“If Christian leadership development separates itself from secular theory at any point, it is at the cross of Christ. Leadership development without the crucifixion of Self is not Christian.” (p. 11) Such is the contention of author David McKenna who strongly advocates that to be a Christian leader in the model of Christ, we must be prepared to die to self and totally empty ourselves of self, to be filled with Christ.
His book Christ-Centered Leadership: The Incarnational Difference (2013, Cascade Books) is one of the best books I have read on leadership and challenged everything I thought I knew. McKenna is a very experienced Christian leader, theologian and educator who has written extensively in many areas, including leadership, Biblical commentaries, and the lighter side of life.
Using Scripture extensively, especially in relation to the example of Christ, numerous other literature sources, and his broad experience over many years in leadership he confronts leaders with the idea that there is much more to being a Christian leader than they may have thought. Statements like the following are very challenging and confrontational:
“We are ready and willing to be servants, but we do everything we can to divert the call to sacrifice.” (p. 26)
“Our only call is to be faithful to the mind of Christ and give God the glory for anything we accomplish as leaders. Recognition, rewards, and results belong to the Father.” (p. 70)
“Ultimate trust is to be faithful to the call of God without any guarantee of results, recognition, or rewards.” (p. 78)
“Christ-centered leaders will be models of integrity trusted by others, mentors with wisdom given to others, and mediators for reconciliation on behalf of others.” (p. 83)
“Vision is always one of the highest priorities in the job descriptions for Christian leaders, but the clarity of the vision depends upon freedom from the distractions of sin. To see clearly, we need to die completely.” (P. 97)
“When a Christian leader is obeying the will of God, suffering is part of the package, but not without a sense of peace and a song of praise. It is this joy that gives a Christian leader quiet confidence under stress, criticism, and misunderstanding. Rather than be frenzied by circumstance, trust in the Lord keeps us on course, resolute, calm and upbeat.” (p. 98)
After setting the scene and tone, the book traces the development of leadership theory, noting the positive move away from self-interest toward a servant and sacrificial approach. It is very well organised in a succinct format, and is easy to follow and not too lengthy.
I quickly felt very intimate with the author, as if he were speaking directly to me. As such, while I feel this book is suitable for all leaders, it is especially so for those who are comfortable with their leadership, as this will challenge your foundations and potentially take your leadership to a whole different level of effectiveness. Read it only if you are courageous enough.