A 4-MAT Book Review of
Reviewing Leadership: A Christian Evaluation of Current Approaches by Robert Banks and Bernice M. Ledbetter
Presented to
Prof. Daniel Austin
Liberty University
LEAD 510
by
Thomas V. Montgomery, III, Ed.D.
October 28, 2014
Table of Contents
Abstract 3
Concrete Response 5
Reflection 6
Action 7
References 10
Abstract The process of leadership requires self-identification of behaviors and reflection on one’s attitude (Bell, 2010). Among the thousands of leadership books in print today, this book is one that takes a different approach to examining leadership from a Christian perspective as well as relating to the process of leadership along with many other resources, case studies, and ideas for the reader to consider. Chapter 1 sets the foundation for the book by suggesting the impact that one’s values has on leadership. This is particularly important because Christianity has a direct connection to core values, beliefs and attitudes. It is from these perspectives that drive the direction in which Christian leadership moves. The authors ask thought-provoking questions and suggest that Christian leaders have an awareness of other sources and definitions of leadership as he/she evolves within Christian leadership. Chapter 2 takes on a historical perspective of leadership practices from different religious traditions, but encourages the reader to place a greater importance on the value of the Bible and the leadership lessons within. The author introduces the metaphor1 as a “powerful tool to shed light on complex issues” (Banks and Ledbetter, 2004, p.53) to enhance the possibility of attaining a greater understanding of Christian leadership and what a Christian leader should do.
Chapter 3 provides two case studies, one being a case study on Stephen Covey’s Seven Habits Seven Habits of Highly Effective People2. While this book has been critically acclaimed and has sold
References: Banks, R., and Ledbetter, B. (2004). Reviewing leadership: A Christian evaluation of current approaches. Grand Rapids, MI: Baker Publishing Group. Bell, Skip. (2010, Spring). Learning, changing, and doing: A model for transformational leadership development in religious and non-profit organizations. Journal of Religious Leadership, Vol. 9, No. 1, 96.