Are Contemporary Concepts of Leadership Relevant to Christian Ministers in UK Baptist Churches?

Abstract

The Baptist church is one of the largest religious denominations in the United Kingdom and part of the wider global Baptist congregation. This study offers an initial exploration of whether contemporary concepts of leadership are relevant in the role of ministers in the Baptist Church in the UK. A qualitative review of literature examines both contemporary and biblical sources of leadership knowledge, to identify potentially relevant concepts of leadership which are then examined initially through the lens of inappropriate approaches (which ministers should avoid), followed by contrasting helpful ideas which can be aligned with principles of Christian faith. Final analysis asserts the relevance of both perspectives (negative elements to actively un-learn on one hand, and helpful areas to learn on the other) to enable the best development of ministers, by summarizing a set of ten aspects of leadership which are suggested as suitable approaches in Baptist ministry.