15 Must-Have Books on Church Leadership

The world is more complicated than ever. And as church leaders, we need wisdom and insight from those who have gone before us to navigate this world. We need to lean into the complexity of the human experience…and into what it truly looks like to lead people well. 

Understanding people is the secret to propelling them towards a larger mission. This understanding, this ability to inspire and guide, is the beating heart of church leadership. It's not just about navigating change, but about leading others confidently through it, equipping them to face the future with faith and resolve.

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Effective church leadership is different from business leadership. Not only is the end outcome different (ministering to people vs generating a financial profit), but hopefully the means is different too. How we lead as church leaders should come from a different place.

Here are 7 essentials to effective church leadership:

1. Integrity: A good church leader leads with moral and ethical integrity. They live their lives as an example to others and strive to embody the values and principles they teach. 

Proverbs 10:9 - "Whoever walks in integrity walks securely, but he who makes his ways crooked will be found out."

2. Humility: Humility is an essential trait in a church leader. They should always remember that they serve Jesus and are in their position to serve their congregation, not to be served by them.

Philippians 2:3-4 - "Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves. Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others."

3. Spiritual Wisdom: A church leader should have spiritual wisdom and a deep understanding of how the Holy Spirit speaks to us. They should continually seek to grow in knowledge and understanding, guiding others with their wisdom.

James 3:17 - "But the wisdom from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, open to reason, full of mercy and good fruits, impartial and sincere."

4. Compassion: An effective church leader should be compassionate, showing love and kindness to all, just as Jesus did.

Colossians 3:12 - "Put on then, as God's chosen ones, holy and beloved, compassionate hearts, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience."

5. Courage: Leaders should have the courage to make difficult decisions, stand for what's right, even when it's unpopular, and lead their congregation through challenging times. We have had plenty of opportunities of late to demonstrate this!

Joshua 1:9 - "Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the LORD your God is with you wherever you go."

6. Stewardship: An effective church leader practices good stewardship, managing the resources of the church responsibly and transparently. Often, we are having to do a lot of things on a limited budget. But being a steward is not just about finances, it is a way of approaching life and responsibility.

1 Peter 4:10 - "Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms."

7. Visionary Leadership: A good church leader is a visionary. They have a clear understanding of where they want the church to go and have the ability to inspire others to believe toward that vision.

Proverbs 29:18 - "Where there is no vision, the people perish: but he that keepeth the law, happy is he."

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Here is a list of great church leadership books to deepen and grow your own leadership.

1. "The Prodigal God" by Timothy Keller: An engaging theological exploration of the parable of the prodigal son. This book promotes humility, empathy, and acceptance and provides leaders with lessons on how to foster a supportive and forgiving team culture.

2. "What Got You Here Won't Get You There" by Marshall Goldsmith and Mark Reiter: This enlightening work helps leaders identify and eliminate counterproductive behaviors, encouraging personal growth and evolution necessary for achieving new levels of success.

3. "The Contrarian's Guide to Leadership" by Steve B. Sample: Sample's guide embraces unconventional wisdom, teaching leaders to think differently, defy norms when necessary, and effectively navigate complex issues in unique ways.

4. "Culture Wins: The Roadmap to an Irresistible Workplace" by William Vanderbloemen: Offers actionable strategies for creating a dynamic, vibrant workplace culture, emphasizing that leaders who focus on nurturing this aspect will improve team cohesion and productivity.

5. "Leaders Eat Last" by Simon Sinek: A compelling exploration of how leaders can create a circle of safety in their teams, Sinek's work emphasizes the power of trust, cooperation, and putting your team's needs before your own.

6. "The Emotionally Healthy Leader" by Peter Scazzero: An essential read for leaders that underscores the importance of emotional intelligence and self-awareness for effective, compassionate leadership, transforming teams, churches, and even societies.

7. "Who Moved My Pulpit?: Leading Change in the Church" by Thom S. Rainer: Focused on the spiritual realm, this book offers invaluable advice for leaders grappling with resistance during change management, with insights applicable in secular contexts as well.

8. "Leading Change Without Losing It" by Carey Nieuwhof: A practical guide offering strategies to manage and lead change against opposition, teaching leaders how to maintain their resolve and focus during challenging transitions.

9. "Canoeing the Mountains: Christian Leadership in Uncharted Territory" by Tod Bolsinger: An innovative guide using the metaphor of explorers in uncharted territory, offering Christian leaders unique insights into leading in challenging, uncertain circumstances.

10. "In the Name of Jesus: Reflections on Christian Leadership" by Henri Nouwen: A thoughtful, spiritually rich reflection that challenges leaders to lead with love, humility, and service, shaping a compassionate and meaningful leadership style.

11. "9 Things a Leader Must Do" by Henry Cloud: A succinct guide that outlines essential actions for leaders seeking to inspire, motivate, and successfully guide their teams to new heights.

12. "Measure What Matters: How Google, Bono, and the Gates Foundation Rock the World with OKRs" by John Doerr: A compelling case for Objectives and Key Results (OKRs) as a method for aligning and motivating teams, offering insights from successful leaders across sectors.

13. "Simple but Effective Ways to Advocate for Your Team": A handy resource that empowers leaders to become better advocates for their teams, promoting open communication, fairness, and proactive problem-solving.

14. "The Coaching Habit: Say Less, Ask More & Change the Way You Lead Forever" by Michael Stanier: Stanier provides leaders with an approach to shift from directive to coaching style, promoting empowerment, engagement, and development of team members.

15. "Intentional Churches: How Implementing an Operating System Clarifies Vision, Improves Decision-Making, and Stimulates Growth": This book offers leaders in the church context a system to improve organizational clarity and growth, with principles that can be applied to secular organizations.

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Conclusion

In a world constantly changing, Godly leadership remains a steady compass. We need it today more than ever! It begins with integrity, a fixed point amidst shifting sands. Humility, a refreshing antidote to rising egos, advocates service before self. Compassion, a timeless beacon, shines brightly against the backdrop of indifference, bridging divides, and fostering unity.

Courage, as vital as ever, emboldens leaders to defy the tides of change, standing firm on their convictions. Vision, inspired by the Holy Spirit, becomes the eye to future possibilities.

In a world swept by change, Godly and Biblical leadership is an anchor. Your posture to lead and equip others is ordained and blessed by God, and He is with you every step of the way!

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What does the Bible say about leadership?

The Bible views leadership as a call to serve others, not as an opportunity to be served. That's why Jesus washed his disciples' feet – a job usually done by the lowest servants. He was leading by example, showing that being in charge means taking care of your team, not just telling them what to do. The Bible also emphasizes the importance of humility, wisdom, and courage in leaders. In short, it's all about putting others first.

What are the qualities of a church leader?

If you're a church leader, there are a few things that are really important. 

First off, empathy is key. Church is a place where people come with their worries, fears, and hopes. They need someone who can listen, empathize, and offer them love and support. 

Second, a sense of reliance on God is super important. 

And finally, wisdom is a must. This doesn't just mean being smart or knowing a lot about the Bible, though that's part of it. It's also about understanding people, making good decisions, and being able to offer guidance and advice when it's needed. 

Biblical Examples of Leadership

1. Moses: Now here's a man who was born a Hebrew slave but was raised in Egyptian royalty. When God asked him to lead the Israelites out of Egypt, he wasn't exactly confident. But he stepped up, confronted Pharaoh (which was super gutsy), and guided his people through some really tough times, like wandering around the desert for 40 years. He had the courage to lead and the humility to listen to God, even when things got tough.

2. Esther: Esther's story is all about bravery and wise decision-making. She was a Jewish queen in a Persian kingdom, and when she found out about a plot to wipe out her people, she risked her own life to save them. She used her position, wisdom, and courage to protect her people. Talk about using your influence for good!

3. Jesus: We can't talk about leadership in the Bible without mentioning Jesus. He's the ultimate example of servant leadership. He spent his time healing the sick, helping the poor, and teaching about love and forgiveness. Plus, he was humble, compassionate, and selfless, washing his disciples' feet and ultimately sacrificing his own life. His leadership was all about loving and serving others.