Journal: Emmaus Journal
Volume: EMJ 01:1 (Winter 1991)
Article: A Theology Of Leadership
Author: Daniel H. Smith

EmJ 1:1 (Win 91) p. 71

A Theology Of Leadership

Daniel H. Smith1

“If you want to know whether you are a leader or not, just turn around to see if anyone is following you.” Many have summarized their thinking about leadership with this old adage. You either are a leader, or you are not. It’s just that simple.

In recent years, however, a great amount of thought, energy, and research has been focused on the vital issue of leadership. There are a number of theories and much has been written. In spite of this, true leadership seems to be increasingly difficult in our western world. Individuals such as Warren Bennis and George Roche who have unusual insight into our cultural trends have explored this subject in works such as “Why Leaders Can’t Lead: The Modern Tragedy”2 and “A World Without Heroes.”3 The radical individualism that prevails in the western world brings unique dynamics into relationships, and leadership is continually challenged. The path of leadership has never been the easy alternative in life. It appears that even with research and expertise focused upon this crucial subject, there is still a lack of leadership in various areas of life.

Bible-believing Christians are influenced by the proliferation of theories of leadership and by varying styles of leadership. We tend to carry into the church and into Christian ministries those theories and styles that appeal to us.

EmJ 1:1 (Win 91) p. 72

Should a Christian seek to be a leader? Some would press passages such as our Lord’s warning about calling a person father (Matt. 23:9) into interpretive patterns that question any functioning leadership. A reluctance or refusal to take a title of leadership such as elder is considered the spiritual ideal by some.

Does the Bible speak positively about leadership? Is leadership appropriate or necessary in Christian ministries and relationships? Are the qualities and functions of leadership in harmony with the character of God? To answer these questions it will be necessary to search the Scriptures for those qualities in God which can be identified with leadership. If we find such, then we must also determine whether these are God-like qualities that He intends to communicate or share with His people.

God Plans

“Plan your work, then work your plan.” I recall hearing this saying from my father on numerous occasions. As I grew up and thought about this, I came to the point of questioning him about this statement. My father wisely informed me that it is important fo...