BiblicalLeadership.com writer profile: Gerry Lewis

Gerry Lewis Jan. 31, 2021

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Tell us a little about yourself.

I've been deliriously happily married to my wife Eva Dee since 1984. We have two amazing grown children, Tova and Zeke, who are married to the equally amazing Joe and Allie, respectively. They have blessed us with four spectacular grandchildren, Aziza, Owen, Ahava, and Jaeson. I enjoy writing, biking, hiking, and treasure hunting (usually at thrift stores and garage sales).

Describe what kind of work you do, and what you've done in the past.

I have served since 2008 as executive director/lead strategist of Harvest Baptist Association, a regional network of Baptist churches. I'm also a certified coach, church consultant, and trainer. I spent the previous 20 years as a senior pastor and before that as a music minister and youth minister. All through the years I've also been a featured soloist, concert artist, and special event speaker.

What was your first-ever leadership role?

It's hard to think back that far! I became the music director at my church at the age of 15, so I guess that would have been the first official leadership role.

How has God grown you as a leader over the years?

I think the biggest leadership breakthrough God brought about is discovering that I do not need to prove my leadership by being "the boss." I can embrace the roles and opportunities He has given me and see them as opportunities to empower others along their journey rather than simply trying to get things done.

What's the hardest leadership lesson you've ever learned?

The hardest leadership lesson I have ever learned is that leadership is often lonely. Those whom you lead often have difficulty relating to who you are as a person apart from your leadership role.

What advice would you give to Christian leaders?

Don't try to be like Jesus. There is only one Jesus. Let Jesus live through you so that His character is demonstrated through your unique mix of gifts, skills, and passions.

Most meaningful Scripture:

"I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I now live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me." (Galatians 2:20)

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Dr. Gerry Lewis serves as Executive Director of the Harvest Baptist Association in Decatur, Texas. He is also Founder and CEO of YLM Resources, which includes Next Step Coach-Sulting and Life Matters Publications. He is also an author of four books, including Why Bible Study Doesn't Work. He and his wife live in Azle, Texas and have two grown children and three (so far) grandchildren. His weekly Life Matters blog and Your Church Matters podcast can be found at drgerrylewis.com. Learn More »

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