Where Would Jesus Lead?

Book excerpt: Jesus modeled leadership by living and walking with His disciples, everyday people, and the religious leaders of His day. You can emulate His leadership style by changing the traditional hierarchical, pulpit-based leadership model of most Western churches to a more relational form of leading from among the people. This leadership style involves participating in the chaos of real, two-way relationships, yet bringing order by training and discipling—in the midst of chaordic interaction. Where Would Jesus Lead? is about leading among—rather than leading from, or leading over, or leading from titles, positions, or assumed roles. Author and ministry leader Gary Goodell believes it is time to transition to a more collaborative style of leading, one of coming alongside people, for the people’s sake, and empowering them to achieve their personal God-given destiny. Thinking prophetically, the author courageously contends that interactive relationships that are purposeful yet inherently chaotic are ones to be joyfully embraced. …But as He went, the multitudes thronged Him [Jesus]. Now a woman…touched the border of His garment. …She declared to Him in the presence of all the people the reason she had touched Him and how she was healed immediately. And He said to her, “Daughter, be of good cheer, your faith has made you well. Go in peace” (Luke 8:42-48 NKJV). Practical ideas and applications regarding how to carry out this vision in one-on-one relationships and in small groups are expertly presented. Emphasis on deeper, more effective relationships is God’s heart for the Church in America today.