Program

Doctor of Ministry

Year Approved

2017

First Advisor

Parolini, Jeanine

Abstract

This project addresses the lack of a biblically grounded model for servant leadership. Research explored three biblical metaphors as the foundation for a leadership development framework: servant, shepherd, and steward. First, the servant metaphor, through a posture of worship and submission to Jesus, gives expression to servant leadership through representative authority and genuine humility. Second, the shepherd metaphor, through a posture of selfless sacrifice to followers, gives expression to servant leadership through compassion and care. Third, the steward metaphor, through a posture of extreme faithfulness to the Master, gives expression to servant leadership through courage and risk-taking in the mission. A survey of 110 Cru field team leaders and personal interviews with ten national Cru leaders responsible for leadership development revealed some common needs. There is a desire for a development paradigm that is biblically grounded, addresse s unique spiritual disciplines for leaders, provides better equipping for shepherding care of followers, brings clearer focus to role complexity, and aids leaders in experiencing greater fulfillment in their calling to help accomplish the mission of Cru. The researcher presents a new leadership development paradigm to effectively increase the capacity of servant leaders for the kingdom of God.

Degree Name

Doctor of Ministry

Document Type

Doctoral thesis

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