What Africa Can Teach Us AllSample

A Rich Garden: Non-Clergy Leadership in Africa 

Leadership in the Global Church is changing as more people engage in leadership as part of the Body of Christ. Many are pastors, but not all. The Africa Leadership Study tried to understand a bit more about these non-clergy leaders within the African Church. Take a moment to look closely at today’s Missiographic and explore some of the characteristics of non-clergy leadership in Africa—including their scope of influence, methods they use in leadership development, and the percentage who are training up leaders as they engage in their work. As you explore some of the characteristics of non-clergy leaders in Africa, consider what similarities they have with those in your sphere of influence. What are the differences?

Who are the Christian leaders in your local community? What is their background? How did they come to serve God in their area of influence? A quick inventory will probably reveal many different kinds of people serving as leaders. Around the world this is becoming more and more the case. Pastors and other ordained or full-time ministry staff play a key role, but many others are involved. How can you encourage those who are sacrificing so much to lead the Body of Christ?

Personal Reflection
As you engage with your community this week, who are the leaders who are guiding and supporting you as you serve? It is likely that some are full-time ministers but many others are not. How are non-clergy leaders impacting your community and helping advance the Kingdom? Consider their unique contributions. 

Prayer
Dear God, thank You for the many men and women You have gifted with leadership abilities and put in positions of responsibility within Your Church. We pray for them today and ask You to encourage their hearts and give them strength for the tasks You have given them to do. Amen

Click here to access this free Missiographic and sign up for future free Missiographics: https://missionexus.org/a-rich-garden-non-clergy-leadership-in-africa/