Module 1 – The Foundation of Leadership
Topic 2: Character before Position
Scripture Reading
“A bishop then must be blameless, the husband of one wife, vigilant, sober, of good behaviour, given to hospitality, apt to teach;” (1 Timothy 3:2 KJV)
Introduction
In the modern world, leadership is often associated with titles, positions, or influence. But in the Kingdom of God, leadership is grounded first in character. Before Paul discusses the skills of teaching or overseeing, he stresses the moral and spiritual qualifications of leaders.
This principle is timeless: position without character is dangerous, but character without position is still leadership in essence. God raises leaders based not merely on their ability, but on their integrity.
Exposition of the Text
Paul’s qualifications for a leader in 1 Timothy 3 emphasize who a person is rather than what a person can do.
1. “Blameless” – A leader must live above reproach. This does not mean perfection, but integrity—being consistent in public and private life.
2. “Vigilant, sober, of good behaviour” – A leader is disciplined, wise, and self-controlled. Leadership demands maturity of judgment.
3. “Given to hospitality” – Leadership is relational. Leaders open their lives and homes to others.
4. “Apt to teach” – Leadership includes the ability to communicate truth, but it comes after the emphasis on character.
Notice the order: integrity before ability, lifestyle before ministry, being before doing.
Theological Reflection
Leadership reflects God’s holiness. A leader represents God to people; therefore, their life must mirror His character.
Character is the foundation of influence. Positions can be given, but trust must be earned.
God prioritizes heart over talent. When Samuel sought Israel’s king, the Lord reminded him:
“For the LORD seeth not as man seeth; for man looketh on the outward appearance, but the LORD looketh on the heart.” (1 Samuel 16:7 KJV)
Values Integration
1. Integrity – Leadership collapses without moral consistency. Integrity builds trust.
“The integrity of the upright shall guide them: but the perverseness of transgressors shall destroy them.” (Proverbs 11:3 KJV)
2. Discipline – Self-control and responsibility are signs of readiness to lead.
“But I keep under my body, and bring it into subjection: lest that by any means, when I have preached to others, I myself should be a castaway.” (1 Corinthians 9:27 KJV)
3. Trustworthiness – A leader’s reliability matters more than charisma.
“He that is faithful in that which is least is faithful also in much…” (Luke 16:10 KJV)
Practical Applications for College Students
1. Focus on Personal Growth – Develop spiritual habits (devotion, prayer, service) that shape integrity.
2. Practice Responsible Leadership Now – In classroom projects, organizations, or group work, show reliability and respect.
3. Guard Your Reputation – What you post online, how you treat peers, and how you respond under pressure reflect your leadership character.
4. Seek Mentorship – Learn from godly leaders whose lives model integrity more than achievement.
Discussion Questions
1. Why does the Bible emphasize character before skills in leadership?
2. What dangers arise when leaders gain position without first proving character?
3. How can college students build leadership character even without holding formal titles?
4. In today’s culture of instant success, how can we maintain the biblical order of “being before doing”?
Devotional Thought
God is not impressed by titles, resumes, or achievements. He is looking for hearts aligned with Him. If you are faithful in small things, God will entrust you with greater things. Leadership begins not with what you do, but with who you are in Christ.
“But as he which hath called you is holy, so be ye holy in all manner of conversation;” (1 Peter 1:15 KJV)
Lolita N. Rallustian
ReplyDeleteBEED-4
FRIDAY (1:00-2:00)
This first module highlights that true leadership begins with self-awareness and authenticity, emphasizing that a leader must first understand themselves before they can guide others. It explains leadership not simply as influence or authority, but as a moral and relational responsibility rooted in key virtues. The discussion of different leadership theories underscores that effective leadership is flexible — there isn’t a one-size-fits-all style. I was struck by how leadership is framed not as a role reserved for a few, but as a skill that can be learned and refined through continuous growth. Finally, Module 1 challenges us to reflect on our own values and behaviors, reminding us that leadership starts from the inside and radiates outward.
Joeylyn C. Rabina
ReplyDeleteBEED-4 (IRREG)
CLV 3 | 1:00-2:00 | FRIDAY
Leadership in today’s world is often seen as a matter of titles, achievements, and influence. But this lesson reminds me that in God’s standard, character always comes before position. What truly qualifies a person for leadership is not their talent or external abilities, but who they are when no one is watching.
The passage from 1 Timothy 3 highlights qualities like being blameless, disciplined, self-controlled, hospitable, and able to teach. These traits show that leadership is not mainly about skills—it is about integrity. A leader reflects God to others, so their private life must match their public actions. This teaches me that being used by God doesn’t start on a stage, a platform, or a ministry position; it starts in the heart.
One thing that stands out is the emphasis on “being before doing.” Today, there is pressure to achieve quickly, to succeed fast, and to be recognized. But God looks deeper—He values faithfulness, consistency, and purity of heart. Even if someone gains a leadership role without strong character, it will eventually collapse because talent can take you where character cannot sustain you.
This reminds me that developing godly character is a daily process. Simple habits—prayer, devotion, discipline, humility—shape who I am. Even as a student or young person without a formal title, I can already be a leader through my actions, words, and testimony. Leadership begins with the choices I make every day.
Ultimately, God is not impressed by positions but by hearts aligned with Him. When I learn to be faithful in small things, He can trust me with bigger responsibilities. True leadership is not about being recognized—it’s about being transformed so that Christ’s character becomes visible in my life.
Cambay, Clarice Mariel C.
ReplyDeleteBSA4_CLV3_MON 5:30-6:30
As a student, this lesson on the foundation of leadership really speaks to me. It reminds me that being a true leader is not about titles or achievements, but about having strong character and integrity. Leadership starts from the inside, with qualities like honesty, self-control, and humility. I realize that even without an official position, I can show leadership by being responsible, trustworthy, and kind in my daily actions. This encourages me to focus on growing spiritually and personally, so I can reflect Christ’s character in everything I do. True leadership is about being faithful and consistent, no matter the circumstance. This challenges me to develop these qualities now, trusting that God will use me when the time is right.
BAYNA, ROSE A.
ReplyDeleteBSA4_CLV3 (5:30-6:30 MON)
𝓡𝓮𝓯𝓵𝓮𝓬𝓽𝓲𝓸𝓷 𝓸𝓷 𝓣𝓱𝓮 𝓕𝓸𝓾𝓷𝓭𝓪𝓽𝓲𝓸𝓷 𝓸𝓯 𝓛𝓮𝓪𝓭𝓮𝓻𝓼𝓱𝓲𝓹
Sa mundo ngayon, madalas iniisip natin na ang leadership ay tungkol sa titles, posisyon, o influence. Pero natutunan ko sa lesson na sa Kingdom of God, mas mahalaga ang character bago ang position. Kahit gaano ka kagaling o ka-talented, kung hindi mabuti ang puso at integridad mo, puwede kang makasakit ng tao o masira ang grupo. Ang totoong leadership, ramdam ng tao ang integridad mo at ang puso mong naka-align kay God, hindi lang ang galing o posisyon mo. Kahit wala ka pang title, puwede ka nang maging leader sa simpleng paraan. Tinutulungan ang iba, tapat sa sinasabi, at ginagawa ang tama sa maliliit na bagay.
Ang lesson na ito ang nagpapaalala sa akin na ang God ay hindi impressed sa achievements o resume, kundi sa pusong tapat sa Kanya. Kapag faithful ka sa maliliit na bagay, puwede kang pagkatiwalaan ng mas malalaki at mas mahahalagang responsibilidad. Kaya natutunan ko na bago maghangad ng recognition o leadership role, kailangan munang palakasin ang sarili sa character, integridad, at puso na naka-align kay Christ. Sa ganitong paraan, kahit maliit na tagumpay, nagiging meaningful at inspirasyon hindi lang sa sarili kundi sa mga tao sa paligid natin.
Ocuaman, Cecile O. BSA 4
ReplyDeleteBSA 4 CLV 3 (5:30-6:30 MON)
As a student, this lesson teaches me that true leadership is built on character, not just titles or skills. It reminds me to focus on integrity, discipline, and trustworthiness because these qualities are the real foundation of leadership. Even before gaining positions, developing who I am in Christ matters most, shaping how I lead with humility and responsibility in everyday life. Leadership is about being faithful in small things and growing in character before doing great things.
Humilde, Ritchier B.
ReplyDeleteBSA 4 CLV3 (5:30-6:30 MON)
I learned that true leadership starts with character, not position. God looks at the heart first, so qualities like honesty, discipline, and good behavior matter more than titles or skills. As a student, it reminds me to lead through my actions by being responsible, respectful, and trustworthy in school and daily life. Building good character now prepares me for real leadership in the future.
Humilde, Kyla T.
ReplyDeleteBSA4_CLV3 (5:30-6:30)
Ang aral mula sa teksto ay nagpapakita na sa tunay na pamumuno, ang karakter ang pinakapundasyon bago ang anumang posisyon o kakayahan. Ipinapaalala nito na ang isang lider ay hindi nasusukat sa titulo kundi sa integridad, disiplina, at katapatan sa pribado at pampublikong buhay. Tulad ng itinuro ni Pablo, mahalaga ang mabuting asal, pagiging handang maglingkod, at pagiging tapat sa maliit man o malaking bagay. Sa mundo ngayon na mabilis ang pag-angat at madalas inuuna ang tagumpay, paalala ito na mas mahalaga ang pagiging mabuti kaysa sa pagganap ng tungkulin. Ang lider na may matatag na karakter ay nagiging instrumento ng Diyos dahil ang kanyang pamumuno ay nagmumula sa puso, hindi sa ambisyon.
Tawatao, Lorraine Anne C.
ReplyDeleteBSA4_CLV3 (5:30-6:30)
The Bible emphasizes character before skills because true leadership starts with integrity, humility, and a heart that can be trusted. When leaders gain positions without strong character, pride, abuse of power, and poor decisions often follow. Even without titles, we college students can build leadership character through responsibility, consistency, honesty, and serving others quietly. In a culture that chases instant success, we maintain the biblical order of “being before doing” by focusing on who we are becoming, not just what we achieve, and allowing God to shape our hearts before we seek recognition.
Bedonio, Jasmin Vea C.
ReplyDeleteBSA4_CLV3 (5:30-6:30)
As a student, I am learning that the true foundation of leadership has little to do with titles, positions, or achievements. Instead, real leadership begins with character. It is reflected in the small choices I make every day how I treat others, how I handle challenges, and how I contribute to my environment even when no one is watching. A title may give someone authority, but it does not guarantee influence. Genuine leadership is earned through actions, not granted by roles.
Tabarejos, Sheilla C.
ReplyDeleteBSA 4_CLV3 (5:30-6:30 MON)
The foundation of leadership is built on self-awareness, accountability, and genuine care for others. As a student, this means recognizing your strengths and weaknesses, taking responsibility for your actions, and leading by example in both your academic and personal life. True leadership involves listening to others, fostering teamwork, and inspiring a shared vision that motivates everyone to contribute their best. By practicing empathy and resilience, a leader creates a positive environment that encourages growth and trust among peers, setting the stage for collective success and meaningful impact.
Retanal, Leonardo B. | CLV3 1-2 PM Friday
ReplyDeleteThe Bible emphasizes character before skills in leadership because character is our foundation. Sabi nga po sa isang linya sa aking binasa, a leader can be a leader in essence without skills, as long as he has character. Pero kung walang character, hindi siya isang leader.
When people gain positionsnwithout first proving character, maaaring mawala sa landas ang kaniyang mga constituents. For example, if a CEO with no character gains leadership, baka ang focus na lang niya is profit without thinking of his employees and stakeholders.
As a college student myself, ang pinakaimportante para ma-build ang leadership character is through reading and meditating on the Bible and isa-isip ang mga aral dito.
"Being before doing" today, kelangan talaga may Biblical foundations tayo. Madali lang pong sumakses, pero madali lang din pong mag-fail. Ang magiging challenge po sa atin is kung paano natin aakayin ang ating sarili on both. Pwedeng lumaki ang ulo natin pag sumakses, maari din namang malugmok kung puro talo. Pero kung may foundation po ang isang tao, alam niya po kung paano niya dadalhin ang kanyang sarili, which is through Jesus Christ ♡
Juls Andre Buccat
ReplyDeleteBEED 4
This module helped me understand that leadership is not just about having a title or being in charge. It is more about having good character and the right attitude. I realized that before someone can become a good leader, they must first develop qualities like honesty, self-discipline, and responsibility. These traits show what kind of person a leader truly is.
I learned that leadership starts within ourselves. Even as a student, I can already practice leadership by being respectful, dependable, and setting a good example for my classmates. The lesson taught me that it is important to focus on who I am becoming, not just what I want to achieve.
Overall, this module reminds me that real leadership is built on integrity and good character. It encouraged me to improve myself and be more mindful of my actions because these reflect the kind of leader I could become in the future.
MA.THERESA H. CASTA
ReplyDeleteBEED 4 CLV3 (1;00-2:00) FRIDAY
- This lesson teaches me that leadership is not about having a title or being in a high position. It starts with having good character. Before God looks at what I can do, He looks at who I am.
As a student, I can show leadership by being honest, responsible, respectful, and disciplined even if I am not an officer or leader in school. Simple things like doing my tasks on time, treating classmates kindly, and showing good behavior already reflect my character.
I learned that having a good heart is more important than having a position. If I grow in integrity now, God can trust me with bigger responsibilities in the future. True leadership begins with becoming the right kind of person first.
Hazel Anne B. Del Rosario | BSBA-4
ReplyDeleteCLV3 | 1:00-2:00 PM
This module highlights that real leadership starts with character, not position. Paul’s list in 1 Timothy 3:2 shows that God values integrity, discipline, and trustworthiness more than skills or titles. Leadership is who you are long before it’s what you do. What resonated with me most is the reminder that God sees the heart first. It made me realize that what matters most is not the position I hold, but the person I’m becoming. Also, it made me realize that leadership isn’t about being in front—it’s about being consistent, reliable, and aligned with God even in small things
ESGUERRA, TRISHA MAE L.
ReplyDeleteBSA4_CLV3 (MON 5:30-6:30)
This lesson reminded me that real leadership starts with character, not with titles or positions. God cares more about who I am on the inside, my honesty, discipline, and how I treat others, than any role I may hold. It made me realize that even as a student, I’m already building my leadership through small choices, like being responsible, respectful, and faithful in my tasks.
I also learned that having a position without character is dangerous, because it can lead to pride, failure, and hurting others. But when character comes first, God can trust me with bigger responsibilities. This encourages me to focus on growing spiritually, guarding my actions, and letting God shape my heart. True leadership begins with becoming the person God wants me to be.
Above all, I am reminded that God looks at the heart, not the outward qualifications that people praise. I am encouraged to seek holiness, to cultivate integrity, and to trust that God promotes at the right time. This lesson calls me to slow down, to grow deeper, to allow God to refine my character long before I chase any title. Because real leadership is not about being above others, it is about reflecting Christ in the way I live, think, and love.
James Calacsan
ReplyDeleteBSBA-4
CLV 3 (1:00 - 2:00 PM)
This module highlights the importance of understanding the leadership that matters. Not all leadership are the same, and the only leadership that God accepts is a leadership with character.
BACTAD, SHAIRA GAYLER.
ReplyDeleteBSA-4_CLV3 (5:30-6:30 MON)
- The foundation of leadership taught me that true leadership starts from within and is rooted in character, integrity, and a heart to serve others. As a Christian and a student, I learned that being a leader is not about having power or title, but about being responsible, humble, and willing to guide others through my actions. This lesson reminded me that leadership is a calling to be a good example in school, in church, and in daily life, showing kindness, honesty, and perseverance while trusting God to shape me into a leader who inspires and uplifts others.
Winston C. Barril
ReplyDeleteBSBA 4
CLV 3 (1:00-2:00 PM)
As a student,True leadership begins long before anyone notices us or gives us a title. God looks at the heart, not our outward accomplishments. Paul’s reminder in 1 Timothy 3 shows that character is the real foundation of influence. Being blameless, disciplined, hospitable, and teachable reflects a life shaped by Christ—not by ambition. In a world that praises talent and success, God calls us to focus first on who we are becoming. When our hearts are aligned with Him, our actions naturally honor Him. Leadership is not about position; it is about living with integrity every day. As we pursue holiness, God prepares us for the responsibilities He has planned. Becoming comes before doing, and character comes before calling.
Allen Pj P. Mendoza
ReplyDeleteBSBA 4
CLV 3 (1:00-2:00 PM
As a student, spiritual character and values should be the primary and core foundation of our life. Salvation cannot be acquired through good works and good morals, but rather through faith. The danger of gaining a position w/out a character may fall on yhe risk of temptation. Everyday we are all tempted by the evil, and without spiritual character we might from it. Being a leader isn't about the the position or title but it's about our unwavering faith and unconditional to God and His creations.
Hannah Shayne Garcia
ReplyDeleteBSBA 4 | CLV3 Friday, 1-2 PM
As a college student, this lesson reminds me that leadership is not just about having a title in an organization or being recognized by others. Even without a position, I can already show leadership through my character—by being honest, responsible, and respectful to others.
In school, how I handle group projects, deadlines, pressure, and relationships shows the kind of leader I am becoming. This topic teaches me to focus more on personal growth and integrity rather than chasing recognition. I realize that if I build strong character now, God can trust me with greater responsibilities in the future. True leadership starts in my daily choices and in living a life that honors God.
Kimberly Amario
ReplyDeleteBSA 4_ CLV3 (5:30-6:30 MON)
This lesson reminds me that true leadership begins with character, not position or title. In a world that often values influence and recognition, God emphasizes integrity, discipline, and faithfulness as the true foundation of leadership. The teaching from 1 Timothy 3:2 shows that who we are matters more than what we can do, because skills without character can lead to failure, but character builds trust and lasting influence. As a student, this challenges me to be responsible, honest, and consistent even in small tasks, knowing that God sees the heart more than outward success. By choosing to grow in Christlike character now, I am being prepared for greater responsibilities in the future, proving that leadership starts with being before doing.
DANNA D.
ReplyDeleteBSBA 4 (CLV 3 - FRIDAY. 1:00 - 2:00 PM)
1. The Bible emphasizes that character matters more than skills because character is the foundation that earns trust and is far more difficult to build than any learned ability.
2. When leaders gain position without proven character, the dangers are corruption and destruction, as the lack of moral restraint causes the abuse of power and hypocrisy.
3. College students can effectively build leadership character without titles by focusing on personal growth, accountability, and reliability, proving their integrity by being faithful in small responsibilities.
4. To maintain the biblical order of being before doing in a culture focused on instant success, we must redefine success by prioritizing integrity and the long-term process of character development over quick external achievements.