CHARACTERISTICS

of CHURCH LEADERS:

 

1.  Leading by Example

​Wise Christian leaders do not consider themselves to be better than the church’s congregants or above adhering to biblical principles. Rather, effective Christian leaders understand that it’s important to try to understand their congregants and experience the hardships and struggles they experience. [I Corinthians 11:1]

2. Humility

Another important quality for a Christian leader is humility. No matter how far up the ranks of the church leadership a person ascends, they must always remember that they are still ultimately under the Lordship of Christ. It’s important for ministers and other Christian leaders to embrace a humble mindset, meekness of heart, and Christ-like humility in their behaviors.

3.  Integrity and Ethics

Worshippers place a considerable amount of trust in their church leaders, who are in a position to exercise power and authority. It’s essential for a church leader to stay true to their personal and professional code of integrity; to live in a manner befitting the position and to practice what they themselves preach. Church leaders must remember that trust is something that must be earned by maintaining personal integrity as they lead others to grow in character.

4. Love

The Christian faith is infused with the light of love. Church leaders should remember that love of God and their fellow humans is the force that should drive their every decision and behavior. By embracing this principle, church leaders can strive to keep their motives pure.

5. Growth and Maturity

Living a life of faith is a lifelong endeavor. A focus on continual, never-ending growth and maturity is crucial for following God’s Word. Throughout a Christian leader’s life, they will encounter both personal and professional challenges. In order to overcome these challenges, Christian leaders need to devote themselves to personal development and continuous spiritual improvement.

6. Servant Leadership

Jesus may have been a leader of men, but he was also their servant

(Mark 10:45). He washed the feet of others and attended to their needs

(John 13:1). A true Christian leader must embrace the humble principles of servant leadership. Servant leadership involves respecting those around you and placing their best interests ahead of your personal desires

(Philippians 2:3).

7. Visionary

An effective Christian leader must be a follower of God’s Word, but they must also be a visionary. Every ministerial setting has a vision — to serve God and to serve the faith community.  No matter what the vision is, a Christian leader must be able to communicate that vision in an inspirational way to their congregation, and to lead others toward fulfilling it.

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SOURCE: https://www.gcu.edu/blog/theology-ministry/top-qualities-christian-leader