The Heart of the Matter: Rediscovering Biblical Leadership
A crisis of leadership is sweeping through the church, and it’s time to confront the root of the issue. We’ve strayed from the biblical definition of a leader, opting instead for a model that values strength, charisma, and dominance. This new definition has given rise to a culture of ministry bullies who prioritize their own success over the well-being of their congregation.
The biblical model, on the other hand, emphasizes humility, gentleness, kindness, faithfulness, and love. It’s a model that recognizes the importance of servant leadership, where leaders prioritize the care and nurturing of their flock over personal ambition. But we’ve lost sight of this definition, and it’s taking a toll on our churches and our communities.
Another critical factor contributing to this crisis is the devaluation of a strong, watchful, comforting, and confronting leadership community around a leader. We’ve forgotten that every leader needs pastoring, care, and accountability. We’ve neglected the importance of surrounding our leaders with people who can offer guidance, support, and correction when needed.
The consequences of abandoning the biblical model are stark. We’re producing leaders who view their staff as tools for success, rather than as fellow servants of Christ. We’re creating a culture where congregations are seen as consumers, rather than as precious sheep in need of care and nurturing.
It’s time to reclaim the biblical definition of leadership and to recognize the vital role that a strong leadership community plays in shaping our leaders. We don’t need a new model of leadership; we just need to return to the one laid out in the pages of the New Testament.
Paul David Tripp, author of Lead: 12 Gospel Principles for Leadership in the Church, offers a timely reminder of the importance of gospel-centered leadership. His work highlights the critical role that leadership communities play in molding leaders who are humble, gentle, and servant-hearted.
As we navigate the challenges of pastoral ministry, let’s remember that we’re not alone. We need each other, and we need to be surrounded by people who can offer guidance, support, and correction. Let’s rediscover the biblical definition of leadership and work together to create a culture of servant-hearted leaders who prioritize the care and nurturing of their flock.
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