to his martyrdom by beheading, as the first apostle to be martyred. His leadership highlights the value of courage and readiness to face persecution for Messiah's sake.

John the son of Zebedee (Yochanan)
John, the beloved disciple, embodies compassionate leadership. Known for his deep insight and experience in God’s love, John authored the Gospel of John, three epistles, and Revelation. He cared for Yeshua's mother, Mary, after the crucifixion and lived to an old age, continuing to guide the early Assembly in the closing years of the 1st century. John's life underscores the power of love and dedication in leadership, overcoming every obstacle to the end.

Philip (Philippos)
Philip, who responded immediately to Yeshua's call, demonstrates zeal and proactive leadership. Known for his role in feeding the 5,000, evangelizing the Ethiopian eunuch, and more, Philip's initiatives expanded the reach of Messiah's Kingdom. Tradition holds that he was martyred in Hierapolis. Philip's story teaches the importance of taking the initiative and reaching out unafraid.

Bartholomew (Bartholomeus, Nathanael)
Bartholomew, also known as Nathanael, personified integrity in leadership. Yeshua praised his honesty and lack of deceit. Bartholomew's missionary work took him to India and Armenia, where he eventually was flayed and beheaded for the sake of the Kingdom. His unwavering faith and honesty highlight the critical role of integrity in effective leadership.

Matthew (Matthaeus, Matthityah)
Matthew, the former tax collector, illustrates the power of transformation and inclusivity inspired by Messiah. His Gospel often emphasizes Yeshua's outreach to sinners and outcasts. After his conversion, Matthew dedicated his life to spreading the Gospel, eventually being martyred in Ethiopia. Matthew's journey teaches that true leadership involves being changed and allowing others to change as well..