Leadership Traits: Leadership Style Nobody Appreciates
Chuck Swindoll warns against leadership flaws that can break down an organization, contrasting them against the goodness of righteous leadership.
Introduction
- Two sides of leadership: focusing on negative traits today, positive traits tomorrow
- Importance of preparing for future leadership roles
Dealing with Misinformation
- Leaders face misinformation that is difficult to correct
- Example of David's integrity in Psalm 26 as a defense against misinformation
Tabloid Misinformation
- The absurdity of tabloids and public fascination with false stories
- Anecdote about a woman reading tabloids on a plane
Personal Example of Misinformation
- Story of Al Davis and Nicky Hilton: correcting false statements during an introduction
- Reflection on how misinformation affects significant people
Apostle Paul and Misunderstanding
- Hypothetical scenario of how Apostle Paul would be misunderstood in today’s world
- Paul’s ministry contrasted with false popular opinions about him
- Reflection on Paul's misunderstood leadership and challenges
Paul’s Struggles and Leadership Traits
- Paul’s critics and his response in 2 Corinthians
- Eugene Peterson’s paraphrase of Paul's struggles in “The Message”
- Paul’s perseverance despite hardship and negative perceptions
Contrast with Modern Leadership
- Modern leadership ideals often contrast with Paul's servant leadership
- Popular leadership models (e.g., Mike Ditka, Lee Iacocca) versus Christ’s meek leadership
- Importance of humility and service in leadership
Paul’s Leadership in Thessalonica
- Paul’s ministry in Thessalonica and his letter to the Thessalonians
- Paul's reflections on his leadership and experience with the Thessalonians
- Vulnerability and hardship in ministry
Ministry as a Struggle
- Reflection on the hardships faced in ministry
- Leaders experience wounds, suffering, and scabs that shape their wisdom
Traits of True Leadership
- Importance of integrity and transparency in leadership
- Dwight Eisenhower’s quote on integrity as the supreme quality for leadership
- John Stott’s emphasis on honesty and transparency in Christian leadership
Negative Traits of Leadership
- Four negative traits to avoid:
- Deception: Avoiding error, impurity, and deceit
- People-pleasing: Not pandering or flattering to gain approval
- Greed: Avoiding the desire for more wealth, fame, or results
- Authoritarianism: Rejecting a domineering approach to leadership
Reflection on Leadership and Integrity
- Leadership requires walking in truth and authenticity
- Personal reflection on the dangers of greed and comparison in ministry
- Importance of humility, avoiding self-praise, and focusing on serving others
Closing Thoughts
- Reflection on the importance of walking in truth and integrity
- Encouragement to rely on God’s guidance and strength
- Final prayer asking for guidance and courage in leadership
About the Contributors
Charles R. Swindoll
Charles R. Swindoll has devoted his life to the accurate, practical teaching and application of God’s Word and His grace. A pastor at heart, Chuck has served as the founder and senior pastor-teacher of Stonebriar Community Church in Frisco, Texas. His leadership as president and now Chancellor Emeritus of Dallas Theological Seminary has helped prepare and equip a new generation for ministry. Chuck and his wife Cynthia, have four grown children, ten grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren.
Contributors
