Leaders That Last
- Church Leadership & Ministry
- Publisher: Baker Books (Baker Publishing Group)
- Published: 2003
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Publisher's Description
Thousands of ministers burn out every year; others fall prey to sexual temptation. With piercing honesty, Leaders that Last dismantles stale stereotypes about pastors and offers hope for handling their recurring, daily struggles. Co-authored by a minister who admits to struggling with periodic bouts of depression, this practical resource offers a hopeful message for pastors of every denomination. Serving a church is a lonely business no matter how big the congregation. A pastor is expected to be nearly perfect, modeling holiness, generosity, and kindness. In need of moral and emotional support, pastors often try to go it alone, satisfied with a collection of acquaintances but no true friends. Starting a Pastors in Covenant support group changes all that. Struggling leaders can throw each other a lifeline when they agree to communicate with caring and candor. Geared primarily for those in ministry, Leaders that Last is an important message from two authors who understand the difficulties that come with ministering 24-7 . . . with no Sundays off.
Endorsements (12)
“Genuine friendship is one of the most important elements in lasting ministry. Finally we have a book that teaches this eternal principle for longevity. Leaders That Last is a godsend to ministry leaders. Gary Kinnaman and Alfred Ells use lessons form their personal friendship and ministry to make a compelling case for acquiring and maintaining healthy pastoral relationships. Readers will be challenged to pray for friends who can help them survive the rigors of ministry.”
“I practice what they preach and believe it to be the single best idea to preserve pastors because it is pragmatic and effective. Read and apply to stay in the race.”
Dr. Alan Nelson
“Jesus defined life as relational, and it is in relationship with him and others that we find the abundant life he promised. Leaders That Last gives the account of one successful pastor who has actually found the enjoyment of this life in ministry. This book will be a great encouragement.”
“Dr. Gary Kinnaman combines a humble heart and a remarkable comprehension of other cultures beyond his own. His ministry is a treasure of God that will profoundly enrich the Hispanic community. I recommend him with all my heart.”
“One of the great needs in the world today is summed up in the title Leaders That Last. Gary Kinnaman and Al Ells have examined this subject from the unique vantage point of having dealt personally with both leaders that have lasted and, tragically, those who haven’t. Their collective insight, wisdom, and advice in this work should become required reading for today’s leaders—and tomorrow’s.”
“Large-church culture is full of frequent, predictable, painful problems (small churches have their own). In Leaders That Last, Gary (a megachurch pastor) and Al (a therapist and consultant) open up about these faults. Their thoughtful candor is “sane” advice (especially their tips for groups) for healing “insane,” unsafe church cultures and the people who—in spite of a pastor’s best efforts—create them.”
“It is a great book with awesome stories and will be used to save many ministries from extinction.”
“The local church has a vital role to play in contemporary society, and its leaders are often the determining factor for success or failure. For too long we’ve seen many leaders going at it alone or dropping out of the race prematurely. This book is a clarion call to church leaders to begin cultivating the kind of friendships that will help ensure that they are ‘leaders that last.”
“This book comes at a very critical time of transition for the church. Without a doubt the contents of this book bring a voice of stability and hope for many pastors and leaders across America. Both Gary and Al are personal friends and mentors whose teachings have greatly influenced my life and ministry. The message within this pages will challenge you to take the next step for a kingdom vision that will transform your life and your ministry.”
“I love to learn from leaders I trust. In Leaders That Last, Gary Kinnaman has given us the treasures of his life. If we ponder these words and walk in this wisdom, our lives will be rescued from great folly and set on paths of joy.”
“Every leader of a growing ministry and every pastor of a local church will immediately identify with the heartfelt insights of Gary Kinnaman and Alfred Ells. Leaders That Last goes right to the heart of the pressures leaders face, coping mechanisms that can undermine our ministry, and how to develop the health and skill necessary to finish well. It is the most effective and insightful book I have read in many years on the heart of a spiritual leader.”
“Church leaders carry enormous loads, and all too often they do it alone. Without close friends, trusted confidants, or genuine supporters, many of them eventually wear out under the pressure of ministry. This book provides wise, practical, and biblical advice on how to build the safe relationships and godly accountability that church leaders need in order to persevere and thrive in pastoral ministry.”
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