For Others to Follow

“Bates is an inspirational leader and researcher. . . . This book depicts his knowledge on leadership approaches coupled with profound expertise in theology on challenging matters. . . . His use of mixed methods, grounded theory, lived experiences of the participants through surveys, his own experiences, and a wide range of literature builds a channel for readers to think and appreciate the theme of Spirit-led leadership which may seem difficult for non-believers—quite admirable. This book is going to increase our values and those of others to realize that work is a calling rather than drudgery. Overall, it is a great piece of writing that will influence a lot of people.”

Esther Waithera Kieberger

“For Others to Follow is a must-read for anyone wanting to lead. As contemporary society loses faith in leaders, this book calls us back to leadership that is based on more than just positional power. . . . Bates presents us with a work that calls us to a higher standard of leadership. As John Maxwell reminds us, the future of our organizations, businesses, and governments will rise and fall on the strength of its leaders. I envision a world where we have restored faith in our leaders. This can happen when leaders are truly Spirit-led. The sooner we live out this ethos, the better we will be.”

Andrew Rutledge

“Bates leads us into the best of his worlds: deep and careful academic research, broad and transparent personal experience, and a deep and transforming faith. His ethos of Spirit-led leadership has been shared with workplace and academic colleagues, clients, and students in such a way that his own search for meaning through work has encouraged and shaped the longings of others. In this book, Bates provides guidance that will spiritually anchor us at work by helping us navigate dissonance between purpose and work. Paul achieves his goal of seeking to construct leadership as the means to encourage workers to rediscover deeper meaning and purpose.”

Laurie Busuttil

“Paul’s study is relevant for Christians, persons of other faiths, and those of no religious faith. It is a wonderful contribution to effective leadership.”

Paul M. Moore

“This is a well-researched, well-written work. Bates engages with conversation partners from many disciplines, including biblical scholars, practical theologians, and practitioners and researchers in various fields of business and commerce, leadership theory, and ethics. His model of Spirit-led leadership is based on a well-grounded theory supported by qualitative research. His emphasis on ethos, personhood, justice, servanthood, and genuine care (or cruciformity, to use a more obviously theological term) is grounded in a deeply reflective understanding of Scripture. . . . The depth of his thoughts and his love for the church come through clearly in his writing. We are in dire need of true Spirit-led leaders. I cannot think of a timelier work for the benefit of the church. I wholeheartedly recommend this book.”

Francis Pang

“I was pleased to read For Others to Follow. . . . Bates gives a well-annotated thesis for helping employees to flourish in the workplace using a faith-based, largely Christian approach. . . . He emphasizes the need for empathy and forgiveness while acknowledging difficult decisions about difficult employees and the use of quiet, thoughtful meditation and prayer at times of stressful decision-making. . . . While not claiming to offer a panacea, Bates has useful concepts about the role of faith in leadership. I would encourage the reader to examine the arguments and see how they may be applied today in Canada and globally.”

John Anthony Sefton Marriott