10 Qualities of a Leader

A friend and I were debating on the internet over what makes a good leader. After some fun arguing over Kentucky Christian University vs. Cincinnati Christian University, Hillsboro Family Camp vs. the North American Christian Convention, and if a leader has to take Bible College courses or not, we came up with the following list of what we perceive to be the qualities of good church leaders.

1. Believes that Jesus is the Head of the church, therefore is committed to a spirit-led life of prayer, Bible Study, and integrity so that Christ can lead His church through him.

2. Believes that Christians are called to come together weekly to worship God, share in the Lord's Supper, encourage one another, and be equipped through the preaching and teaching of God's Word.

3. Believes that he as a leader must get down in the trenches, not worrying about the dirt or the danger, and not lead from a safe position calling out orders.

4. Is committed to the Great Commission and the Great Commandment.Matthew 28:19-20: "Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age."Matthew 22:36-40: "Teacher, which is the greatest commandment in the Law?” Jesus replied: “‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’ This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: 'Love your neighbor as yourself.’ All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments."

5. Believes that every Christian and Church should be growing spiritually and numerically including themselves and their own local church.

6. Is willing to take risks in making the changes necessary to bring seekers and unchurched people into the body, as well as shepherding and retaining existing members.

7. Is willing to become an agent of intentional change and understands that change always brings with it the consequences of discontinuity and other threats from the comfortable status-quo.

8. Is willing to go to those who are offended by change and show them love, acceptance, forgiveness, and mercy.

9. Unwilling to reverse changes to please the offended yet, opened minded and willing to create additions and choices for those who like the status-quo.

10. Is humble and honest to admit when he is wrong, especially concerning change. Yet, he does not stop moving forward, he picks himself up and continues on his quest of leading Christ’s Church.

Striving to lead and develop leaders like this,

Phil