Christian Leader Development: An Outcomes Framework

Abstract

The purpose of this paper is to propose a composite framework for the intended outcomes of Christian leader development based on an analysis of scholarly literature on the topic, both from Christian and secular perspectives. Leader development, focusing on the individual to be developed, is a subset of the broader concept of leadership development, which also includes a more collective effort to facilitate the development of leadership capacity in groups and organizations. A proposed framework for Christian leader development outcomes will be presented, organized around five broad categories: Christian formation, personal formation, relational skills, intellectual skills, and management skills. The proposed Christian leader development framework can serve as a foundation for further research, the development of assessment instruments, and as a guide for development efforts.