To Lead is to Teach
“Elder Boyd K. Packer emphasized that all Church leaders serve as teachers: ‘The prophet is a teacher; his counselors are teachers; the General Authorities are teachers. Stake presidents and mission presidents are teachers; high councilors and quorum presidents are teachers; bishops are teachers; and so through all of the organizations of the Church. The Church moves forward sustained by the power of the teaching that is accomplished’ (Teach Ye Diligently, rev. ed. [1991], 3-4)”.
Your Responsibility as a Leader to Teach the Gospel
“Elder Gordon B. Hinckley taught, ‘Effective teaching is the very essence of leadership in the Church’. The Lord is the preeminent example of a leader serving as a teacher: ‘And Jesus went about all the cities and villages, teaching in their synagogues, and preaching the gospel of the kingdom’ (Matthew 9:35). Elder Boyd K. Packer emphasized: ‘The Lord is our example. It would be hard to describe the Lord as an executive. Let me repeat that. It would be hard to describe the Lord as an executive. He was a teacher! That is the ideal, the pattern’ (regional representatives’ seminar, 6 Apr. 1984)”.
Some Ways in Which You Teach as a Leader
Setting a Righteous Example
“As a leader, you teach the gospel through the way you live. You are expected to keep the commandments, be kind, and be a faithful servant of the Lord and of those you lead. By setting a righteous example, you strengthen others in their resolve to live the gospel”.
Following Church Policies and Procedures
“As you faithfully follow the established patterns of Church government, you teach all who work with you. You help others see how to fulfill their duties. For example, Melchizedek Priesthood leaders who regularly hold home teaching interviews demonstrate how this is to be done”.
Speaking Directly about Gospel Principles
“… a mixed message is no message at all”.
“To lead in the Church is to teach, and to improve as a leader is to learn to teach more effectively—from the pulpit, in leadership meetings, and in one-on-one situations”.
