Spiritual Leadership: Principles of Excellence For Every Believer (Sanders Spiritual Growth Series)

In the course of reading J. Oswald Sander’s Spiritual Leadership it is fascinating that the Lord brought me to a conversation that contained the usual perception about church leadership. Earlier in the evening a gentleman had expressed interest in being a pastor and then over dinner reiterated that when talk turned to his current work. He expressed a displeasure in his current vocation and so when I asked what type of work he would like, he indicated that in reality he doesn’t like to work which is why being a pastor interested him. Unfortunately spiritual leadership is often thought of in this way. This mindset it both saddening and maddening. It indicates a very low view of not just pastors, but all of those in leadership within the body of Christ and explains why we are content with just warm bodies rather than placing those both qualified and called into positions of leadership. Several years ago I was fortunate enough to read Spiritual Leadership for the first time and have considered it necessary reading for all believers. This month Moody Publishers is offering a redesigned of the updated version released 10 years ago. It’s worth noting that the only versions I have read have been updated and not the original, and in this latest release I see no discernible differences in the text from the 2007 update. Originally put together as a a series of lectures, the book version is both logical and thoughtful. One cannot read the book without appreciating the effort that Sanders has put forward in conveying the material. The author delves deep into the realm of leadership addressing not just qualifications as many are so used to, although Sanders elevates these points to higher integrity than most, but he also tackles topics such as the pastor’s ability to read, write, and communicate. The final chapters convey the necessity of building up other leaders. Therefore, despite the shortness of the chapters, the material requires time to read because of the need to be both reflective on it and convicted by it. While deep, the points are cleanly made and the path of reading is done in a logical and sequential order so that readers can ponder all aspects of leadership from beginning to end. Therefore, readers can expect the initial chapters to cover qualifications of leadership, who should be a leader, and some basic insights for becoming a leader, while the rest of the book continues to cover the process of leading itself to the eventual stepping aside from leadership and training up others to continue the work. J. Oswald Sanders discussion points can be considered the ABC’s of leadership in that they are (a) advanced, (b) balance, and (c) comprehensive. Sanders conclusions about leadership are advanced beyond basic thinking. Instead, he challenges both modern notions about leadership and conveys just how much is involved in leading God’s people God’s way. Additionally, the author presents many aspects with a very balanced way, avoiding the pitfalls of going to one extreme or the other. For example in discussing essential qualities of leadership he tackles the topic of anger in such a way that shows its necessity, but cautious about unloving anger. Finally, Sanders is comprehensive, covering many topics that are easy to overlook like those mentioned earlier about abilities to read and write or spiritual qualities such as prayer. He also looks at areas that many are prone to put off or avoid, like disqualification, replacing leaders, and training up new ones. Such details combined with an emphasis on biblical authority makes Sanders book an easy recommendation. Perhaps my one complaint is not with Sanders’ teaching at all, but rather with the additions that the publisher and editors have chosen to put further. The updated edition includes questions for discussion, which generally are very appreciative because they stimulate thinking and application. However, the questions are often asked in such a way that suggests that all believers are called to spiritual leadership and seem to ignore whether or not that person has been called to such a position. To be clear, Sanders nowhere advocates this. I have never had access to the first release and so lament my inability to comment upon the editor’s updates and faithfulness to Sanders’ intentions in the original publication. One thing is certain: Sanders has a high regard for spiritual leadership as God’s work. Therefore, he conveys the seriousness with which it must be undertaken. It comes with great costs of energy, patience, pride, and so much more, and the author is certain to convey that to readers so that they understand the importance of spiritual leadership. Because he does this, the book is beneficial for all persons within the body of Christ and not just leaders (or potential leaders). It is a timeless book that has the propensity to be used by God to transform his church if people would invest the time to read it. Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from the publisher at no cost to me for the purpose of review. However, my review was not influenced in anyway by outside sources and instead is the result of my own response to the reading of the book (in fact, I did a review of this book several years ago also highly recommending it and my opinion of it has not changed since).

J. Oswald Sanders’ Spiritual Leadership: Principles of Excellence for Every Believer is a timeless guide that explores the biblical foundations of true leadership, emphasizing character, humility, and dependence on God rather than worldly ambition. Sanders argues that spiritual leadership is not about status or authority but about servanthood, self-discipline, and a willingness to sacrifice for others. Drawing from Scripture and the lives of great Christian leaders, he outlines essential qualities such as vision, wisdom, and integrity while warning against the dangers of pride and complacency. The book challenges believers at all levels to pursue excellence in leadership by cultivating a deep spiritual life, prioritizing prayer, and seeking God’s guidance in every decision. Through practical insights and spiritual wisdom, Sanders provides a roadmap for anyone who desires to lead with Christlike character, whether in the church, workplace, or home.

This book was required reading for a Leadership class that I had to take. I am so thankful that it was. Spiritual Leadership is one of the best books ever written on Christian leadership. This book is a timeless classic in teaching the principles of leadership. Spiritual Leadership was written from two series of dynamic messages delivered to Christian Leaders overseas in 1964 and 1966. This is not a how to book; but a book that emphasizes walking in character, integrity, humility, and obedience to the Word of God. I really enjoyed reading this book. I plan to continually read this book through out the years to come. It is an excellent guide for any one who is considering becoming a leader. It is spiritually accurate. I wish someone had place this book in my hands or at least told me about this book twenty-five years ago. It would have saved a lot of heartache and unnecessary anxiety on my part. Spiritual Leadership will help educate you on what it takes to be a leader for God. It will help anyone build a foundation to stand upon in any position of leadership in or out of church. It teaches you how God honors, protects and vindicates those whom he has chosen as His leaders. Encourager Linda Flagg, LM, CS Christian Life Coach

The book has sold more than half-a-million copies since it first appeared. "Spiritual Leadership", was first published in 1967 with several updates to the book. John MacArthur, Chuck Colson and John Maxwell all highly recommend it. I was expecting to read one of the best leadership books ever written and it is! The book is a fast read and filled with great references to additional information. I always read a book three times to capture the "whole" message and make notes. Sanders makes fantastic use of illustrations and quotations from other people (Christian and non-Christian and great military leaders). You will gain terrific insight from well-recognized world leaders. Sanders stresses the compelling need for honorable and principled leadership. Sanders emphasizes that spiritual leadership is a "calling" and that not all are called to this rewarding and fulfilling profession. I would suggest that you conduct your own research into the sources and citations used in this book to gain additional insight on great leaders.

Excellent Biblically grounded book on Christian leadership. I advise every Christian leader to read this book. Definitely in my top 10 list.

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For anyone who is family with leadership, they may have come across the phrase 'leadership is influence.' This phrase often credit to John Maxwell, was coined by Sanders. In his book he gives very challenging, but also very practical direction on what it looks like to be a Spiritual Leader. It's a must for anyone in Christian ministry and a book I've gone back to time and again.

Excellent livre pour un leaders qui veut avancer. Je recommande ce livre à tous ceux qui veulent changer le monde

This is my second purchase of the same book, I gave my last copy away whilst speaking on Leadership in Nepal. Such a powerful tool to use when studying Christian Leadership.