BEGINNING

When considering the subject of leadership, several truths come to mind. First, we can never get far from our personality . Furthermore, a leader needs to have character—not simply be a character, though the two are not mutually exclusive. One who leads needs a certain amount of skill in working with people and communication. Also, since the leadership we are considering is primarily leadership in the context of the Christian church, a leader needs a growing understanding of the Scriptures.

When we speak of character we speak of “the inherent complex of attributes that determines a person’s moral and ethical actions and reactions.” Or, to put it more simply, as John Warfin says in the film Buckaroo Bonsai, “Character is what you are in the dark.” When no one can see you, applaud you, correct you, or encourage you, your character determines what you do. Ask yourself, "If there were no one there to punish me or correct me, or award me, what would I do?" Developing good character is a crucial step in the development of good leaders. Thankfully, character can be built.

Ability to work with people and skills in communication are also invaluable in the social network we call “church.” How we talk, the tone we use, the questions we ask, and the way we listen are all part of these skills. These skills can be learned if one is willing to put in the effort required.

Understanding Scripture is a life-long pursuit. If one is to become a leader in the Christian church, this has to be a primary pursuit. Formal education is not required; however, some type of structured, intentional, and accountable learning process is necessary. We run into many problems when we fail to learn from the great saints of old – and not so old. We believe that the Scriptures are plain and understandable in matters of salvation and yet, the personal interpretation of portions of the Scriptures have sometimes allowed too many leaders to fail personally, and worse, to lead astray many of those under their leadership and teaching.

Along with continual study of the Scriptures, familiarizing yourself with some of the available Christian theology books will be helpful. Systematic Theology by Wayne Grudem is a challenging tome that brings in various theological views. I enjoyed
H. Orton Wiley’s Christian Theology while I was in seminary. There are others.



For your Journal

• Explain the difference between PERSONALITY and CHARACTER.
• What traits make up your personality?
• What PEOPLE SKILLS or COMMUNICATIONS SKILLS have you found compelling in other leaders that you know?
• What skills are you already aware of that need work?

Preparing Leaders is like Moving Mountains

Moving Mountains: Preparing Leaders
Discipling for Leadership

Introduction

Ever since high school I have been in some type of leadership role. I never thought much about it or even consciously pursued it. However, through high school, and then college, I was involved in various leadership positions. From being team leader in a high school retreat program (where I met my wife), to beginning a program of our own, leading a home Bible study, working with youth in our church, and finally planting our own church, leadership has always been a part of my life.

Always surrounded by men who modeled leadership, I learned early in life that growth in leadership was more a continuum than an end. Along with the many men who shared their experience of leadership with me, I also enjoyed and learned much from reading many books on the subject. Hours were also spent in conferences learning some of the skills of leadership. Now, after more than 40 years of ministry, I feel I might have something to say to you, the younger generation. Even in taking this step, however, I confess that I don’t believe that I have arrived at the position of leader...only that I am on THE NEVERENDING WALK TO LEADERSHIP.

For me, the life of a leader is a continuous process of growth and maturation. We never really arrive at the destination, but rather we travel the way. At the same time, there are some skills, gifts, and talents which can be developed to help us better serve the body of Christ in the area of leadership— THE NEVERENDING WALK TO LEADERSHIP.

Leadership, then, is made up of many different aspects. In leadership, your personality, character, gifts, talents and skills all come together to give the church a model of godly leadership. The purpose of this book is to help you become the leader God has called you to be. You are unique; like no other man or woman alive. God has called you. The church needs you. Step by step we will consider various aspects of leadership. As you work through this NEVERENDING WALK TO LEADERSHIP it is my prayer that you will see your life changed.

Please do not just read through this book. Rather, take time to read and consider each topic and how it might impact or change your life. Find a partner, or two, to work through the book alongside you. If you find yourself with questions, write them down and seek answers before you move on to the next chapter. Perhaps the most important step of preparation in this process is your willful openness to the Holy Spirit and His direction in your life. In addition, find an older person of some spiritual maturity who can be a resource/mentor for you as you navigate THE NEVERENDING WALK TO LEADERSHIP.

Many people impacted my life and assisted God in bringing me to this time of my life. To the many people who have touched, changed, challenged and supported me over the years I owe a debt of thanks. Some of the relationships were filled with laughter, some filled with pain. Years ago I realized that the many experiences, positive and negative, are brought together by our gracious Lord to make me who I am today. Thank you God.

I would encourage you to keep a journal of the answers to the questions that are posed at the end of most pages Taking time to think and write will help you incorporate the changes you desire into your life.

Enjoy THE NEVERENDING WALK TO LEADERSHIP.

Last modified at 9/28/2007 6:11 PM by Rick Widener