THE STUDENT LEADER MODEL

Christian Witness

Christian thinkers, communicators, and servant leaders must first model an authentic Christian witness. This means that Student Leaders at NCA strive to live like Christ as they pursue personal holiness in their lives, beginning with confession of sin and repentance (I Corinthians 1:11, I Peter 1:16, I John 1:9). In this daily dying to self, these students exhibit self-control, forgiveness, patience, and kindness, looking first to love God with all of their heart, soul, mind, and strength, and then to love their neighbors as themselves. Finally, they are ambassadors for Christ, taking advantage of opportunities to share their faith and be a witness for the gospel (Matthew 28:18-20). 

Servanthood

The Student Leader follows the example of Jesus Christ, who “did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life as a ransom for many” (Mark 10:45).  Student Leaders, then, willingly give of themselves to invest in and serve others, with humility and grace.  While allowing others to carry their own loads, these leaders gladly step in to help bear the burdens of those in need (Galatians 6:1-6).

Vision

The Student Leader is one who can cast a vision for positive change, in his or her circles of influence.  Like Nehemiah, however, Student Leaders know that any success in achieving a vision can only come after personal and continual confession and repentance of sin before the Lord (Nehemiah 1:4-11, I John 1:5-10).  Then, in forming a mutual vision with collaborators, Student Leaders prayerfully and strategically engage others’ needs and concerns in creating an attainable future, inspiring others to their same vision.  In doing so, they not only love God and neighbor, but they create inroads for the gospel and the message of reconciliation entrusted to all believers. (Nehemiah 1-13, 2 Corinthians 5:11-21). 

Collaboration

The Student Leader understands that leaders are not modern-day versions of the Lone Ranger, nor do they function as managers lording over their subordinates. Instead, student leaders work together with invested collaborators who seek the advancement of the same vision. This means seeking the input of others, listening to their opinions, and speaking the truth in love, each step of the way (Ephesians 4:15-16, I Corinthians 12).

Stewardship

The Student Leader knows that God has given him or her gifts to use to glorify His kingdom. These student leaders also look to Colossians 3:23, “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters,” as a guiding principle in their lives. With this in mind, student leaders cheerfully use their time, talent, or treasure for the sake of others and for God’s kingdom work in their areas of influence (Matthew 25:14-30).