Leadership Challenges in Planting

In this podcast Daniel Im and Todd Adkins discuss the challenges of leadership in the early stages of church planting. Those who have planted know that one of the biggest challenges in a young church is a shortage of good leaders. So how do we solve this problem? On one end of the spectrum some hold off on appointing leaders for too long, which can lead to burnout. On the other end of the spectrum some empower leaders too early, which can harm the long term health of the church.

Daniel and Todd suggest that there are three primary qualities to look for in leaders; character, chemistry and competency. Chemistry represents a shared passion for the values and vision of the church. Competency represents the knowledge and skills needed for effective leadership. They suggest that character and chemistry are essential, but competency can be mitigated in the early months and years of planting.

In light of their recommendation, here are some rules of thumb for leadership in the early years of planting.

1. Adopt a transitional leadership model that will allow you to have flexibility in your leadership standards. In other words, hold off on eldership and other permanent leadership roles until you are ready to empower fully prepared and qualified leaders.
2. Don't compromise on good character and common chemistry. If you settle for less in these areas you will end up producing an unhealthy culture of leadership that works against your vision and leads to mission drift.
3. Have a mechanism in place to develop the competency of early leaders. Competency can be developed, but it requires intentional pathways for learning and growth.