Book Club: Book Review of Lead Like Christ

 

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What does Christ-centered leadership look like? 

A.W. Tozer shares in Lead Like Christ: Reflecting the Qualities and Character of Christ in Your Ministry how leaders in the church can be different than the world around them by following the example of Jesus. Throughout the 183-page paperback book, Tozer provides quotes from the Book of Titus to introduce readers to how they can Lead Like Christ. As introduced by editor Dr. James L. Snyder, the book is based upon a series of sermons by Tozer on the book of Titus. Readers are challenged to apply the lessons learned to their own lives as leaders. 

Lead Like Christ is a well-developed book that is easy to navigate, with well-thought-out chapters that are also very deep. Snyder states, "You will not be able to read this one in one sitting," and I would agree. While it is not a difficult read, I found it full of ideas I wanted to think about and ponder before I moved onto Tozer's next chapter. 

While one could argue that the book is geared towards those in ministry and those serving the church, I think there is valuable information for all Christians no matter where we serve. To quote Tozer, "I want to say right here that every born-again Christian is involved in ministry" (14). We can all apply the teachings of Paul as described to us by Tozer in our everyday lives to share the love of Jesus with those around us. 

Nineteen chapters look at how we can lead like Christ, from building a foundation and understanding Biblical order to taking a commitment to sound doctrine and how God sees us. We may not think we are ready to lead like Christ, but He will equip us because He has called us. Jesus provides the perfect model for us. 

I found Lead Like Christ to be full of wisdom that is very applicable to today. We really do need our church leaders to "showcase God's amazing grace in their lives" (73). They need to reflect Jesus – imitate Jesus – not the world around them. Churches should not mirror the culture. It should be "separated from the age in which it lives as Jesus Christ as separated from Rome" (78). I found these recommendations and those that said qualified leaders must hold fast to the Word and doctrine to be very important and meaningful. 

Lead Like Christ was a wonderful read and one I would recommend. It would be a welcome addition to church leaders' bookshelves, the homes of ministers, and indeed, any Christian who wants to spread the Word of God.