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The Value and Impact of Servant Leadership Discourse in Church Leadership Studies

In: The Palgrave Handbook of Servant Leadership

Author

Listed:
  • Jack Barentsen

    (Evangelische Theologische Faculteit
    North-West University)

  • Dustin D. Benac

    (Baylor University, George W. Truett Theological Seminary)

Abstract

The concept of servanthood is an important value in Christian scripture and tradition, to such an extent that Greenleaf’s servant leadership model has become a dominant paradigm for religious leadership. This chapter examines this relationship between the servant leadership discourse and the study and practice of church leadership. This chapter first presents a sampling of some responses to SL within the field of CL to sketch the contours of the debate. Second, the chapter surveys the use of the SL model in church contexts, both in empirical research and in theological education. Third, the chapter presents selected theological responses to SL within the context of church leadership, demonstrating some of its complexity. This leads, fourth, to insights in various areas of tension in the dialogue between the discourses of SL and CL, engaging some contributions from the field of biblical studies, as well as exploring alternative frameworks in the study of CL in addition to the SL motif. The conclusions indicate areas for further development of the dialogue between SL and CL, by indicating the need to develop deeper hermeneutical reflection, historical and cultural sensitivity, methodological precision, and conceptual clarity. The chapter closes with an educational vision for institutions and organizations that are involved in the teaching and training of church leaders.

Suggested Citation

  • Jack Barentsen & Dustin D. Benac, 2023. "The Value and Impact of Servant Leadership Discourse in Church Leadership Studies," Springer Books, in: Gary E. Roberts (ed.), The Palgrave Handbook of Servant Leadership, chapter 21, pages 489-516, Springer.
    • Handle: RePEc:spr:sprchp:978-3-031-01323-2_27
    DOI: 10.1007/978-3-031-01323-2_27
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