Spiritual Leadership (J. Oswald Sanders)

Spiritual Leadership looks at qualities, expectations, and realities of leadership from a Christian perspective.  Every Christian is called to be a leader in some capacity (hence the subtitle); this book is intended for all.

This book had some good points, but didn't sit overly well with me.  First, I disagree on the author's interpretation of Scripture (he's an Arminian, believing in free will and all associated ramifications).  His view gives the book a self-contradicting and slightly moralistic tone, giving lip service to God's sovereignty while implying that we as Christians need to get our act together in many areas if we expect God to use us.  Scripture and my own experience testifies otherwise- that God routinely calls and uses fallen wayward people to fulfill His purposes.  And Sanders makes other statements that I doubt are universally true (and again, can contradict other statements in different chapters).  So there are faults here, and I recommend other books (like Storied Leadership or Conviction to Lead) above this one.  That said, there are some nice points to ponder, so I'll end with those:

True greatness, true leadership, is found in giving yourself in service to others, not in coaxing or inducing others to serve you. 

The ultimate test of a person’s leadership is the health of the organization when the organizer is gone. 

Jesus told His disciples, “You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you” (John 15:16). The sovereign selection of God gives great confidence to Christian workers.

Samuel Zwemer remarked that the only thing Jesus took pains to show after His resurrection were His scars . . . Scars are the authenticating marks of faithful discipleship and true spiritual leadership.

Hudson Taylor lists the goals of leadership:

1. Improve the character of the work
2. Deepen the piety, devotion and success of the workers
3. Remove stones of stumbling, if possible
4. Oil the wheels where they stick
5. Amend whatever is defective
6. Supplement, as far as may be, what is lacking

Rating: C+