Living as an example is what commands respect for leadership.
You may be admired and not be followed.
People will follow you for being an example.
Popularity is not equal to relevance.
It is exemplary lifestyle that makes a man relevant.
To be an example means to be a yardstick for measuring standard.
Examples are standards and reference points.
Real leaders does a thing before they teach it, practices what they preach.
That was Jesus’ approach. Acts 1:1