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Lead: 12 Gospel Principles for Leadership in the Church
The church has a leadership crisis. For every celebrity pastor exiting in the spotlight, there are hundreds of lesser known pastors leaving in the shadows. Why are so many pastors leaving the ministry?
Best-selling author Paul David Tripp suggests that lurking behind the failure of a pastor is a weak leadership community. Turning to the Scripture for guidance, Tripp presents listeners with 12 leadership-community principles necessary for a gospel-centered leadership model, making this an essential tool for anyone in church leadership. Here is a book with a message for the young and hopeful, as well as the experienced and weary — God’s abiding presence is your hope in ministry leadership.
“As is often said, everything rises or falls on leadership, including the family, the home, and the spiritual self. Dangerous Calling was eerily prophetic in its anticipation of the fall of a number of high-profile leaders, each one adding to the heartbreak of a church in a leadership crisis. I am grateful to see that conversation extended, and I hope many will not only read this book, but saturate themselves in the gospel it puts forward.” (J. D. Greear, President, Southern Baptist Convention; author, Not God Enough; Pastor, The Summit Church, Raleigh-Durham, North Carolina)
“Tripp’s books have been some of the most influential books in my life. Lead is no exception! You will find within the pages of this book practical, gospel-centered help as you lead and serve others.” (Jennie Allen, New York Times best-selling author, Get Out of Your Head; Founder,
“This book is the perfect complement to Tripp’s Dangerous Calling. The warning of ‘functional gospel amnesia’ captures so well why this book is needed. Leaders do not need more gimmicks. Leaders need more grace. They need more gospel.” (Daniel L. Akin, President, Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary)
Best-selling author Paul David Tripp suggests that lurking behind the failure of a pastor is a weak leadership community. Turning to the Scripture for guidance, Tripp presents listeners with 12 leadership-community principles necessary for a gospel-centered leadership model, making this an essential tool for anyone in church leadership. Here is a book with a message for the young and hopeful, as well as the experienced and weary — God’s abiding presence is your hope in ministry leadership.
“As is often said, everything rises or falls on leadership, including the family, the home, and the spiritual self. Dangerous Calling was eerily prophetic in its anticipation of the fall of a number of high-profile leaders, each one adding to the heartbreak of a church in a leadership crisis. I am grateful to see that conversation extended, and I hope many will not only read this book, but saturate themselves in the gospel it puts forward.” (J. D. Greear, President, Southern Baptist Convention; author, Not God Enough; Pastor, The Summit Church, Raleigh-Durham, North Carolina)
“Tripp’s books have been some of the most influential books in my life. Lead is no exception! You will find within the pages of this book practical, gospel-centered help as you lead and serve others.” (Jennie Allen, New York Times best-selling author, Get Out of Your Head; Founder,
“This book is the perfect complement to Tripp’s Dangerous Calling. The warning of ‘functional gospel amnesia’ captures so well why this book is needed. Leaders do not need more gimmicks. Leaders need more grace. They need more gospel.” (Daniel L. Akin, President, Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary)
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First published September 15, 2020
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About the author
Paul David Tripp
133 books1,423 followersPaul was born in Toledo, Ohio to Bob and Fae Tripp on November 12, 1950. Paul spent all of his growing years in Toledo until his college years when his parents moved to Southern California.
At Columbia Bible College from 1968-1972, (now Columbia International University) Paul majored in Bible and Christian Education. Although he had planned to be there for only two years and then to study journalism, Paul more and more felt like there was so much of the theology of Scripture that he did not understand, so he decided to go to seminary. Paul met Luella Jackson at College and they married in 1971. In 1971, Paul took his first pastoral position and has had a heart for the local church ever since. After college, Paul completed his Master of Divinity degree at the Reformed Episcopal Seminary (now known as Philadelphia Theological Seminary) in Philadelphia (1972-1975). It was during these days that Paul’s commitment to ministry solidified. After seminary, Paul was involved in planting a church in Scranton, Pennsylvania (1977-1987) where he also founded a Christian School. During the years in Scranton, Paul became involved in music, traveling with a band and writing worship songs. In Scranton, Paul became interested in biblical counseling and decided to enroll in the D.Min program in Biblical Counseling at Westminster Theological Seminary, Philadelphia. Paul then became a faculty member of the Christian Counseling and Education Foundation (CCEF) and a lecturer in biblical counseling at Westminster Theological Seminary, Philadelphia. Paul has also served as Visiting Professor at Southern Baptist Theological Seminary in Louisville, Kentucky.
In 2009, Paul joined the faculty of Redeemer Seminary (daughter school of Westminster) in Dallas, Texas as Professor of Pastoral Life and Care.[1]
Beginning in June, 2006, Paul became the President of Paul Tripp Ministries, a non-profit organization, whose mission statement is "Connecting the transforming power of Jesus Christ to everyday life." In addition to his current role as President of Paul Tripp Ministries, on January 1, 2007, Paul also became part of the pastoral staff at Tenth Presbyterian Church in Philadelphia, PA where he preached every Sunday evening and lead the Ministry to Center City through March, 2011 when he resigned due to the expanding time commitments needed at Paul Tripp Ministries.
Paul, Luella, and their four children moved to Philadelphia in 1987 and have lived there ever since. Paul is a prolific author and has written twelve books on Christian living which are sold internationally. Luella manages a large commercial art gallery in the city and Paul is very dedicated to painting as an avocation.[2] Paul’s driving passion is to help people understand how the gospel of the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ really does speak with practical hope into all the things they will face in this broken world. Paul is a pastor with a pastor’s heart, a gifted speaker, his journey taking him all over the world, an author of numerous books on practical Christian living, and a man who is hopelessly in love with Luella.
At Columbia Bible College from 1968-1972, (now Columbia International University) Paul majored in Bible and Christian Education. Although he had planned to be there for only two years and then to study journalism, Paul more and more felt like there was so much of the theology of Scripture that he did not understand, so he decided to go to seminary. Paul met Luella Jackson at College and they married in 1971. In 1971, Paul took his first pastoral position and has had a heart for the local church ever since. After college, Paul completed his Master of Divinity degree at the Reformed Episcopal Seminary (now known as Philadelphia Theological Seminary) in Philadelphia (1972-1975). It was during these days that Paul’s commitment to ministry solidified. After seminary, Paul was involved in planting a church in Scranton, Pennsylvania (1977-1987) where he also founded a Christian School. During the years in Scranton, Paul became involved in music, traveling with a band and writing worship songs. In Scranton, Paul became interested in biblical counseling and decided to enroll in the D.Min program in Biblical Counseling at Westminster Theological Seminary, Philadelphia. Paul then became a faculty member of the Christian Counseling and Education Foundation (CCEF) and a lecturer in biblical counseling at Westminster Theological Seminary, Philadelphia. Paul has also served as Visiting Professor at Southern Baptist Theological Seminary in Louisville, Kentucky.
In 2009, Paul joined the faculty of Redeemer Seminary (daughter school of Westminster) in Dallas, Texas as Professor of Pastoral Life and Care.[1]
Beginning in June, 2006, Paul became the President of Paul Tripp Ministries, a non-profit organization, whose mission statement is "Connecting the transforming power of Jesus Christ to everyday life." In addition to his current role as President of Paul Tripp Ministries, on January 1, 2007, Paul also became part of the pastoral staff at Tenth Presbyterian Church in Philadelphia, PA where he preached every Sunday evening and lead the Ministry to Center City through March, 2011 when he resigned due to the expanding time commitments needed at Paul Tripp Ministries.
Paul, Luella, and their four children moved to Philadelphia in 1987 and have lived there ever since. Paul is a prolific author and has written twelve books on Christian living which are sold internationally. Luella manages a large commercial art gallery in the city and Paul is very dedicated to painting as an avocation.[2] Paul’s driving passion is to help people understand how the gospel of the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ really does speak with practical hope into all the things they will face in this broken world. Paul is a pastor with a pastor’s heart, a gifted speaker, his journey taking him all over the world, an author of numerous books on practical Christian living, and a man who is hopelessly in love with Luella.
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November 24, 2025
Paul David Tripp has a special way of delivering a series of “gut-punches” to his readers. These deliberate blows are never meant to harm. Rather, the blows he delivers are meant to build up, encourage, and equip. Such is the case in his new book, Lead: 12 Gospel Principles for Leadership in the Church.
Dr. Tripp’s goal is to “propose a positive character model for local church or ministry leadership.” So he invites readers into the boxing ring for twelve rounds. Each round is focused on a particular subject that is ultimately informed by the gospel. The author writes, “The gospel, which is our hope in life and death, also sets the agenda for how we live, relate, and lead the ‘already’ of our conversation and the ‘not yet’ of our final home going.”
“Remember that the gospel of God’s grace teaches us that lasting change of heart and hands always takes place in the context of relationship, first with God and then with the people of God,” writes Tripp. This heart and passion beats throughout the book as the author relentlessly brings struggling readers back to their first love and a better understanding of the gospel.
The author writes as a churchman, a pastor, a theologian, and a biblical counselor. But he also writes as a fellow-pilgrim. He never throws “punches” from the cheap seats. Dr. Tripp is quick to admit his own weaknesses, hidden motivations, and sin. He along with all people desperately needs the gospel.
I challenge readers to enter the ring. Be prepared for a stringent workout. Be prepared for a few timely punches. When the final bell rings, you will be glad you took the challenge. And you will be better prepared and equipped to enter the real-life world of ministry.
Dr. Tripp’s goal is to “propose a positive character model for local church or ministry leadership.” So he invites readers into the boxing ring for twelve rounds. Each round is focused on a particular subject that is ultimately informed by the gospel. The author writes, “The gospel, which is our hope in life and death, also sets the agenda for how we live, relate, and lead the ‘already’ of our conversation and the ‘not yet’ of our final home going.”
“Remember that the gospel of God’s grace teaches us that lasting change of heart and hands always takes place in the context of relationship, first with God and then with the people of God,” writes Tripp. This heart and passion beats throughout the book as the author relentlessly brings struggling readers back to their first love and a better understanding of the gospel.
The author writes as a churchman, a pastor, a theologian, and a biblical counselor. But he also writes as a fellow-pilgrim. He never throws “punches” from the cheap seats. Dr. Tripp is quick to admit his own weaknesses, hidden motivations, and sin. He along with all people desperately needs the gospel.
I challenge readers to enter the ring. Be prepared for a stringent workout. Be prepared for a few timely punches. When the final bell rings, you will be glad you took the challenge. And you will be better prepared and equipped to enter the real-life world of ministry.
Read
October 6, 2021Sé líder de Paul David Tripp es un libro que definitivamente se sale del estilo de “libro de liderazgo” acostumbrado y se enfoca más en cómo el verdadero líder debe madurar en su carácter y cómo debe relacionarse con los demás bajo la gracia que ha recibido del Señor.
Lee la reseña completa en Coalición por el Evangelio.
Lee la reseña completa en Coalición por el Evangelio.
March 31, 2023
This book is deeply encouraging and challenging to any ministry leader. One of the best books on leadership I’ve read. Will be keeping this one close and will often refer back it.
April 13, 2024
Very good!
November 30, 2020
This book has become one of my top favorite books. I highly recommend reading it!
June 11, 2024
While reading this book, one cannot but feel that the author has a heart for pastors. A follow-up to the solid "Dangerous Calling" title that he published in 2012, this book overflows with practical, helpful principles for leaders in ministry.
I found myself agreeing over and over again with the truths that Tripp shared in this powerful and poignant book on 12 gospel principles for leadership in the church.
In nearly every chapter Tripp asks questions of the "leadership community" that should be in place in every church. He shows through personal illustrations and anecotes how the leadership community in many churches has failed the church and the pastor who leads. He doesn't necessarily lay the blame at their feet when pastors go awry, but often infers that we could do better in our churches surrounding our pastors and building the type of culture that is healthier for the church AND the pastor. Throughout each chapter, Tripp asks important questions concerning the state of the leadership community in churches.
Although I found myself underlining phrases, circling important points, and making comments all throughout the book, the chapter on Restoration (chapter 10) resonated with me. Why? Perhaps it is because we (the church and church leadership) don't do restoration well. Tripp argues passionately and succinctly that if a leadership community is formed by the gospel, it will always be committed to a lifestyle of fresh starts and new beginnings.
Here are some truths that spoke to me from the chapter on Restoration:
Chapter 10 - Restoration
"Even if sin necessitates a leader's removal from his position and ministry duties, turning toward him with grace is always right. We sinners don't just need forgiving grace; we need reconciling grace. And we don't just need reconciling grace; we need restoring grace. And we don't just need restoring grace; we need delivering grace." p. 179
"Ministry effectiveness is not to be confused with cleanness of heart. What you know about the public persona of a leader does not mean you do not need to be concerned about his private life." p. 181
"If the sin of a leader is revealed to the leadership community that surrounds him, it is because God loves that leader and wants it to be revealed." p. 181
"If all God wanted to do was judge people, he wouldn't warn them first. God's warning is a beautiful aspect of his grace. Remember, the way the gospel works is that we have to hear the bad news before the good news will mean anything to us." p. 184
"Jonah's identity statement (in Jonah 1:9) is interesting. By cultural identity he is a God fearer, but in terms of his response to God's call, he doesn't act like someone who fears the Lord. In this way, his words confront us with the difference that may exist in a leader between his confessional theology and his functional theology." p. 185
"You can see that some kind of turning took place in Jonah, because the man who was so intent on escaping God's presence began praying to the very one he was hoping to escape. In the verses that follow, we can eavesdrop on that deep-sea prayer and get a window into Jonah's heart. Verse 10 clues us in to what God had in mind for Jonah through his appointed instrument, the fish: "The LORD spoke to the fish, and it vomited Jonah out upon the dry land." Yes, it is true: sometimes restorative grace looks like vomit! Restorative grace doesn't always look nice and attractive or feel warm and affirming but, rather, is uncomfortable and hard.
The Jonah narrative preaches to us the heart of restoration. Restoration is much deeper and more foundational than doing what is necessary to quickly get a leader back into his ministry position. Surely Jonah needed much more than that, as the rest of the story makes clear. The heart of God's restorative grace is his zeal to rescue us from us. Jonah needed more than a rescue from the storm, the fish, or the people of Nineveh. Jonah's problem was Jonah, so to be restored to God and his call, Jonah needed to be free from his bondage to himself."
p. 186
"Restoration never minimizes the damaging reality of sin, but while it takes sin seriously, it also believes in the power of restorative grace. It believes in God's power to turn a heart and rebuild a life." p. 189
"May we remember, with honesty and humility of heart, that the grace we extend to others is always the grace we also need ourselves." p. 190
-------------------------------------------------
I highly recommend this book to every single person in ministry including those in the church leadership community (deacons, elders, staff, etc)!
I found myself agreeing over and over again with the truths that Tripp shared in this powerful and poignant book on 12 gospel principles for leadership in the church.
In nearly every chapter Tripp asks questions of the "leadership community" that should be in place in every church. He shows through personal illustrations and anecotes how the leadership community in many churches has failed the church and the pastor who leads. He doesn't necessarily lay the blame at their feet when pastors go awry, but often infers that we could do better in our churches surrounding our pastors and building the type of culture that is healthier for the church AND the pastor. Throughout each chapter, Tripp asks important questions concerning the state of the leadership community in churches.
Although I found myself underlining phrases, circling important points, and making comments all throughout the book, the chapter on Restoration (chapter 10) resonated with me. Why? Perhaps it is because we (the church and church leadership) don't do restoration well. Tripp argues passionately and succinctly that if a leadership community is formed by the gospel, it will always be committed to a lifestyle of fresh starts and new beginnings.
Here are some truths that spoke to me from the chapter on Restoration:
Chapter 10 - Restoration
"Even if sin necessitates a leader's removal from his position and ministry duties, turning toward him with grace is always right. We sinners don't just need forgiving grace; we need reconciling grace. And we don't just need reconciling grace; we need restoring grace. And we don't just need restoring grace; we need delivering grace." p. 179
"Ministry effectiveness is not to be confused with cleanness of heart. What you know about the public persona of a leader does not mean you do not need to be concerned about his private life." p. 181
"If the sin of a leader is revealed to the leadership community that surrounds him, it is because God loves that leader and wants it to be revealed." p. 181
"If all God wanted to do was judge people, he wouldn't warn them first. God's warning is a beautiful aspect of his grace. Remember, the way the gospel works is that we have to hear the bad news before the good news will mean anything to us." p. 184
"Jonah's identity statement (in Jonah 1:9) is interesting. By cultural identity he is a God fearer, but in terms of his response to God's call, he doesn't act like someone who fears the Lord. In this way, his words confront us with the difference that may exist in a leader between his confessional theology and his functional theology." p. 185
"You can see that some kind of turning took place in Jonah, because the man who was so intent on escaping God's presence began praying to the very one he was hoping to escape. In the verses that follow, we can eavesdrop on that deep-sea prayer and get a window into Jonah's heart. Verse 10 clues us in to what God had in mind for Jonah through his appointed instrument, the fish: "The LORD spoke to the fish, and it vomited Jonah out upon the dry land." Yes, it is true: sometimes restorative grace looks like vomit! Restorative grace doesn't always look nice and attractive or feel warm and affirming but, rather, is uncomfortable and hard.
The Jonah narrative preaches to us the heart of restoration. Restoration is much deeper and more foundational than doing what is necessary to quickly get a leader back into his ministry position. Surely Jonah needed much more than that, as the rest of the story makes clear. The heart of God's restorative grace is his zeal to rescue us from us. Jonah needed more than a rescue from the storm, the fish, or the people of Nineveh. Jonah's problem was Jonah, so to be restored to God and his call, Jonah needed to be free from his bondage to himself."
p. 186
"Restoration never minimizes the damaging reality of sin, but while it takes sin seriously, it also believes in the power of restorative grace. It believes in God's power to turn a heart and rebuild a life." p. 189
"May we remember, with honesty and humility of heart, that the grace we extend to others is always the grace we also need ourselves." p. 190
-------------------------------------------------
I highly recommend this book to every single person in ministry including those in the church leadership community (deacons, elders, staff, etc)!
April 5, 2021
It’s always good to read a Christian leadership book that is more about applying the gospel than applying business practices. It’s gospel saturated and practically minded.
December 31, 2024
This is a great book that reminds Christian leaders that the goal of their leadership is the gospel of Jesus Christ, and that the greatest asset in their life and ministry is that very same. Tripp picks out 12 helpful topics that sometimes overlap to remind us of where we would find our weaknesses and strength, providing great reflections to help us keep looking to Jesus, rather than our ministry itself, for our identity and character etc. "This book is not about the strategic work of the ministry leadership community but about protecting and preserving its spiritual depth so it may do its work with long-term fruitfulness. Really, this book is about the Lord of the church, about his love for the ambassadors he has called to represent him, and how he meets their every need with glorious and faithful grace."
He also identifies how essential it is for leaders to be part of a team steeped in gospel culture, who will be willing to mutually identify, encourage, correct, and rebuke where needed. Particularly striking chapters reminded me that leadership involves spiritual warfare and not to become complacent, and that we serve as ambassadors of Christ's reconciliation and thus ought to seek restoration of others - particularly counter to the cancel-culture of our present day. Although a couple of points felt over-laboured, and occasionally the author's awkward use of alliteration and lists can be a distraction, I would recommend this as a great reflection and review for all Christians, especially those who are in or would take up leadership positions
He also identifies how essential it is for leaders to be part of a team steeped in gospel culture, who will be willing to mutually identify, encourage, correct, and rebuke where needed. Particularly striking chapters reminded me that leadership involves spiritual warfare and not to become complacent, and that we serve as ambassadors of Christ's reconciliation and thus ought to seek restoration of others - particularly counter to the cancel-culture of our present day. Although a couple of points felt over-laboured, and occasionally the author's awkward use of alliteration and lists can be a distraction, I would recommend this as a great reflection and review for all Christians, especially those who are in or would take up leadership positions
April 11, 2023
I will read this book once per year. Probably the most helpful books on Christian leadership as Paul dissects our hearts abs bring us to the heard of the problem in our leadership. The problem of the heart.
December 28, 2024
Our Executive Leadership Team walked through Paul David Tripp’s “Lead” together and were enormously blessed by Tripp’s guidance. The experience of reading the book together also made the book that much better as I benefited from pressing into our team’s hearts and having them press into mine.
Tripp’s “Lead” is similar in tone and content to “Dangerous Calling,” although I found it more irenic and pastoral in tone. Tripp navigates twelve principles: achievement, gospel, limits, balance, character, war, servants, candor, identity, restoration, longevity, and presence. A glance at that list could give you the impression that the book is scatter shot, but actually Tripp is laser-focused on two recurring themes in “Lead”: character and community. He asks simply, "Is your leadership community a thankful, humble, and needy praying community?"
Tripp is concerned about the drift of leaders to walk alone and to rely on gifting. “Lead” is an extended fatherly word to pastors to press into their leadership community with vulnerable honesty. Tripp warns, "Lack of openness to the pastoral care and concern of fellow leaders exposes you to danger. Surrounding yourself with leaders who are no longer willing or are too fearful to challenge and confront you is to leave yourself exposed." Later, he encourages the practice of confession. He says, "Confessing communities tend to be worshiping communities. Confessing communities tend to be praying communities."
You’re not going to find principles or a playbook for organizational leadership in Tripp’s book. Neither are you going to find much about preaching or other pastoral duties. You’ll need to go elsewhere for those resources. Instead, Tripp has trimmed away all non-essentials and pressed into the core of what it takes to run the race of pastoral ministry well. Our pastoral ministry flows out of our relationship with Christ and our identity grounded in him. Tripp says, "Vertical amnesia always leads to identity confusion."
My only critique is that from time to time Tripp can be a bit overly harsh and even patronizing. Unlike “Dangerous Calling” where it felt like Tripp tended to expect the worst of his reader, “Lead” was much more charitable and Tripp was at his best-generous and pastoral.
I would encourage pastors and elders to read this together. You’ll be blessed and exhorted by a loving father in the faith.
For more reviews see thebeehive.live.
Tripp’s “Lead” is similar in tone and content to “Dangerous Calling,” although I found it more irenic and pastoral in tone. Tripp navigates twelve principles: achievement, gospel, limits, balance, character, war, servants, candor, identity, restoration, longevity, and presence. A glance at that list could give you the impression that the book is scatter shot, but actually Tripp is laser-focused on two recurring themes in “Lead”: character and community. He asks simply, "Is your leadership community a thankful, humble, and needy praying community?"
Tripp is concerned about the drift of leaders to walk alone and to rely on gifting. “Lead” is an extended fatherly word to pastors to press into their leadership community with vulnerable honesty. Tripp warns, "Lack of openness to the pastoral care and concern of fellow leaders exposes you to danger. Surrounding yourself with leaders who are no longer willing or are too fearful to challenge and confront you is to leave yourself exposed." Later, he encourages the practice of confession. He says, "Confessing communities tend to be worshiping communities. Confessing communities tend to be praying communities."
You’re not going to find principles or a playbook for organizational leadership in Tripp’s book. Neither are you going to find much about preaching or other pastoral duties. You’ll need to go elsewhere for those resources. Instead, Tripp has trimmed away all non-essentials and pressed into the core of what it takes to run the race of pastoral ministry well. Our pastoral ministry flows out of our relationship with Christ and our identity grounded in him. Tripp says, "Vertical amnesia always leads to identity confusion."
My only critique is that from time to time Tripp can be a bit overly harsh and even patronizing. Unlike “Dangerous Calling” where it felt like Tripp tended to expect the worst of his reader, “Lead” was much more charitable and Tripp was at his best-generous and pastoral.
I would encourage pastors and elders to read this together. You’ll be blessed and exhorted by a loving father in the faith.
For more reviews see thebeehive.live.
September 2, 2021
Leí este libro con calma y paciencia. Es un libro que de entrada llegas con una idea de que leerás algunas verdades repetidas sobre liderazgo , pero el autor te sorprende.
El autor aborda el tema del liderazgo desde una perspectiva diferente. Hay una frase recurrente en el libro que más o menos dice: existe actualmente una gran diferencia entre nuestra fe confesional y nuestra fe funcional creando una dicotomía de fe que afecta al cuerpo de Cristo.
Este es un escrito de un líder maduro que se sienta y abre su corazón con líderes jóvenes o que necesitan ayuda. No adorna o se va por el camino fácil, sino que trata los problemas de liderazgo desde la raíz de la experiencia.
De una manera simple y directa plantea 12 principios que deben moldear al líder y aquellos que lideran con el, es decir un liderazgo en comunidad. Dicho esto, mucho del enfoque de este libro va dirigido a pastores o líderes que lideran con otros. ¿Quiere decir que si no estás en una posición de liderazgo cómo está no debes leerlo? No necesariamente, sino que muchas aplicaciones, de hecho casi todas, no podrás ponerla en práctica.
Personalmente creo 4 capítulos o principios se destacan y sobresalen en este libro. Entiendo que son el corazón del libro. Con esto no quiero decir que los otros capítulos/principios nos son importantes, pero estos 4 se destacan y sobresalen en un libro como este, dichos capítulos son: 3,4,5 y 8. Definitivamente los top del libro.
Dure justamente un mes leyendo el libro. Es de lectura fácil, pero quise ir despacio con la intención de aprender más allá que solo leer.
Recomiendo leer un capítulo y reflexionar antes de pasar al siguiente. Este material me motivó a mucha oración y definitivamente creo que más que una materia en seminarios o institutos, Liderazgo cristiano debería ser un curso en si mismo antes de cualquier persona asuma una posición. David mato a Goliat con la ayuda de Dios, luego de tener la experiencia con Dios de someter leones y osos.
Buen trabajo de Paul Tripp. Recomiendo esta lectura.
El autor aborda el tema del liderazgo desde una perspectiva diferente. Hay una frase recurrente en el libro que más o menos dice: existe actualmente una gran diferencia entre nuestra fe confesional y nuestra fe funcional creando una dicotomía de fe que afecta al cuerpo de Cristo.
Este es un escrito de un líder maduro que se sienta y abre su corazón con líderes jóvenes o que necesitan ayuda. No adorna o se va por el camino fácil, sino que trata los problemas de liderazgo desde la raíz de la experiencia.
De una manera simple y directa plantea 12 principios que deben moldear al líder y aquellos que lideran con el, es decir un liderazgo en comunidad. Dicho esto, mucho del enfoque de este libro va dirigido a pastores o líderes que lideran con otros. ¿Quiere decir que si no estás en una posición de liderazgo cómo está no debes leerlo? No necesariamente, sino que muchas aplicaciones, de hecho casi todas, no podrás ponerla en práctica.
Personalmente creo 4 capítulos o principios se destacan y sobresalen en este libro. Entiendo que son el corazón del libro. Con esto no quiero decir que los otros capítulos/principios nos son importantes, pero estos 4 se destacan y sobresalen en un libro como este, dichos capítulos son: 3,4,5 y 8. Definitivamente los top del libro.
Dure justamente un mes leyendo el libro. Es de lectura fácil, pero quise ir despacio con la intención de aprender más allá que solo leer.
Recomiendo leer un capítulo y reflexionar antes de pasar al siguiente. Este material me motivó a mucha oración y definitivamente creo que más que una materia en seminarios o institutos, Liderazgo cristiano debería ser un curso en si mismo antes de cualquier persona asuma una posición. David mato a Goliat con la ayuda de Dios, luego de tener la experiencia con Dios de someter leones y osos.
Buen trabajo de Paul Tripp. Recomiendo esta lectura.
April 11, 2023
Many books and blogs have been written bemoaning unhealthy, unbiblical cultures dominating church leadership. Few have been written with the aim of helping and even restoring leaders caught up in ungodly ways of thinking.
Tripp does just that, in applying gospel truths to the task of leading God's people. He writes to remind leaders of truths that they should know, and often teach others, and yet are so easy to forget for ourselves. The books exudes gentle, firm counsel from an older brother in the faith. Highly commend.
My only critique would be that while Tripp rightly focuses on the health of the leadership community, I think often overlooked is the role the church as a whole will play in preserving and guarding the health of its own leaders.
This is certainly a hopeful book. But I do think that it could also contribute to young, potential leaders hiding from taking the responsibility of leadership. There have been many books written lately about the spiritual dangers inherent in church leadership roles. I'd like some more reflecting on the privilege and joy of exercising authority for the good of others.
Tripp does just that, in applying gospel truths to the task of leading God's people. He writes to remind leaders of truths that they should know, and often teach others, and yet are so easy to forget for ourselves. The books exudes gentle, firm counsel from an older brother in the faith. Highly commend.
My only critique would be that while Tripp rightly focuses on the health of the leadership community, I think often overlooked is the role the church as a whole will play in preserving and guarding the health of its own leaders.
This is certainly a hopeful book. But I do think that it could also contribute to young, potential leaders hiding from taking the responsibility of leadership. There have been many books written lately about the spiritual dangers inherent in church leadership roles. I'd like some more reflecting on the privilege and joy of exercising authority for the good of others.
February 1, 2023
Again, as is true with Tripp, great message, below average delivery. He was way too long-winded, banal, repetitive, redundant, and he said the same thing in multiple ways. Read the section headings and you’ll be good.
December 16, 2024
For a while now I have had a thought floating around my mind that was unhelpful and borderline sinful: “why would I read Paul Tripp, he’s just a Walmart Tim Keller?…”
Not only was this an unhelpful thought, but it is just plain wrong. Tripp has written a number of extremely helpful books that I and many others have enjoyed, and that I would most definitely recommend as great resources.
One of the most talked about books I have heard of is his book ‘Dangerous Calling: Confronting the Unique Challenges of Pastoral Ministry’. This is a fantastic book on its own, and one of the ones I would recommend. However, this book I am now reviewing, is not only by far the best book Tripp has written, but now one of the best Christian books I have ever read.
If you don’t want to be confronted, then don’t read this book. If you don’t want to be challenged, then don’t read this book. If you don’t want to have your heart opened, dissected and pulled part as you turn each page…it’s simple. Don’t read this book.
But the truth is, Tripp is offering, nay calling every Christian leader to read this book, and I would add that most definitely every Christian leader should read this book, but more then that, every Christian should too.
I am a conservative highlighter. I like to highlight in books, I like to write notes, but I want it to be meaningful. The highest praise I can give this book is I wanted to treat it like a colouring book. I wanted to highlight every page with colours upon colours. I had to constantly restrain myself for there was persistent wisdom flooding each page, endless practical and pastoral advice, love and grace.
Tripp breaks his book into 12 neat chapters, for as his subtitles alludes ‘12 Gospel Principles For Leadership in the Church’. Each chapter does just this, focusing on a Gospel Principle that speaks into leadership from a deeply biblical perspective. For example, the first’s chapter’s principle is ‘Achievement’ and it’s subtext is: “A ministry community whose time is controlled by doing the business of the church tends to be spiritually unhealthy”.
I could give an in-depth review of each chapter on its own, as each of them can stand alone in structure, wisdom and advice. However, the book feels intimately connected and interwoven as you move from chapter to chapter being challenged and confronted with both yourself, your failings and all, and with the gospel of grace!
I genuinely think and believe, that if you got this book to only read one chapter, any of the 12 chapters. It is well worth the purchase and will be absolutely edifying.
Even now writing this review I am struggling to come up with any weaknesses. Potentially some of the stories were long winded. Or maybe the summaries could have been more clear and concise. But it all feels so minimal.
This is by far my easiest and strongest recommendation to every Christian, most definitely if they are in or considering ministry leadership, but also for any and every committed church going Christian.
If you get a chance to only read one chapter, as I said above, any will be good and truly edifying…but I would recommend chapter 10: ‘Restoration’. It’s a beautiful chapter filled with more grace than I have seen in experienced pastors and large beating churches. It filled me with peace and made me tear up.
Read each chapter slowly. Breathe it in. And as painful as it might be (and it was for me) let your heart be cut, challenged and filled with grace by each and every page.
Not only was this an unhelpful thought, but it is just plain wrong. Tripp has written a number of extremely helpful books that I and many others have enjoyed, and that I would most definitely recommend as great resources.
One of the most talked about books I have heard of is his book ‘Dangerous Calling: Confronting the Unique Challenges of Pastoral Ministry’. This is a fantastic book on its own, and one of the ones I would recommend. However, this book I am now reviewing, is not only by far the best book Tripp has written, but now one of the best Christian books I have ever read.
If you don’t want to be confronted, then don’t read this book. If you don’t want to be challenged, then don’t read this book. If you don’t want to have your heart opened, dissected and pulled part as you turn each page…it’s simple. Don’t read this book.
But the truth is, Tripp is offering, nay calling every Christian leader to read this book, and I would add that most definitely every Christian leader should read this book, but more then that, every Christian should too.
I am a conservative highlighter. I like to highlight in books, I like to write notes, but I want it to be meaningful. The highest praise I can give this book is I wanted to treat it like a colouring book. I wanted to highlight every page with colours upon colours. I had to constantly restrain myself for there was persistent wisdom flooding each page, endless practical and pastoral advice, love and grace.
Tripp breaks his book into 12 neat chapters, for as his subtitles alludes ‘12 Gospel Principles For Leadership in the Church’. Each chapter does just this, focusing on a Gospel Principle that speaks into leadership from a deeply biblical perspective. For example, the first’s chapter’s principle is ‘Achievement’ and it’s subtext is: “A ministry community whose time is controlled by doing the business of the church tends to be spiritually unhealthy”.
I could give an in-depth review of each chapter on its own, as each of them can stand alone in structure, wisdom and advice. However, the book feels intimately connected and interwoven as you move from chapter to chapter being challenged and confronted with both yourself, your failings and all, and with the gospel of grace!
I genuinely think and believe, that if you got this book to only read one chapter, any of the 12 chapters. It is well worth the purchase and will be absolutely edifying.
Even now writing this review I am struggling to come up with any weaknesses. Potentially some of the stories were long winded. Or maybe the summaries could have been more clear and concise. But it all feels so minimal.
This is by far my easiest and strongest recommendation to every Christian, most definitely if they are in or considering ministry leadership, but also for any and every committed church going Christian.
If you get a chance to only read one chapter, as I said above, any will be good and truly edifying…but I would recommend chapter 10: ‘Restoration’. It’s a beautiful chapter filled with more grace than I have seen in experienced pastors and large beating churches. It filled me with peace and made me tear up.
Read each chapter slowly. Breathe it in. And as painful as it might be (and it was for me) let your heart be cut, challenged and filled with grace by each and every page.
November 8, 2021
Tripp applies gospel truths to ministry leadership teams. If Dangerous Calling: Confronting the Unique Challenges of Pastoral Ministry cautioned us about becoming Mark Driscoll, this book warns us about cultivating a leadership culture like Mars Hill. "Behind the failure of a pastor is a weak and failed leadership community" (17). But in reality, this book is about me because I have gospel amnesia. Encouraging and convicting at the same time.
April 16, 2024
I read this for a discipleship group. It was good! Can be a bit redundant feeling at times, but really only because Tripp emphasizes again and again and again that the power of the gospel is the only thing that can redeem and save us from ourselves. Sin is a powerful, blinding, intoxicating thing, but the gospel is stronger still. Indeed and always, Christ is our only hope. And He delights in coming to our rescue.
May our leadership communities truly reflect and embody the gospel truths that we preach, and not just say that they do. If the gospel is really true, and if we really believe it, it must change everything. It must.
Tripp writes with a genuine vulnerability and bleeding heart for the Church. He is a man convinced of transforming grace with the desperate desire to get everyone else to believe it too.
May our leadership communities truly reflect and embody the gospel truths that we preach, and not just say that they do. If the gospel is really true, and if we really believe it, it must change everything. It must.
Tripp writes with a genuine vulnerability and bleeding heart for the Church. He is a man convinced of transforming grace with the desperate desire to get everyone else to believe it too.
October 16, 2025
This is so good! Such a convicting read, and makes me want to be a better leader to my students! It was also so good for any leadership context, not just church leadership, so it was totally relatable for RUF!
If you read this, you need to read every chapter, but for me, the ones that were most convicting were the chapters on limits, balance, identity, and presence.
If you read this, you need to read every chapter, but for me, the ones that were most convicting were the chapters on limits, balance, identity, and presence.
January 24, 2021
The first half of the book was hard for me to read through. The second half was extremely captivating. As a whole it is rich in wisdom and gives practical truths for Christian leadership.
April 6, 2022
I read through this book for the leadership development program I am in and I did not expect to love this book so much. I found this book to be theologically deep, Gospel-centered, clear, and practical. I can’t really ask for more, right? Even if Tripp’s writing style is not necessarily your favorite, I’d challenge every Biblical leader to read this. I think it’s one of the best books on leadership for the Christian viewpoint.
May 5, 2021
Some really helpful and challenging thoughts on leadership. I love his honesty.
But, I would have liked to see how the gospel specifically answered each problem.
But, I would have liked to see how the gospel specifically answered each problem.
October 5, 2025
This book was good and definitely has helped me understand the importance of guarding your own soul within a ministry setting. Helpful but repetitive.
July 14, 2023
Learnt a lot from this book. Great read for anyone leading in any capacity
January 7, 2022
Might have just made its way to my top three books to read if you’re in ministry!!!! Tripp lays out 12 leadership principles, but is clear that this book is meant to point back to the Lord that sustains every ounce of character and leadership in us. Only wish I had read this sooner.
November 7, 2021
Lead is a book I would encourage any ministry leader and or team to read. Tripp’s principles are convicting and gentle. His experience with hardship and walking alongside others gives him an understanding and insight into deep seeded sin, hurt and pain when it comes to working in ministry. He also emphasizes the unexplainable joy we receive and partake in in working for the church. He discusses healthy boundaries and limits so that those who work in ministry continue to BE with God and not just DO for God. He discusses the pitfalls and footholds Satan would love to have on ministry leaders to suck the joy of following Jesus. It’s refreshing, honest, and challenging.
August 27, 2021
I am not much of a leadership book kind of person, but this one was so pastoral and gospel rich that I found myself both convicted and comforted on every page. It is definitely worth the read for ministry leaders young and old. Tripp is convinced that there are characteristics, or lack thereof, of leadership communities that actually pave the way for some of the falls of individual leaders that we witness so often. I want to be a part of the type of community that he puts forward in the book.
February 14, 2023
Surprisingly excellent. This book sat on my shelf for a few months. Then I felt compelled to read it. I'm so glad that I did. I was pleasantly surprised by the depth and the freshness of this book. Leadership is a topic I've read dozens of books on. My masters degree is focused on leadership. Even so, Tripp challenged me multiple times to be a better leader, and he exposed and expounded on areas that most books don't dare to go. This will be one of those books that I return to repeatedly.
September 26, 2020
This book addresses some unique aspects of leadership. Tripp is abstract in some places. The chapters on Candor, Restoration, and Longevity are my favorites. I definitely recommend this book if you enjoyed Dangerous Calling. This is a kind of companion volume to that book. Also, the design of this book is amazing! Super cool geometrical shapes to represent each principle. Bravo Crossway!
March 18, 2022
Is it possible that many of our priorities in church leadership are not actually what we should be focusing on at all? Tripp believes so, and he believes that it has been happening for years. He wrote this book to strengthen the ministry of church leaders by ensuring their depth of faith and maturity in Christ. I would dare say that this is a must-read for any pastoral staff or elder board.
October 11, 2022
This book is one that will not gain dust on my shelves but be one I read frequently as a call back to the heart of Christian leadership! It will be added to my reading requirements for interns and any leadership class I get to teach!
July 7, 2021
A book I’ll probably come back to often! For ANYONE in ministry, this book gave incredible insight, practicals, and biblical wisdom on how to lead.
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