10 reasons smart pastors fail

Charles Stone Nov. 7, 2020

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Sometimes really smart pastors fail. I think I know some reasons why they do.

Recently I read You're in Charge–Now What by Thomas Neff and James Citrin. The book targets leaders moving into new positions. Whether or not you're moving into a new ministry role, read this book.

The last chapter is worth the price. The authors give 10 traps for new leaders by playing off the book Why Smart Executives Fail, by Sydney Finkelstein. This list details 10 destructive behaviors by leaders in failing companies. Below, I've tweaked those 10 to make them applicable for ministry leaders.

A smart pastor can can fail if he…

1. Sets expectations too high (by never meeting them) or too low (thus disappointing high performing leaders in the church).
2. Makes rash decisions or suffers from analysis paralysis.
3. Appears to have all the answers.
4. Ties his identity too closely to ministry success.
5. Fails to see reality (remember the fable 'The Emperor's New Clothes").
6. Squashes dissenting opinions.
7. Doesn't keep his role in context (remember, we are not saviors, Jesus is).
8. Misses who really holds the power (just because power roles are written down somewhere does not mean they reflect who really holds the power).
9. Tries to win every battle.
10. Bad-mouths the previous pastor or ministry leader.

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Charles Stone coaches and equips pastors and teams to effectively navigate the unique challenges ministry brings. By blending biblical principles with cutting-edge brain-based practices he helps them enhance their leadership abilities, elevate their preaching/ teaching skills, and prioritize self-care. A pastor for over 42 years, he has served as a lead pastor, associate pastor, and church planter. He published seven books, and over 300 of his articles have appeared on various Christian leadership websites. He holds four earned academic degrees, including a D.Min. and a Ph.D. Learn More »

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