The Greatest Mistake

Dave Kraft's new book on leadership mistakes is fantastic. In the first chapter, he exposes ministry idolatry (allowing ministry to replace Jesus). Here is the first sentence of chapter 1:

"The first and greatest mistake, which in essence gives birth to all the other mistakes, is not allowing Jesus to have his rightful place in our life and ministry."

26 Characteristics of a True Leader

In John MacArthur's The Book on Leadership, he lists 26 characteristics of true leaders. I found it to be both challenging and helpful. Here they are:

1. A leader is trustworthy.
2. A leader takes the initiative.
3. A leader uses good judgment.
4. A leader speaks with authority.
5. A leaders strengthens others.
6. A leader is optimistic and enthusiastic.
7. A leader never compromises the absolutes.
8. A leader focuses on objectives, not obstacles.
9. A leader empowers by example.
10. A leader cultivates loyalty.
11. A leader has empathy for others.
12. A leader keeps a clear conscience.
13. A leader is definite and decisive.
14. A leader knows when to change his mind.
15. A leader does not abuse his authority.
16. A leader doesn't abdicate his role in the face of opposition.
17. A leader is sure of his calling.
18. A leader knows his own limitations.
19. A leader is resilient.
20. A leader is passionate.
21. A leader is courageous.
22. A leader is discerning.
23. A leader is disciplined.
24. A leader is energetic.
25. A leader knows how to delegate.
26. A leader is Christlike.

The Cross and Christian Ministry

DA Carson's The Cross and Christian Ministry is must reading for all Christian leaders. This book is basically an exposition of the first 4 chapters of 1 Corinthians. Carson shows how the Cross of Jesus Christ must be the content and method of our preaching and ministry. The Cross stands as the test and standard of all vital Christian ministry.

In every generation, the gospel is in danger of being dismissed from the central place it must enjoy. Carson calls us back to the centrality of Christ and Him crucified.

One of the many things I have found helpful about this book is in the way it presses home some of the foundational characteristics of a Cross-centered leader. Here are a few examples:

• A Cross-centered leader focuses on the content rather than the form of preaching.
• A Cross-centered leader ties every subject to the Cross.
• A Cross-centered leader follows the crucified Messiah in to suffering.
• A Cross-centered leader primarily seeks to please Christ not people.
• A Cross-centered leader is empowered by the Spirit.
• A Cross-centered leader does not insist on his own "rights."
• A Cross-centered leader is humble.

Caracteristics of a Spiritual Leader

A dear member of my church gave me a copy of Steve Miller's DL Moody on Spiritual Leadership for Christmas. I thouroughly enjoyed the challenge!

Here are the characteristics of a leader God uses:
1. A Life Fully Surrendered to God
2. An Abounding Love for People
3. A Passion for Reaching Lost Souls
4. A Constant Readiness to Pray
5. A Dependence Upon the Spirit's Power
6. A Dedication to God's Word
7. A Faith that Believes and Trusts God
8. A Fervent Commitment to Holiness
9. A Heart Marked by Humility