Currents Shaping My Church: Up and Comers
What characteristics do you look for in future leaders?
Ken Fong, Erwin McManus, and Cheryl Sanders
April 1, 2003
Check the vision DNA. After making sure that someone has demonstrated Christ-like character and some necessary expertise, I look for a third element. Many wonderful members of our churches have these requirements but embrace a different ecclesiastical paradigm. They may have served tirelessly, faithfully, even sacrificially, but we experienced mutual frustration and organizational entropy. As we call out new board members, teachers, and group facilitators, we seek to determine if the candidates not only love Jesus passionately but also enthusiastically love where Jesus is taking this church these days. Our current vice-moderator had never been a board member before. She was reluctant to accept this call. But as we reminded her that she was already committed to the vision, mission, and values of our church, it became obvious to her that it was time to step out and become a leader-servant with us. This doesn't mean we always agree, but her Vision DNA is such a good match that we all sense we're on the same page. We seek church leaders who share the heartbeat of this church.
Character first. We don't look for competencies. Genghis Kahn was a great leader, but I don't want him leading the church. I don't want to make everybody a better leader, but instead better followers of Christ. In future leaders, I look for three character traits—humility, faithfulness, and gratitude. I look for those who are willing to do whatever is asked, nothing is beneath them; for those who are willing to do the small things and to see them through; people who will do without and yet be grateful for what they have in life. I look for people who are proactive and passionate. Those are good indicators that I have an emerging leader. The best recommendations ...
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