Leadership Plan for Young Adult Ministry

Introduction

Have you ever managed someone? The writer of this leadership plan has had a bad experience. However, empowering leadership in a godly fashion yielded great fruit. Throughout this class, the focus of leadership has been contrary to the writer’s presuppositions, such as blurring the lines between leadership and management or becoming an influencer in the organization. Jesus Christ, who deserved this respect, did not apply Himself to these areas. Instead, He became a servant. This unique approach to leadership, drawing from Christ’s example and the teachings of Ken Blanchard and Phil Hodges, is the cornerstone of this plan for healthy leadership. This plan is not just a set of guidelines, but a transformative tool that can inspire hope and bring about significant change in your ministry, instilling a sense of optimism and inspiration in your leadership journey.[1] It is essential to note that in many books of the New Testament, the apostles' letters were sent to different churches to navigate struggles, and these issues could not be easily “managed.” Paul’s character shines as he leads the churches in Corinth, and while Paul or Apollos taught, God provided the increase (1 Cor. 3:6). This truth applies to ministers today, as the drive is for the Lord to be glorified. This plan aims to provide theological methods, as well as biblical, theological, philosophical, and practical action steps, for developing healthy leadership. Without a plan, the ministry will fail and be ineffective due to poor stewardship. The result of this plan is to produce healthy, effective leaders. Healthy leaders are formed through a godly application of theology, philosophy, methods and models, culture, and missional connection. Through this, leadership will be both biblically grounded and spiritually practical, as well as effectively practical.[2]

Young Adult's Fellowship

Theology of Leadership

The first point is that healthy leaders are formed through a godly application of theology. It is crucial to examine key passages about leadership in Christian ministry. Moses, David, and Nehemiah exemplify the attributes of servanthood, prayer, and motivation in their service to the Lord.[3] 

The primary passage for leaders is a discipleship passage relayed in the Gospel of Mark (Mk. 10:35-45). Leadership can often be associated with similar Bible passages used for discipleship. This is a unique passage, as James and John explain their desire for the kingdom of God and to become the most significant influencers on His throne (Mk. 10:35-37). From there, Jesus Christ describes the essence of servanthood, not for lordship or title (Mk, 10:38-45). Another passage states that Christ, who is entirely God and fully man, emptied Himself to be a servant, in which the Father exalted Him so that everyone would bow to Him as Lord (Phil. 2:5-11). The Apostle Paul, in his letter to the Corinthians, emphasizes the importance of leadership and order, particularly as it relates to self-glory (1-2 Cor. 12).

While Ephesians emphasizes the importance of church order through the salvation of Jesus Christ, it also highlights the aspect of equipping the saints for ministering to others in maturity. This means providing the necessary training, support, and resources for individuals to serve effectively in their respective roles, despite being given different gifts for the edification of the body of Christ (Eph. 4:1-32). Another passage suitable for leadership is living a life worthy of the Lord in every way, bearing fruit, and growing in the knowledge of the Lord (Col. 1:10). Stewardship is essential alongside servanthood. These passages display the uniqueness of servant leadership. The next area focuses on the area of principles.

Biblical Principles of Leadership

The second point is that healthy leaders are formed through a godly application of philosophy. The first principle is that the Old Testament leaders pursue authority and holiness in serving others. Moses interceded for his own people, the Israelites, and Nehemiah provided an opportunity for sacrificial work, also interceding in prayer (Neh. 5:19). These are not just historical anecdotes, but practical examples of how biblical principles can be applied in leadership roles today. These principles are not just theoretical, but practical and applicable in your everyday leadership, providing you with the reassurance and confidence to lead effectively and ensuring a sense of security and confidence throughout your leadership journey.[4] 

The second area discloses mentorship. The second principle intertwines with the focus of discipleship, which is that the leader ministers with authority. Contrary to management or power over people, he serves (Mk. 10:42). Not a servant with low self-esteem, but in confidence. Following in the mentorship of Jesus Christ to give and sacrifice His life for many (Mk. 10:45). As Ken Blanchard suggests, Christ’s time on Earth with His disciples was a living classroom. This principle clarifies the role of a leader as a confident servant, not a domineering figure. This emphasis on mentorship in leadership ensures that they are not alone in their journey, but are always supported and guided, fostering a sense of belonging and support throughout their leadership journey.[5] This is vital for the third area.

The third principle is that the purpose of leadership is given for the edification of the saints (Eph. 4:1-32). The first item Paul writes are to seek humility in one Lord (Eph. 4:1-6). The roles of pastor and preacher are given for the solution of giving to others through God’s gifting into these roles, so others will not be taken by cunning doctrine (Eph. 4:7-14). Furthermore, we must work together as believers, new creations, to pursue holy living (Eph. 4:15-32)—one final field for these principles, uniting us in a common mission.

The final principle in the third field is giving God glory through servanthood, even amid painful suffering. This principle, exemplified by Paul’s thorn in the flesh, proclaims servanthood as difficult (2 Cor. 12:1-21). It teaches us that even in the face of challenges and suffering, we can continue to serve others and glorify God. Strength is made perfect in weakness (2 Cor. 12:9). Jesus Christ directs and empowers His church in humility. The next area focuses on methods.

Differing Leadership Styles

The third point is that healthy leaders are formed through the godly application of methods and models. To begin with, the individual leader is to be a servant, which means surrendering to Jesus Christ.[6] With a primary emphasis on being missional, mobilizing, and having humility and confidence (Matt. 28), although positioned as a humble servant, the individual leader will focus on collaborating with leaders to achieve the greater mission. Blanchard has a whole chapter on 'Edging God Out,' a concept that refers to actions or attitudes that distance a person from God, such as self-centeredness ('I,' 'mine') and negative responses to feedback. These should be noted and avoided in leadership.[7] The leadership model is one in which the leader follows the Lord in everything. This individual model is open for feedback. This will prevent an attitude of self-glory and God using this individual in his weakness (2 Cor. 12:1-32). The next area focuses on organizational leadership, which refers to the leadership of a group or team within an organization, as well as the unique challenges and strategies that accompany it.

Organizational leadership is often temporary yet requires excellent character. The personal leader builds from this model. Paul writes to Timothy about the character of an elder as a prerequisite for leading a church or organization.[8] Apart from personal leadership, organizational leadership will drive ministers to serve Christ with humility, fostering a shared vision, effective communication, complementary gifts, community, and unity in conquering.[9] Organizational leaders are founded upon character.[10] The next area is developing a healthy environment.

Creating a Healthy Ministry/Work Environment

The fourth point is that healthy leaders are formed through a godly application of culture. The first environment to develop is one in which leaders utilize their God-given gifts (Eph. 4:16). It is essential that others are recognized for their efforts and that leaders' gifts are used effectively for further ministry. For example, someone may be gifted in preaching, another in hospitality or administration. These gifts lead specific organizational leaders to thrive.

Another aspect of a healthy leadership culture is not pushing issues under the rug. Paul confronts Peter with a particular issue and does not let it continue (Gal. 2:11-14). Blanchard and Hodges further encourage this as a truth-teller. This person helps the leader grow, even if the leader tries to silence them.[11] Integrity, accountability, and humility contribute to the health of the culture, yielding wisdom in solving issues, refining processes, and fostering thriving ministry leadership.[12] The next area focuses on a clear organizational mission and strategy.

Healthy leadership requires missional vision and strategy for the ministry. Leaders should not proceed with the flow, even doctrinally (Eph. 4:14). Jesus’ vision was to serve, serving as a sacrificial solution for mankind (Matt. 20:28; Mk. 10:45). Without a vision, people fail, but he that that keeps the Law is happy (Prov. 29:18). Strategy to accomplish this vision is crucial, primarily to engage with other leaders and students in serving for Jesus Christ.

Lastly, healthy leadership requires humility, not pride. Displayed through Paul’s thorn in the flesh (2 Cor. 12:1-32). To prevent self-glory, ask for honest feedback and pursue humility. Furthermore, reflect on the past, give glory to God, and provide reverse mentorship and support.

My Plan

Healthy leaders are formed through a godly application of missional connection. Let’s first explain the purpose of this plan. The purpose of this plan is to provide healthy, Bible-based principles for young adult leaders, pastors, scholars, and collegiate ministries. Through the author’s study of young adult ministries, the following key steps are recommended for prayerful consideration in developing a healthy ministry. The next area focuses on prayerful steps for a more excellent ministry, guided by the stewardship of the Lord Jesus Christ.

The first step is to understand each leader’s giftings (1 Cor. 12:8-11; Eph. 4:16). For young adults, one of their primary drives is to take responsibility and fulfill a mission. Mark DeVries and Scott Pontier offer this statement for responsible, thriving adults: “What if we shifted the focus from young adults to a mission in which they can engage alongside us?”[13] Leaders should be allowed to use their gifts for the glory of God. If not, this will lead to those who are not interested in serving the Lord through this ministry or who do not feel they are valued. Encouragement and contribution are essential for a healthy ministry culture.

The second step is to distribute the key roles to all leaders. In a similar case with celebrity pastors, young adult leaders can reflect fear and pride.[14] The pitfalls mentioned in that chapter are dangerous and should be avoided by every church minister. The key to resolving this issue is to establish a form of eldership within the group, emphasizing integrity, accountability, and effective problem-solving. Furthermore, servant leadership is highly exemplified among leaders. This will help the leaders feel involved in the ministry as they serve the Lord and prevent unhealthy issues.

The third step is incorporating mentorship and discipleship in leadership and the student body. The authors of Sustainable Young Adult Ministry further add about mentorship, “Good news. Most young adults value older generations and long to connect with a resonant community that spans more than their life stage.”[15] Mentorship offers an opportunity for guidance and maturity from someone more experienced than the student. Paul presumed this way with Timothy, and the protégé provided significant assistance to the Apostle Paul.[16] Jesus taught His twelve disciples not to worry about lording over others or exercising authority or position (Mk. 10:38-45). Furthermore, if leaders had an established mentor, students in the ministry would have a person in their life. They would grow in faith and maturity, even contributing to different areas of the church. This is an essential aspect of this young adult ministry, enabling young adults to follow the Lord in their decisions, informed by the wisdom of others.

The fourth step is that God’s Word is above the entire ministry. Paul writes to Timothy that a Christian should study to be approved by the Lord (2 Tim. 2:15). Additionally, Scripture is used for teaching, rebuking, correcting, and training in righteousness, so that the man of God is equipped for every good work (2 Tim. 3:16-17). Scripture is to be held in high regard when serving the Lord in His church and body. Bible studies should be implemented on a weekly basis. The service should revolve around the study of God’s Word. Studying Scripture will encourage believers to follow the Lord’s will.[17] Young adults should learn to pray for Scripture as they seek the Lord’s will in their own lives and the lives of others.[18] These derivatives impact leadership and ministry culture.

The fifth step is to pursue a common mission and strategy for the ministry. This might be as simple as a mission statement or a continual mindset in every choice in the young adult ministry. This should not just be a mindset; rather, it should be an intentional mindset in every decision.[19] Having a derivative mission and strategy provides students with a niche for the Lord’s calling on their lives. It brings meaning and focus to others' assessments of their lives.[20] Furthermore, another idea to value is a content event or seminar to support the vision. Spiritual gifts tests would help students pursue their calling in the Lord. It is just as significant as Christ calling out His disciples to be fishers of men (Matt. 4:19).[21] This is a valuable component of this young adult ministry. The next area concerns evangelism.

The sixth step, following the implementation of this, is to teach and provide opportunities for evangelism to the entire student body. This is a great topic, with many ways to share faith. Roman Road is one area where this setup can be implemented.[22] However, one can look no further than being a witness to Jesus through character and action (James 1:22). Furthermore, the group should be a sending community that prepares these students for the next stage of their lives.[23] To apply this principle to this group. They are content with the idea that they were only in this group for a unique season in their lives. Serving in any church is essential in this regard, as this plan aims to encourage this ministry to serve the Lord where they are called, providing wisdom, methods, and a biblical worldview that they will apply for the rest of their lives. As Setran and Kiesling put it, the church should “walk” with young adults into their careers, whether secular or sacred, to weave the disconnect between faith and calling.[24] From here, young adults will be evangelists wherever the Lord calls them to go.

The seventh step is to establish a healthy leadership culture. This step falls into the category of followership mentioned throughout the class. Blanchard and Hodges suggest that when pride and fear from the leader or the follower come into play, it can become quite toxic.[25] Likewise, those who pursue servanthood provide the opportunity, if any of these traits are present in these relationships, to be improved through Jesus Christ.[26] This is valuable wisdom because leaders and followers should cultivate a teachable spirit and humility. Furthermore, listening, understanding where the individual is, and genuinely valuing a leader’s time make all the difference, especially for young adult leaders.[27] Paul David Tripp further explores this area through the concept of self-glory.[28] This includes not just preaching but also leadership conversations and serving Christ. In leadership, conversations, input, methods, and events should be transformative within the biblical view of church structure.[29] This may include leadership huddles, but it could also empower leaders towards Jesus through conversations, actions, and encouragement in servant leadership.[30] 

Christian leaders can look to Jesus Christ, the author and perfector of the faith, for congregational health (Heb. 12:2). Believers can look no further than Jesus Christ by spending time, choosing, teaching, displaying, providing assignments and feedback, correcting, encouraged, and commissioned His disciples for His mission.[31] Despite the repeated emphasis on this, if the leadership adopts these views, followers will also allow this mentality to permeate their thoughts. This results in the entire ministry being missional, supportive, credible, and surrendering to Jesus Christ.

The eighth step is to pursue unity with leaders. The Apostle Paul notes in Ephesians the importance of maintaining the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace (Eph. 4:3). Aubrey Malphurs emphasizes the significance of unified leadership through shared values, stating, “Your core ministry values explain why you do what you do as a leader in your ministry.”[32] This is essential to follow because the organization will fall apart if leaders hold different views and lack a clear vision.[33] While we did discuss the significance of a mission statement, this step refers to the collective efforts of individual leaders working together. With leaders serving Christ through their gifts, the organization moves forward into the future. Jesus’ future vision, which He proclaimed to the disciples, is the Great Commission (Matt. 28:19-20).[34] Leaders of this ministry should be enthusiastic about the organization's vision and remain optimistic about its future.[35] Blanchard continues to suggest setting goals for the ministry.[36] From this plan, it would be beneficial to discuss with the leaders where they see themselves in this statement and go from there. From this, implement ways for leaders to agree on and have the necessary room to follow through on a task. Micro-management should not be the automatic choice; Christian leaders follow the example of Jesus Christ. Having the freedom to be creative, work, serve, and thrive in serving Christ through this ministry’s vision for young adults.

Conclusion

In conclusion, healthy leaders are formed through a godly application of theology, philosophy, methods and models, culture, and missional connection. Understanding that leadership does not just happen in a vacuum is valuable. Rather, it is an open discussion for growth, sanctification, empowerment, and the development of thriving individuals within a healthy ministry or organization. The author of this plan understands that developing leadership plans begins and ends with the Bible. Principles and methods cannot be established without this life-giving source from the Lord. Furthermore, servanthood reflects the character of the person serving the Lord, Jesus Christ. Throughout this plan, many lessons have been learned about the consequences of management and influencer (pride-filled) culture. Yet, there should be a healthy mix of humility and influence that leads to a surrendered life to Jesus Christ. The head running the ministry should have a passion for the ministry and seek the welfare of others. Promoting a healthy leadership culture will foster the creative growth of leaders serving Jesus during their time in the current ministry. A persistent and consistent ministry vision is vital for the organization's trajectory. This will help the audience further clarify their missional connection and their calling from God in their lives. A culture of pride and self-glorification will only lead to destruction, stress, and confusion among its members. It is fascinating that Jesus Christ had meekness and humility on the cross so that everyone could receive salvation and give glory to God. Leaders should not exalt themselves above others and instead serve them (Rom. 12:3). When believers read a leadership plan, they should understand that it contains biblical truths for healthy leadership within a ministry or organization. The call to action is to value biblical leadership and serve with the aim of servant leadership, just like Jesus did.

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Bibliography

Blanchard, Ken, and Phil Hodges. Lead Like Jesus Revisited: Lessons from the Greatest

Leadership Role Model of All Time. Nashville: Thomas Nelson, 2016.

Dempsey, Rod, Dave Earley, and Adam McClendon. The Three-Dimensional Leader: A Biblical, Spiritual & Practical Guide to Christian Leadership. Bellingham, WA: Kirkdale Press, 2023.

DeVries, Mark, and Scott Pontier. Sustainable Young Adult Ministry: Making It Work, Making It Last. Downers Grove, IL: IVP, 2019.

Howell, Don N., Jr. Servants of the Servant: A Biblical Theology of Leadership. Eugene, OR:

Wipf & Stock Publishers, 2003.

Joiner, Reggie, Chuck Bomar, and Abbie Smith. The Slow Fade: Why You Matter in the Story of Twentysomethings. 1st ed. Colorado Springs, Colo.: David C. Cook, 2010.

Malphurs, Aubrey. Being Leaders: The Nature of Authentic Christian Leadership. Grand Rapids, MI: Baker Books, 2003.

Setran, David P., and Chris A. Kiesling. Spiritual Formation in Emerging Adulthood: A

Practical Theology for College and Young Adult Ministry. Grand Rapids, MI: Baker Academic: A Division of Baker Publishing Group, 2013.

Tripp, Paul David. Dangerous Calling: Confronting the Unique Challenges of Pastoral Ministry. Wheaton, IL: Crossway, 2012.

Vanderstelt, Jeff. Gospel Fluency: Speaking the Truths of Jesus into the Everyday Stuff of Life. Wheaton, IL: Crossway, 2017.

Whitney, Donald S. Praying the Bible. Wheaton, IL: Crossway, 2015.

[1] Ken Blanchard and Phil Hodges, Lead like Jesus Revisited: Lessons from the Greatest Leadership Role Model of All Time (Nashville: Thomas Nelson, 2016), xi.

[2] Rod Dempsey, Dave Earley, and Adam McClendon, The Three-Dimensional Leader: A Biblical, Spiritual & Practical Guide to Christian Leadership (Bellingham, WA: Kirkdale Press, 2023), 2.

[3] Don N. Howell Jr., Servants of the Servant: A Biblical Theology of Leadership (Eugene, OR: Wipf & Stock Publishers, 2003), 6-10.

[4] Ibid, 38, 127-128.

[5] Ken Blanchard and Phil Hodges, Lead like Jesus Revisited: Lessons from the Greatest Leadership Role Model of All Time (Nashville: Thomas Nelson, 2016), 69.

[6] Rod Dempsey, Dave Earley, and Adam McClendon, The Three-Dimensional Leader: A Biblical, Spiritual & Practical Guide to Christian Leadership (Bellingham, WA: Kirkdale Press, 2023), 142.

[7] Blanchard and Hodges, Lead like Jesus, 65-72.

[8] Ibid, 3-7.

[9] Rod Dempsey, Dave Earley, and Adam McClendon, The Three-Dimensional Leader: A Biblical, Spiritual & Practical Guide to Christian Leadership (Bellingham, WA: Kirkdale Press, 2023), 202-207.

[10] Howell Jr, Servants of the Servant, 294.

[11] Ken Blanchard and Phil Hodges, Lead like Jesus Revisited: Lessons from the Greatest Leadership Role Model of All Time (Nashville: Thomas Nelson, 2016), 116-118.

[12] “The New Testament Example of Equipping Teams” in Rod Dempsey, Dave Earley, and Adam McClendon, The Three-Dimensional Leader: A Biblical, Spiritual & Practical Guide to Christian Leadership (Bellingham, WA: Kirkdale Press, 2023), 198-201.

[13] Mark DeVries and Scott Pontier, Sustainable Young Adult Ministry: Making It Work, Making It Last (Downers Grove, IL: IVP, 2019).

[14] Ken Blanchard and Phil Hodges, Lead like Jesus Revisited: Lessons from the Greatest Leadership Role Model of All Time (Nashville: Thomas Nelson, 2016), 53-64.

[15] Mark DeVries and Scott Pontier, Sustainable Young Adult Ministry: Making It Work, Making It Last (Downers Grove, IL: IVP, 2019).

[16] Don N. Howell Jr., Servants of the Servant: A Biblical Theology of Leadership (Eugene, OR: Wipf & Stock Publishers, 2003), 249.

[17] Ken Blanchard and Phil Hodges, Lead like Jesus Revisited: Lessons from the Greatest Leadership Role Model of All Time (Nashville: Thomas Nelson, 2016), 105.

[18] Whitney, Donald S. Praying the Bible (Wheaton, IL: Crossway, 2015).

[19] Joiner, Reggie, Chuck Bomar, and Abbie Smith. The Slow Fade: Why You Matter in the Story of Twentysomethings. 1st ed (Colorado Springs, Colo.: David C. Cook, 2010), 116-117.

[20] Aubrey Malphurs, Being Leaders: The Nature of Authentic Christian Leadership (Grand Rapids, MI: Baker Books, 2003), 159-160.

[21] To clarify, spiritual identity is already established in Jesus Christ. This simply provides an opportunity for the young adult to partake in responsibility over his life. See, David P. Setran and Chris A. Kiesling, Spiritual Formation in Emerging Adulthood: A Practical Theology for College and Young Adult Ministry (Grand Rapids, MI: Baker Academic: A Division of Baker Publishing Group, 2013), 76.

[22] Rom. 3:23, 6:23, 5:8, 10:9, 10, 5:1, 8:1, 8:38-39. In Dave Earley and David Wheeler, “Sample Methods for Sharing Your Faith,” in Everyday Evangelism: Sharing the Christian Faith (Nashville, TN: B&H Publishing Group, 2010), 264-265.

[23] Mark DeVries and Scott Pontier, Sustainable Young Adult Ministry: Making It Work, Making It Last (Downers Grove, IL: IVP, 2019).

[24] David P. Setran and Chris A. Kiesling, Spiritual Formation in Emerging Adulthood: A Practical Theology for College and Young Adult Ministry (Grand Rapids, MI: Baker Academic: A Division of Baker Publishing Group, 2013), 109.

[25] Ken Blanchard and Phil Hodges, Lead like Jesus Revisited: Lessons from the Greatest Leadership Role Model of All Time (Nashville: Thomas Nelson, 2016), 202-204.

[26] Ibid, 204-205.

[27] Jeff Vanderstelt, Gospel Fluency: Speaking the Truths of Jesus into the Everyday Stuff of Life (Wheaton, IL: Crossway, 2017), 172.

[28] Paul David Tripp, Dangerous Calling: Confronting the Unique Challenges of Pastoral Ministry (Wheaton, IL: Crossway, 2012), 174-182.

[29] Aubrey Malphurs, Being Leaders: The Nature of Authentic Christian Leadership (Grand Rapids, MI: Baker Books, 2003), 117.

[30] Ibid, 44.

[31] Rod Dempsey, Dave Earley, and Adam McClendon, The Three-Dimensional Leader: A Biblical, Spiritual & Practical Guide to Christian Leadership (Bellingham, WA: Kirkdale Press, 2023), 196.

[32] Aubrey Malphurs, Being Leaders: The Nature of Authentic Christian Leadership (Grand Rapids, MI: Baker Books, 2003), 134.

[33] Ken Blanchard and Phil Hodges, Lead like Jesus Revisited: Lessons from the Greatest Leadership Role Model of All Time (Nashville: Thomas Nelson, 2016), 143.

[34] Ibid, 146.

[35] Ibid, 147-148.

[36] Ibid, 153-154.