Leaders Who Leave A Legacy
- Anthony Ferriell
- May 13
- 4 min read
When we think of people who make a lasting impact, the first images that come to mind are often big personalities, dynamic speakers, or charismatic leaders. These figures capture attention for a time, but their influence can fade quickly. True lasting influence is not about short-lived fame or sensation; it is about building a legacy that endures through a lifetime and beyond. This kind of leadership is rooted in humility, resolve, and a commitment to serve others.
What Makes a Leader’s Influence Last?
Many assume that leadership is about being in the spotlight or commanding attention. Yet, the greatest leaders are those who serve others selflessly. Jesus said, “Whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, and whoever wants to be first must be slave of all. 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” (Mark 10:44-45). This teaching flips the usual idea of leadership on its head: greatness comes through serving, not being served.
Jim Collins, a well-known author on leadership, calls these leaders Level 5 Leaders. They combine deep humility with fierce resolve. Collins describes them as leaders who:
Look out the window to give credit to others or even to good luck when things go well.
Look in the mirror to take full responsibility when things go wrong, never blaming external factors.
This balance of humility and accountability creates trust and respect, which are essential for lasting influence.
The Four Focuses of Multiplying Leaders
Level 5 or multiplying leaders maintain a clear focus that drives their leadership style. They embody what can be remembered by the acronym P.L.O.W.:
Patience: They understand leadership is a long-term investment. Growth and influence don’t happen overnight.
Legacy: Their goal is to elevate the next generation, ensuring their impact continues beyond their own tenure.
Outward focus: They lead by enabling others to succeed, not by seeking personal glory.
Work ethic: They have a strong bias toward action and problem-solving, consistently moving forward.
These leaders don’t chase quick wins or personal accolades. Instead, they build systems and relationships that multiply their influence through others.
Jesus as the Ultimate Multiplying Leader
The example of Jesus perfectly illustrates multiplying leadership. His entire mission was about serving others and empowering them to carry on his work. In Mark 4:20, it says, “Others, like seed sown on good soil, hear the word, accept it, and produce a crop—some thirty, some sixty, some a hundred times what was sown.” This metaphor of sowing seed highlights the multiplying effect of true leadership.
Jesus focused on the work the Father gave him, laying down his life to elevate others. Philippians 2:1-11 (NIV) describes this humility and sacrifice:
“In your relationships with one another, have the same mindset as Christ Jesus:
Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be used to his own advantage;
rather, he made himself nothing by taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness.
And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to death—even death on a cross!
Therefore God exalted him to the highest place and gave him the name that is above every name,
that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth,
and every tongue acknowledge that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.”
This passage shows that true leadership is not about power or status but about humility, service, and sacrifice. Jesus’ leadership multiplied through his disciples and continues to influence millions today.
Practical Ways to Build a Lasting Legacy
Anyone can start building a legacy by adopting the principles of multiplying leadership. Here are some practical steps:
Serve others consistently: Look for ways to help and support those around you without expecting immediate recognition.
Give credit generously: When things go well, highlight the contributions of others and external factors.
Take responsibility fully: When challenges arise, own your part and seek solutions rather than excuses.
Invest in people: Mentor, teach, and empower others to grow and lead.
Be patient: Understand that influence grows slowly and requires ongoing effort.
Focus on the future: Think about how your actions today will impact the next generation.
By following these steps, leaders can create a multiplying effect that extends their influence far beyond their own time.
The Lasting Impact of Humble Resolve
Leaders who leave a legacy are not those who seek fame or quick success. They are those who serve with humility and act with unwavering resolve. Their leadership is about others, not themselves. They build trust by giving credit and taking responsibility. They invest patiently in people and focus on the future.
The example of Jesus reminds us that true greatness comes from serving and sacrificing for others. His life shows that multiplying influence is the heart of leadership that lasts.
If you want to make a difference that endures, start by serving those around you with humility and resolve. Focus on lifting others up, and your influence will multiply in ways you may never fully see.
For more information, resources, and training, visit www.field-usa.org or www.fieldtraining.org. These sites offer practical tools to help you build and multiply outposts effectively.
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