Leading like Jesus
Formation Before Influence
A new episode of The Faith (In)Forming Podcast is here!
The episode is titled “Leading Like Jesus: Formation Before Influence” and features a rich, thoughtful conversation with author and leadership mentor Jason Jensen, centered on his book, Formed to Lead.
We live in a moment when leadership is often measured by visibility, platform, and results. Bigger reach. Faster growth. Stronger branding. But in the Gospels, Jesus forms leaders very differently. He shapes people slowly, relationally, and from the inside out. Before influence comes formation. Before public impact comes private surrender. Before authority comes humility.
That’s the heartbeat of this conversation.
Jason argues that the most important qualities in Christian leadership are not charisma and competence, but humility, character, integrity, and discernment.
In our discussion, we talk about:
Why leadership formation matters more than leadership technique
What we often miss about how Jesus develops leaders
The difference between discernment and mere strategic planning
Why character is the vital foundation of leadership
Practices that ground leaders in humility and integrity
Listen Today:
If you serve in any kind of leadership — pastoral, ministry, organizational, family, or volunteer — this episode will give you a better framework for thinking about what kind of leader you are becoming, not just what kind of work you are doing.
I’d strongly encourage you to pick up a copy of Formed to Lead. It’s a wise and practical guide that pairs theological depth with actionable reflection. It would work especially well for elder teams, ministry staff, and small groups thinking seriously about leadership and discipleship.
And if these conversations are helpful to you, I’d like to invite you to support my work in two simple ways.
First, make sure you’re subscribed to this Substack so you don’t miss upcoming posts, podcast episodes, and resources aimed at strengthening thoughtful, grounded Christian faith.
Second, consider purchasing a copy of my book, The Mystery of Faith. The book explores why the gospel is still good news and how historic Christian faith speaks meaningfully into ordinary life. Buying and sharing it is one of the most direct ways you can support my writing and ministry.
Thanks for reading, listening, and continuing to pursue a deeply formed faith — and a deeply formed life.