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The Scandal of Leadership: Unmasking the Powers of Domination in the Church
* Reader's Best Awards 2023 (Runner-Up) Englewood Review of Books ** Book of the Year 2023 – Books and Big Ideas with Joel Wentz *
WILL WE BECOME A SCANDAL TO THOSE WHO LOOK TO US AS LEADERS, OR WILL WE CHOOSE TO IMITATE THE SCANDALOUS WAY OF CHRIST?
The fall of high-profile leaders has sadly become an epidemic, and although books and podcasts have sought to uncover the problem, they often fail to identify the root cause. In The Scandal of Leadership, JR Woodward offers a deeper diagnosis, outlining a more comprehensive understanding of power abuses in the church and the critical role of imitation. Drawing from Scripture and the scholarship of Walter Wink, René Girard, and William Stringfellow, as well as from positive examples of leaders such as Óscar Romero, this book offers a robust theology of the Powers––of Satan, the demonic, and the principalities and powers explored in the Bible. By unmasking the Powers of domination, Woodward seeks to help missional leaders practice a self-emptying spirituality that reshapes their desires and forms them into Christlike servants who join God’s mission in the world.
WILL WE BECOME A SCANDAL TO THOSE WHO LOOK TO US AS LEADERS, OR WILL WE CHOOSE TO IMITATE THE SCANDALOUS WAY OF CHRIST?
The fall of high-profile leaders has sadly become an epidemic, and although books and podcasts have sought to uncover the problem, they often fail to identify the root cause. In The Scandal of Leadership, JR Woodward offers a deeper diagnosis, outlining a more comprehensive understanding of power abuses in the church and the critical role of imitation. Drawing from Scripture and the scholarship of Walter Wink, René Girard, and William Stringfellow, as well as from positive examples of leaders such as Óscar Romero, this book offers a robust theology of the Powers––of Satan, the demonic, and the principalities and powers explored in the Bible. By unmasking the Powers of domination, Woodward seeks to help missional leaders practice a self-emptying spirituality that reshapes their desires and forms them into Christlike servants who join God’s mission in the world.
420 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 19, 2023
33 people are currently reading
2447 people want to read
About the author
J.R. Woodward
11 books52 followersJR Woodward, PhD (University of Manchester, UK) loves to awaken people to join God in the renewal of all things. He is a catalyst who has been passionately starting churches and ministries for the good of the world for over thirty years. He co-founded Missio Alliance and currently serves as the National Director for the V3 Church Planting Movement. He is an adjunct professor at several seminaries and universities, including Fuller Theological Seminary, Central Seminary, Missio Seminary, and America Evangelical University. He is the co-founder of the Praxis Gathering, and serves on six different boards, including Reliant Mission, Missio Alliance, and Fuller Global Mission Advisory Council. He is the author of "Creating a Missional Culture" and co-author of "The Church as Movement". His most recent book, "The Scandal of Leadership", is based on his PhD research and written to provide a remedy to the problem of domineering leadership in the church. He loves to surf, travel, read, and skateboard, as well as meet new people. He enjoys photography and film and tries to attend the Sundance Film Festival whenever he can.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 46 reviews
August 7, 2023
In "The Scandal of Leadership," JR Woodward offers a diagnosis of why church leadership can become toxic, why Pastors are falling from grace, and why the Christians no longer resemble the One they claim to follow. He unveils the cunning tactics, strategies, and structures employed by the "principalities and powers" that drive this leadership culture of domination. Woodward brings to light the powerful influence of imitation, which fuels the growth of false, worldly kingdoms and empowers fallen leaders, leading to detrimental rivalries, divisions, and scapegoating. This quote was a wake-up call for me:
“If we choose not to imitate Christ, by default we are choosing to imitate the powers”
Woodward offers hope in the redemptive calling of "imitating Christ." He develops the “Imitation-Based Framework” throughout the book (see graphic below), illustrating how leaders who embody Christ-like virtues serve as beacons of light, providing a worthy model for others to emulate.
This thought-provoking book is a valuable resource for those who desire to be missional leaders in the midst of this culture of domination. May our desires be transformed as we imitate Christ and share in His life.
The Church needs this book. All Church leaders need this book. We need this book. Imitatio Christi!
“If we choose not to imitate Christ, by default we are choosing to imitate the powers”
Woodward offers hope in the redemptive calling of "imitating Christ." He develops the “Imitation-Based Framework” throughout the book (see graphic below), illustrating how leaders who embody Christ-like virtues serve as beacons of light, providing a worthy model for others to emulate.
This thought-provoking book is a valuable resource for those who desire to be missional leaders in the midst of this culture of domination. May our desires be transformed as we imitate Christ and share in His life.
The Church needs this book. All Church leaders need this book. We need this book. Imitatio Christi!
August 27, 2023
As someone who recently experienced along with others, the repercussions of a leader who became a scandal to their followers, I highly recommend if not beg ALL christian leaders, not just leaders of the church, to read this book. Whether you are a CEO of a company, on staff with a church or a parent of a child, we all are suceptible to becoming domineering leaders. JR goes into great detail regarding what causes leaders to fall, and then ends the book with how we in our leadership roles can prevent ourselves from following in the footsteps of these fallen leaders. JR reminds us that there is hope in our Lord and Savior and through our identity in Him and our imitation of Him, we can overcome!
October 1, 2023
Few books give a foundation to think through major issues of the Christian faith like this one. Here, the topic of principalities meets abusive leadership. Here, justice works itself out through the faithful proclamation of the gospel. Here, discipleship meets emptying ourselves like Christ did in his incarnation. Here, seeking God leads to the right desires. This is readable theology that can change our lives. To love God well and love His church well, this is a must-read. Thank you, JR, for writing this. Please write follow-ups to this work to tease out practical applications to this important work.
June 2, 2023
It’s one thing to manage one’s desires, but it’s an entirely different proposition when one must manage those hidden desires under the scrutiny of a leadership microscope. This book peels back the layers of problems associated with dominating leadership practices. What’s more, he offers hopeful remedies. With a rich theological analysis and an academic flare, JR synthesizes influential, diverse, and historical voices (see Girard, Stringfellow, Wink, and many others) that provide needed understanding. Most notably, JR helps reposition the Christian leadership myth back to a “first-follower” under a theological kenotic path reflected in the way of Christ.
February 29, 2024
An in-depth, deeply-philosophical look at the “questions under the questions” of today’s Christian leadership crisis. JR’s book is much needed, & refreshing, as it considers the spiritual diagnosis of issues like domination… & also offers something that many current views on negative leadership don’t: a better way. I’m grateful for the deep work & years of study compiled into this book. A must-read for folks concerned, on a local or broader level, with the trajectory of this thing called “Christian leadership.”
June 4, 2023
Join the movement to resist the Powers. This important, timely book sheds light on issues of leadership which I haven't heard others discussing. Leaders and followers, academics and practitioners, wounded and disillusioned - all will receive something nourishing from the table JR sets in this robust theological, practical, prophetic treatment. The remedy offered will not disappoint.
June 11, 2024
The corporate model of leadership, which has often penetrated the church, follows a top-down pattern. When that occurs, the pastor may portray himself (normally it is a male pastor) as being accountable only to God. In other words, the pastor rules without any accountability. It is often the pattern found in megachurches, a fact that we seem to be witnessing regularly as pastors are forced to step down due to patterns of abusive relationships, as well as sexual impropriety, but it can be found in small churches as well. Why might this be the case? Could it be that the "powers of domination" can take root in the church? That is the contention made by JR Woodward in his book "The Scandal of Leadership."
Woodward is the national director of the V3 Movement and a leader in the Missional Church movement. His book "The Scandal of Leadership" is based on his PhD dissertation at the University of Manchester (UK). Therefore, this book does take on a more academic tone. Nevertheless, it is quite accessible to clergy and church leaders with a modicum of theological and biblical sophistication. JR approached me about reviewing this book after reading my review of David Fitch's book Reckoning with Power: Why the Church Fails When It’s on the Wrong Side of Power. The two books complement each other quite well. Fitch writes the foreword to this book. As he does in his own book, in introducing Woodward's book, he notes that too often we assume that leadership is leadership. It is a message shared in numerous resources. Yet, the solutions offered too often fail. Thus, what we need is "a profound reevaluation of leadership, a deep searching of the Scriptures, and the seeking after the person of Jesus Christ for another way to lead God's people" (p. xix). This is what Woodward attempts to do in "The Scandal of Leadership."
The central message of Woodward's book is that the powers of domination are present in the church and for the church to be truly missional, those powers need to be unmasked. He writes that with this book he not only seeks to "link the fall of church leaders to patterns of domination, but I also hope to demonstrate a link between imitation and the Powers. I want to explain how leaders who uncritically imitate patterns of power seen in the fallen world are liable to fall into patterns of domination" (p. xxviii). What are these Powers, which he identifies as being spiritual in nature? They involve characteristics such as pride, manipulation, seeking status, isolation, a lack of community to hold them accountable, using status to push an agenda, love of the crowds, an abuse of power and role, a push to 'succeed,' and a sense of self-importance." (p. xxxi). The question of those in leadership concerns whether they will imitate Christ or the Powers.
Woodward divides his book into five sections with either two or three chapters each. He begins in Section One by addressing "The Challenge of Missional Leadership." In this section, he seeks to diagnose why leaders, especially megachurch leaders, fail. He then lays out the need for missional leadership as an alternative. Finally, he turns to Scripture to find examples of domineering leadership. He looks at texts from 1 Peter.
Section Two is titled "Missional Leadership and the Powers." In the two chapters in this section, Woodward engages with Walter Wink's trilogy that speaks to naming, unmasking, and unmasking the powers. Many of us have found Wink's work on the Powers illuminating, since he views them as spiritual but are embodied in systems, including ecclesial systems. In the first of the two chapters, Woodward introduces us to Wink's life and work. It should be noted that throughout the book, the author uses biography to better understand the message of the authors he is engaging with. In the second of the two chapters, he uses Wink's work to better understand and diagnose domineering leadership in the church.
After discussing Wink's vision of the Powers and how they function in the church, offering the dangerous possibility of falling into the trap of domineering leadership, he turns in Section Three, a Section titled "Missional Leadership and Imitation," to the work of Rene Girard on mimetic desire and the power of imitation. I am less familiar with Girard's work than with Wink's but I found this chapter intriguing. Concerning mimetic theory and its impact on imitation, he suggests that on a practical level of a congregation, "according to mimetic theory, disciples subconsciously capture the desires of their models. They then start to desire the title of lead pastor and the prestige that they feel comes with that title. In turn, the lead pastor senses that this person desires the title, which increases their own desire for the title, eventually leading to memetic rivalry, often to the bewilderment of those caught in the mimetic trap" (p. 158). In other words, the Powers (Satan) uses "envious desires of leaders to create chaos and scapegoating in a community."
Section Four: "Missional Leadership and Subversion," brings into the conversation a third figure, the Attorney/Theologian William Stringfellow. Woodward notes that Jesus never bowed down to the Powers, but instead resisted them. His resistance led the Powers to respond by capturing our attention, leading humans to give ourselves fully to them, such that they demand our ultimate allegiance. He offers Stringfellow as one who sought to counter these Powers by subverting them. Again, Woodward uses biography to provide depth to the conversation. For Stringfellow, the Powers and Principalities can be defined using three terms: Image, Institution, and Ideology. He explores each of these terms. Stringfellow gives us an example of one who resisted and subverted the Powers through prophetic witness. Woodward writes that Stringfellow understood racism and nationalism, two issues still present in our day, as Principalities that needed to be named, unmasked, and engaged, therefore, his "remedy required him to go beyond the ideologies of his day --- humanism and liberalism --- which still linger today. Stringfellow viewed life through the lens of the power
of death and the power of the resurrection." (p. 209). The choice is ours as to how we respond.
Having addressed the powers that lead to domineering leadership, their identity, and ways of resisting/subverting them, in Section Five, Woodward begins to construct a positive vision for missional leadership. While there are forms of imitation (mimetic desires) that are destructive to the church and its leadership structures, he offers a positive form of imitation. He uses Jesus' temptations as an entry point for Jesus' identity formation. From there we are invited to follow his lead, to imitate Christ as we develop our own sense of identity (chapter 10). In Chapter 11, Woodward takes us into Paul's Philippian letter, using a Girardian lens, to explore how that letter can help us embrace Jesus' sense of kenotic leadership. Finally, in Chapter 12, he points us to how Paul practiced Jesus' kenotic leadership. Bringing us into the more recent past, he also points us to the example of Oscar Romero, the sainted martyr Archbishop of El Salvador.
Woodward offers a look at leadership, both the dangers of falling into the trap of the domination system, and the positive examples of Jesus, Paul, and Oscar Romero. There are forms of leadership that one should not imitate (domineering leadership) and those that one ought to imitate. He writes most specifically the book as a contribution to the field of missiology, but if we understand Christian ministry to be missional in character, then this is a book that can prove extremely helpful to all church leaderships, especially pastors. That includes small church pastors like me as well as the megachurch pastors. They may be more tempted to domineering leadership, but we can all end up as David Fitch reminds us in his book, on the wrong side of power. To counter that, Woodward offers us what he believes is a "more robust theology of the Powers," which he believes has been underdeveloped within the missional conversation.
Woodward is the national director of the V3 Movement and a leader in the Missional Church movement. His book "The Scandal of Leadership" is based on his PhD dissertation at the University of Manchester (UK). Therefore, this book does take on a more academic tone. Nevertheless, it is quite accessible to clergy and church leaders with a modicum of theological and biblical sophistication. JR approached me about reviewing this book after reading my review of David Fitch's book Reckoning with Power: Why the Church Fails When It’s on the Wrong Side of Power. The two books complement each other quite well. Fitch writes the foreword to this book. As he does in his own book, in introducing Woodward's book, he notes that too often we assume that leadership is leadership. It is a message shared in numerous resources. Yet, the solutions offered too often fail. Thus, what we need is "a profound reevaluation of leadership, a deep searching of the Scriptures, and the seeking after the person of Jesus Christ for another way to lead God's people" (p. xix). This is what Woodward attempts to do in "The Scandal of Leadership."
The central message of Woodward's book is that the powers of domination are present in the church and for the church to be truly missional, those powers need to be unmasked. He writes that with this book he not only seeks to "link the fall of church leaders to patterns of domination, but I also hope to demonstrate a link between imitation and the Powers. I want to explain how leaders who uncritically imitate patterns of power seen in the fallen world are liable to fall into patterns of domination" (p. xxviii). What are these Powers, which he identifies as being spiritual in nature? They involve characteristics such as pride, manipulation, seeking status, isolation, a lack of community to hold them accountable, using status to push an agenda, love of the crowds, an abuse of power and role, a push to 'succeed,' and a sense of self-importance." (p. xxxi). The question of those in leadership concerns whether they will imitate Christ or the Powers.
Woodward divides his book into five sections with either two or three chapters each. He begins in Section One by addressing "The Challenge of Missional Leadership." In this section, he seeks to diagnose why leaders, especially megachurch leaders, fail. He then lays out the need for missional leadership as an alternative. Finally, he turns to Scripture to find examples of domineering leadership. He looks at texts from 1 Peter.
Section Two is titled "Missional Leadership and the Powers." In the two chapters in this section, Woodward engages with Walter Wink's trilogy that speaks to naming, unmasking, and unmasking the powers. Many of us have found Wink's work on the Powers illuminating, since he views them as spiritual but are embodied in systems, including ecclesial systems. In the first of the two chapters, Woodward introduces us to Wink's life and work. It should be noted that throughout the book, the author uses biography to better understand the message of the authors he is engaging with. In the second of the two chapters, he uses Wink's work to better understand and diagnose domineering leadership in the church.
After discussing Wink's vision of the Powers and how they function in the church, offering the dangerous possibility of falling into the trap of domineering leadership, he turns in Section Three, a Section titled "Missional Leadership and Imitation," to the work of Rene Girard on mimetic desire and the power of imitation. I am less familiar with Girard's work than with Wink's but I found this chapter intriguing. Concerning mimetic theory and its impact on imitation, he suggests that on a practical level of a congregation, "according to mimetic theory, disciples subconsciously capture the desires of their models. They then start to desire the title of lead pastor and the prestige that they feel comes with that title. In turn, the lead pastor senses that this person desires the title, which increases their own desire for the title, eventually leading to memetic rivalry, often to the bewilderment of those caught in the mimetic trap" (p. 158). In other words, the Powers (Satan) uses "envious desires of leaders to create chaos and scapegoating in a community."
Section Four: "Missional Leadership and Subversion," brings into the conversation a third figure, the Attorney/Theologian William Stringfellow. Woodward notes that Jesus never bowed down to the Powers, but instead resisted them. His resistance led the Powers to respond by capturing our attention, leading humans to give ourselves fully to them, such that they demand our ultimate allegiance. He offers Stringfellow as one who sought to counter these Powers by subverting them. Again, Woodward uses biography to provide depth to the conversation. For Stringfellow, the Powers and Principalities can be defined using three terms: Image, Institution, and Ideology. He explores each of these terms. Stringfellow gives us an example of one who resisted and subverted the Powers through prophetic witness. Woodward writes that Stringfellow understood racism and nationalism, two issues still present in our day, as Principalities that needed to be named, unmasked, and engaged, therefore, his "remedy required him to go beyond the ideologies of his day --- humanism and liberalism --- which still linger today. Stringfellow viewed life through the lens of the power
of death and the power of the resurrection." (p. 209). The choice is ours as to how we respond.
Having addressed the powers that lead to domineering leadership, their identity, and ways of resisting/subverting them, in Section Five, Woodward begins to construct a positive vision for missional leadership. While there are forms of imitation (mimetic desires) that are destructive to the church and its leadership structures, he offers a positive form of imitation. He uses Jesus' temptations as an entry point for Jesus' identity formation. From there we are invited to follow his lead, to imitate Christ as we develop our own sense of identity (chapter 10). In Chapter 11, Woodward takes us into Paul's Philippian letter, using a Girardian lens, to explore how that letter can help us embrace Jesus' sense of kenotic leadership. Finally, in Chapter 12, he points us to how Paul practiced Jesus' kenotic leadership. Bringing us into the more recent past, he also points us to the example of Oscar Romero, the sainted martyr Archbishop of El Salvador.
Woodward offers a look at leadership, both the dangers of falling into the trap of the domination system, and the positive examples of Jesus, Paul, and Oscar Romero. There are forms of leadership that one should not imitate (domineering leadership) and those that one ought to imitate. He writes most specifically the book as a contribution to the field of missiology, but if we understand Christian ministry to be missional in character, then this is a book that can prove extremely helpful to all church leaderships, especially pastors. That includes small church pastors like me as well as the megachurch pastors. They may be more tempted to domineering leadership, but we can all end up as David Fitch reminds us in his book, on the wrong side of power. To counter that, Woodward offers us what he believes is a "more robust theology of the Powers," which he believes has been underdeveloped within the missional conversation.
July 4, 2023
"The Scandal of Leadership" - what does that title evoke for you? My initial question that arises: is leadership itself the "scandal" here? Some might actually push for that notion. The answer turns out to be, "no."
Not too long before I started reading this book, a conservative, white, male, Baptist chaplain at work gave a devotion on the morning conference call. It was the Friday after the mass shooting at a private Christian school in TN, committed by a LGTBQ person (notably, no devotionals on the topic prior to that, despite the many mass shootings by others folks).
"This will be an explicitly Christian devotion, so if you want to hang up, you may. 3, 2, 1..." Then...no mention of Jesus - and as much mention of guns as of Jesus. There was, however, a lot of what amounted to "thoughts and prayers," in the context of fragments of the formulaic version of the gospel I grew up being taught, and inside of which I was immersed for much of my life. The devotion even included, "Lord, we don't know why this is happening, but..." Frustrated that a leader was using his platform to propagate not Jesus but a specific, man-made ideology that not only predominantly and powerfully passes for Christian but is also destructive and deadly, I unmuted myself at the end and said:
"We do know why this is happening. Empirical evidence tells us that, if there were fewer guns, this wouldn't be happening so much. And, that's not an unChristian thing to say."
Twenty minutes later, a DIFFERENT conservative, white, male, Baptist chaplain at work texts me. He tells me I was out of line, that I should apologize to the first chaplain briefly and publicly before the next morning huddle, and explicitly that I should consider his words a rebuke from a friend and brother in Christ. I responded antagonistically, and things devolved from there.
At our next in-office meeting, I told the 2nd chaplain that we needed to talk. He was unavailable that day. In the mean time, I had started reading this book. Just about the time when I really began to dig into the depths of what, exactly, the "scandal" is, he and I had our talk. Long story short, it didn't go well, and, when provoked at the end, I violently screaming at him in an extremely egregious manner.
As it turns out, that's precisely the reference when the book mentions the "scandal" of leadership. Where I had initially intended to offer and evoke a different image of Jesus that wasn't beholden to worldly power, I ended up instead "scandalizing" Jesus by making my very self into an obstacle to the real King I had wanted to present. With the message and framework of this book in the forefront of my mind, I apologized, I lamented tearfully, and I repented. Eventually (like a month or so later), the second chaplain asked my forgiveness, and we hugged through mutual tears.
Though I have a strong affinity for the discursive context, content, importance, and framework of this book, I - as with most any book - don't agree with everything about it (particularly the framework). And, yet, God used it in a very powerful way, and at a poignant time in my life. I am left wondering why? And I believe that, besides my affinity for so much of what the book contains and is about, at least part of the answer is because of who wrote it.
If anyone is wondering if they can trust the author, I would like to vouch for him. He was my pastor at my church in college at Virginia Tech, and for five years afterwards, at a church plant in Los Angeles. It was his teaching and concern for spiritual formation, both evident in this book, that played a huge role in shaping me both to notice the problem with the above-noted devotional and to want something else for the American church. I have seen him vulnerably break down in tears to the point of leaving snot on the floor in front of groups of people when a leader in our ministry context was removed from ministry because of a pattern of major moral failure (involving power, btw), or when presenting and presented with our national and global wealth gap. He cares. His desires are pure. He has integrity. And, that goes a long way. As T.S. Eliot has said, when he reads, he's reading not so much the message as the author.
So, though I think more work is needed - both in everyday life (I suspect I'm not the only one) and in the discourse - I am very grateful for The Scandal of Leadership. I am particularly pleased that: 1. it attempts to address the real problem rather than vainly grasping at tangents while leaving the rot firmly inside our foundation, and 2. it begins to possibly plot a way forward as a practitioner rather than simply or only tearing structures down from above in the mode of academic critique. Thank you for this, JR Woodward.
Not too long before I started reading this book, a conservative, white, male, Baptist chaplain at work gave a devotion on the morning conference call. It was the Friday after the mass shooting at a private Christian school in TN, committed by a LGTBQ person (notably, no devotionals on the topic prior to that, despite the many mass shootings by others folks).
"This will be an explicitly Christian devotion, so if you want to hang up, you may. 3, 2, 1..." Then...no mention of Jesus - and as much mention of guns as of Jesus. There was, however, a lot of what amounted to "thoughts and prayers," in the context of fragments of the formulaic version of the gospel I grew up being taught, and inside of which I was immersed for much of my life. The devotion even included, "Lord, we don't know why this is happening, but..." Frustrated that a leader was using his platform to propagate not Jesus but a specific, man-made ideology that not only predominantly and powerfully passes for Christian but is also destructive and deadly, I unmuted myself at the end and said:
"We do know why this is happening. Empirical evidence tells us that, if there were fewer guns, this wouldn't be happening so much. And, that's not an unChristian thing to say."
Twenty minutes later, a DIFFERENT conservative, white, male, Baptist chaplain at work texts me. He tells me I was out of line, that I should apologize to the first chaplain briefly and publicly before the next morning huddle, and explicitly that I should consider his words a rebuke from a friend and brother in Christ. I responded antagonistically, and things devolved from there.
At our next in-office meeting, I told the 2nd chaplain that we needed to talk. He was unavailable that day. In the mean time, I had started reading this book. Just about the time when I really began to dig into the depths of what, exactly, the "scandal" is, he and I had our talk. Long story short, it didn't go well, and, when provoked at the end, I violently screaming at him in an extremely egregious manner.
As it turns out, that's precisely the reference when the book mentions the "scandal" of leadership. Where I had initially intended to offer and evoke a different image of Jesus that wasn't beholden to worldly power, I ended up instead "scandalizing" Jesus by making my very self into an obstacle to the real King I had wanted to present. With the message and framework of this book in the forefront of my mind, I apologized, I lamented tearfully, and I repented. Eventually (like a month or so later), the second chaplain asked my forgiveness, and we hugged through mutual tears.
Though I have a strong affinity for the discursive context, content, importance, and framework of this book, I - as with most any book - don't agree with everything about it (particularly the framework). And, yet, God used it in a very powerful way, and at a poignant time in my life. I am left wondering why? And I believe that, besides my affinity for so much of what the book contains and is about, at least part of the answer is because of who wrote it.
If anyone is wondering if they can trust the author, I would like to vouch for him. He was my pastor at my church in college at Virginia Tech, and for five years afterwards, at a church plant in Los Angeles. It was his teaching and concern for spiritual formation, both evident in this book, that played a huge role in shaping me both to notice the problem with the above-noted devotional and to want something else for the American church. I have seen him vulnerably break down in tears to the point of leaving snot on the floor in front of groups of people when a leader in our ministry context was removed from ministry because of a pattern of major moral failure (involving power, btw), or when presenting and presented with our national and global wealth gap. He cares. His desires are pure. He has integrity. And, that goes a long way. As T.S. Eliot has said, when he reads, he's reading not so much the message as the author.
So, though I think more work is needed - both in everyday life (I suspect I'm not the only one) and in the discourse - I am very grateful for The Scandal of Leadership. I am particularly pleased that: 1. it attempts to address the real problem rather than vainly grasping at tangents while leaving the rot firmly inside our foundation, and 2. it begins to possibly plot a way forward as a practitioner rather than simply or only tearing structures down from above in the mode of academic critique. Thank you for this, JR Woodward.
Read
August 18, 2023The spirit of domineering leadership is at the core of the “deep things of Satan” (Rev. 2:24). I am relishing JR’s take on identifying and slaying the spirit of domination through the kenotic power of imitating Christ. Domineering leadership has stifled creativity in what should properly be the world’s most creative space, Christ's Ecclesia. However, no where else have artists, in my research and experience, felt more sidelined and useless than under the leadership of domineering leaders in the Church. Domineering leadership kills creativity. In the light of JR’s emphasis, I am led to ask in the context of my ongoing work with artists and churches: how might a theology of the Powers help us as artists, and leaders called to shepherd the creative spirit of others, to adopt the mindset and practices that imitate the power of kenotic creativity in Christ and in doing so overcome the spirit of domination in ourselves and others. Thank you JR, for excellent work and so well written!
June 30, 2023
JR Woodward has written a highly important book articulating the crisis of leadership faced by the Church. Drawing from the important work of Rene Girard, Walter Wink and others, the book unpacks Scripture's understanding of "the powers", drawing critical connections to how leadership, authority and influence are being worked out local churches.
I had the privilege of reading an early manuscript and the finished product is truly astounding and a must-read for any who long to see truly Christ-informed/shaped/empowered leadership emerge from the countless scandals the church has undergone in recent history.
I had the privilege of reading an early manuscript and the finished product is truly astounding and a must-read for any who long to see truly Christ-informed/shaped/empowered leadership emerge from the countless scandals the church has undergone in recent history.
June 1, 2023
Not just for the Church
This book is not just for the Church but for the totality of society. The evil one is wreaking havoc in every mountain of society, and Dr. JR Woodward has taken note. I gifted this book to a mentee of mine who is a university president and he will use it to fight the enemy and bring glory to God on his campus by leading like Jesus. JR has exposed the truth and the truth will set us free. Will we be scandal or scandalous in a Jesus Way? The challenge is on!
Dr. Dee Stokes
This book is not just for the Church but for the totality of society. The evil one is wreaking havoc in every mountain of society, and Dr. JR Woodward has taken note. I gifted this book to a mentee of mine who is a university president and he will use it to fight the enemy and bring glory to God on his campus by leading like Jesus. JR has exposed the truth and the truth will set us free. Will we be scandal or scandalous in a Jesus Way? The challenge is on!
Dr. Dee Stokes
May 3, 2024
I received a complimentary copy of this writing through Goodreads. In full disclosure I am not involved in any sort of ministry nor have any desire to belong to pastoral services of any kind. I work in a leadership role in a public sector organization. A lot of the references to the Bible and bible teachings were interesting, but my interest was the overlaying of the faith and leadership concepts. The author obviously thoroughly researched the topic to hone the message. I feel this is a must read for anyone in faith leadership.
June 7, 2023
Woodward is dissecting the problem of domineering leadership and offers deep insight from his own experience as leader as well presents a solid academic biblical perspective of the problem as well the cure. His approach opens up a way to be a leader in a pluralistic post Christian world. This book is a prophetic call to return to the ancient ways of following Christ as disciple who has his identity, purpose and desire shaped by the Spirit.
July 3, 2023
This book should rank in the top reads for anyone either in ministry leadership or desiring to lead. Finally someone is not just writing about the character of leadership, but instead addresses the systemic disguising of principalities and powers within this world and how they have thwarted leadership within our churches today. Thank you JR for sharing this much needed blending of theology, psychology, and sociology that we may unmask the powers of domination in our time.
June 5, 2023
In a well researched and thoughtful manner, Woodward dissects the toxic nature of domineering leadership. He offers gospel-centered and pragmatic solutions for leaders who seek to serve the church in a Christ-like and cruciform nature. It is a must read for anyone serving the church today.
August 30, 2023
Unmasking Leadership – A Powerful Insight
The "Scandal of Leadership" by JR Woodward is no ordinary book. It sizes up the weighty themes of power and leadership in a distinctive way that easily resonates with anyone from scholars to everyday readers.
Woodward's analysis of leaders succumbing to power and consequently creating disunity is startling. The author contrasts this with the ideal that leaders should emulate qualities of integrity and fairness, just like Christ.
The strongest aspect of this book is its thorough research, covering subjects from religious studies to social science. It sharply criticizes common power structures in society, advocating instead for empathetic, respectful leadership.
A truly empowering book, it makes readers question unjust power structures and encourages them to work towards a more equitable society. "The Scandal of Leadership" is indeed a captivating read that unravels the complexities of leadership and power.
The "Scandal of Leadership" by JR Woodward is no ordinary book. It sizes up the weighty themes of power and leadership in a distinctive way that easily resonates with anyone from scholars to everyday readers.
Woodward's analysis of leaders succumbing to power and consequently creating disunity is startling. The author contrasts this with the ideal that leaders should emulate qualities of integrity and fairness, just like Christ.
The strongest aspect of this book is its thorough research, covering subjects from religious studies to social science. It sharply criticizes common power structures in society, advocating instead for empathetic, respectful leadership.
A truly empowering book, it makes readers question unjust power structures and encourages them to work towards a more equitable society. "The Scandal of Leadership" is indeed a captivating read that unravels the complexities of leadership and power.
April 30, 2024
This was a very thought provoking book for me. The initial draw was an examination of the fall of high-profile [christian] leaders with an eye toward identifying the primary or root cause. It was intriguing because I felt it should be fairly obvious … pride; however, this analysis took a different approach and dove more deeply into the human mechanisms that contribute to the fall. It was not, as I had expected, a screed about personal responsibility, and yet it does not totally let our leaders off the hook. The basic premise where is that our leaders, like all people, are tempted (or influenced) by various communal forces that are generally identified as powers and principalities … so if they imitate worldly values instead of the image of Christ, they will become trapped in the cycle that eventually spirals out of control. It makes a solid point there and would be worth a read just for how it defines what the author calls a memetic cycle which operates on the principle of imitating what we love or desire. Along with that are plenty of anecdotal and/or practical stories on how to recognize when we come under the influence of the memetic desire and scapegoating. Still, there really is no “silver bullet” solution, so the practical applications were less helpful if still good (it mostly boils down to an exhortation to imitate Jesus).
Still … the introduction to several (for me completely new) scholars in a multidisciplinary effort to explain what the mimetic cycle was, as well as what the powers and principalities and powers might be (was well as how they work in a fallen world) was extremely well down and accessible (especially considering this is really based upon an academic dissertation). The idea of Satan as an emergent power (as well as the impact of fallen, human systems) were absolutely thought provoking and deserve careful consideration. To support the foundation of the author’s imitation based framework, he progresses brings in the likes of Wink, Girard and Stringfellow as he fills in a table that maps expression of principalities & powers to fallen and redeemed leadership across the dimensions of identity, praxis and telos which was very helpful in understanding the general concept as a whole.
The chapters and sections in this work are
Section One: The Challenge of Missional Leadership.
1. A Deeper Diagnosis of Why Leaders Fall
2. The Need for Missional Leadership
3. Domineering Leadership in the First-Century Church
Section Two: Missional Leadership and the Powers
4. Comprehending the Powers
5. Interpreting the Powers
Section Three: Missional Leadership and Imitation
6. Mimetic Theory
7. The Power of Imitation
Section Four: Missional Leadership and Subversion
8. The Work of the Powers
9. The Subversion and Resistance of the Powers
Section Five: Missional Leadership Worthy of Imitation
10. Toward a Theological Remedy
11. A New Way of Being and Belonging
12. The Scandal of Imitating Christ
Some of the other points that really got my attention are:
#TheScandalOfLeadership
Still … the introduction to several (for me completely new) scholars in a multidisciplinary effort to explain what the mimetic cycle was, as well as what the powers and principalities and powers might be (was well as how they work in a fallen world) was extremely well down and accessible (especially considering this is really based upon an academic dissertation). The idea of Satan as an emergent power (as well as the impact of fallen, human systems) were absolutely thought provoking and deserve careful consideration. To support the foundation of the author’s imitation based framework, he progresses brings in the likes of Wink, Girard and Stringfellow as he fills in a table that maps expression of principalities & powers to fallen and redeemed leadership across the dimensions of identity, praxis and telos which was very helpful in understanding the general concept as a whole.
The chapters and sections in this work are
Section One: The Challenge of Missional Leadership.
1. A Deeper Diagnosis of Why Leaders Fall
2. The Need for Missional Leadership
3. Domineering Leadership in the First-Century Church
Section Two: Missional Leadership and the Powers
4. Comprehending the Powers
5. Interpreting the Powers
Section Three: Missional Leadership and Imitation
6. Mimetic Theory
7. The Power of Imitation
Section Four: Missional Leadership and Subversion
8. The Work of the Powers
9. The Subversion and Resistance of the Powers
Section Five: Missional Leadership Worthy of Imitation
10. Toward a Theological Remedy
11. A New Way of Being and Belonging
12. The Scandal of Imitating Christ
Some of the other points that really got my attention are:
#TheScandalOfLeadership
June 28, 2023
A significant academic-level resource, especially for communities that include abuse survivors, advocates, and activists.
Some books are so good I can’t put them down. Others like The Scandal of Leadership are so good I MUST put them down—and spend time in assimilation, reflection, considering applications.
We live in an era when abuse of spiritual power by domineering leaders in the Church has led to departure of victims and avoidance by others. Many such have become “nones, dones, or gones” from local church involvement, repulsed by leaders who turned authority into overlording authoritarianism.
I come at this topic with a quiver full of questions about current ministry leadership models that turn toxic, their underlying motivations, and likely results of their paradigm system that absorbs “worldly” forms of power and control. My concerns are based on 20 years of traumatizing experiences out of the last 50, tainted by toxic leaders in established churches, church plants, and Christian non-profits. These experiences moved me to develop case studies on healthy versus harmful ministries, starting in the mid-2000 decade, and research writing about the patterns I’ve found therein regarding use/misuse of position, power, and prestige.
Given that background, here is my summary of this stellar academic resource that JR Woodward has given us.
Here is the long-form case I’d make that JR Woodward’s The Scandal of Leadership would prove helpful for ongoing concerns and conversations involving the groups I’m most connected with these days—abuse survivors, their loved ones and advocates and growth partners, and abuse prevention activists.
THE BIG PICTURE. Woodward gives us an integrated set of overarching typologies, frameworks, and narratives that equip us to name, unmask, and resist the “principalities and powers” of this world’s kingdoms. These tools include diagnoses of “domineering leadership,” differences between worldly kingdoms versus Christ’s kingdom, how imitation of others figures into motives and means for conforming to the Powers or to Christ, and means for (re)constructive missional leadership.
MULTIDISCIPLINARY DETAILS. He has chosen with care his research sources from significant biblical, theological, missiological, and multidisciplinary social science experts—including theoreticians, theologians, practitioners, and critics—to lay out the broad spectrum of representative views on leadership. He analyzes their views thoroughly, critiques them for strengths and weaknesses, summarizes their contributions to dealing with the Powers, and shows us how they apply to individuals and institutions. Woodward excels at illustrating all of these dimensions with perceptively selected quotes that let the experts speak for themselves on definitions and in describing core issues.
SYSTEMS-ORIENTED. The resulting interpretive frameworks composite into an accessible and practical systems-oriented approach on leadership. It includes not just the conceptual pieces that constitute worldly Powers, but the concrete processes and procedures that attempt to allure and ensnare us into their counterfeit kingdoms. It covers the way we embrace:
* identity / being / images,
* praxis / doing / institutions, and
* telos / becoming / ideologies.
STRONG APPLICABILITY. The system Woodward lays out for us holds high explanatory power. I found his holistic frameworks worked well for me as I sought to interpret details and dynamics of abuse-of-power situations I had personally endured. They also sparked deeper insights into key case studies I’d written on spiritually abusive leaders and institutions, and questions I’d developed about broad-ranging patterns of evil.
HUB FOR ADD-INS. Yet, Woodward’s overall system is flexible enough to serve as a hub for frameworks from other disciplines. I found I could plug in materials from my own academic studies. For instance:
* Milton Rokeach’s end-state and instrumental values approach fits with analyzing telos and praxis in personal and political systems.
* Robert Jay Lifton’s classic eight criteria for identifying a political, philosophical, or religious “cult” that seeks to impose total psychological and social control expands upon how this core purpose of control by the Powers plays out.
* Robert Webber’s analysis of three different modes of church/state relations helps flesh out problems of cultural isolation, assimilation, and colonization.
If I can readily integrate insights from social psychology, trauma psychology, and historical theology, I trust others in abuse survivor communities can likewise expand upon Woodward with their own fruitful areas of study—whether on the leadership and institutional sides, or the survivor and recovery resources sides.
CULTURE-CURRENT. This resource on Powers is timely, given the context of current issues and cases of abuse and trauma emerging in the news and on social media. Its principles apply to problematic paradigms, idolatrous institutions, and malignant movements, such as:
* multiple forms of political and religious authoritarianism;
* pragmatism;
* Christian Reconstruction, Dominionism, and Nationalism;
* white supremacy and systemic racism;
* patriarchy and misogyny;
* economic exploitation;
* “Christian animism”/extreme forms of spiritual warfare; propaganda and disinformation; and
* victim silencing tactics like non-disclosure and non-disparagement agreements.
(Woodward analyzes many of these over the course of the book.)
LIFE-GIVING. Destructive leadership needs to be called out for not being worthy of imitation by disciples. This is not scapegoating “leaders”; it is setting the stage for positive imitation of trustworthy role models.
Beside drilling down into how best biblically to respond to the Powers of corruption and death with Christlikeness and life, Woodward looks at what it means to pray for and potentially restore those who have caused us to suffer. He also offers what I find to be a compelling argument for nonviolence and non-retribution as elements of peacemaking and reconciliation.
The Scandal of Leadership is written at an academic level. The material is challenging, but the writing is accessible. The overall organization plus periodic section summaries are especially helpful to the flow of Woodward’s argument. It is well worth immersion! Woodward’s tentative plan is to develop more popular-level resources later. I believe both will find their place as valued books for survivor communities, as well as for leaders in churches and plants, Christian non-profit agencies and social enterprises.
Some books are so good I can’t put them down. Others like The Scandal of Leadership are so good I MUST put them down—and spend time in assimilation, reflection, considering applications.
We live in an era when abuse of spiritual power by domineering leaders in the Church has led to departure of victims and avoidance by others. Many such have become “nones, dones, or gones” from local church involvement, repulsed by leaders who turned authority into overlording authoritarianism.
I come at this topic with a quiver full of questions about current ministry leadership models that turn toxic, their underlying motivations, and likely results of their paradigm system that absorbs “worldly” forms of power and control. My concerns are based on 20 years of traumatizing experiences out of the last 50, tainted by toxic leaders in established churches, church plants, and Christian non-profits. These experiences moved me to develop case studies on healthy versus harmful ministries, starting in the mid-2000 decade, and research writing about the patterns I’ve found therein regarding use/misuse of position, power, and prestige.
Given that background, here is my summary of this stellar academic resource that JR Woodward has given us.
JR Woodward does a masterful job at laying out the tactics, strategies, structures used by “principalities and powers” that motivate and formulate domineering Church leaders. He shows how the process of imitation of others drives systems of false, worldly kingdoms—animates the “fallen” leader’s power machine, along with its inevitable rivalries, divisions, and scapegoatings. This replaces what should happen—“redeemed” leaders imitating Christ and offering a worthy role model for others to imitate. Grasping how the Powers and imitation principles work will help our communities better understand key dynamics in domineering leadership, and thus what responses potentially intervene in, prevent, and correct it.
Here is the long-form case I’d make that JR Woodward’s The Scandal of Leadership would prove helpful for ongoing concerns and conversations involving the groups I’m most connected with these days—abuse survivors, their loved ones and advocates and growth partners, and abuse prevention activists.
THE BIG PICTURE. Woodward gives us an integrated set of overarching typologies, frameworks, and narratives that equip us to name, unmask, and resist the “principalities and powers” of this world’s kingdoms. These tools include diagnoses of “domineering leadership,” differences between worldly kingdoms versus Christ’s kingdom, how imitation of others figures into motives and means for conforming to the Powers or to Christ, and means for (re)constructive missional leadership.
MULTIDISCIPLINARY DETAILS. He has chosen with care his research sources from significant biblical, theological, missiological, and multidisciplinary social science experts—including theoreticians, theologians, practitioners, and critics—to lay out the broad spectrum of representative views on leadership. He analyzes their views thoroughly, critiques them for strengths and weaknesses, summarizes their contributions to dealing with the Powers, and shows us how they apply to individuals and institutions. Woodward excels at illustrating all of these dimensions with perceptively selected quotes that let the experts speak for themselves on definitions and in describing core issues.
SYSTEMS-ORIENTED. The resulting interpretive frameworks composite into an accessible and practical systems-oriented approach on leadership. It includes not just the conceptual pieces that constitute worldly Powers, but the concrete processes and procedures that attempt to allure and ensnare us into their counterfeit kingdoms. It covers the way we embrace:
* identity / being / images,
* praxis / doing / institutions, and
* telos / becoming / ideologies.
STRONG APPLICABILITY. The system Woodward lays out for us holds high explanatory power. I found his holistic frameworks worked well for me as I sought to interpret details and dynamics of abuse-of-power situations I had personally endured. They also sparked deeper insights into key case studies I’d written on spiritually abusive leaders and institutions, and questions I’d developed about broad-ranging patterns of evil.
HUB FOR ADD-INS. Yet, Woodward’s overall system is flexible enough to serve as a hub for frameworks from other disciplines. I found I could plug in materials from my own academic studies. For instance:
* Milton Rokeach’s end-state and instrumental values approach fits with analyzing telos and praxis in personal and political systems.
* Robert Jay Lifton’s classic eight criteria for identifying a political, philosophical, or religious “cult” that seeks to impose total psychological and social control expands upon how this core purpose of control by the Powers plays out.
* Robert Webber’s analysis of three different modes of church/state relations helps flesh out problems of cultural isolation, assimilation, and colonization.
If I can readily integrate insights from social psychology, trauma psychology, and historical theology, I trust others in abuse survivor communities can likewise expand upon Woodward with their own fruitful areas of study—whether on the leadership and institutional sides, or the survivor and recovery resources sides.
CULTURE-CURRENT. This resource on Powers is timely, given the context of current issues and cases of abuse and trauma emerging in the news and on social media. Its principles apply to problematic paradigms, idolatrous institutions, and malignant movements, such as:
* multiple forms of political and religious authoritarianism;
* pragmatism;
* Christian Reconstruction, Dominionism, and Nationalism;
* white supremacy and systemic racism;
* patriarchy and misogyny;
* economic exploitation;
* “Christian animism”/extreme forms of spiritual warfare; propaganda and disinformation; and
* victim silencing tactics like non-disclosure and non-disparagement agreements.
(Woodward analyzes many of these over the course of the book.)
LIFE-GIVING. Destructive leadership needs to be called out for not being worthy of imitation by disciples. This is not scapegoating “leaders”; it is setting the stage for positive imitation of trustworthy role models.
Beside drilling down into how best biblically to respond to the Powers of corruption and death with Christlikeness and life, Woodward looks at what it means to pray for and potentially restore those who have caused us to suffer. He also offers what I find to be a compelling argument for nonviolence and non-retribution as elements of peacemaking and reconciliation.
The Scandal of Leadership is written at an academic level. The material is challenging, but the writing is accessible. The overall organization plus periodic section summaries are especially helpful to the flow of Woodward’s argument. It is well worth immersion! Woodward’s tentative plan is to develop more popular-level resources later. I believe both will find their place as valued books for survivor communities, as well as for leaders in churches and plants, Christian non-profit agencies and social enterprises.
March 23, 2024
A book that changes heart, mind, and life pervasively
Even as I was reading this book, I recommended it to others interested in leadership, either as leaders themselves, or as those whose call is to shape, the form, and disciple other leaders. I find the ideas from this book pervading my thoughts, so much so that I react angrily at something, and am reminded immediately, "That's the myth of redemptive violence at work, don't go there." I watch a popular science fiction movie, and my thought is, "Well, they're setting up mimetic rivalry all over the place there!"
I'm not sure about the understanding of Satan and demons as emergent realities, how that really works, considering some of the things I have encountered in South Asia, but I'm willing to talk about it and see how these things apply in lived experience, in lived theology.
I think this is an important book, although my opinion by itself is not worth much. I smiled reading the conclusion section, because it felt like the author was listing all the things that tempted him to just keep going. Keep writing. Keep reading. Keep researching—and was telling himself, "No I've got to hand this off to others sometime."
I'm looking forward to rereading this, discussing it with friends and partners around the world, and getting my misunderstandings corrected by them and our eyes opened together through the ideas discussed in this book.
Even as I was reading this book, I recommended it to others interested in leadership, either as leaders themselves, or as those whose call is to shape, the form, and disciple other leaders. I find the ideas from this book pervading my thoughts, so much so that I react angrily at something, and am reminded immediately, "That's the myth of redemptive violence at work, don't go there." I watch a popular science fiction movie, and my thought is, "Well, they're setting up mimetic rivalry all over the place there!"
I'm not sure about the understanding of Satan and demons as emergent realities, how that really works, considering some of the things I have encountered in South Asia, but I'm willing to talk about it and see how these things apply in lived experience, in lived theology.
I think this is an important book, although my opinion by itself is not worth much. I smiled reading the conclusion section, because it felt like the author was listing all the things that tempted him to just keep going. Keep writing. Keep reading. Keep researching—and was telling himself, "No I've got to hand this off to others sometime."
I'm looking forward to rereading this, discussing it with friends and partners around the world, and getting my misunderstandings corrected by them and our eyes opened together through the ideas discussed in this book.
April 1, 2024
Important book. Like other great books that dive deep into important issues, this study opened many doors for my mind regarding the problems of leadership today. It comes down to who/what are we going to mimic. Its time we take a serious look at what we desire and what we call success in leadership. If you are serious about the problem you will find this book incredibly helpful.
July 10, 2024
This is one of the most important books I’ve ever read on leadership and missiology. Drawing on several disciplines, Woodward presents a compelling theory of leadership that ultimately leaves us with two choices. ‘Humans are captive to imitation, especially through mimetic desire, and there can be no neutrality: not to imitate Christ is to imitate the Powers’ (289). The book is academic and quite dense at times, which will limit its audience. I really hope that Woodward will have the time and space to turn the best parts of this into a popular level book soon — it needs to be shared far and wide!
June 11, 2024
"The Scandal of Leadership" by JR Woodward is a thought-provoking and timely exploration of leadership amidst our many cultures today. Woodward presents a refreshing perspective that encourages readers to embrace vulnerability and embrace the scandalous leadership of Jesus. With a blend of personal anecdotes, biblical references, and insights from contemporary leaders, Woodward paints a compelling picture of the qualities and practices necessary for effective and transformative leadership. His emphasis on the importance of relationships, collaboration, and humility resonates throughout the book, making it a valuable resource for anyone seeking to redefine their understanding of leadership and positively impact their spheres of influence.
Woodward's writing style is engaging and accessible, making complex ideas and concepts easily digestible for readers. He skillfully weaves theological and sociological insights to shed light on the challenges and opportunities that church leaders face today. One of the book's strengths is Woodward's ability to move from theory to praxis, providing readers with ways to create new leadership cultures that emphasize the way of Jesus over the way of the powers and principalities of this world.
Woodward's writing style is engaging and accessible, making complex ideas and concepts easily digestible for readers. He skillfully weaves theological and sociological insights to shed light on the challenges and opportunities that church leaders face today. One of the book's strengths is Woodward's ability to move from theory to praxis, providing readers with ways to create new leadership cultures that emphasize the way of Jesus over the way of the powers and principalities of this world.
July 26, 2023
I have been involved in leadership in churches, mission agencies and NGO's for longer than I care to remember. For the last 10+ years I have been teaching on leadership related issues in non-formal and graduate level contexts in North America, Africa and Asia. I am constantly adapting, changing and hopefully improving the courses I facilitate to more effectively communicate what "leading like Jesus" looks like. When a colleague recommended this book I purchased it. I read it from the perspective of a facilitator of courses dealing with leadership. In the last 3 years over 500 students from 56 countries (26 African countries) have participated in at least one of the courses I am responsible for.
From my personal leadership experience around the world the issue of hierarchical, "top-down" leadership is a major problem facing the global Church. I do believe this book makes a significant contribution to the literature on this issue - which some would suggest is at the root of many problems in the Church.
First of all, it needs to be understood that this book is based on a PhD dissertation from the University of Manchester. This means the book is "academic" and therefore not for the "general public". The first suggestion I would make to the author is that he consider doing what some others have done (for example Greg Boyd), and write another version of this book that is geared to those who may not be interested in everything that academics are. Even pastors and church leaders would appreciate a more concise, less academic book. Keep this book on the market for academics and write the 2nd book for those who need the essence of the content in a more concise form.
Secondly, Woodward believes that theology is created by the interaction of the Scriptures with culture, and life experience. He would say if we want to understand someone's theology we need to understand their life experience. I have believed this for years. We read the Scriptures through our culture, family, religious traditions, personality and life experience. All of these "colour" our glasses as we read the Bible. As a result, of this belief, Woodward spends probably about 20-25% of the book telling the story of the large and diverse number of theologians he references. Interesting stuff, but sometimes not as helpful to the primary purpose of the book as they could be.
Thirdly, Woodward states that if we are going to deal with the problem of domineering leadership in the church we need to go beyond surface issues and deal with the root of the problem. For Woodward the root of the problem is a battle between Christ and the Principalities and Powers. If we allow the Principalities and Powers to influence us, we will succumb to domineering leadership and all of the negative consequences of it. If we allow the Principalities and Powers to influence us we will exemplify the servant leadership of Jesus. He goes on to suggest that ALL domineering leadership is a result of the Principalities and Powers - who not only influence individuals, but also encourage the establishment of structures and institutions that enable domineering leadership. I couldn't agree more.
Fourthly, Woodward is a strong proponent of an imitation-based framework. This simply stated means that we imitate not only WHAT a role model does but what they desire. If our models desire the status, titles, control, power, etc. that the Principalities and Powers want to lead us to - we will do the same - and destruction will result. If we follow those who desire a heart for God and service to others, and don't care about title, status, control and power then life will result. This is a theme that runs through the book - and a theme that should be taken seriously. We become like those we admire, serve under and work with. We model not only behaviour, but also desire - desire for Christ, for serving, for the Kingdom 0r desire for status, position, and power. I couldn't agree more. This is a very important theme that I have not read or heard anyone address very much.
I could say more - and say what I have said above better, but suffice it to say that I think this is a very important book to read for all those in leadership. We need to examine our hearts, who we model ourselves after and be sure that we influenced by Christ rather than the Principalities and Powers.
I have already made adjustments to some of what I teach on "toxic and healthy" leadership based on this book. I have recommended the book to my colleagues, and would highly recommend it to you.
From my personal leadership experience around the world the issue of hierarchical, "top-down" leadership is a major problem facing the global Church. I do believe this book makes a significant contribution to the literature on this issue - which some would suggest is at the root of many problems in the Church.
First of all, it needs to be understood that this book is based on a PhD dissertation from the University of Manchester. This means the book is "academic" and therefore not for the "general public". The first suggestion I would make to the author is that he consider doing what some others have done (for example Greg Boyd), and write another version of this book that is geared to those who may not be interested in everything that academics are. Even pastors and church leaders would appreciate a more concise, less academic book. Keep this book on the market for academics and write the 2nd book for those who need the essence of the content in a more concise form.
Secondly, Woodward believes that theology is created by the interaction of the Scriptures with culture, and life experience. He would say if we want to understand someone's theology we need to understand their life experience. I have believed this for years. We read the Scriptures through our culture, family, religious traditions, personality and life experience. All of these "colour" our glasses as we read the Bible. As a result, of this belief, Woodward spends probably about 20-25% of the book telling the story of the large and diverse number of theologians he references. Interesting stuff, but sometimes not as helpful to the primary purpose of the book as they could be.
Thirdly, Woodward states that if we are going to deal with the problem of domineering leadership in the church we need to go beyond surface issues and deal with the root of the problem. For Woodward the root of the problem is a battle between Christ and the Principalities and Powers. If we allow the Principalities and Powers to influence us, we will succumb to domineering leadership and all of the negative consequences of it. If we allow the Principalities and Powers to influence us we will exemplify the servant leadership of Jesus. He goes on to suggest that ALL domineering leadership is a result of the Principalities and Powers - who not only influence individuals, but also encourage the establishment of structures and institutions that enable domineering leadership. I couldn't agree more.
Fourthly, Woodward is a strong proponent of an imitation-based framework. This simply stated means that we imitate not only WHAT a role model does but what they desire. If our models desire the status, titles, control, power, etc. that the Principalities and Powers want to lead us to - we will do the same - and destruction will result. If we follow those who desire a heart for God and service to others, and don't care about title, status, control and power then life will result. This is a theme that runs through the book - and a theme that should be taken seriously. We become like those we admire, serve under and work with. We model not only behaviour, but also desire - desire for Christ, for serving, for the Kingdom 0r desire for status, position, and power. I couldn't agree more. This is a very important theme that I have not read or heard anyone address very much.
I could say more - and say what I have said above better, but suffice it to say that I think this is a very important book to read for all those in leadership. We need to examine our hearts, who we model ourselves after and be sure that we influenced by Christ rather than the Principalities and Powers.
I have already made adjustments to some of what I teach on "toxic and healthy" leadership based on this book. I have recommended the book to my colleagues, and would highly recommend it to you.
June 5, 2023
Maybe a 4.5, cuz it's a bit long. :-) Review based on an advanced copy.
It's not a secret in our times that the Christian church in the West is struggling to hold on. Gen-Z generally exhibits a wariness of the power structures of Christian institutions. Millenials who remain in the faith feel disenchanted, having witnessed leadership failures within the various faith communities that they have participated in over the years. In the broader culture, it seems every other day another news piece, documentary, or podcast comes out detailing scandal in religious leadership or failure in organizational cultures. We are all too aware of the brokenness of our leaders, and yet we nevertheless still recognize that healthy leadership remains important.
So, how do we become more reflexive in our attempts to embody healthy leadership, to become more aware of the dynamics that shape toxicity, and to intentionally form ourselves as leaders in the way of Jesus?
Woodward draws from his leadership experience in church planting and missional network leadership to reflect on these urgent, but also perennially important, questions.
Walter Wink, William Stringfellow, and Rene Girard are his main conversations partners in his examination of power and imitation. Each of their analyses brings helpful dimensions to the analysis. Amidst the toxicity of social media, Woodward highlights especially the tool of Girardian mimetic theory to help us as followers of Jesus discern how we too easily become drawn into rivalry, zero-sum games of agonistic struggle. I see this as increasingly becoming a necessary and strategic way of discipling the Christian mind. (As a follow-up, I would recommend another work i recently read, which connects Creation ex Nihilo to Girard - "The Difference Nothing Makes" by BRoam Robinette)
I also appreciated JR's drawing from Matthew Croasmun's work on emergence theory and Sin, which to me provides an integrated picture of how individual choices, systems, and spiritual powers coalesce to form emergent realities that go on to exercise downward agency to form us.
Aside from the book being a treasure trove of rich theology, biblical reflections, and spiritual exemplars (Oscar Romero!), it reflects the thoughts of a Godly man. JR has sought to embody these lessons, and, I believe and pray, will continue to do so. Even as he seeks to continue to use gifts as a dynamic missional catalyst for the Kingdom of God, he recognizes that it is his Jesus-shaped, kenotic character that is most important. I am personally indebted to JR (including for introducing me to some theologians who have helped me make important paradifm shifts), and I am thankful for the opportunity to know him and be of mutual encouragement from a distance.
Critical feedback: Though this may lay outside the scope of the book, increasingly I believe Christian leadership training must help form leaders to discern the contours of Racial capitalism/neoliberalism in order to faithfully resist such formative (and mimetic!) systems, so that we do not naively become carried along within their powerful formational currents while assuming we are forming people in the image of Christ. This book already covered a lot of ground, but given its discussion of systems and some discussion of race, I would include here a nod towards Jonathan Tran's Asian Americans and the Spirit of Racial Capitalism and Rodney Clapp's recent book on Neoliberalism.
The humble life of our human God Jesus will never cease to be the astounding cure for our leadership ills (and every other ill, for that matter), and so continuing reflection on his kenotic leadership will always be essential. May this book gain a wide readership, and may it be a part of drawing people to participate in and imitate the self-giving, humble life of God, who makes us into leaders who can honestly and faithfully invite others to imitate us as we imitate Christ.
It's not a secret in our times that the Christian church in the West is struggling to hold on. Gen-Z generally exhibits a wariness of the power structures of Christian institutions. Millenials who remain in the faith feel disenchanted, having witnessed leadership failures within the various faith communities that they have participated in over the years. In the broader culture, it seems every other day another news piece, documentary, or podcast comes out detailing scandal in religious leadership or failure in organizational cultures. We are all too aware of the brokenness of our leaders, and yet we nevertheless still recognize that healthy leadership remains important.
So, how do we become more reflexive in our attempts to embody healthy leadership, to become more aware of the dynamics that shape toxicity, and to intentionally form ourselves as leaders in the way of Jesus?
Woodward draws from his leadership experience in church planting and missional network leadership to reflect on these urgent, but also perennially important, questions.
Walter Wink, William Stringfellow, and Rene Girard are his main conversations partners in his examination of power and imitation. Each of their analyses brings helpful dimensions to the analysis. Amidst the toxicity of social media, Woodward highlights especially the tool of Girardian mimetic theory to help us as followers of Jesus discern how we too easily become drawn into rivalry, zero-sum games of agonistic struggle. I see this as increasingly becoming a necessary and strategic way of discipling the Christian mind. (As a follow-up, I would recommend another work i recently read, which connects Creation ex Nihilo to Girard - "The Difference Nothing Makes" by BRoam Robinette)
I also appreciated JR's drawing from Matthew Croasmun's work on emergence theory and Sin, which to me provides an integrated picture of how individual choices, systems, and spiritual powers coalesce to form emergent realities that go on to exercise downward agency to form us.
Aside from the book being a treasure trove of rich theology, biblical reflections, and spiritual exemplars (Oscar Romero!), it reflects the thoughts of a Godly man. JR has sought to embody these lessons, and, I believe and pray, will continue to do so. Even as he seeks to continue to use gifts as a dynamic missional catalyst for the Kingdom of God, he recognizes that it is his Jesus-shaped, kenotic character that is most important. I am personally indebted to JR (including for introducing me to some theologians who have helped me make important paradifm shifts), and I am thankful for the opportunity to know him and be of mutual encouragement from a distance.
Critical feedback: Though this may lay outside the scope of the book, increasingly I believe Christian leadership training must help form leaders to discern the contours of Racial capitalism/neoliberalism in order to faithfully resist such formative (and mimetic!) systems, so that we do not naively become carried along within their powerful formational currents while assuming we are forming people in the image of Christ. This book already covered a lot of ground, but given its discussion of systems and some discussion of race, I would include here a nod towards Jonathan Tran's Asian Americans and the Spirit of Racial Capitalism and Rodney Clapp's recent book on Neoliberalism.
The humble life of our human God Jesus will never cease to be the astounding cure for our leadership ills (and every other ill, for that matter), and so continuing reflection on his kenotic leadership will always be essential. May this book gain a wide readership, and may it be a part of drawing people to participate in and imitate the self-giving, humble life of God, who makes us into leaders who can honestly and faithfully invite others to imitate us as we imitate Christ.
June 30, 2024
Although I acquired this book as part of a GoodReads giveaway, I have made an effort not to let the freebie cloud my judgment about it.
In this book, Dr. Woodward expounds on the principalities and powers discussed in New Testament books such as Ephesians and applies his conclusions to the church and missional leadership. I am a layman, an engineer, and not involved in church leadership. So, while I agree with some of his conclusions and disagree with others, my review will focus on the pew-level as well as layman application.
For various reasons, I am writing this review several weeks after finishing the book, and the most memorable part of it deals with the nature of the principalities and powers. Dr. Woodward draws heavily on Walter Wink’s powers trilogy:
• Naming the Powers
• Unmasking the Powers
• Engaging the Powers
My interest having been piqued by Dr. Woodward, I have acquired these books but haven’t yet been able to read them. At any rate, he doesn’t consider the powers to be inherently demonic; rather, he sees them as legitimate functions, power structures, etc., some of which are ordained by God, that have been corrupted in a demonic way and that they will be redeemed when all things are placed in subjection under Christ’s feet (Eph. 1:22, NASB). I can’t help thinking about Jesus’ rebuke to the Pharisees, “The Sabbath was made for man, and not man for the Sabbath” (Mk. 2:27, NASB). Interestingly enough, I remember a Christian author praising the Pharisees for having made bright-line boundaries to help the people avoid stumbling into sin. Makes sense to me! Why had God been too stupid to come up with such a wise solution? My sarcasm notwithstanding, I have to wonder if the Pharisees honestly thought they were doing the work of God when they set boundaries beyond those set by God. My own experience is that Christians are far too often imitators of the Pharisees and not of Christ when it comes to this matter. Someone abuses X, and the solution is not to rightly condemn the abuse as sin, something that usually can be backed easily up with scripture, but to declare X to be the sin, splitting hairs and twisting the scriptures to justify the position. In doing this, we give a “thus says the Lord” imprimatur to “thus says man.” When we do this, how are we not like the Pharisees? When we do this, are we corrupting a principality?
Another example comes to mind from my time in the Navy. There were two annual charitable giving campaigns, Combined Federal Campaign and the Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society. Charitable giving is a good thing, but it can become demonic if done for the wrong reasons. Because part of a leader’s performance evaluation was based on the participation of his subordinates in these giving campaigns, these campaigns ceased to be centered around helping people and more about looking good. Consider an incident that happened during my ship’s first deployment.
Contributions to the Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society had not met the expectations of the executive officer (XO), and he decided that sterner measures than persuasion were in order. The ship maintained a tv station with movies, etc., for programming. There was also a time block for the senior leadership to communicate with the crew, and the XO used that time block to lay down the law. He expressed his displeasure with the level of giving, especially that of Reactor and Engineering Departments. Until further notice, only Care Bears would be aired. The only exception was one time block per day. The department with the highest level of giving for the day would win the privilege of choosing the movie to be shown in that time block. On the next day, the winner was Reactor Department, and their representative went to the studio to announce Reactor’s choice. On the air, he was asked, “What movie does Reactor want to watch today?”
“Reactor wants to watch Care Bears.”
“Are you sure?”
“Yes, Reactor wants to watch Care Bears.”
This scene was repeated for the next two or three days. Finally, the XO returned the programming to movies but added a second tv channel that would air only Care Bears for Reactor Department because Reactor liked Care Bears so much.
To maintain its forward deployed status, the Navy utilizes a deployment cycle: workups, deployment, shipyard period, repeat. I reported aboard during the subsequent shipyard period and was not there for this incident. Even so, I got an earful about the incident, and Reactor Department was still talking about it when I went on separation leave four years later. I would like to think that the XO learned something, but subsequent events suggest that the only lesson he learned was to be more careful about setting up the ground rules. By the shipyard period, morale had tanked, and he instituted Pride and Professionalism Wednesday. No one could board or depart the ship between a certain time in the morning and 7 PM in the evening (if I remember correctly) unless he was in a dress uniform. Those of us who didn’t want to run around in an easily dirtied dress uniform would often wait until 7 PM, when we could leave wearing civilian clothes. At least that was the plan, but the XO consistently ordered fire drills to commence at 7 PM. During fire drills, the brow was secured; no one got on or off the ship until the fire drill was over. Those who decided to leave at 7 PM in civilian clothes in compliance with the XO’s rules learned that the XO would bully them until they engaged in the voluntary behavior he wanted. Was the XO within his authority to do this? Yes. Would this achieve his goal of raising morale? No just no, but hell no! When I think back to this, I cannot help being reminded of a C.S. Lewis quote:
“Of all tyrannies, a tyranny sincerely exercised for the good of its victims may be the most oppressive. It would be better to live under robber barons than under omnipotent moral busybodies. The robber baron's cruelty may sometimes sleep, his cupidity may at some point be satiated; but those who torment us for our own good will torment us without end for they do so with the approval of their own conscience.”
That more or less sums up the XO in a nutshell. What he did had the approval of his conscience. When the CO or XO transfers off a ship, it was customary for each department to give him a parting gift. Reactor Department’s gift was a Care Bear’s video tap, handed to the XO by the department’s senior enlisted advisor, a Master Chief Petty Officer (E-9). Up to that point, the XO could deceive himself, thinking that resistance to his bullying came from malcontented blue shirts (E1-E6), but now he saw for the first time that he had the disapproval of fellow khakis (E-7 up and officers). According to the grapevine, he almost cried. I hope he finally learned a much-needed lesson.
I relate this account because it is an example of good things, charitable giving and pride in one’s work, being twisted into something unrecognizable with the approval of someone’s own conscience. The human heart is so corrupt and geared to self-deception that we can turn something good into something demonic without even realizing what we are doing. In theory, those of us who are Christians be better equipped to spot and sidestep such pitfalls on account of the doctrine of sin. We know, or should know, that our hearts are corrupt, that we are prone to sin, that while we are justified by Christ’s atoning death on the cross, the sanctification process and the redeeming of our minds is a life-long effort that ends when and only when we take our last breath.
As I stated at the beginning of the review, I don’t agree with everything Dr. Woodward has to say in this book. At the same time, he gave me a lot to think about, and I hope it reminds fellow Christians to watch their step. “Therefore let him who thinks he stands take heed that he does not fall” (1 Cor. 10:12, NASB).
In this book, Dr. Woodward expounds on the principalities and powers discussed in New Testament books such as Ephesians and applies his conclusions to the church and missional leadership. I am a layman, an engineer, and not involved in church leadership. So, while I agree with some of his conclusions and disagree with others, my review will focus on the pew-level as well as layman application.
For various reasons, I am writing this review several weeks after finishing the book, and the most memorable part of it deals with the nature of the principalities and powers. Dr. Woodward draws heavily on Walter Wink’s powers trilogy:
• Naming the Powers
• Unmasking the Powers
• Engaging the Powers
My interest having been piqued by Dr. Woodward, I have acquired these books but haven’t yet been able to read them. At any rate, he doesn’t consider the powers to be inherently demonic; rather, he sees them as legitimate functions, power structures, etc., some of which are ordained by God, that have been corrupted in a demonic way and that they will be redeemed when all things are placed in subjection under Christ’s feet (Eph. 1:22, NASB). I can’t help thinking about Jesus’ rebuke to the Pharisees, “The Sabbath was made for man, and not man for the Sabbath” (Mk. 2:27, NASB). Interestingly enough, I remember a Christian author praising the Pharisees for having made bright-line boundaries to help the people avoid stumbling into sin. Makes sense to me! Why had God been too stupid to come up with such a wise solution? My sarcasm notwithstanding, I have to wonder if the Pharisees honestly thought they were doing the work of God when they set boundaries beyond those set by God. My own experience is that Christians are far too often imitators of the Pharisees and not of Christ when it comes to this matter. Someone abuses X, and the solution is not to rightly condemn the abuse as sin, something that usually can be backed easily up with scripture, but to declare X to be the sin, splitting hairs and twisting the scriptures to justify the position. In doing this, we give a “thus says the Lord” imprimatur to “thus says man.” When we do this, how are we not like the Pharisees? When we do this, are we corrupting a principality?
Another example comes to mind from my time in the Navy. There were two annual charitable giving campaigns, Combined Federal Campaign and the Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society. Charitable giving is a good thing, but it can become demonic if done for the wrong reasons. Because part of a leader’s performance evaluation was based on the participation of his subordinates in these giving campaigns, these campaigns ceased to be centered around helping people and more about looking good. Consider an incident that happened during my ship’s first deployment.
Contributions to the Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society had not met the expectations of the executive officer (XO), and he decided that sterner measures than persuasion were in order. The ship maintained a tv station with movies, etc., for programming. There was also a time block for the senior leadership to communicate with the crew, and the XO used that time block to lay down the law. He expressed his displeasure with the level of giving, especially that of Reactor and Engineering Departments. Until further notice, only Care Bears would be aired. The only exception was one time block per day. The department with the highest level of giving for the day would win the privilege of choosing the movie to be shown in that time block. On the next day, the winner was Reactor Department, and their representative went to the studio to announce Reactor’s choice. On the air, he was asked, “What movie does Reactor want to watch today?”
“Reactor wants to watch Care Bears.”
“Are you sure?”
“Yes, Reactor wants to watch Care Bears.”
This scene was repeated for the next two or three days. Finally, the XO returned the programming to movies but added a second tv channel that would air only Care Bears for Reactor Department because Reactor liked Care Bears so much.
To maintain its forward deployed status, the Navy utilizes a deployment cycle: workups, deployment, shipyard period, repeat. I reported aboard during the subsequent shipyard period and was not there for this incident. Even so, I got an earful about the incident, and Reactor Department was still talking about it when I went on separation leave four years later. I would like to think that the XO learned something, but subsequent events suggest that the only lesson he learned was to be more careful about setting up the ground rules. By the shipyard period, morale had tanked, and he instituted Pride and Professionalism Wednesday. No one could board or depart the ship between a certain time in the morning and 7 PM in the evening (if I remember correctly) unless he was in a dress uniform. Those of us who didn’t want to run around in an easily dirtied dress uniform would often wait until 7 PM, when we could leave wearing civilian clothes. At least that was the plan, but the XO consistently ordered fire drills to commence at 7 PM. During fire drills, the brow was secured; no one got on or off the ship until the fire drill was over. Those who decided to leave at 7 PM in civilian clothes in compliance with the XO’s rules learned that the XO would bully them until they engaged in the voluntary behavior he wanted. Was the XO within his authority to do this? Yes. Would this achieve his goal of raising morale? No just no, but hell no! When I think back to this, I cannot help being reminded of a C.S. Lewis quote:
“Of all tyrannies, a tyranny sincerely exercised for the good of its victims may be the most oppressive. It would be better to live under robber barons than under omnipotent moral busybodies. The robber baron's cruelty may sometimes sleep, his cupidity may at some point be satiated; but those who torment us for our own good will torment us without end for they do so with the approval of their own conscience.”
That more or less sums up the XO in a nutshell. What he did had the approval of his conscience. When the CO or XO transfers off a ship, it was customary for each department to give him a parting gift. Reactor Department’s gift was a Care Bear’s video tap, handed to the XO by the department’s senior enlisted advisor, a Master Chief Petty Officer (E-9). Up to that point, the XO could deceive himself, thinking that resistance to his bullying came from malcontented blue shirts (E1-E6), but now he saw for the first time that he had the disapproval of fellow khakis (E-7 up and officers). According to the grapevine, he almost cried. I hope he finally learned a much-needed lesson.
I relate this account because it is an example of good things, charitable giving and pride in one’s work, being twisted into something unrecognizable with the approval of someone’s own conscience. The human heart is so corrupt and geared to self-deception that we can turn something good into something demonic without even realizing what we are doing. In theory, those of us who are Christians be better equipped to spot and sidestep such pitfalls on account of the doctrine of sin. We know, or should know, that our hearts are corrupt, that we are prone to sin, that while we are justified by Christ’s atoning death on the cross, the sanctification process and the redeeming of our minds is a life-long effort that ends when and only when we take our last breath.
As I stated at the beginning of the review, I don’t agree with everything Dr. Woodward has to say in this book. At the same time, he gave me a lot to think about, and I hope it reminds fellow Christians to watch their step. “Therefore let him who thinks he stands take heed that he does not fall” (1 Cor. 10:12, NASB).
June 2, 2023
I am pleased to recommend this latest book from JR Woodward. It is unlike any leadership book you may have read. It should be required reading for anyone in preparation for the ministry.
While I have witnessed some spectacular failures of congregational leadership in my 40 years of ministry, JR makes the sobering observation that "domineering leadership is not a new issue--it is old as sin."
Woodward says that his "hope is that this book will offer a more comprehensive missiological understanding of the problem of domineering leadership." I would argue that its impact is not limited to missional church leaders, but includes Christian discipleship in general, and provides insights to leadership in any arena.
This is not light reading. JR treats the issue with the gravity it deserves. He summons an intimidating array of dialogue partners to the task. There are three primary interlocutors: Walter Wink, Rene Girard, and William Stringfellow. The book is worth buying if for no other reason than the theological biographies of these giants and the accessible introductions (and critiques) to their work. If you need motivation to do the investment this book warrants, read Chapter 10 first.
Woodward makes creative (and critical) use of Wink, Girard, and Stringfellow. Wink contributes the understanding of Powers and principalities. Girard alerts us to the power of mimetic desire. Stringfellow warns how Powers and principalities seek to captivate leaders through image (identity), institution (praxis) and ideology (telos).
"Ultimately, the use or abuse of power is reflected in the spiritual battle between the fallen Powers of this world and the redemptive power of the Spirit for the heart, soul, and desires of the missional leaders." We imitate either the fallen Powers (and Satan) or Christ (and kenosis). Who we imitate determines what we incarnate. There is no neutral ground.
I received an advanced readers copy for objective review.
While I have witnessed some spectacular failures of congregational leadership in my 40 years of ministry, JR makes the sobering observation that "domineering leadership is not a new issue--it is old as sin."
Woodward says that his "hope is that this book will offer a more comprehensive missiological understanding of the problem of domineering leadership." I would argue that its impact is not limited to missional church leaders, but includes Christian discipleship in general, and provides insights to leadership in any arena.
This is not light reading. JR treats the issue with the gravity it deserves. He summons an intimidating array of dialogue partners to the task. There are three primary interlocutors: Walter Wink, Rene Girard, and William Stringfellow. The book is worth buying if for no other reason than the theological biographies of these giants and the accessible introductions (and critiques) to their work. If you need motivation to do the investment this book warrants, read Chapter 10 first.
Woodward makes creative (and critical) use of Wink, Girard, and Stringfellow. Wink contributes the understanding of Powers and principalities. Girard alerts us to the power of mimetic desire. Stringfellow warns how Powers and principalities seek to captivate leaders through image (identity), institution (praxis) and ideology (telos).
"Ultimately, the use or abuse of power is reflected in the spiritual battle between the fallen Powers of this world and the redemptive power of the Spirit for the heart, soul, and desires of the missional leaders." We imitate either the fallen Powers (and Satan) or Christ (and kenosis). Who we imitate determines what we incarnate. There is no neutral ground.
I received an advanced readers copy for objective review.
June 1, 2023
"The Scandal of Leadership: Unmasking the Powers of Domination in the Church" is an impressive book by JR Woodward that sheds light on the issue of power abuses in the church.
The book draws on insights from Scripture, as well as the scholarship of Walter Wink, René Girard, and William Stringfellow, to offer readers a robust theology of the Powers that are at play in the church. Through the use of positive examples of leaders such as Óscar Romero, and through the description of leadership that has left scandal after scandal in its wake, Woodward provides practical and actionable insights on how to address issues of power within the church.
What I appreciated most about this book is the emphasis on practicing a self-emptying spirituality. Woodward argues that this approach can help reshape our desires and enable us to become Christlike servants who can join God's mission in the world. By unmasking the Powers of domination, the book aims to equip missional leaders to work towards justice and reconciliation in the world.
Overall, "The Scandal of Leadership" is a well-written and thought-provoking book that offers a fresh perspective on an important issue within the church. I would highly recommend this book to anyone who is interested in learning more about power dynamics in the church and how to practice a self-emptying spirituality. Chapters 6 and 7 focusing on memetic theory in particular are unique contributions that challenge conventional leadership.
This book is well worth the time, and will shape ministry in positive ways for generations to come.
The book draws on insights from Scripture, as well as the scholarship of Walter Wink, René Girard, and William Stringfellow, to offer readers a robust theology of the Powers that are at play in the church. Through the use of positive examples of leaders such as Óscar Romero, and through the description of leadership that has left scandal after scandal in its wake, Woodward provides practical and actionable insights on how to address issues of power within the church.
What I appreciated most about this book is the emphasis on practicing a self-emptying spirituality. Woodward argues that this approach can help reshape our desires and enable us to become Christlike servants who can join God's mission in the world. By unmasking the Powers of domination, the book aims to equip missional leaders to work towards justice and reconciliation in the world.
Overall, "The Scandal of Leadership" is a well-written and thought-provoking book that offers a fresh perspective on an important issue within the church. I would highly recommend this book to anyone who is interested in learning more about power dynamics in the church and how to practice a self-emptying spirituality. Chapters 6 and 7 focusing on memetic theory in particular are unique contributions that challenge conventional leadership.
This book is well worth the time, and will shape ministry in positive ways for generations to come.
June 27, 2023
As a personal coach and spiritual director, I simply cannot recommend this book enough to You.
The author makes the compelling case, following the great René Girard, that we as human beings are captive to imitation through memetic (imitative) desire and builds this out into a workable framework for developing greater conscious awareness, becoming more authentic and present in your sphere of influence, as well as providing solid and worthy role-models to help the serious reader navigate her/his/their way towards this upgraded leadership model.
The “emerging future” (Otto C. Scharmer’s words) needs You: your “open mind” (to name), your “open heart” (to compassionately unmask), and your “open will” (to engage) the Powers and to be fully empowered to follow the resurrected Christ (model) with all your heart, soul and desires. Let’s GO … together towards an “in(ter)dividuality” at the personal level and a more radical non-violent unity-in-diversity communal body that engenders a more hopeful and ever more just tomorrow for the world and the people that “God so loves” to send the son not to judge but to preserve!
Don’t wait, buy your copies right now—that’s right… you will want at least two copies or more: one that you will be immersed in and at least one that you will be sharing with a close friend, family-member, fellow colleague, and/or apprentice—and give your leadership the necessary rise and upgrade that reading JR Woodward’s ‘The Scandal of Leadership’ will provide you and your circles of influence.
This book has officially become a friend of mine, and I can’t wait for you to meet one of my new best friends!
The author makes the compelling case, following the great René Girard, that we as human beings are captive to imitation through memetic (imitative) desire and builds this out into a workable framework for developing greater conscious awareness, becoming more authentic and present in your sphere of influence, as well as providing solid and worthy role-models to help the serious reader navigate her/his/their way towards this upgraded leadership model.
The “emerging future” (Otto C. Scharmer’s words) needs You: your “open mind” (to name), your “open heart” (to compassionately unmask), and your “open will” (to engage) the Powers and to be fully empowered to follow the resurrected Christ (model) with all your heart, soul and desires. Let’s GO … together towards an “in(ter)dividuality” at the personal level and a more radical non-violent unity-in-diversity communal body that engenders a more hopeful and ever more just tomorrow for the world and the people that “God so loves” to send the son not to judge but to preserve!
Don’t wait, buy your copies right now—that’s right… you will want at least two copies or more: one that you will be immersed in and at least one that you will be sharing with a close friend, family-member, fellow colleague, and/or apprentice—and give your leadership the necessary rise and upgrade that reading JR Woodward’s ‘The Scandal of Leadership’ will provide you and your circles of influence.
This book has officially become a friend of mine, and I can’t wait for you to meet one of my new best friends!
November 9, 2023
As an author and expert who's spent decades guiding leaders to build trust and belonging through cultural tools, I was intrigued by JR Woodward's bold title - "The Scandal of Leadership."
Indeed, leadership today often perpetuates division rather than healing it. We equate influence with control and greatness with extraction. But as Woodward reveals, genuine leadership requires sacrifice, service, and empowerment of others.
With insightful storytelling and deep spiritual grounding, Woodward exposes the "scandalous" gaps between Jesus' servant leadership model and our ego-driven constructs. He issues a prophetic call to rediscover the courage and empathy shown by Christ.
This book stretched and inspired me. I found its core message courageously countercultural yet perfectly timed for today's polarized climate. Woodward's vision for leadership as a loving influence provides hope.
For all leaders weary of transactional power dynamics, this book charts a path back to our highest calling - to be stewards of the potential in each person. Woodward's wisdom equips us to leave ego aside and lead through empathy.
The practical model reveals how focusing on belonging and restoration transforms culture. If you long to liberate your organization from fear-based leadership, this book offers guidance and grace for the journey. Woodward has articulated the leadership our fractured world needs.
Indeed, leadership today often perpetuates division rather than healing it. We equate influence with control and greatness with extraction. But as Woodward reveals, genuine leadership requires sacrifice, service, and empowerment of others.
With insightful storytelling and deep spiritual grounding, Woodward exposes the "scandalous" gaps between Jesus' servant leadership model and our ego-driven constructs. He issues a prophetic call to rediscover the courage and empathy shown by Christ.
This book stretched and inspired me. I found its core message courageously countercultural yet perfectly timed for today's polarized climate. Woodward's vision for leadership as a loving influence provides hope.
For all leaders weary of transactional power dynamics, this book charts a path back to our highest calling - to be stewards of the potential in each person. Woodward's wisdom equips us to leave ego aside and lead through empathy.
The practical model reveals how focusing on belonging and restoration transforms culture. If you long to liberate your organization from fear-based leadership, this book offers guidance and grace for the journey. Woodward has articulated the leadership our fractured world needs.
June 7, 2023
Dealing a Blow to the Enemy’s Game Plan
When domineering leadership raises its ugly head in the church, we typically assume a godly person has a personality disorder—default into looking the other way, or tallying it with the territory. JR Woodward is not satisfied with our shallow conclusions. In his treatise, The Scandal of Leadership, he calls us to unmask what lies behind that is wreaking havoc on the health and witness of Christ’s church. Domination is the playing card of the Powers relentlessly at work against the church. Abusing, dominating leaders do not “imitate” the way of Christ, but are tools of the enemy. Destruction lies in their wake.
This potent and timely book causes us to open our eyes. An impressionable read for every church leader in the position of power, Woodward offers what is missing from the church and needed today in our leadership picture: A theology of the Powers. Exposing error, he develops what it means for us to pursue imitation of Christ, as the guiding standard, and the way out. Well researched, organized around critiques of leading voices, and engaging the reader stylistically, I anticipate this book will be a major church leadership resource for both the academic schools and the pastoral fields.
When domineering leadership raises its ugly head in the church, we typically assume a godly person has a personality disorder—default into looking the other way, or tallying it with the territory. JR Woodward is not satisfied with our shallow conclusions. In his treatise, The Scandal of Leadership, he calls us to unmask what lies behind that is wreaking havoc on the health and witness of Christ’s church. Domination is the playing card of the Powers relentlessly at work against the church. Abusing, dominating leaders do not “imitate” the way of Christ, but are tools of the enemy. Destruction lies in their wake.
This potent and timely book causes us to open our eyes. An impressionable read for every church leader in the position of power, Woodward offers what is missing from the church and needed today in our leadership picture: A theology of the Powers. Exposing error, he develops what it means for us to pursue imitation of Christ, as the guiding standard, and the way out. Well researched, organized around critiques of leading voices, and engaging the reader stylistically, I anticipate this book will be a major church leadership resource for both the academic schools and the pastoral fields.
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