15 Must-Read Christian Books on Leadership

Christian leadership

Leadership is a critical skill in both spiritual and professional realms. For Christians, it's about more than just getting results - it's about leading with purpose, integrity, and faith. These 15 books offer valuable insights to help you grow as a Christian leader, whether you're guiding a congregation, managing a team, or simply seeking to influence others positively in your daily life.

Best Christian leadership books

Biblical foundations for leadership

The Book on Leadership by John MacArthur
- Explores leadership principles from the life of Apostle Paul
- Provides a strong biblical basis for Christian leadership
- Helps readers understand how to lead with integrity and purpose
Biblical Eldership by Alexander Strauch
- Advocates for church governance by a group of elders
- Based on thorough study of biblical texts
- Offers insights into shared leadership and accountability
The Shepherd Leader by Timothy Z. Witmer
- Applies the biblical model of shepherding to leadership
- Offers practical advice for caring for those you lead
- Emphasizes the importance of nurturing and guiding others

These books provide a solid foundation in scripture-based leadership principles, helping you align your leadership style with biblical teachings.

Personal growth and character development

Spiritual Leadership by J. Oswald Sanders
- Emphasizes developing your inner spiritual life as a leader
- Timeless classic on Christian leadership
- Encourages leaders to prioritize their own spiritual growth
The Conviction to Lead by Albert Mohler
- Focuses on core beliefs that shape effective leadership
- Helps leaders develop strong convictions
- Teaches how to lead with purpose and clarity
The Emotionally Healthy Leader by Peter Scazzero
- Explores the link between emotional health and leadership
- Offers tools for personal transformation
- Addresses the often-overlooked emotional aspects of leadership

Focusing on personal development is crucial for effective leadership. These books guide you in strengthening your character, convictions, and emotional well-being.

Practical leadership skills

What's Best Next by Matt Perman
- Applies gospel principles to productivity and time management
- Helps Christian leaders work more effectively
- Offers practical strategies for getting things done with purpose
Canoeing the Mountains by Tod Bolsinger
- Discusses adaptive leadership for new and challenging situations
- Useful for leaders facing unexpected changes
- Encourages innovative thinking and flexibility in leadership
Being Leaders by Aubrey Malphurs
- Examines key qualities of authentic Christian leadership
- Provides practical insights for developing leadership skills
- Helps readers identify and cultivate essential leadership traits

These books offer hands-on advice for improving your leadership skills, from productivity to adaptability.

Church leadership and ministry

Lead: 12 Gospel Principles for Leadership in the Church by Paul David Tripp
- Offers gospel-centered guidance for church leaders
- Focuses on applying biblical principles to leadership roles
- Helps church leaders navigate the unique challenges of ministry
In the Name of Jesus by Henri Nouwen
- Reflects on Christian leadership from a spiritual perspective
- Encourages leaders to follow Christ's example
- Challenges common notions of power and success in leadership
Dangerous Calling by Paul David Tripp
- Addresses unique challenges faced by pastors and ministry leaders
- Offers honest insights and practical advice
- Helps ministry leaders avoid common pitfalls and burnout

For those in church leadership or ministry roles, these books provide valuable insights into the specific challenges and opportunities of spiritual leadership.

Overcoming challenges

You Lift Me Up by Al Martin
- Tackles issues like burnout and discouragement in ministry
- Provides encouragement and strategies for overcoming obstacles
- Offers hope and practical advice for struggling leaders
Spurgeon on Leadership by Larry J. Michael
- Draws leadership lessons from the life of Charles Spurgeon
- Offers timeless wisdom for facing leadership challenges
- Inspires leaders with examples from a renowned preacher's life

Leadership isn't always easy, and these books address common challenges, offering support and strategies for persevering through difficult times.

Stewardship and service

The Steward Leader by R. Scott Rodin
- Revives the biblical concept of stewardship in leadership
- Encourages leaders to see their role as serving others and God
- Challenges traditional views of leadership and success

This book reminds leaders of their ultimate responsibility to God and others, promoting a servant-hearted approach to leadership.

Conclusion

Christian leadership is a journey of continual growth and learning. These 15 books offer a wealth of wisdom, practical advice, and spiritual guidance to support you on that journey. Whether you're a pastor, business leader, or serving in any leadership role, these resources can help you grow in faith and effectiveness.

Remember, the goal isn't just to read these books, but to apply their principles in your daily life and leadership roles. As you read, consider how you can put these ideas into practice. Share your insights with other leaders, and be open to learning from their experiences too.

Leadership, especially Christian leadership, is about more than just achieving goals. It's about influencing others positively, serving with humility, and reflecting Christ's love in all you do. Let these books inspire and guide you as you strive to become the leader God has called you to be.

Learn more about Christian jobs that intersect with technology at Christian Tech Jobs. Whether you're exploring careers in faith-based organizations, hiring Christian talent, or seeking to combine your tech skills with your spiritual values, find your path in a place where technology and faith meet.