Journal: Conspectus
Volume: CONSPECTUS 10:1 (Sep 2010)
Article: Defining Christian Transformational Leadership
Author: Thomas O. Scarborough

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Conspectus 10:1 (September 2010) p. 58

Defining Christian Transformational Leadership

Thomas O. Scarborough1

Abstract

Christian Transformational Leadership is a major leadership theory whereby the Christian leader, most simply, seeks to influence (or transform) followers on the basis of his or her vision and character. However, definitions of the theory remain sketchy, and in their present form do not offer an adequate basis for research. This article details how a suitable body of Christian Transformational Leadership literature was selected and a definition extracted from the literature. It further suggests ways in which a definition of Christian Transformational Leadership may serve to advance research in the field.

1. Introduction

It is of the utmost importance that theories of Christian leadership should be defined. Without adequate definitions, it is not possible to distinguish one theory from another, it is not possible to determine who practices them, and it is not possible to research their efficacy.

Conspectus 10:1 (September 2010) p. 59

The purpose of this article is to define a Christian leadership theory which I here name Christian Transformational Leadership. This is a theory which bears many similarities to the well-known secular leadership theory, Transformational (or Transforming) Leadership.2 It is not the purpose of this article to make any assessment of Christian Transformational Leadership, either from the point of view of theology or praxis.

Christian Transformational Leadership incorporates several Christian leadership theories. These include (in alphabetical order) connective leadership (Gibbs 2005:27), courageous leadership (Hybels 2002:12), relational leadership (Wright 2000:2), servant leadership (Hunter 2004:20), spiritual leadership (Sanders 1994:5), ternary leadership (Banks and Ledbetter 2004:96), and transforming leadership (Ford 1991:3). It may include other, similar theories which are not included in this research.3

As a group, these theories may represent the dominant Christian leadership theory today. It is endorsed by major theological seminaries, such as Fuller Theological Seminary (Gibbs 2005, Cover), Princeton Theological Seminary (Guder 1998, Cover), and Moody Bible Institute (Sanders 1994:ix), and by leading Christian organizations, such as

Conspectus 10:1 (September 2010) p. 60

Trinity Broadcasting Network (Munroe 2005, Cover), The Navigators (Stanley and Clinton 1992:6), and World Vision (Thomas 1999, Cover).

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