It goes without saying there are all kinds of leaders.
Domineering, authoritarian kind. No one really likes to be around them (except themselves).
Meek, mild kind who stretch the definition of leadership by their attitude.
Lazy, disconnected kind who stretch the definition even further by their inaction.
Solid, caring, shepherding kind who love their people and show it.
I’m sure you can come up with more. There is an old saying passed down through the years: “Everything rises and falls on leadership.” It doesn’t matter what is going on leadership is needed on some level.
Business. Check.
Home. Check.
Sports team. Check.
Church. Check
Like any other organization, the church relies on leadership. Poor leadership can doom a church. Domineering, authoritarian leadership is a leech. Church leaders who refuse to decide anything or who remain distant from the people are an albatross. But this chapter in Matt’s book is more about the impact of the Gospel upon the heart of the leader than it is about principles and “how to.” Too many may have principles down to a “T” but their life and example are in the tank. A Jesus-centered leader will be much more concerned about their character than having all the right lists and organization plans as a goal. I’m not discounting those but many spend way too much time on them and leave their character at the door.
Are you a leader? What type would you classify yourself? Any thoughts you want to share?
Yes I am a leader. I would classify myself as pragmatic, autocratic, and decisive. I don’t think being Jesus centered is any indication of a persons concern for character. Nor do I think it is any indication of a persons character. There are many leaders I could mention that, like I, believe Jesus is just a mythological creation from bronze age Palestine that has no influence on their, or my, character. To think that Christians are more concerned about character than non Christians is likewise a myth.
I have no doubt that Jesus having an influence on a leader is pretty much a non-issue IN THE IDEA OF LEADERSHIP IN “THE WORLD.” But there is absolutely no doubt He must influence the leadership of the church…which is, of course, my frame of reference and what I am referring to in this post. That being said, I do think you are off base thinking Jesus is a mythological creation from bronze age Palestine (as you would expect me to believe and comment). As always, thanks for your honesty Jeff.
I strive to be a leader who cares about his people.
Good choice.
In the past I was a brash, egotistical leader. Today I have learned how to be a humble leader. Before I led to get people to see how great I was. Today I lead to get the job done and done well.
As for other categories of church leader, are those who use their growing church to further puff up their pride. The notion of celebrity pastor is one that I want nothing to do with. It is about making their own name great and not the name of Jesus.
Glad to hear of the growth in leadership Daniel. As for your latter paragraph: I couldn’t agree more. I have no desire to be a “celebrity pastor” and certainly don’t want to make a name for myself and not the name of Jesus. Good point there my friend.
Others would call me a leader and because of that I have read a lot on this subject. It is God who gives us our temperament and gifts and all I have to do is understand and learn to lead as Jesus did and still does. For sure I am a Martha and ask God to make me the best Martha for Him. Still growing in this area and acceptance was my first growth area. Good post Bill, makes me want to read this book. Will add it to my list.
Leadership is far more than those who stand in the “spotlight” Betty. Leadership is being a servant as well. (Someone really important said that). 🙂 I’d say you are wise reading and studying it to see where you fit in.
Yep, I’m a leader. And the good old boys club had no idea what to do with a woman on a pastoral staff.
Thankfully, I’m long outta there. And I’m praising God for the delightful opportunities He has given me to use the giftedness He gave.
It’s all grace …
Interesting thought Linda. (See above for more of my thoughts to Betty). I have often told our interpreter (sign) that she is a leader as well. However, you do touch on a sensitive issue for some. Just glad you have risen above that and use what God has given you.
I’m a leader. I would classify myself as a “growing leader.” I’m not what I used to be, but I’m not where I want to be either. 🙂 I like how you say it’s both strategy and character. I completely agree. You need both to sustain anything. God’s not interested in how many people we can gather together, how much money we can make, what kind of business we can grow–if He doesn’t have our hearts and minds. Thank you, Bill.
I totally agree jason that we should be growing leaders. If not, we will die. I really, really like your closing comment about what God is not interested in. Can only shout AMEN to that!
I would say I am not a leader, yet I often find myself in a position of a leader, put there by the people surrounding me. (Which always surprised me.)
I would say you are my dear friend.
I lead a small group in my church. I would say I’m an OK leader in some ways, but I certainly have my weaknesses. I think I prioritize often the things that are easiest for me and the things which I enjoy the most instead of really aiming to meet the needs of the group though.
We all have our weaknesses Loren. It is knowing what they are which is so important.
At church and in most things, I’m a leader. The best leader has a perfect balance of truth and love. In the past, I’ve been too heavy on the truth (or my perception of the truth). Over the years, God has worked inside me and is still balancing me out! You’re right about us needing to be Jesus-centered leaders and that character is more important than plans and goals. The problem with plans and visions and goals is that they all have the serious danger of turning into my will instead of Thy will. And satan is so tricky that many times we don’t even notice the transformation.
Very true about the truth and love balance Steve. Those on either side of the spectrum are dangerous in different ways. As for the plans, etc you speak about. I think it is important to have them but to hold them loosely with an open palm knowing they are ultimately be His.
I think that’s a good attitude about plans. As Paul says, “If the Lord wills, we will ….” I like the thought of holding them loosely and with an open palm.