Beholding Christ Alone: A Call to Kingdom Leadership in 2025

By Kingdom Vanguard CEO Daniel G. Loverde

Hello, esteemed church leaders, business owners, and individuals committed to integrating faith into every facet of life. As we find ourselves in 2025, it’s essential to reflect on our journey and consider how we can navigate the complexities of our world while keeping Christ at the center.

Over the past years, many of us have focused on strategies, programs, and metrics, sometimes at the expense of the core essence of our faith—Christ Himself. This isn’t a critique but an invitation to introspection. Have we, perhaps unintentionally, allowed worldly metrics to overshadow our divine mission?

The concept of metanoia, a profound transformation of mind and heart, becomes pertinent here. It’s a call to redirect our attention from external distractions back to the King of Kings. By doing so, we align ourselves more closely with our divine purpose, enabling us to advance His Kingdom with renewed power and clarity.

Understanding the Kingdom of God: The Foundation of Leadership

Let’s delve into the essence of the Kingdom of God. It’s not merely an abstract idea or a distant hope but the tangible reality of God’s reign, extending from heaven to earth through redeemed humanity in Christ. Jesus emphasized this, proclaiming, “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven has come near” (Matthew 4:17).

In this Kingdom, leadership transcends traditional notions of control or personal gain. It’s about aligning with heaven’s authority and embodying Christ’s nature—serving, loving, and empowering others to fulfill their God-given purpose. This form of leadership begins with a central action: beholding Christ.

The Call to Metanoia: Transforming Our Leadership Approach

Transitioning from conventional leadership models to Kingdom-focused leadership necessitates metanoia. It’s a complete transformation of the mind. Often, success is gauged by attendance numbers, social influence, or financial growth. While these metrics indicate activity, they don’t necessarily reflect Kingdom fruitfulness.

Paul’s exhortation in Romans 12:2 offers guidance: “Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—His good, pleasing and perfect will.” A renewed mind prioritizes Christ’s presence over performance and His truth over cultural trends.

As leaders, it’s essential to introspect: What have we been focusing on? Have our eyes drifted toward ambition, fear, or tradition? Now is the time to turn fully to Jesus, the source of true transformation and direction.

Beholding Christ: The Heart of Leadership

This shift to beholding Christ is deeply practical. Paul reminds us in 2 Corinthians 3:18, “And we all, who with unveiled faces contemplate the Lord’s glory, are being transformed into His image with ever-increasing glory, which comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit.” Transformation begins when we fix our eyes on Jesus.

When leaders intentionally prioritize beholding Christ, their leadership flows from a place of intimacy and clarity. This involves spending time in His presence through prayer, immersing ourselves in His Word, and listening to the guidance of the Holy Spirit. It also means aligning every decision, program, and initiative with His heart and purposes.

To create this alignment, consider asking: Does this reflect Christ’s nature? Does this draw people closer to Him? The answers will shape not just what we do but how we do it, ensuring that our leadership reflects Kingdom values.

The Transformative Power of Beholding

Embracing this focus on Christ leads to several transformative shifts:

1. Revitalization of Vision: By keeping our eyes on Jesus, we gain fresh revelation for our endeavors. Instead of recycling outdated ideas, we’re inspired by the Spirit to pursue initiatives rooted in God’s eternal purposes. This revitalized vision brings life, clarity, and direction.

2. Recalibration of Priorities: Beholding Christ clarifies what truly matters. Programs and traditions that no longer serve the Kingdom are set aside, making room for the fresh work of the Spirit. This ensures that every resource and effort is directed toward what is eternally significant.

3. Restoration of Authority: Communities led by those who behold Christ operate in spiritual authority. Signs, wonders, and miracles become the norm, as God confirms His Word through His people (Mark 16:20). This authority stems from the overflow of intimacy with Jesus.

4. Unity in the Body: Focusing on Christ fosters unity. As we behold Him, our hearts align with His, and divisions rooted in ego or ambition dissolve. This unity fulfills Jesus’ prayer in John 17:21: “That they may all be one, just as You, Father, are in Me, and I in You.”

Each of these shifts demonstrates that beholding Christ is not just a spiritual exercise; it’s the catalyst for genuine transformation in our communities.

Encouragement for Leaders: Christ is Still on the Throne

It’s natural to feel the weight of leadership, especially in uncertain times. Yet, the beauty of the Kingdom is that the burden isn’t ours to carry alone. Christ remains on the throne. He invites us not to strive but to abide in Him. As Jesus assures us in Matthew 11:28, “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.”

Beholding Christ isn’t about perfection but devotion. It’s a journey of daily surrender, trusting that as we draw near to Him, He will equip us with everything we need for the work ahead. Take courage: the King is faithful.

A Vision for 2025: A Community Captivated by Christ

Imagine a community where every leader is captivated by Jesus. Environments marked by supernatural love, humility, and the manifest presence of God. Individuals so transformed by Christ that their lives radiate His glory to the world.

This is the vision for 2025—a community that beholds Christ alone, walking in His authority, advancing His Kingdom, and preparing the way for His return.

The time for metanoia is now. Let’s fix our eyes on Jesus. Let’s lead from a place of transformation, reflecting His image and advancing His Kingdom with boldness and clarity.

Plan of Action

In 2025, as we strive to integrate our faith into leadership within our churches, businesses, and personal lives, it’s essential to adopt a comprehensive plan of action that reflects our commitment to Christ-centered principles. Here’s a structured approach to guide us:

1. Embrace Daily Devotion

Begin each day with intentional time dedicated to prayer and meditation on Scripture. This practice not only deepens our personal relationship with Christ but also ensures that our decisions and actions are rooted in biblical wisdom. By immersing ourselves in God’s Word, we align our thoughts and intentions with His will, providing a solid foundation for all leadership endeavors.

2. Foster a Culture of Transparency

Openly communicate your commitment to leading from a biblical standpoint. By being transparent about your convictions, you set a precedent for honesty and integrity within your organization. This openness encourages others to understand and embrace the purpose behind your actions, fostering an environment where trust and mutual respect can flourish.

3. Develop a Christ-Centered Mission Statement

Craft a mission statement that clearly articulates your dedication to Christian values. This declaration serves as a guiding beacon, ensuring that all initiatives and strategies remain aligned with your faith-based objectives. It also communicates to employees, congregants, and stakeholders the core principles that drive your leadership.

4. Integrate Christian Values into Organizational Practices

Examine your organization’s policies and procedures to ensure they reflect Christian ethics. This includes fair treatment of employees, ethical financial practices, and a commitment to excellence in all endeavors. By embedding these values into the fabric of your organization, you create a culture that honors God and inspires others to do the same.

5. Establish a Ministry Fund

Create a fund dedicated to supporting charitable initiatives, both within your community and beyond. This fund can assist local charities, provide for those in need, or support global missions. By leading in generosity, you demonstrate the love of Christ in tangible ways and encourage others to participate in acts of service.

6. Share Messages of Truth

Utilize various platforms to disseminate biblical truths. This could involve hosting Bible studies, sharing scripture in newsletters, or incorporating faith-based messages into meetings. By consistently presenting the Gospel, you provide opportunities for spiritual growth and reflection within your sphere of influence.

7. Implement Mentorship and Apprenticeship Programs

Develop structured programs that pair experienced leaders with emerging ones. Through regular meetings, practical assignments, and constructive feedback, these programs cultivate leadership skills grounded in faith. This approach ensures the next generation of leaders is well-equipped to continue advancing the Kingdom.

8. Encourage Community Engagement

Promote active participation in community service and outreach programs. By engaging with the broader community, you demonstrate Christ’s love in action and build bridges that can lead others to faith. Encouraging your team or congregation to serve others fosters a sense of purpose and unity.

9. Prioritize Continuous Learning

Stay informed about best practices in leadership and remain open to new ideas that align with Christian principles. Attend workshops, read relevant literature, and seek counsel from other faith-based leaders. Continuous learning ensures that your leadership remains effective and responsive to changing circumstances.

10. Cultivate a Prayerful Decision-Making Process

Before making significant decisions, dedicate time to seek God’s guidance through prayer. Encourage your team or congregation to join in this process, fostering a collective reliance on divine wisdom. This practice not only brings clarity but also unites everyone in a shared commitment to following God’s will.

By implementing this plan of action, we can lead in a manner that not only achieves our organizational goals but also advances the Kingdom of God, reflecting His glory in all that we do.

A Prayer for Leaders

Lord Jesus,

We lift our eyes to You, the Alpha and Omega, the author and perfecter of our faith.

We humbly seek Your forgiveness for allowing lesser distractions to divert our focus from Your divine purpose and for embracing identities that do not reflect our true selves in You.

Renew our minds and align our hearts with Yours, reminding us that we are created in Your image, called to reflect Your glory.

Equip us with divine wisdom, unwavering humility, and steadfast courage, so that in 2025, Your Kingdom may advance powerfully through a community wholly captivated by You.

May Your Kingdom come on earth as it is in heaven.

Amen.

References

• Holy Bible, New International Version. Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan, 2011.

• N. T. Wright, How God Became King: The Forgotten Story of the Gospels. New York: HarperOne, 2012.

• Dallas Willard, Renovation of the Heart: Putting on the Character of Christ. Colorado Springs: NavPress, 2002.

• Bill Johnson, Hosting the Presence: Unveiling Heaven’s Agenda. Shippensburg, PA: Destiny Image Publishers, 2012.