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Being Leaders: The Nature of Authentic Christian Leadership
What makes a leader a Christian leader? Too many churches and parachurch groups operate under secular leadership principles and strategies without considering what Scripture teaches. In this accessible and comprehensive book, leadership expert Aubrey Malphurs articulates a working definition of Christian leadership based on the Bible and his own extensive research.
Malphurs begins by defining a uniquely Christian leader from the inside out, from godly character and commitment to pure motives and a servant attitude. He examines the leaders of the first-century church and then discusses qualities such as credibility, capability, and influence that are essential for successful leadership. Each chapter contains helpful questions for reflection and discussion. The appendix includes numerous audits to help readers evaluate themselves on various leadership components.
Being Leaders is the first book of a two-part series on leadership. The companion book will address the how-to of building leaders.
Malphurs begins by defining a uniquely Christian leader from the inside out, from godly character and commitment to pure motives and a servant attitude. He examines the leaders of the first-century church and then discusses qualities such as credibility, capability, and influence that are essential for successful leadership. Each chapter contains helpful questions for reflection and discussion. The appendix includes numerous audits to help readers evaluate themselves on various leadership components.
Being Leaders is the first book of a two-part series on leadership. The companion book will address the how-to of building leaders.
240 pages, Paperback
Published September 1, 2003
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews
April 9, 2020
This is a pretty good book on Christian leadership. Malphurs pulls out eight different traits of leadership and then builds a chapter around each one. So we have 1) A Christian Leader, 2) A Servant Leader, 3) A Credible Leader, and so forth continuing on with capable, influential, followed, situational, and directional. Although he does try to extend the concepts into all types of Christian leadership, much of what Malphurs says really only fits into the context of a pastorate in a typical Western church. That is clearly his target context and sometimes it is a stretch to pull out the core biblical concepts that are transcultural from the mire of an Americanized (conservative Baptist) worldview that he has embedded them into.
In all, if you are a pastor in the West, there is probably a lot that this book can teach and I would strongly recommend it. Just keep in mind that Malphurs likes his boxes and the principles are key, not the presuppositions he has boxed them into. If you come from another background or leadership context, this is still a good book to pick up, but it probably isn't the best one out there.
In all, if you are a pastor in the West, there is probably a lot that this book can teach and I would strongly recommend it. Just keep in mind that Malphurs likes his boxes and the principles are key, not the presuppositions he has boxed them into. If you come from another background or leadership context, this is still a good book to pick up, but it probably isn't the best one out there.
August 11, 2021
Ce livre contient quelques bons passages. Il décrit ce que c’est un leader et les différents types de leader. Il parle également de comment exercer notre leadership dans l’Église et dans le ministère. Il donne quelques conseils pratiques. Il contient également des questionnaires à la fin du livre pour évaluer à quel point nous avons des qualités de leader.
November 4, 2025
Originally written for an assignment, and reposted here.
In the Book Being Leaders, the author Aubrey Malphurs presents several strategies for Christian leaders to know what leadership is, the necessary traits found in a leader, and how to develop an understanding of one's own leadership style, giftings, and future. This is done by going in-depth on the core principles of leadership, appealing to both the experienced church pastor and the young emerging leaders of tomorrow. Reading this book as someone looking to develop my Christian leadership was formative. Malphurs quickly demonstrates that leadership is not just about using the right techniques, but rather about embracing a God given identity, and letting him shape me into a leader that reflects Christ. This book helped me look at leadership as a calling, not just a role to step into. This calling, connected with Malphur's emphasis on strong servanthood, credibility, and influence, has made reading Being Leaders an impactful and engaging read from start to finish.
I would like to note that throughout reading this book, I often found myself recognizing principles that I have already been growing in throughout the last few years. This was encouraging and affirming that I have been focusing on the right areas for my personal leadership journey. However, I also see that there remains endless room for growth. One of the most impactful sections for me was Malphurs’ discussion of leadership types, and how to use my God given leadership strengths effectively, rather than focusing only on making up for my leadership weaknesses. These ideas are ones I want to continually develop in my current leadership, while remaining teachable, loving, and open in all that I do.
Malphurs opens the book by discussing what a Christian leader looks like, where he states that no matter the company or organization where one's leadership is taking place, a Christian leader's first and most important quality is that they are a Christian. Malphurs says that “our mandate is to lead Christianly regardless of the context.” (Malphurs, 13). This statement permeates the rest of the book, as every concept is related to one's personal faith in Christ. This idea makes me wonder how Christian I am in my leadership. All of my leadership has been within Christian organizations, but am I presenting as Christ-like as I lead? Additionally, his first chapter reminded me that leadership credibility comes more from character, and that reflecting Christ is the most important part of my leadership, as it builds trust and creates discipleship. These questions I was asking about my leadership made me wonder how I will intentionally lead “Christianly” after I depart from Eston, and may not be leading in specifically Christian contexts.
Along with modelling my general leadership after Christ, the book challenged me to think about how I model Christ through my servant leadership. Malphurs says, “Christian leadership is servant leadership, and any definition of a Christian leader must include the concept of servanthood.” This principle has been consistently modelled for me throughout my leadership journey, and is something I sought to achieve, especially during my time at Kedleston. However, One area that jumped out for growth was on page 39, where Malphurs says, “A real test of our servant leadership is our attitude toward and willingness to serve not only others in general but those that serve with us in particular.” This statement brought quick conviction, as It made me realize how I often choose to serve those further away relationally, rather than those serving and relating right beside me. As the people pleaser that I am, I can often be trapped into thinking that serving those further away has a greater impact than serving those who are on my same authority level or with whom I have a close relationship. Going forward, I want my service to be inspired by genuine love, not desire for praise or approval born from that people-pleasing mentality. Malphurs describes this kind of leadership I desire as “humble service to others based on our love for them,” and that is my goal going forward: letting love drive my service, not recognition.
As I read the chapters on credibility and capability, I realized how foundational these principles are to Christian leadership. Malphurs shows that trust is the main aspect of any leadership relationship, whether between 2 people or 100. He particularly points out how this trust is earned, and not assumed. I found this encouraging as it reminded me that leadership is not automatic, but that it is built over time through integrity and character. At the same time, this challenged me as it points out the need for longevity within ministry settings. As a Bible college student who only serves in short-term ministry settings, that trust has been difficult to build. Still, I look forward to seeing how trust develops once in a position where I can lead longer while serving with character, conviction, care, and competence.
In particular, Malphurs' section on competence stood out as he links that competence to creativity on page 58. This helped me reframe my thinking about capability, and how it isn't only about having the right skills or knowledge, but rather it is about being adaptable and innovative when you don’t have the skills or knowledge. I often lean on what I know in my leadership, avoiding the unknown or risky. These chapters helped me look at spirit-led creativity as a major part of competence, and that pushing myself into the unknown is where my leadership can get creative, and my boundaries can be stretched.
In addition to his talk of competence, I quickly wrote down Malphurs’ definition of courage in my notebook to save for another day. He connects his definition to conviction, obedience, and honesty as he says, “This kind of Courage displays itself in leaders’ willingness to stand up for their beliefs in difficult situations, challenge others, admit mistakes (be vulnerable), change their view when wrong, and not quit." Within this definition, he says that leadership requires courage to step out in faith and honesty, even when fearful. This resonated with me, as I often overthink decisions heavily until I have total clarity. This definition of courage says that in leadership, you have to make the decision you think is best. If you worked, then good, and if not, apologize. Going forward, I want to be more courageous with my leadership by continuing to stand up for what I believe is right, while also not letting my fear hold me back from stepping out in boldness. This fear also extends to Malphurs’ discussion on using your gifts found on page 77. He says, “The purpose of these gifts is to enable leaders to serve God more effectively, not sit on the sidelines and watch the game.” This is something I struggle with at times, because sometimes, as someone who often does leadership and has some leadership giftings, I get fearful to step into leadership in case someone else could take the slot and grow more. This section was a reminder to not let my gifts sit unused and that I am also a leader who needs to grow. I need to use courage in using the gifts God has instilled in me, and if I can do that, then I hypothesize that my leadership will grow rapidly.
My favourite insight on the credibility and capability chapters would be Malphurs’ emphasis on teachability found on page 81. He explains that “leaders must always be learners” and that without teachability, he actually disqualifies them from being leadership material. This is something I have had to fight with at times; balancing teachability and confidence is tricky, but I am thankful for the ways Christ has guided me. This aspect of teachability is something I want to take seriously, especially in my last year of Eston as I absorb as much as I can. It is a strong reminder that God has given gifts of leadership to be stewarded, not to be used continually without refinement, teaching, and learning.
Of everything found in Being Leaders, the section on leadership types and strengths was the most impactful. Taking the quiz in Appendix M was confusing, but I scored as the Diplomat Analytical leadership style, which, after reading their sections in chapter 5, I felt it was extremely accurate. I tend to lead through clear understanding, empowerment, and careful decision-making rather than quick decisions or loud voices, which aligns heavily with both of these leadership styles, especially the Diplomat. Seeing these things described so clearly really challenged the ways I was thinking about my leadership, and made me change some things I thought were weaknesses into strengths for me to use going forward. Going forward, I want to grow in leadership by leaning more heavily into these strengths as Malphurs talks about on page 102. I want to understand how I can use my diplomatic gifts to bring unity, clarity, and joy to those that I lead.
Reading Being Leaders has been very encouraging, as it has reminded me that leadership is not about the skills and strategies I can often get caught up in, but rather about identity, trust, and character. Malphur gave so many insights on leadership (I wrote plenty down) that have helped me see leadership as a way of following Christ and loving others through servanthood. This book has made me more aware of who I am as a leader, where I need to grow as a leader, and that those things will change over time as I learn to gain experience and competence through God’s grace. Ultimately, the book reminded me that leadership begins with my identity in Christ, not just what I do for Him. My goal now is not to become the best leader, but a faithful leader. A leader who is Christlike in character, speech, and action. A leader who lets both my strengths and weaknesses be used for the glory of God.
In the Book Being Leaders, the author Aubrey Malphurs presents several strategies for Christian leaders to know what leadership is, the necessary traits found in a leader, and how to develop an understanding of one's own leadership style, giftings, and future. This is done by going in-depth on the core principles of leadership, appealing to both the experienced church pastor and the young emerging leaders of tomorrow. Reading this book as someone looking to develop my Christian leadership was formative. Malphurs quickly demonstrates that leadership is not just about using the right techniques, but rather about embracing a God given identity, and letting him shape me into a leader that reflects Christ. This book helped me look at leadership as a calling, not just a role to step into. This calling, connected with Malphur's emphasis on strong servanthood, credibility, and influence, has made reading Being Leaders an impactful and engaging read from start to finish.
I would like to note that throughout reading this book, I often found myself recognizing principles that I have already been growing in throughout the last few years. This was encouraging and affirming that I have been focusing on the right areas for my personal leadership journey. However, I also see that there remains endless room for growth. One of the most impactful sections for me was Malphurs’ discussion of leadership types, and how to use my God given leadership strengths effectively, rather than focusing only on making up for my leadership weaknesses. These ideas are ones I want to continually develop in my current leadership, while remaining teachable, loving, and open in all that I do.
Malphurs opens the book by discussing what a Christian leader looks like, where he states that no matter the company or organization where one's leadership is taking place, a Christian leader's first and most important quality is that they are a Christian. Malphurs says that “our mandate is to lead Christianly regardless of the context.” (Malphurs, 13). This statement permeates the rest of the book, as every concept is related to one's personal faith in Christ. This idea makes me wonder how Christian I am in my leadership. All of my leadership has been within Christian organizations, but am I presenting as Christ-like as I lead? Additionally, his first chapter reminded me that leadership credibility comes more from character, and that reflecting Christ is the most important part of my leadership, as it builds trust and creates discipleship. These questions I was asking about my leadership made me wonder how I will intentionally lead “Christianly” after I depart from Eston, and may not be leading in specifically Christian contexts.
Along with modelling my general leadership after Christ, the book challenged me to think about how I model Christ through my servant leadership. Malphurs says, “Christian leadership is servant leadership, and any definition of a Christian leader must include the concept of servanthood.” This principle has been consistently modelled for me throughout my leadership journey, and is something I sought to achieve, especially during my time at Kedleston. However, One area that jumped out for growth was on page 39, where Malphurs says, “A real test of our servant leadership is our attitude toward and willingness to serve not only others in general but those that serve with us in particular.” This statement brought quick conviction, as It made me realize how I often choose to serve those further away relationally, rather than those serving and relating right beside me. As the people pleaser that I am, I can often be trapped into thinking that serving those further away has a greater impact than serving those who are on my same authority level or with whom I have a close relationship. Going forward, I want my service to be inspired by genuine love, not desire for praise or approval born from that people-pleasing mentality. Malphurs describes this kind of leadership I desire as “humble service to others based on our love for them,” and that is my goal going forward: letting love drive my service, not recognition.
As I read the chapters on credibility and capability, I realized how foundational these principles are to Christian leadership. Malphurs shows that trust is the main aspect of any leadership relationship, whether between 2 people or 100. He particularly points out how this trust is earned, and not assumed. I found this encouraging as it reminded me that leadership is not automatic, but that it is built over time through integrity and character. At the same time, this challenged me as it points out the need for longevity within ministry settings. As a Bible college student who only serves in short-term ministry settings, that trust has been difficult to build. Still, I look forward to seeing how trust develops once in a position where I can lead longer while serving with character, conviction, care, and competence.
In particular, Malphurs' section on competence stood out as he links that competence to creativity on page 58. This helped me reframe my thinking about capability, and how it isn't only about having the right skills or knowledge, but rather it is about being adaptable and innovative when you don’t have the skills or knowledge. I often lean on what I know in my leadership, avoiding the unknown or risky. These chapters helped me look at spirit-led creativity as a major part of competence, and that pushing myself into the unknown is where my leadership can get creative, and my boundaries can be stretched.
In addition to his talk of competence, I quickly wrote down Malphurs’ definition of courage in my notebook to save for another day. He connects his definition to conviction, obedience, and honesty as he says, “This kind of Courage displays itself in leaders’ willingness to stand up for their beliefs in difficult situations, challenge others, admit mistakes (be vulnerable), change their view when wrong, and not quit." Within this definition, he says that leadership requires courage to step out in faith and honesty, even when fearful. This resonated with me, as I often overthink decisions heavily until I have total clarity. This definition of courage says that in leadership, you have to make the decision you think is best. If you worked, then good, and if not, apologize. Going forward, I want to be more courageous with my leadership by continuing to stand up for what I believe is right, while also not letting my fear hold me back from stepping out in boldness. This fear also extends to Malphurs’ discussion on using your gifts found on page 77. He says, “The purpose of these gifts is to enable leaders to serve God more effectively, not sit on the sidelines and watch the game.” This is something I struggle with at times, because sometimes, as someone who often does leadership and has some leadership giftings, I get fearful to step into leadership in case someone else could take the slot and grow more. This section was a reminder to not let my gifts sit unused and that I am also a leader who needs to grow. I need to use courage in using the gifts God has instilled in me, and if I can do that, then I hypothesize that my leadership will grow rapidly.
My favourite insight on the credibility and capability chapters would be Malphurs’ emphasis on teachability found on page 81. He explains that “leaders must always be learners” and that without teachability, he actually disqualifies them from being leadership material. This is something I have had to fight with at times; balancing teachability and confidence is tricky, but I am thankful for the ways Christ has guided me. This aspect of teachability is something I want to take seriously, especially in my last year of Eston as I absorb as much as I can. It is a strong reminder that God has given gifts of leadership to be stewarded, not to be used continually without refinement, teaching, and learning.
Of everything found in Being Leaders, the section on leadership types and strengths was the most impactful. Taking the quiz in Appendix M was confusing, but I scored as the Diplomat Analytical leadership style, which, after reading their sections in chapter 5, I felt it was extremely accurate. I tend to lead through clear understanding, empowerment, and careful decision-making rather than quick decisions or loud voices, which aligns heavily with both of these leadership styles, especially the Diplomat. Seeing these things described so clearly really challenged the ways I was thinking about my leadership, and made me change some things I thought were weaknesses into strengths for me to use going forward. Going forward, I want to grow in leadership by leaning more heavily into these strengths as Malphurs talks about on page 102. I want to understand how I can use my diplomatic gifts to bring unity, clarity, and joy to those that I lead.
Reading Being Leaders has been very encouraging, as it has reminded me that leadership is not about the skills and strategies I can often get caught up in, but rather about identity, trust, and character. Malphur gave so many insights on leadership (I wrote plenty down) that have helped me see leadership as a way of following Christ and loving others through servanthood. This book has made me more aware of who I am as a leader, where I need to grow as a leader, and that those things will change over time as I learn to gain experience and competence through God’s grace. Ultimately, the book reminded me that leadership begins with my identity in Christ, not just what I do for Him. My goal now is not to become the best leader, but a faithful leader. A leader who is Christlike in character, speech, and action. A leader who lets both my strengths and weaknesses be used for the glory of God.
March 1, 2025
This book is nothing special, but it isn't necessarily wrong either. It's a fairly broad description of Western church administration, moreso than a book on biblical leadership.
Being Leaders falls within a rather wide tradition of books on "Christian Leadership" that have not a lot to say, written by an older generation of American Baptists that learned to emulate corporate business principles and invent megachurches. Admittedly, this is a more coherent installment in the tradition, but it still falls prey to fads such as quizzing yourself to determine your leadership style (all of which Malphurs invented). Meanwhile, passages such as the requirements for elders in the pastoral epistles — the actual passages about biblical leadership — are only discussed for about five pages.
When I read books like this, I always leave with the feeling that there must be a more biblical approach to teaching leadership. Being Leaders (along with books like it) just feels hollow and forgettable. But perhaps I'm being harsh. The book isn't harmful, biblical principles are discussed, and you can still pick up an idea or two if you haven't read a book like this before. Three stars, I guess.
Being Leaders falls within a rather wide tradition of books on "Christian Leadership" that have not a lot to say, written by an older generation of American Baptists that learned to emulate corporate business principles and invent megachurches. Admittedly, this is a more coherent installment in the tradition, but it still falls prey to fads such as quizzing yourself to determine your leadership style (all of which Malphurs invented). Meanwhile, passages such as the requirements for elders in the pastoral epistles — the actual passages about biblical leadership — are only discussed for about five pages.
When I read books like this, I always leave with the feeling that there must be a more biblical approach to teaching leadership. Being Leaders (along with books like it) just feels hollow and forgettable. But perhaps I'm being harsh. The book isn't harmful, biblical principles are discussed, and you can still pick up an idea or two if you haven't read a book like this before. Three stars, I guess.
August 22, 2023
My review is not against the author or his credibility. The book is a product of its time, written 20 years ago in which the author was seeing the success of mega-churches as a sound theological foundation. Today, we look at Chuck Swindoll, Rick Warren, and Bill Hybels as less than stellar theologians and pastors. The audits and assessments provided are no different than secular personality exams which produce inconsistent results depending on your mood and place in life. While there is Scriptural backing to the examples and basis for leadership, it is also very pragmatic in that it attempts to have us change our core character by sheer willpower. The strongest part of the book is the reflective questions at the end of the chapter which has one truly consider their current thoughts and perspective.
The 2 star rating is based on a rating system another Goodreads user established, thus this book is Average. It has no lasting effect on me.
The 2 star rating is based on a rating system another Goodreads user established, thus this book is Average. It has no lasting effect on me.
January 4, 2021
It’s fine. It wasn’t bad, but it wasn’t revolutionary.
Malphur’s book suffers from the same ailment most leadership books do—it tries to be to broad, which in the end leaves it bland.
He gives a decent overview of leadership from a biblical perspective at the beginning. This is followed by several practical chapters on the “how” of leadership. The chapter on building credibility in leadership is a high-point, but after that the book becomes quite repetitive. Eliminate the repetition and it would’ve been considerably shorter.
It would be a good book to go through as a pastoral staff (or maybe in Christian Higher Ed) where it can serve as a springboard towards discussions leadership in the church/organization. Though, I’m not sure how helpful it is to the “Christian leader” writ large.
Malphur’s book suffers from the same ailment most leadership books do—it tries to be to broad, which in the end leaves it bland.
He gives a decent overview of leadership from a biblical perspective at the beginning. This is followed by several practical chapters on the “how” of leadership. The chapter on building credibility in leadership is a high-point, but after that the book becomes quite repetitive. Eliminate the repetition and it would’ve been considerably shorter.
It would be a good book to go through as a pastoral staff (or maybe in Christian Higher Ed) where it can serve as a springboard towards discussions leadership in the church/organization. Though, I’m not sure how helpful it is to the “Christian leader” writ large.
March 16, 2020
A Spiritual Leadership Guide
The text overall seems to be a good imprint of Christian leadership guy to church building. It's a good organizational blueprint to start a effective church.The author does highlight some points to think about and survey before implementing your next step into leadership in the church.I will off so say that it's a bit bias towards certain leadership methods even though the author says he's not.Over a it's a good place to start thinking and assessing The minister's ideas believes in the theology in the course before going into a leadership position in the church.
The text overall seems to be a good imprint of Christian leadership guy to church building. It's a good organizational blueprint to start a effective church.The author does highlight some points to think about and survey before implementing your next step into leadership in the church.I will off so say that it's a bit bias towards certain leadership methods even though the author says he's not.Over a it's a good place to start thinking and assessing The minister's ideas believes in the theology in the course before going into a leadership position in the church.
October 27, 2022
I read this for a class on biblical leadership. It was definitely written primarily to pastors, so I wish he had included more information/examples that apply to Christian leaders in other positions. The ideas were still largely applicable to anyone though.
While it contained a good amount of practical leadership material, I think it should have been about half the length. It was very wordy, included lots of fluff, and was incredibly repetitive. It could also use an update, being almost 20 years old.
The additional resources found in the appendices are really helpful and made it easy to apply the principles in the book.
While it contained a good amount of practical leadership material, I think it should have been about half the length. It was very wordy, included lots of fluff, and was incredibly repetitive. It could also use an update, being almost 20 years old.
The additional resources found in the appendices are really helpful and made it easy to apply the principles in the book.
April 24, 2025
This was a really good read that will challenge and grow you as a leader. Good for both those who have been in ministry for a while or those just getting started. Each chapter helps develop the definition of what a leader is going into detail about each part of the definition. The audits in the back are good to see where you are with the things the reader discusses. Also it allows you to grow and become more aware of who you are as a leader. Thankful for this book and the way it has shaped the way I view leadership!
November 21, 2021
Awesome book!
This is a super practical book! Would recommend to anyone who is in a leadership position, preparing for one, or interested in learning about the burden of leadership - so basically everyone. 🤓
It is applicable to those who serve in ministry as well as those serve in the workplace!
The concept of credibility was most intriguing to me! Once lost, it’s hard to regain. It motivates me to seek wisdom in God‘s word and ask the Lord for help through prayer for every decision!
This is a super practical book! Would recommend to anyone who is in a leadership position, preparing for one, or interested in learning about the burden of leadership - so basically everyone. 🤓
It is applicable to those who serve in ministry as well as those serve in the workplace!
The concept of credibility was most intriguing to me! Once lost, it’s hard to regain. It motivates me to seek wisdom in God‘s word and ask the Lord for help through prayer for every decision!
June 18, 2023
Malphurs offers a helpful definition of Christian leadership: “Christian leaders are servants with the credibility and capabilities to influence people in a particular content to pursue their God-given direction.” He then unpacks each part of this definition throughout the book.
His book is easy-to-read and encouraging, with many tools in the appendix to supplement his material. He doesn’t offer novel leadership ideas, but I don’t think that’s his aim.
His book is easy-to-read and encouraging, with many tools in the appendix to supplement his material. He doesn’t offer novel leadership ideas, but I don’t think that’s his aim.
January 31, 2018
While the author’s theology is different from mine, there are still some good tools in this books that I found very helpful. I am glad to have this book available to adapt for the right context and leaders.
February 21, 2020
This book is Biblical and practical. It is thought-provoking and yet very readable. The various inventories at the end of the book and discussion questions at the end of each chapter make this a wonderful resource for developing leaders in the church.
February 27, 2023
A good starting point for a course on Christian leadership. The appendices are mostly inventories, many inventories, some too simple to be of much value, but some that could generate thought and conversation.
November 14, 2017
It's a good book if you're looking to become an effective Christian leader but it's dry and for a higher level of reading. Just not my taste but it was for a class so...
May 5, 2018
Very practical tool to help ministry leaders evaluate personal leadership styles, identify areas of strength and weakness, and fit within different ministry settings.
February 24, 2020
Good overview of Christian Leadership.
November 20, 2020
Excellent strategies for leaders both inside and outside of a Christian environment.
February 28, 2023
Malphurs is an expert in his field of leadership, and having read his books on church planting, this earlier work reflects how he structures his work.
March 15, 2023
I read this book for a leadership class in seminary. I really like Malphurs' writing style on leadership.
May 2, 2023
One of the better books on christian leadership I have read. I will go back often.
August 18, 2023
Good leadership principles. Very practical. Likely one I will use but not recommend. I know it sounds contradictory but it is what it is!
November 21, 2023
Nothing inherently wrong with this book, it was just completely underwhelming.
December 15, 2023
A good readable book on Biblical spiritual leadership.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 5, 2024
Read this for school - the examples of good leadership did not age well, as a handful of them fell.
March 4, 2025
Read for school, but super relevant to the season i’m in!
August 15, 2016
Malphurs, Aubrey. Being Leaders: The Nature of Authentic Christian Leadership Grand Rapids, MI: Baker Books, 2003.
Compatibility: There needs to be a suitable matching of pastor and church with the right “fit” in areas of doctrinal, theological and philosophical beliefs, core values, leadership style, ministry expression, personality, passion, priorities, experience, potential tenure, demographics, location, spouse and family satisfaction, financial fairness, and expectations. (p225)
Capability: The leader's personal life should display evidence of character, competency, and credibility. Character traits of trusting Christ, valuing the Bible, godliness, pure motives, being Spirit-empowered, and servant leadership are essential. Competency is needed in the timeless pastoral functions of leading, protecting and teaching, as well as general knowledge, task and relational skills, natural and spiritual gifts. The new pastor should be strong in communication, convictions, courage, care and emotional health. (page 173, 182)
Five emphases: management, message, market, missions and ministries.
“Malphur's Leadership Style Inventory” (p205-213)
One thing I would reject is the tendency to leave decisions unresolved and require further meetings. The reason is probably rooted in my personality. Surveys such as the “Malphur's Leadership Style Inventory” reveal my natural team roles are executive and completer which suggest that I am disciplined, organised, conscientious and keen to get the job “done and dusted”. Page 205-213.
Compatibility: There needs to be a suitable matching of pastor and church with the right “fit” in areas of doctrinal, theological and philosophical beliefs, core values, leadership style, ministry expression, personality, passion, priorities, experience, potential tenure, demographics, location, spouse and family satisfaction, financial fairness, and expectations. (p225)
Capability: The leader's personal life should display evidence of character, competency, and credibility. Character traits of trusting Christ, valuing the Bible, godliness, pure motives, being Spirit-empowered, and servant leadership are essential. Competency is needed in the timeless pastoral functions of leading, protecting and teaching, as well as general knowledge, task and relational skills, natural and spiritual gifts. The new pastor should be strong in communication, convictions, courage, care and emotional health. (page 173, 182)
Five emphases: management, message, market, missions and ministries.
“Malphur's Leadership Style Inventory” (p205-213)
One thing I would reject is the tendency to leave decisions unresolved and require further meetings. The reason is probably rooted in my personality. Surveys such as the “Malphur's Leadership Style Inventory” reveal my natural team roles are executive and completer which suggest that I am disciplined, organised, conscientious and keen to get the job “done and dusted”. Page 205-213.
October 11, 2010
Dr. Malphur's book is really helpful for pastors or elders who are thinking through what it means to be a leader within the church. I don't agree with everything Malphur's said within the book, particular his view of staff lead vs. elder lead church. His definition of a leader is excellent and challenging to live out in ministry and life.
October 9, 2013
A very-well rounded book with many helpful tools on Church leadership. There is some overlap with his other books, but that is to be expected with a prolific writer. He goes against some of the emphasis today of a pluarility of Elders in the church, but keeps a balanced perspective.
June 2, 2016
Aubrey Malphurs does a wonderful job of incorporating leadership principles and scripture. There is clear direction of how a Christian leader should look. I very much enjoyed reading this for class, and I will be keeping it in my personal library.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews