Member Reviews
Zachary G, Reviewer
In this book, J. Oswald Sanders touches on popular topics that pertain to leadership such as developing skills and managing one's time, but his main thrust is on principles of spiritual leadership. He lays out in simple terms what it means to be a leader in God's Kingdom, and does so with tact. This is a book that everyone should read, as we will all need to lead in different areas of life.
Ethan L, Reviewer
A transcribed series of lectures by the author on spiritual leadership with an emphasis on preachers or pastors, especially foreign missionaries.
Over 22 chapters the author explores spiritual leadership and its qualities. Each chapter focuses on either a principle of leadership or insights from a particularly noted character regarding leadership. The author makes frequent use of quotations from many prominent characters in Evangelical history; how many are still well known today is an open question.
Sanders lays down powerful challenges for anyone who would presume spiritual leadership; by the end of the book one is struck by the difficulties and major transformations in character one would need to prove effective as a spiritual leader. Such a response is by design; the author intends to show just how difficult it is to reflect the wide range of characteristics needed for good spiritual leadership: devotion to God in Christ, a desire to lead yet humility in practice, firm in conviction yet willing to work with people, immersed in prayer, willing to suffer the cost of leadership, navigating the differences between worldly and spiritual leadership, and empowering others to work and lead in turn. Paul, Peter, and Nehemiah, among others, are lauded for their leadership and held out as examples for believers.
A good resource for all who have significant responsibilities in the Lord's vineyard; one will find strength and challenge no matter how long, or how effectively, one has encouraged others in the work.
