By: Shirley Chua

Position Paper

Question:
In many cultures, it is typical that a leader should have special privileges. What do you think?
Elaborate. If yes, which privileges should they have and why? If not, why not?

I personally disagree with the idea that leaders should have special privileges simply because of their position or title. Leadership should never be viewed as an opportunity for entitlement or personal benefit. At the same time, I acknowledge that certain practical provisions may be necessary for leaders to fulfill their responsibilities effectively. These, however, should not be understood as marks of superiority, but as tools for stewardship and service.

From a biblical perspective, leadership is fundamentally about responsibility, accountability, and stewardship. It is not a license for entitlement or privilege, such as better treatment, special rights, greater freedom, or exemption from rules and policies that apply to everyone else. Leaders are called to model humility and integrity in both life and leadership. Jesus Himself, though the Son of God, “did not come to be served, but to serve” (Matthew 20:28). He humbled Himself by washing His disciples’ feet (John 13:1–7), powerfully demonstrating that true leadership is marked by humility, servant-heartedness, and sacrificial service, not by the pursuit of special privileges.

Leaders are entrusted with responsibility by God not for personal gain, but for the good of those they lead, and as examples to them. As 1 Peter 5:2–3 instructs, leaders are to be “shepherds of God’s flock… not pursuing dishonest gain, but eager to serve; not lording it over those entrusted to you.” Likewise, Titus 1:7 reminds us that “since an overseer manages God’s household, he must be blameless.” Leadership, therefore, is a sacred trust that must be exercised with integrity, humility, and accountability.

When leaders claim or expect special privileges, it raises serious questions about fairness and organizational values. Such behavior can create distance between leaders and those they lead, often resulting in strained relationships, diminished trust, and loss of respect. As Simon Sinek, author of Leaders Eat Last, aptly states:  “Real leaders are willing to sacrifice their perks and comfort when it matters. Leadership is sacrifice. Sometimes that sacrifice comes at the cost of comfort or profit. Leadership is a choice; it is not a rank.”

“Real leaders are willing to sacrifice their perks and comfort when it matters. Leadership is sacrifice. Sometimes that sacrifice comes at the cost of comfort or profit. Leadership is a choice; it is not a rank.”
— Simon Sink, Leaders Eat Last

Some examples of privileges that leaders should not have or demand include:

• Exemption from rules, policies, or accountability. For example, if all staff receive reimbursements through monthly payroll, but a leader’s reimbursement is processed immediately and transferred directly to a personal account, such exceptions create a perception of unfairness.

• Excessive material benefits. This includes receiving luxury furniture, expensive gifts, or special monetary rewards, such as exclusive bonuses from higher leadership.

• Preferential treatment or favoritism. Examples include biased task allocation, excusing certain individuals from inconvenient duties, or being exempt from meetings and shared responsibilities.

At the same time, leadership does carry unique demands that may justify certain practical provisions. These should never function as symbols of status or superiority, but as tools that enable effective leadership. Luke 12:48 reminds us that “to whom much is given, much will be required.” Every provision entrusted to a leader therefore comes with a greater expectation of faithfulness, diligence, and integrity. Appropriate and reasonable provisions may include:

• A private office or workspace, allowing for confidential conversations, quiet reflection, and focused strategic thinking.

• An assigned parking space, helping leaders manage demanding schedules and steward time responsibly.

• Access to strategic information and resources, enabling informed and timely decision-making.

• A reasonable leadership allowance, recognizing the additional responsibility and weight that leadership carries.

In conclusion, leaders should not seek or expect special privileges simply because of their title or position. Leadership is a calling to serve others with love, humility, and integrity. The true measure of leadership is not found in the privileges one enjoys, but in the character one displays, the faithfulness with which responsibilities are carried out, and the care shown in shepherding people.

As a next-line leader, I desire to live out this principle in my own leadership. I want to lead by example, not through entitlement, but through service. Any responsibility or provision entrusted to me should be stewarded with humility and accountability, used to serve others and glorify God. Ultimately, I seek to follow the model of servant leadership that Jesus Himself demonstrated, leadership that serves rather than demands, and uplifts rather than exalts.