Every church leader knows the story of Exodus 18 – how Moses used to do everything himself, but then switched to raising up others to help lead. It’s hard to read a book on leadership or attend a pastor’s conference without someone covering this all important topic. But what so few ever mention are the manifold reasons why most leaders never make the switch. Well, I’m so happy to have finally come across a book that specifically addresses this issue, called The Multiplication Effect by Mac Lake. Even though we all know the wisdom of raising up other people to lead, here’s why many never do…
- Because of fear. If I raise someone else up, they might take my job.
- Because of ego. If I raise someone else up, everything won’t revolve around me. If I raise someone else up, they won’t do it as good as me.
- Because of insecurity. If I raise someone else up, people might praise them vs me and like them more than me.
It’s wonderful to raise up others. It maximizes impact and allows you to expand your ministry reach and influence, but it’s a tough transition. Just ask anyone who has made it. But if our church is to reach its full redemptive potential, we need leaders, who by God’s grace, overcome fear, ego and insecurity. You will die a thousand deaths along the way…and it’s totally worth it.
DISCUSSION QUESTION: Are any of the above reasons preventing you from raising up other leaders? And if so, what will you do about it?