Oct
27
2010
Are You Ready to Be a Leader?
There are too many books on leadership, but the ones that are good can be really good. In that latter category is Spiritual Leadership by J. Oswald Sanders. I try to read it every few years.
In Chapter 5 Sanders offers a series of questions–a kind of leadership audit–for leaders and potential leaders. I’ve included some of the questions below and numbered them for ease of reference.
1. Have you ever broken yourself of a bad habit? To lead others, one must be master of oneself.
2. Do you retain control of yourself when things go wrong? The leader who loses self-control in testing circumstances forfeits respect and loses influence. He must be calm in crisis and resilient in adversity and disappointment.
3. Do you think independently? While using to the full the thought of others, the leader cannot afford to let others do his thinking or make his decisions for him.
4. Can you handle criticism objectively and remain unmoved under it? Do you turn it to good account? The humble man can derive benefit from petty and even malicious criticism.
5. Do you possess the ability to secure discipline without having to resort to a show of authority? True leadership is an internal quality of the spirit and requires no external show of force.
6. Have you qualified for the beatitude pronounced on the peacemaker? It is much easier to keep the peace than to make peace where it has been shattered. An important function in leadership is conciliation—the ability to discover common ground between opposing viewpoints and then induce both parties to accept it.
7. Can you induce people to do happily some legitimate thing that they would not normally wish to do?
8. Can you accept opposition to your viewpoint or decision without considering it a personal affront and reacting accordingly? Leaders must expect opposition and should not be offended by it.
9. Do you find it easy to make and keep friends? Your circle of loyal friends is an index of the quality and extent of your leadership.
10. Are you unduly dependent on the praise or approval of others? Can you hold a steady course in the face of disapproval and even temporary loss of confidence?
11. Do your subordinates appear at ease in your presence? A leader should give an impression of sympathetic understanding and friendliness that will put others at ease.
12. Are you really interested in people? In people of all types and all races? Or do you entertain respect of persons? Is there hidden racial prejudice? An antisocial person is unlikely to make a good leader.
13. Do you possess tact? Can you anticipate the likely effect of a statement before you make it?
14. Do you nurse resentments, or do you readily forgive injuries done to you?
15. Are you reasonably optimistic? Pessimism is no asset to a leader.
16. Do you welcome responsibility?
17. Do other people’s failures annoy us or challenge us?
18. Do you direct people or develop people?
19. Do you criticize or encourage?
20. Do you shun the problem person or seek him out?
What do you think? I find 8, 9, 10, 12, 15, and 20 particularly insightful questions. Actually, on second thought, they are all pretty insightful.
33 Comments
Thanks for sharing this Kevin. I can tell from several of these that I’m not leadership material (yet).
I feel the same as Dan.
I think by this standard few will be leaders. I have an ambivelance towards lists like these. They can challenge us and point out areas to consider however they can easily demoralise. I wonder if they go way beyond what the Bible expects of a leader (who is a leader in biblical terms?). I also wonder if they frame things in terms that are too secular. For example #15
15. Are you reasonably optimistic? Pessimism is no asset to a leader.
This is simply a statement about personality rather than spiritual equipping. Would the question not be better framed if it said: are you a person strong in faith. Someone may be naturally pessimistic but be strong in faith in such a way that he overcomes natural tendencies.
Timothy seemed to naturally lack courage yet Paul sees him as a leader and urges him to find courage. in the Spirit.
In summary, mixed feelings about such lists.
I think these lists can be helpful in so far as they point out characteristic traits. But I agree they can be discouraging. Then again, I know few Christians who aren’t discouraged by the leadership qualifications in 1 Timothy 3. Some of us are too hard on ourselves, and some of us aren’t ready to be spiritual leaders (yet). We should, however, distinguish between “I’m terrible at that” and “I could be better.” There’s also a difference between realizing you are weak in a couple areas and realizing the list doesn’t fit you at all.
This is a great resource for some objective self evaluation for those both in and who aspire to leadership. After 30+ years of ministry its my observation that most men in positions of church leadership are simply not qualified–and its often not the matter of character (although that remains a very significant problem), its simply that they are not leaders. Period. I’m grateful for the opportunities I have had to train leaders and for a modicum of effectiveness in that arena. But as I consider the many churches of which I am aware, leadership is all too often in a very sad state.
Those who serve as pastors must first examine themselves as to their own leadership abilities and gifts (and agenda’s etc.), and then focus upon being and developing the kind of leader(s) who actually know more than theology, church history, and contemporary “issues,” but who actually are shepherd-leaders who have the ability to make decisions wisely, graciously, and follow-through consistently.
Frankly, there are many “leaders” both vocationally and lay (for lack of a better term), who should simply step aside. Often, they’re wonderful folks who have fallen victim to the Peter Principle because the church is more committed to its constitution than a Biblical orthopraxy. But I should also mention that there are so pastors who desire to “train” men who will most likely serve the pastors personal purposes as opposed to those of the kingdom. But that begs a larger discussion.
[...] DeYoung’s blog-post today has whetted my appetite for J. Oswald Sanders’ book Spiritual Leadership. I’ve heard of [...]
[...] this from a Kevin DeYoung post on J. Oswald Sanders’ book Spiritual [...]
Good stuff, Kevin. Thanks for passing these questions along. 17 and 20 were particularly convicting for me as a young pastor/church planter. I stay reasonably optimistic and encouraged except when people that I feel should be on board with the mission of the church either fail in their responsibilities or cause problems that require me to take time to confront them and develop them. You can probably tell from the way in which I wrote that last sentence that I need to grow quite a bit in this area. I can get pretty annoyed with people who are constantly causing problems and dropping the ball, and I tend to write them off. I’m glad Jesus doesn’t lead me like that! He’s a developer, not a “shunner”.
Kevin,
Have you read the original edition or the updated edition? I notice that the Amazon edition, and the edition on Logos, are updated with major revisions throughout the text. I went ahead and picked up an electronic copy and I can understand why they made some changes (notes to explain some of the people mentioned by Sanders) but other changes could be a bigger deal (adjusting the text to make reference to women leaders). So I’m just curious if you’ve read from the updated text and if you recommend it as well as the original edition.
Kevin
Seems like another list that NO one can live up to. Guilt, shame and failure.
Another list, another “law,” without much biblical backing. If any at all. Is any of this in the Bible?
Seems all those books, and Oswald’s, on “Leadership” are just “Traditions of Men.”
Good business practices to maintain “Your Reputation” “Your controll and manipulation.”
To get people to do what “You Want them to do.” And NOT Jesus. Been there… Guilty… Ouch!!!
Seems Jesus, and “His Disciples” have a different take on “Leadership” for the body of Christ.
Jesus humbled Himself, Made Himself of NO reputation.
And took on the form of a “Servant.” Phil 2:7-8.
How many so called “Leaders” today are interested in – Making themselves of “NO Reputation?”
Their – name, title, and position – is every place. Walls, doors, bullitins, speakers confrences, etc.
Maybe Oswald, and us, could focus on what Jesus said – or didn’t say – about “Leadership.”
1 – Jesus, in Mat 23:10, told “His Disciples” NOT to be called “Master/Leader”
For you have “ONE” “Master/Leader” Even Christ.
The Interlinear Bible –
Nor be called leaders,
for “ONE” is your leader the Christ.
Phillips Modern English –
you must not let people call you leaders,
you have only “ONE” leader, Christ.
Today’s English Version –
nor should you be called leader.
your “ONE” and only leader is the Messiah.
Jesus told **His disciples** NOT to be called **leaders** and NONE did.
Rom 1:1 Paul, a servant of Jesus Christ,
Php 1:1 Paul and Timotheus, the servants of Jesus Christ,
Col 4:12 Epaphras, who is one of you, a servant of Christ,
Tit 1:1 Paul, a servant of God,
Jas 1:1 James, a servant of God
2Pe 1:1 Simon Peter, a servant
**His Disciples** all called themselves **Servants.**
None called themselves “Leaders.” None? None.
None called themselves “Servant-Leader.” None.
If Jesus instructed **His Disciples** NOT to call themselves “leaders”
and someone calls them self a “leader” or thinks they are a “leader;”
Are they a “Disciple of Christ?”
Or, are they NO LONGER a “Disciple of Christ?” Oy Vey!!!
Or, are they just a **disobedient** “Disciple of Christ?”
Why isn’t what Jesus said important today?
And other sheep I have, which are not of this fold:
them also I must bring, and they shall **hear MY voice;**
and there shall be “ONE” fold, and “ONE” shepherd.
John 10:16
One Fold – One Shepherd – One Voice.
{{{{{{ Jesus }}}}}} The head of th body, (The ekklesia, the called out one’s), “The Church.”
I would love to see you (or Tim Keller or Paul Tripp) do a series of articles on how to address these matters from a gospel-centered perspective.
A.Amos
I agree with much you say. There are many who aspire to be leaders but few who aspire to be servants. Of course, the point is, that a good leader is actually someone with a servant heart.
Having said that the list (although I feel like you somewhat queezy about such lists) does highlight a number of virtues that Scripture also highlights as essential to leaders(1 Tim 3, Tit 1)
#1 Self-control… not given to excess wine
#2 Self-control….not quick-tempered/quarrelsome/violent
#3 No obvious reference.
#4 humility… not arrogant, not a recent convert…puffed up.
#5 authority… a little idealistic. Sometimes discipline does mean asserting authority. However elder should prove ability to have authority in the home so that he can be trusted with authority in church… he does rule.
I won’t go on but have found it interesting to see how many are reflected in rules for elders (and the few that aren’t). Its a pity that a sound knowledge of Scripture and the ability to teach others (not necessarily from a pulpit) is not included. This is clearly important to Paul, though, as Pat observes, not the only thing.
In my experience too many are promoted to leadership (made elders in particular) because of their status in society rather than their spiritual suitability. A head for business seems more important than a heart for Christ and a hold on the Bible.
This comment is perhaps a balance to my earlier one.
My edition of the book is from several years ago. I don’t what changes are made in newer editions.
John
Appreciate your thoughts. I can understand how you can see biblical examples of this list from where you live. I was there once myself. I was in “Leadership.” I left ”The Religious System” through much pain, tears, and “Spiritual Abuse.” Had to go back to the “beginning,” had to go back to Jesus, who is the “beginning,” and get it from Jesus for myself.
Jesus said, in Luke 6:46,
“Why call me Lord, Lord, and don’t do the things that “I say.”
I had been listening to man, and what man said, Jesus said and meant.
For me, the scriptures declare – there is better way.
Jesus said, in John 6:45,
It is written in the prophets, And they shall be “ALL” taught of God.
Jesus, in Mat 28:19-20, taught “His disciples” to “Go” make disciples,
Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever “ I “ (Jesus) have commanded you.
Start with what Jesus said and learn from Jesus. And one thing Jesus taught “His Disciples” is – NOT to be called “Master/Leader.” Not to be called “Rabbi/Teacher” For you have “ONE” “Leader” – You have “ONE” teacher” the Christ. When you expect Jesus to give you understanding, when you believe what Jesus said, it makes a difference how you understand the scriptures.
And other sheep I have, which are not of this fold:
them also I must bring, and they shall **hear MY voice;**
and there shall be “ONE” fold, and “ONE” shepherd.
John 10:16
One Fold – One Shepherd – One Voice.
I’ll give you my take on the list soon.
Be blessed in your search for truth… Jesus…
Thanks Amos.
I know church can be a bruising experience for many. How we shame Christ.
I hope as you work through the pain the Lord gives you a deep sense of his love and acceptance. I hope too, in time, you will find again by God’s grace the blessings of a local church and a spiritual home.
God bless.
John
Here’s how I now see this list. These heavy burdens placed on mens shoulders.
1. Have you ever broken yourself of a bad habit? To lead others, one must be master of oneself.
If “ I “ have broken the “Bad Habit” – then “ I “ get the glory. NOT Jesus. Oy Vey!
Is that now the “Bad Habit,” “sin” of self rightousness?
How many “Bad Habits” are permissable to keep if I’m to be a “Leader?”
Do I have to break every“Bad Habit?” Can I keep a few? And still be a “Leader?”
If I’m to be my own master? (“one must be master of oneself”) then surly
“ I “ can master and obey the “Ten Commandments.” That would eliminate all ”Bad Habits.”
I tried going down that path. Keeping the “Law.” Keeping my own “Laws.” Ouch!
How’s “Keeping the Law” “Your Law” been working for you?
2. Do you retain control of yourself when things go wrong? The leader who loses self-control in testing circumstances forfeits respect and loses influence. He must be calm in crisis and resilient in adversity and disappointment.
Once again the focus is on me and NOT Jesus. And more “Laws” “ I “ must live up to.
“calm in crisis” “resilient in adversity” OR “ I “ forfit respect. “ I “ lose influence.
1 Cor 15:56 …the strength of sin is the law.
Do you really want to live under the “Law?”
Nah! We enter into His rest when we cease from our own works. Heb 4:10.
3. Do you think independently? While using to the full the thought of others, the leader cannot afford to let others do his thinking or make his decisions for him.
Are we now to focus and depend on a human’s thought’s and NOT God’s thought’s?
Psalm 94:11
The LORD knows the thoughts of man, that they are vanity.
1 Corinthians 3:20
And again, The Lord knows the thoughts of the wise, that they are vain.
Isaiah 65:2
I have spread out my hands all the day unto a rebellious people,
which walk in a way that was not good, after their own thoughts…
I’m no longer interested in thinking independently. But God’s thinking.
His thoughts are higher. Yes?
John
4. Can you handle criticism objectively and remain unmoved under it? Do you turn it to good account? The humble man can derive benefit from petty and even malicious criticism.
If you’re humble, can you use the “Title” and “Position” of “Senior Pastor/Leader.” Because…
Along with the”Title” comes – Power, Profit, Prestige, Honor, Glory, Recognition, Reputation, etc..
All those things Jesus spoke against. All those things that become “Idols” of the heart. Ezek 14:1-11.
As man – When Jesus “Humbled” Himself he made Himself of NO “Reputation”
and took on the form of a “Servant.” Phil 2:7-8.
When you take the “Title” and “Postion” “Pastor/Leader” you now have
a “Reputation” whether you want it or NOT.
When you take the “Title” and “Postion” “Pastor/Leader” you are automatically
“exercising authority” and “lording it over God’s heritage” whether you want to or NOT.
5. Do you possess the ability to secure discipline without having to resort to a show of authority? True leadership is an internal quality of the spirit and requires no external show of force.
I would say this is true ”Servant” and NOT leadership.
Are we ever asked to “exercise authority” over another “Disciple of Christ?”
Jesus, in Mark 10:42-43 warned “His Disciples” about NOT “Exercising Authority.”
…they which are accounted to rule over the Gentiles “exercise lordship” over them;
and their great ones “exercise authority” upon them.
**But so shall it NOT be among you:**
6. Have you qualified for the beatitude pronounced on the peacemaker? It is much easier to keep the peace than to make peace where it has been shattered. **An important function in leadership is conciliation—the ability to discover common ground between opposing viewpoints and then induce both parties to accept it.**
Is that in the Bible? Who had – “the ability to discover common ground between opposing viewpoints?”
Sounds like a “Christian Politician.” Are we to discover common ground? or discover he “Truth?”
7. Can you induce people to do happily some legitimate thing that they would not normally wish to do?
Hmmm? Sounds like “control” and “manipulation” to me. A main reason I left “The Religious System.”
This might be okay in the world, in business, BUT, in “The Church of God?” the ekklesia of God?
Aren’t sons of God to be “Led” by the Spirit. Rom 8:14
My people have been lost sheep, their shepherds have led them astray…
Jerimiah 50:6
I think you get my drift.
Jesus is always the answer – NOT another list of rules made up by man.
ooops!
Jer 50:6 KJV
My people hath been lost sheep: their shepherds have caused them to go astray…
A FEW LESSONS FROM THE WORLD OF BUSINESS
I’ll share a few things I’ve learned in the business world and you let you tell me what you think.
I agree these are all great attributes, but I’m also of the opinion that these are not a list of how to’s on being a great leader. They are a list of how to’s on being a great person, and there is a difference.
In the world of business we’ve had to study and learn leadership or fail and face loss of job or business. I think that’s why there are much better books on how to be a Leader coming from the business world than from the church. Here are a few things I think I’ve learned, tell me what you think.
Strategy (otherwise known as Vision):
A leader or better yet a group of leaders (the church already has a CEO) must create the strategy (in the church it would be re-creating Christ’s vision for His people) and communicate that vision to those around him.
Tactics (known as many things from capitol and resources to process management):
A leader must understand the different series of actions necessary to achieve the strategy or vision, and find strong competent managers (often known as deacons in the church). Then he/they must inspire, encourage, reprove, and recognize those managers to do their part in accomplishing the vision. (See “Leading Change” by Kotter for more on both of these).
Value Proposition:
The other duty is to understand the value proposition of the organization. What value does the church offer? Then do 2 things.
• Understand the processes that help create that value (know your doctrine)
• Sell that value (preach it brother preach it!)
There is a lot more, but this is the 100,000 ft view.
PS, I’m not a leader in the church and do not profess to be someone to teach those who are, but over the years of speaking with men who are I’ve found there are a lot of crossover’s between my world and theirs.
Hope you can find something useful.
Kevin writes:
> There’s also a difference between realizing you are weak in a couple areas and realizing the list doesn’t fit you at all.
True, of course, but then many Americans have a vastly over optimistic view of themselves (according to the social psych. studies I’ve read about how people think of themselves relative to others in social skills, athletic ability and so on). Show people this list and some who say “yes, that’s me” are simply deluded. (Actually, I would say that almost anyone who thinks this list describes themselves are deluded.)
How about this as an indication of leadership (which I owe to a pastor when I was in college):
“Are you a person who notices problems and seeks to fix them” (as opposed to someone who doesn’t notice problems or does notice them but seeks someone else to fix them).”
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If any of you are interested I thought I would pass on what I think to be a good site for studying the word which is something indispensable to leadership. The site is biblestudycourses.org and it offers free in depth studies for 16 different books of the Bible. I find the intros to be the most useful because they have all the background information and stuff.
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I am the son of a pastor, have served in every position in the church (laymen, deacon, elder, associate pastor, and now i am a Sr pastor), and have been apart of 6 different churches over 3 decades. These are great questions so long as it is understood that the best of men are still men at best. Every pastor has strengths and weaknesses. So long as those men are biblically qualified (1 Tim 3; Titus 1) and are humble servant leaders you’ll be in good hands.
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