RESTORE

This chapter from the BFG Handbook (Christian Edition of the Tao Te Ching) presents the gospel through a new "Expression" of God’s Love to RESTORE the Truth.

Chapter 17: Leading Without Praise

When the King of Kings speaks ^a
The people do not know He is among them

The next best alternative is a recognized leader whom people praise and love ^b

The next is an intimidating leader whom people fear ^c

The worst is an incompetent leader whom people despise ^dThey have no faith
Have no faith in them

The Master proceeds calmly ^a

He fulfills His promise and settles matters ^e
Then the people say, “Amazing, we did it naturally!”

^a John 10:25-39; John 1:10-14; ^b John 12:12-13; John 8:54-56; ^c Matthew 23:1-8; ^d John 9:39-41; ^e John 19:28-30.

Chapter 17 of the Christian edition of the Tao Te Ching, Leading Without Praise, offers profound insights into godly leadership, highlighting humility, trust, and the importance of empowering others. Through a Christian lens, this chapter reveals how Christ, the ultimate leader, demonstrates His authority and guidance without seeking human accolades, instead directing all glory to the Father.

The chapter begins with the statement, “When the King of Kings speaks, the people do not know He is among them.” This echoes John 1:10-14, where Christ is described as being in the world yet unrecognized by many. Despite His divinity, Jesus often worked quietly, allowing people to experience transformation without overt displays of power. His humility was not a sign of weakness but of divine wisdom, as His leadership was rooted in truth and love, not self-promotion.

The chapter contrasts different types of leaders. The best alternative to unrecognized divine leadership is a leader whom people love and praise. This reflects the moment in John 12:12-13 when the crowd hailed Jesus as King during His triumphal entry into Jerusalem. However, Jesus did not seek this praise, knowing that true leadership involves pointing people to God rather than seeking their approval.

The chapter also warns against the dangers of intimidating and incompetent leadership. An intimidating leader, though respected, governs through fear, reminiscent of the religious leaders in Matthew 23:1-8 who imposed burdens on others while seeking to elevate themselves. The worst form of leadership, as described here, is one where incompetence breeds distrust and disdain. John 9:39-41 reflects this dynamic, where the Pharisees’ spiritual blindness led to their rejection of Christ and the people’s disillusionment.

Christ’s example shows a different way: “The Master proceeds calmly.” Jesus demonstrated this calm authority throughout His ministry, fulfilling His promises and bringing peace to those who followed Him. At the culmination of His earthly mission, He declared on the cross, “It is finished” (John 19:28-30). In doing so, He settled humanity’s greatest need—reconciliation with God—not through force or self-aggrandizement but through humble obedience to the Father.

The closing statement, “Then the people say, ‘Amazing, we did it naturally!’” underscores Christ’s empowering leadership. He enables His followers to act freely and responsibly, guided by the Spirit, rather than through coercion. In John 8:54-56, Jesus emphasizes that His glory comes from the Father, allowing others to experience God’s work as their own growth and realization. This aligns with His invitation in Matthew 11:28-30 to take up His yoke, which is light and empowering, rather than burdensome.

This chapter encourages Christians to emulate Christ’s model of leadership: to lead with humility, trust in God, and a focus on enabling others to thrive. In ministry, family, or community roles, believers are called to point others to God, not to themselves. By acting with integrity, fulfilling commitments, and trusting in God’s sovereignty, Christians can lead effectively without seeking recognition, enabling others to grow in their faith and experience God’s work as their own.

In summary, Leading Without Praise highlights the qualities of godly leadership, exemplified in Christ. True leaders act with humility, empower others, and trust in God’s plan rather than seeking human praise. By following Christ’s example, believers can lead in a way that reflects God’s glory, inspiring trust and cooperation while allowing others to experience His work in their lives.

RENEWAL

The Trinitarian Method (M.A.P.) is the framework for RENEWAL, where God’s Love shapes our MINDSET, Trust in the Son directs our AIM, and Faith in the Holy Spirit guides our PRACTICE.

Mindset:

1. The Invisible Presence of Leadership

Line from the Chapter: “When the King of Kings speaks, the people do not know He is among them.”
Mindset: Cultivate humility and quiet confidence.
Explanation: A true leader doesn’t seek recognition or validation; their work speaks for itself. Their leadership is not about being visible but about being effective in fostering peace, justice, and love. In today’s world, this mindset requires the understanding that influence comes not from grand gestures or loud declarations, but from quiet actions aligned with truth and righteousness.
Real-World Application: In your own life, lead by example, serving others without the need for praise. This may be in the workplace, in community service, or in family life. Often, the most impactful actions are those done with humility, without seeking recognition.
Scripture Reference: Matthew 6:3-4 – “But when you give to the needy, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing, so that your giving may be in secret. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you.”

2. The Leader Who is Loved and Respected

Line from the Chapter: “The next best alternative is a recognized leader whom people praise and love.”
Mindset: Seek to build trust and rapport with others through integrity and service.
Explanation: A leader who is loved and respected is one who embodies goodness, truth, and compassion. They do not lead with force, but with genuine care for those they lead. In the modern world, the mindset should be focused on serving others and prioritizing relationships over power.
Real-World Application: To be such a leader, invest in building strong relationships, listening actively, and leading with integrity. This can be done in your personal or professional life by showing care for others’ needs, encouraging their growth, and earning their trust through consistent actions.
Scripture Reference: 1 Timothy 3:1-2 – “Here is a trustworthy saying: Whoever aspires to be an overseer desires a noble task. Now the overseer is to be above reproach, faithful to his wife, temperate, self-controlled, respectable, hospitable, able to teach.”

3. The Fear-Based Leader

Line from the Chapter: “The next is an intimidating leader whom people fear.”
Mindset: Reject fear as a motivator in leadership and choose influence based on love and respect.
Explanation: Fear-based leadership is driven by intimidation and control, which leads to unhealthy environments. This mindset should be one of compassion and courage to reject fear as a tool for influence. True leadership does not thrive on fear, but on respect, understanding, and trust.
Real-World Application: In your own life, practice leadership that encourages trust rather than instills fear. Whether in a family, workplace, or community, focus on creating an atmosphere of safety, transparency, and mutual respect.
Scripture Reference: 2 Timothy 1:7 – “For God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control.”

4. The Incompetent Leader

Line from the Chapter: “The worst is an incompetent leader whom people despise. They have no faith. Have no faith in them.”
Mindset: Commit to ongoing growth and accountability in leadership.
Explanation: An incompetent leader is one who lacks the necessary skills, vision, or character to lead effectively. The mindset here is a commitment to continuous learning, humility, and accountability. To lead well, we must be dedicated to personal development, seeking wisdom, and being open to correction.
Real-World Application: In practice, develop skills, seek mentorship, and remain teachable. If you’re in a leadership role, continuously evaluate your actions, gather feedback, and strive for improvement. If you’re under a leader, learn to recognize incompetence and seek constructive ways to influence positive change.
Scripture Reference: James 1:5 – “If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally and without reproach, and it will be given to him.”

5. Calm and Effective Leadership

Line from the Chapter: “The Master proceeds calmly. He fulfills His promise and settles matters. Then the people say, ‘Amazing, we did it naturally!'”
Mindset: Cultivate calmness, trust in God’s timing, and a focus on steady progress.
Explanation: Effective leadership is calm, measured, and focused on fulfilling promises. This mindset is about not rushing to action but allowing the right moments to unfold naturally. It also involves fostering a sense of empowerment among those being led, where they realize their own contribution to the success, rather than attributing it solely to the leader.
Real-World Application: As a leader, strive to maintain composure, especially during crises. Demonstrate patience and trust that God will guide you and those you lead to the right decisions at the right time. For example, in a business setting, rather than rushing to fix problems, calmly assess the situation, make sound decisions, and guide your team to contribute toward a solution.
Scripture Reference: Matthew 11:28-30 – “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.”

The mindset that we are called to cultivate in our leadership today is one of humility, service, and calmness. We are reminded that the best leaders are those who influence others with wisdom, love, and integrity. They lead quietly and humbly, always striving to serve others and empower them to act in alignment with God’s will. By embracing this mindset, we align ourselves with divine wisdom and become the kind of leaders who inspire trust, foster peace, and encourage growth in all areas of life.

AIM:

1. Aim for Invisible, Servant Leadership

Line from the Chapter: “When the King of Kings speaks, the people do not know He is among them.”
Aim: Strive to lead without seeking recognition or praise.
Explanation: True leadership is not about being noticed, but about making a difference through humility and service. The leader’s focus is not on their own glory but on the well-being and growth of others. In today’s world, it’s important to focus on the work itself and let the results speak for you, rather than trying to garner attention or accolades.
Real-World Application: In your leadership roles, whether in the family, workplace, or community, focus on serving and guiding others rather than seeking credit for your actions. Empower those around you, allowing them to thrive and grow while you provide support and vision.
Scripture Reference: John 13:14-15 – “Now that I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also should wash one another’s feet. I have set you an example that you should do as I have done for you.”

2. Aim for Love and Respect in Leadership

Line from the Chapter: “The next best alternative is a recognized leader whom people praise and love.”
Aim: Lead with love, compassion, and integrity, gaining the trust and respect of others.
Explanation: A leader who is genuinely loved and respected is someone who leads with integrity, authenticity, and care for others. This mindset requires that you prioritize the well-being of those around you, making decisions that benefit the collective rather than self-serving goals.
Real-World Application: In professional and personal settings, seek to build strong relationships with others by being authentic, listening with empathy, and showing respect. People are more likely to follow a leader who treats them with kindness and consideration, rather than one who leads through fear or manipulation.
Scripture Reference: 1 Peter 5:2-3 – “Be shepherds of God’s flock that is under your care, watching over them—not because you must, but because you are willing, as God wants you to be; not pursuing dishonest gain but eager to serve; not lording it over those entrusted to you, but being examples to the flock.”

3. Aim to Overcome Fear in Leadership

Line from the Chapter: “The next is an intimidating leader whom people fear.”
Aim: Avoid using fear to lead; focus on leading with confidence and courage.
Explanation: Fear-based leadership can create an environment of anxiety and distrust. While it may yield temporary compliance, it does not inspire true growth or commitment. A wise leader recognizes the destructive power of fear and seeks to lead through courage, conviction, and support.
Real-World Application: In any leadership situation, aim to foster an atmosphere of trust where fear does not control decisions or relationships. Act with integrity and model the behavior you wish to see, creating a safe and empowering environment. For example, if you’re in charge of a team, encourage them to speak up and share ideas without fear of judgment or reprimand.
Scripture Reference: 1 John 4:18 – “There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear, because fear has to do with punishment. The one who fears is not made perfect in love.”

4. Aim for Competence in Leadership

Line from the Chapter: “The worst is an incompetent leader whom people despise.”
Aim: Lead with competence, wisdom, and the ability to fulfill your responsibilities.
Explanation: Incompetent leadership can lead to confusion, frustration, and a lack of trust. A good leader seeks to be competent in their role, constantly learning, growing, and striving to meet the needs of those they lead. This mindset emphasizes the importance of continuous improvement and the commitment to fulfilling responsibilities with excellence.
Real-World Application: In your leadership role, take time to develop the skills needed to fulfill your responsibilities effectively. Invest in education, seek mentorship, and be open to feedback. In addition, be honest about areas where you need improvement, and take steps to grow.
Scripture Reference: Proverbs 4:7 – “The beginning of wisdom is this: Get wisdom. Though it cost all you have, get understanding.”

5. Aim for Calm and Natural Leadership

Line from the Chapter: “The Master proceeds calmly. He fulfills His promise and settles matters. Then the people say, ‘Amazing, we did it naturally!'”
Aim: Lead calmly and with confidence, allowing people to act naturally and without stress.
Explanation: Calm leadership enables others to respond more effectively and with clarity. When leaders approach challenges with composure and resolve, they allow those they lead to follow their example, contributing to the success of the group. This mindset fosters peace and clarity, helping to reduce stress and promote natural cooperation.
Real-World Application: Practice maintaining a calm demeanor during difficult situations. In moments of crisis or conflict, step back and assess the situation without rushing into decisions. Create a space for those around you to contribute without pressure, allowing solutions to emerge naturally.
Scripture Reference: Philippians 4:6-7 – “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”

By aiming for servant leadership, love, and respect, we avoid the pitfalls of fear and incompetence while fostering calmness and confidence in those we lead. These principles are not just ideal leadership qualities but are rooted in the wisdom of God’s Word. In a world that can often be driven by fear, competition, and confusion, setting our sights on these ideals will help us become leaders who truly reflect God’s character, enabling those around us to grow and flourish naturally.

Practice:

1. Practice Servant Leadership

Line from the Chapter: “When the King of Kings speaks, the people do not know He is among them.”
Practice: Lead by serving others selflessly without seeking recognition.
Explanation: True leadership follows the example of Christ, who did not seek to be served but to serve others. Leading without seeking recognition or control fosters an environment where others can thrive naturally, which is the heart of God’s Kingdom. As a servant leader, you inspire others to contribute to the whole without expecting personal gain.
Real-World Application: In your work or personal life, make an effort to serve those you lead, listen to their needs, and guide them without seeking praise or visibility for yourself. Whether it’s at the office, home, or community, show others through your actions that you care more about their success than your own.
Scripture Reference: Mark 10:45 – “For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life as a ransom for many.”

2. Practice Leading with Love and Integrity

Line from the Chapter: “The next best alternative is a recognized leader whom people praise and love.”
Practice: Lead with integrity, truth, and genuine care for others.
Explanation: Leadership that is built on love and respect for others naturally draws people to follow. When leaders are trustworthy and compassionate, they foster loyalty and trust. This practice focuses on being open, honest, and reliable, creating a culture where people willingly follow because they believe in your mission and care for them.
Real-World Application: Make honesty and respect the foundation of your leadership. In situations of conflict or decision-making, show empathy and remain true to your values, allowing others to see the consistency between your words and actions. This will build a relationship of trust and admiration.
Scripture Reference: 1 Timothy 3:2 – “Now the overseer is to be above reproach, faithful to his wife, temperate, self-controlled, respectable, hospitable, able to teach.”

3. Practice Leading without Fear

Line from the Chapter: “The next is an intimidating leader whom people fear.”
Practice: Lead with courage, not fear. Embrace the challenges of leadership without using intimidation.
Explanation: Fear-based leadership creates an atmosphere of tension and distrust, leading to compliance out of necessity rather than respect. By leading with courage, integrity, and vision, you remove fear and allow others to act freely and creatively. This requires stepping out of your comfort zone and facing challenges boldly, trusting in God’s provision.
Real-World Application: Confront difficult situations with calmness and clarity. Avoid using threats or manipulation to get results. Instead, create an atmosphere where people feel safe to voice their opinions and contribute their ideas. A leader who is not driven by fear will inspire the same courage in those they lead.
Scripture Reference: 2 Timothy 1:7 – “For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and self-discipline.”

4. Practice Competence and Responsibility

Line from the Chapter: “The worst is an incompetent leader whom people despise.”
Practice: Lead with wisdom, competence, and accountability.
Explanation: Incompetence undermines trust and respect. A leader must be equipped to fulfill their role and be accountable for their actions. This practice encourages continuous learning and reflection, ensuring that you remain competent and reliable in your leadership duties.
Real-World Application: Take time to hone your skills and knowledge in your area of responsibility. Whether it’s leadership training, understanding the issues you face, or improving communication, actively pursue growth to avoid the pitfalls of incompetence. Be transparent about your strengths and weaknesses, and seek feedback to continually improve.
Scripture Reference: Proverbs 4:7 – “The beginning of wisdom is this: Get wisdom. Though it cost all you have, get understanding.”

5. Practice Calm and Purposeful Action

Line from the Chapter: “The Master proceeds calmly. He fulfills His promise and settles matters. Then the people say, ‘Amazing, we did it naturally!'”
Practice: Lead with patience and clarity, allowing others to act freely in alignment with the vision.
Explanation: Calmness in leadership provides clarity, fostering an environment where solutions can emerge naturally. This practice emphasizes the importance of acting thoughtfully and deliberately, with an attitude of peace that encourages others to move forward with confidence. The leader’s calmness enables others to act in harmony without feeling pressured.
Real-World Application: When faced with challenges, maintain a calm and thoughtful approach. Avoid rushing to solutions or reacting impulsively. Instead, take the time to assess the situation, reflect, and guide others to resolve matters efficiently, ensuring that the actions taken are well-considered.
Scripture Reference: Philippians 4:6-7 – “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”

By practicing servant leadership, integrity, courage, competence, and calmness, we fulfill our purpose as leaders in God’s Kingdom. These qualities reflect the heart of Christ and allow us to lead in a way that fosters growth, trust, and peace in those around us. In today’s world, where leadership often focuses on power, fear, and recognition, practicing these timeless principles will help us build stronger, more united communities that reflect the love and wisdom of God.

RESPOND

Renewal brings the transformation of our spirit with ardor, empowering us to RESPOND to the call of holiness and make disciples of all nations. This encourages meaningful dialogue to embrace shared truths that transcend cultural and religious boundaries.

1. Servant Leadership and Humility

Line from the Chapter: “When the King of Kings speaks, the people do not know He is among them.”
Parallel Religious Teachings:
- Christianity: Jesus led by serving others, as He washed His disciples’ feet (John 13:12-17).
- Islam: Prophet Muhammad emphasized humility and service, stating that “the best of people are those who are most beneficial to others.”
- Buddhism: The concept of “Right Action” in the Eightfold Path, which encourages compassion and service to all beings.
- Hinduism: The teachings of the Bhagavad Gita emphasize selfless action (Karma Yoga), where one serves others without seeking personal gain.
How This Unites Us: The universal truth of servant leadership transcends individual religious boundaries. All major religions recognize that true leaders are those who put others first, serving with humility and compassion. This common thread unites us in a shared understanding that leadership is about selflessness, not power or control.
Real-World Application: In your daily life, approach your roles as a leader or influence with a heart of service. Whether you’re a parent, teacher, business owner, or community member, prioritize the well-being and growth of those you lead.
Scripture Reference: Matthew 20:26-28 – “Whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant.”

2. Leading with Love and Integrity

Line from the Chapter: “The next best alternative is a recognized leader whom people praise and love.”
Parallel Religious Teachings:
- Christianity: “Love your neighbor as yourself” (Matthew 22:39), emphasizing love as the foundation of all relationships and leadership.
- Judaism: The Torah teaches that love is essential to leadership and community (Leviticus 19:18).
- Islam: The Qur’an stresses the importance of compassion and integrity in leadership, with Allah commanding leaders to act justly (Qur’an 4:58).
- Sikhism: Guru Nanak’s teachings emphasize humility, service, and honest leadership for the welfare of others.
How This Unites Us: The principle of leading with love and integrity is a universal truth found in the heart of all major religions. Love is seen as the highest virtue that fosters community and growth, transcending religious differences and promoting unity.
Real-World Application: In every leadership role, be it at work, home, or in community, lead with honesty, compassion, and love for others. Ensure that your decisions reflect the well-being of those around you, showing them respect and care.
Scripture Reference: 1 Corinthians 13:4-7 – “Love is patient, love is kind…it always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.”

3. Leading without Fear

Line from the Chapter: “The next is an intimidating leader whom people fear.”
Parallel Religious Teachings:
- Christianity: Perfect love casts out fear (1 John 4:18). Jesus taught not to fear men, but to trust in God’s protection (Matthew 10:28).
- Islam: The Qur’an teaches to place trust in God, not in fear of rulers or circumstances (Qur’an 3:173).
- Buddhism: Fear is viewed as a hindrance to enlightenment, and the practice of mindfulness helps overcome it.
- Judaism: Fear of God, not man, is a central tenet of Jewish wisdom (Proverbs 29:25).
How This Unites Us: Across religious traditions, fear-based leadership is recognized as harmful, while trust in God and overcoming fear through faith is universally celebrated. This shared principle encourages spiritual courage and confidence in God’s plan.
Real-World Application: As you lead, focus on being grounded in faith, so fear doesn’t dictate your actions. Take steps to make decisions based on trust, calmness, and wisdom, rather than succumbing to fear of failure or judgment.
Scripture Reference: Isaiah 41:10 – “Do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God.”

4. Competence and Responsibility in Leadership

Line from the Chapter: “The worst is an incompetent leader whom people despise.”
Parallel Religious Teachings:
- Christianity: Jesus spoke about the importance of wise stewardship, likening it to the talents given to servants in Matthew 25:14-30.
- Islam: The Qur’an encourages people to act competently and with responsibility in all matters (Qur’an 4:58).
- Hinduism: In the Bhagavad Gita, Lord Krishna teaches that each person should fulfill their duties with competence and diligence (2:47).
- Buddhism: The Eightfold Path includes “Right Effort” and “Right Livelihood,” both emphasizing competent action aligned with moral responsibility.
How This Unites Us: Across major religions, competence in leadership is valued as a reflection of wisdom and moral responsibility. By fostering the belief that effective leadership requires preparation and accountability, these teachings call all people to elevate their roles for the good of the community.
Real-World Application: In your professional, familial, or community roles, aim to be well-prepared, informed, and thoughtful. Strive for excellence in all you do, making sure you are fulfilling your duties to the best of your ability.
Scripture Reference: Proverbs 12:1 – “Whoever loves discipline loves knowledge, but whoever hates correction is stupid.”

5. Calmness and Patience in Leadership

Line from the Chapter: “The Master proceeds calmly. He fulfills His promise and settles matters. Then the people say, ‘Amazing, we did it naturally!'”
Parallel Religious Teachings:
- Christianity: Jesus demonstrated calmness and patience in His leadership, even in the face of persecution (Matthew 11:29).
- Islam: Patience (Sabr) is highly regarded in Islam, with the Qur’an repeatedly teaching that patience leads to spiritual growth and success (Qur’an 2:153).
- Buddhism: Patience is one of the key virtues on the path to enlightenment (Dhammapada 184).
- Hinduism: Patience is a virtue that Lord Krishna encourages, especially in the face of adversity, as part of the journey toward self-realization.
How This Unites Us: The value of calmness and patience is a unifying principle across religions. By remaining calm in difficult situations and patiently trusting in God’s plan, we demonstrate wisdom and strength, helping others find peace and resolve conflicts peacefully.
Real-World Application: In moments of stress or crisis, practice remaining calm and composed. Respond to challenges with patience, trusting that time and wisdom will guide you toward the right course of action.
Scripture Reference: Romans 12:12 – “Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer.”

The principles in this chapter of the Christian version of the Tao Te Ching reflect timeless truths that transcend religious boundaries. By practicing servant leadership, integrity, courage, competence, and patience, we embody universal values shared by all major faiths. These values bring people together, fostering unity, peace, and mutual respect. When we lead with humility and trust in God, we demonstrate the profound commonality in spiritual teachings worldwide, creating a world where love, justice, and peace reign.

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