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Lead Like Jesus: Lessons from the Greatest Leadership Role Model of All Time
"The more I read the Bible, the more evident it becomes that everything I have ever taught or written about effective leadership over the past 25 years, Jesus did to perfection. He is simply the greatest leadership role model of all time." Ken Blanchard
With simple yet profound principles from the life of Jesus, and dozens of stories and leadership examples from his life experiences, veteran author, speaker and leadership expert Ken Blanchard guides readers through the process of discovering how to lead like Jesus. He describes it as the process of aligning two internal domains-the heart and the head-and two external domains, the hands and the habits. These four dimensions of leadership form the outline for this very practical and transformational book.
With simple yet profound principles from the life of Jesus, and dozens of stories and leadership examples from his life experiences, veteran author, speaker and leadership expert Ken Blanchard guides readers through the process of discovering how to lead like Jesus. He describes it as the process of aligning two internal domains-the heart and the head-and two external domains, the hands and the habits. These four dimensions of leadership form the outline for this very practical and transformational book.
256 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 1979
532 people are currently reading
2337 people want to read
About the author
Kenneth H. Blanchard
314 books1,845 followersKen Blanchard, one of the most influential leadership experts in the world, is the coauthor of the iconic bestseller, The One Minute Manager, and 60 other books whose combined sales total more than 21 million copies. His groundbreaking works have been translated into more than 27 languages and in 2005 he was inducted into Amazon’s Hall of Fame as one of the top 25 bestselling authors of all time.
Ken is also the cofounder and chief spiritual officer of The Ken Blanchard Companies®, an international management training and consulting firm that he and his wife, Margie Blanchard, began in 1979 in San Diego, California.
When he’s not writing or speaking, Ken also spends time teaching students in the Master of Science in Executive Leadership Program at the University of San Diego. Ken can be found at www.kenblanchard.com.
Ken is also the cofounder and chief spiritual officer of The Ken Blanchard Companies®, an international management training and consulting firm that he and his wife, Margie Blanchard, began in 1979 in San Diego, California.
When he’s not writing or speaking, Ken also spends time teaching students in the Master of Science in Executive Leadership Program at the University of San Diego. Ken can be found at www.kenblanchard.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 121 reviews
April 17, 2023
I honestly don't know what the book is like because the audio version of Lead Like Jesus felt so distinctly audio. Like being at a series of TED Talks. It was recorded at a conference with a live audience. Each speaker touched on an aspect of Jesus' leadership style for about 8 minutes before handing it off to the next speaker. It made for an engaging read with lots of interesting nuggets.
I think I will need a physical copy to really make it sink in, but I enjoyed what I got.
I think I will need a physical copy to really make it sink in, but I enjoyed what I got.
March 28, 2020
I recently reread this book, which was the first, and I believe, still the best, treatment of servant leadership that I have read. The authors tell us that the world is in desperate need of a different leadership role model. Many leaders act as if the sheep are there only for the benefit of the shepherd. The good news is that there is a better way. There is one perfect leadership role model you can trust, and His name is Jesus.
The authors tell us that self-promotion (pride) and self-protection (fear) are the reigning motivations that dominate the leadership landscape today. But Jesus is clear about how He wants us to lead: He asks us to make a difference in our world by being effective servant leaders. For followers of Jesus, servant leadership isn’t an option; it’s a mandate.
The authors indicate that leadership is a process of influence. Anytime you seek to influence the thinking, behavior, or development of people in their personal or professional lives, you are taking on the role of a leader. The key question is going to be whether we seek to be served, or to be served.
The authors describe two primary types of leadership – life role and organizational. Life role leadership functions in enduring relationships (parent, spouse, sibling, friend, citizen), while organizational leadership involves positions and titles bestowed at the convenience of the organization to serve the perceived needs and culture of the organization. The most dramatic difference between life role leadership and organizational leadership involves the permanence of the relationships the leader is trying to influence. The authors tell us that most of the leadership that shapes our lives does not come from leaders with titles on an organization chart; it comes from leaders in our daily life role relationships.
Every leader must answer two critical questions: 1. Whose am I? 2. Who am I? The first question— “Whose am I?”—deals with choosing the primary authority and audience for your life. The second question— “Who am I?”—deals with your life purpose.
The authors write that there are two aspects of leading like Jesus. The first is an understanding that leading like Jesus is a transformational journey. The second and most important, which is the essence of their book, is to learn and internalize the four domains of leadership.
Leading like Jesus is a transformational cycle that begins with personal leadership, then moves to leading others in one on one relationships, then to leading a team or group, and finally to leading an organization or community. Leading like Jesus involves the alignment of four leadership domains: heart, head, hands, and habits. When your heart, head, hands, and habits are aligned, extraordinary levels of loyalty, trust, and productivity will result. The book goes into detail on each of these four leadership domains in a practical and helpful manner.
The concepts in this book are not complex but they are challenging. They can be applied at any level of leadership, from the family to the corporate board room. To assist the reader, the book includes “Pause and Reflect” stops in each chapter to give you a chance to let the message to penetrate your heart as well as your mind. A helpful “Summary” is included at the end of each chapter and a detailed “Discussion Guide” is included at the end of the book, which includes a summary of key concepts contained in the book and a series of discussion questions. The Discussion Guide allows this to be an excellent book to read and discuss with others.
I highly recommend this book for those who want to be servant leaders.
The authors tell us that self-promotion (pride) and self-protection (fear) are the reigning motivations that dominate the leadership landscape today. But Jesus is clear about how He wants us to lead: He asks us to make a difference in our world by being effective servant leaders. For followers of Jesus, servant leadership isn’t an option; it’s a mandate.
The authors indicate that leadership is a process of influence. Anytime you seek to influence the thinking, behavior, or development of people in their personal or professional lives, you are taking on the role of a leader. The key question is going to be whether we seek to be served, or to be served.
The authors describe two primary types of leadership – life role and organizational. Life role leadership functions in enduring relationships (parent, spouse, sibling, friend, citizen), while organizational leadership involves positions and titles bestowed at the convenience of the organization to serve the perceived needs and culture of the organization. The most dramatic difference between life role leadership and organizational leadership involves the permanence of the relationships the leader is trying to influence. The authors tell us that most of the leadership that shapes our lives does not come from leaders with titles on an organization chart; it comes from leaders in our daily life role relationships.
Every leader must answer two critical questions: 1. Whose am I? 2. Who am I? The first question— “Whose am I?”—deals with choosing the primary authority and audience for your life. The second question— “Who am I?”—deals with your life purpose.
The authors write that there are two aspects of leading like Jesus. The first is an understanding that leading like Jesus is a transformational journey. The second and most important, which is the essence of their book, is to learn and internalize the four domains of leadership.
Leading like Jesus is a transformational cycle that begins with personal leadership, then moves to leading others in one on one relationships, then to leading a team or group, and finally to leading an organization or community. Leading like Jesus involves the alignment of four leadership domains: heart, head, hands, and habits. When your heart, head, hands, and habits are aligned, extraordinary levels of loyalty, trust, and productivity will result. The book goes into detail on each of these four leadership domains in a practical and helpful manner.
The concepts in this book are not complex but they are challenging. They can be applied at any level of leadership, from the family to the corporate board room. To assist the reader, the book includes “Pause and Reflect” stops in each chapter to give you a chance to let the message to penetrate your heart as well as your mind. A helpful “Summary” is included at the end of each chapter and a detailed “Discussion Guide” is included at the end of the book, which includes a summary of key concepts contained in the book and a series of discussion questions. The Discussion Guide allows this to be an excellent book to read and discuss with others.
I highly recommend this book for those who want to be servant leaders.
February 12, 2019
TLDR: don't waste your time with this book.
Honestly, I have never wanted to write a negative review until now. This book is a complete waste of time. The men's group I'm apart of at church decided to go through it together and after hitting chapter 4 (about half way) we all unanimously voted to end this book and move on. The concept are basic. There is no depth. There are TONS of useless repeating statements through out each chapter but never deeper then a puddle in concept. You'd do yourself a better service by simply reading the gospels and reflecting on Jesus himself instead of this book. I understand what the authors were trying to do but the execution is seriously poor.
Honestly, I have never wanted to write a negative review until now. This book is a complete waste of time. The men's group I'm apart of at church decided to go through it together and after hitting chapter 4 (about half way) we all unanimously voted to end this book and move on. The concept are basic. There is no depth. There are TONS of useless repeating statements through out each chapter but never deeper then a puddle in concept. You'd do yourself a better service by simply reading the gospels and reflecting on Jesus himself instead of this book. I understand what the authors were trying to do but the execution is seriously poor.
March 24, 2017
Excellent book on leadership! Not only do the authors break down the four domains of leading like Jesus, but they break those down into understandable parts. Then, perhaps my favorite part of the book, they provide action steps and assessment guides to help you continuously evaluate where you are and where a course direction might be needed.
January 10, 2018
A basic (non-technical) "how-to" leadership guide for the committed Christian working in management, by the author of "The One Minute Manager" and co-author Phil Hodges. This is an easy read, filled with real-life examples and suggested exercises to improve leadership skills....
April 20, 2016
Banal, unimaginative, a product of the leadership industry – except with a Jesus veneer. Don't waste your time.
February 28, 2019
Read a couple of pages and flipped through the book. Immediately turned off by the obvious statements and overly religious dichotomy presented. This book would probably be perfect for some, but it is totally opposite of what I need at this point in my life.
November 23, 2022
This was the second book I read with my staff for weekly talks. Sadly, I did not enjoy this as much as Love Like That. There were many great parts and wonderful points, but I thought it could've been shortened by at least 100 pages.
Quotes I might want to look back on:
"Self-promotion (pride) and self-protection (fear) are the reigning motivations that dominate the leadership landscape." -pg 3
"When all kinds of trials and temptations crowd into your lives, my brothers, don't resent them as intruders, but welcome them as friends!" -pg 13
"Think about how Jesus would do your job differently than you would." -pg 18
"EGO: do you seek to Edge God Out or to Exalt God Only in the way you exert influence on those around you?" -pg 42
"Self-serving leaders react. Servant leaders respond." -pg 51
"Leading like Jesus calls for a radically different perspective and priority- seeking first the kingdom of God." -pg 76
"Creating a compelling vision:
1. Your purpose- what 'business' are you in? Where are you going and why?
2. Your picture of the future- what will your future look like if you are accomplishing your purpose?
3. Your values- what do you stand for? On what principles will you make your ongoing decisions?" -pg 85
"Choices are made based on your values, whether you admit it or not." -pg 96
Matthew 17:18-20
"5 key habits that countered the negative forces in Jesus' life:
1. Solitude
2. Prayer
3. Study and application of Scripture
4. Accepting and responding to God's unconditional love
5. Involvement in supportive relationships" -pg 154
"The ACTS Method of Prayer:
Adoration
Confession
Thanksgiving
Supplication" -pg 164
Quotes I might want to look back on:
"Self-promotion (pride) and self-protection (fear) are the reigning motivations that dominate the leadership landscape." -pg 3
"When all kinds of trials and temptations crowd into your lives, my brothers, don't resent them as intruders, but welcome them as friends!" -pg 13
"Think about how Jesus would do your job differently than you would." -pg 18
"EGO: do you seek to Edge God Out or to Exalt God Only in the way you exert influence on those around you?" -pg 42
"Self-serving leaders react. Servant leaders respond." -pg 51
"Leading like Jesus calls for a radically different perspective and priority- seeking first the kingdom of God." -pg 76
"Creating a compelling vision:
1. Your purpose- what 'business' are you in? Where are you going and why?
2. Your picture of the future- what will your future look like if you are accomplishing your purpose?
3. Your values- what do you stand for? On what principles will you make your ongoing decisions?" -pg 85
"Choices are made based on your values, whether you admit it or not." -pg 96
Matthew 17:18-20
"5 key habits that countered the negative forces in Jesus' life:
1. Solitude
2. Prayer
3. Study and application of Scripture
4. Accepting and responding to God's unconditional love
5. Involvement in supportive relationships" -pg 154
"The ACTS Method of Prayer:
Adoration
Confession
Thanksgiving
Supplication" -pg 164
August 12, 2012
Ken Blanchard, world renowned author of The One Minute Manager, does an outstanding job connecting the leadership wisdom in Scripture to the business world. He uses the approach of helping leaders answer who will they follow by looking at the heart of a servant leader, the head of a servant leader, the hands of a servant leader and the habits of a servant leader. Very inspiring and very good tool to help someone discern whether or not they are in the right role or truly following Jesus's example as they desire.
April 23, 2008
Looks at life of Jesus as a model for leadership. Proports to be for leadership not just at work, but also marriage, parenting, etc. However, the content doesn't much address leadership outside of work situation. Some of the chapters are good, but mostly this is hard to get through. Would have been a stellar magazine article, but authors repeat themselves too much.
May 11, 2010
Very inspirational book. Helped me get through a tough time when I had a poor manager.
November 14, 2021
This was a good book and I recommend it, but a few critiques: (1.) Early in the book the authors fall in love with an acronym they created ("EGO") that they use over and over again, but to mean different things: as in, "Edging God Out" or "Exalting God Only." The trick works and is cute-but-effective, but then they use "EGO" throughout the rest of the book and it isn't always clear to what version (there are more than the two I listed) of "EGO" they were referring. Mildly annoying; certainly ineffective. (2.) The subtitle says "lessons for everyone" -- technically, sure. But you really need to be down with Jesus for a lot (A LOT) of the exercises to mean much. However, I love Jesus (He is a great guy!) so maybe I'm not the best one to say, but I did try to put myself in someone else's shoes...and it would seem difficult. (3.) Some parts of the book dragged on because of exercises they inserted; I don't know if it would have been better to make those an appendix or not. Meh.
For the book itself, it was pretty good. The EGO acronym stuff cost it a star and I wonder if some of the initial bit wasn't too "proselytize-y" for me; I took a long, long break from this book because I just could NOT get into it. As someone trying to be a Christian and maybe doing only an OK-to-bad job at it, I appreciated the spiritual food that this book does contain. It was helpful. But I was also looking at it as a "leadership book." The most compelling parts of the book were where the authors pointed and Jesus' behaviors as leadership traits. When they used Jesus' acts, like washing the disciples' feet, calling them, teaching them, taking time for solitude, etc., to make their points, the "leadership book" value was clear. Perhaps the best way to say it is: yes, in 230+ pages there are some meaty and useful suggestions and tactics to make you a better leader...and as long as you are sincere in using them because you care about your team, you don't "have to be Christian" to use them.
I finished this book on the heels of finishing Radical Candor: Be a Kickass Boss Without Losing Your Humanity and I think that was a pretty neat coincidence. Scott's book was written as straightforward as a business book can be; I can think of nothing more secular and worldly than Silicon Valley. However, my main takeaway from her book was, I see now, a less obvious argument for the Servant Leadership model put forth by Blanchard. By caring sincerely for your team and your own humanity, you will speak with Radical Candor to your team; by caring sincerely for your team because of who you are called to be, you will speak with fearless love to your team. Yeah, now that I type it out...I recommend it. Read both books simultaneously or sequentially and see what you think.
For the book itself, it was pretty good. The EGO acronym stuff cost it a star and I wonder if some of the initial bit wasn't too "proselytize-y" for me; I took a long, long break from this book because I just could NOT get into it. As someone trying to be a Christian and maybe doing only an OK-to-bad job at it, I appreciated the spiritual food that this book does contain. It was helpful. But I was also looking at it as a "leadership book." The most compelling parts of the book were where the authors pointed and Jesus' behaviors as leadership traits. When they used Jesus' acts, like washing the disciples' feet, calling them, teaching them, taking time for solitude, etc., to make their points, the "leadership book" value was clear. Perhaps the best way to say it is: yes, in 230+ pages there are some meaty and useful suggestions and tactics to make you a better leader...and as long as you are sincere in using them because you care about your team, you don't "have to be Christian" to use them.
I finished this book on the heels of finishing Radical Candor: Be a Kickass Boss Without Losing Your Humanity and I think that was a pretty neat coincidence. Scott's book was written as straightforward as a business book can be; I can think of nothing more secular and worldly than Silicon Valley. However, my main takeaway from her book was, I see now, a less obvious argument for the Servant Leadership model put forth by Blanchard. By caring sincerely for your team and your own humanity, you will speak with Radical Candor to your team; by caring sincerely for your team because of who you are called to be, you will speak with fearless love to your team. Yeah, now that I type it out...I recommend it. Read both books simultaneously or sequentially and see what you think.
September 16, 2020
2008 Review:
Nothing revolutionary, but a great reminder of the need for humble competence and servant leadership.
B-
2020 Commentary:
I read this book as part of my internship as an event host at the Mount Hermon Conference Center. I remember there being an aura of deference to Ken Blanchard and this book and was disappointed to find that the entire thesis seemed pretty self-evident: lead by example and by putting yourself in a position to lift others up rather than keep them down. Maybe it’s just the way I was raised or my particular personality, but I’ve always found my strongest moments of leadership were when I simply chose to step up and act. A leader doesn’t stand from afar and direct, but stands shoulder to shoulder with others and pushes the line forward.
In general, I have a difficult time reading Christian self-help sort books. I’ve noticed some trends. These books typically have an extremely simple-to-grasp thesis which is then beaten to death as the author tries to stretch it out into a book length treatment (John Piper, I’m calling you out). Also, there tends to be a startling lack of nuance in dealing with the biblical text. Self-help seems to require boiling down a complex message into mush that you can gum down without chewing. That may be a bit harsh, but it’s frustrating to see topic-specific books lose sight of the complexities of the Bible. I guess I’m just an exegesis and context nerd who doesn’t love book chapters that start with one verse from the Bible and then build the rest of their argument on modern Western self-help ideas. Also, common, self-help books tend to have terrible, lowest denominator type writing.
Phew. Rant ended. My irritation isn’t so much with this book in particular as it is with the genre as a whole, though this book certainly has an extremely simple premise.
Nothing revolutionary, but a great reminder of the need for humble competence and servant leadership.
B-
2020 Commentary:
I read this book as part of my internship as an event host at the Mount Hermon Conference Center. I remember there being an aura of deference to Ken Blanchard and this book and was disappointed to find that the entire thesis seemed pretty self-evident: lead by example and by putting yourself in a position to lift others up rather than keep them down. Maybe it’s just the way I was raised or my particular personality, but I’ve always found my strongest moments of leadership were when I simply chose to step up and act. A leader doesn’t stand from afar and direct, but stands shoulder to shoulder with others and pushes the line forward.
In general, I have a difficult time reading Christian self-help sort books. I’ve noticed some trends. These books typically have an extremely simple-to-grasp thesis which is then beaten to death as the author tries to stretch it out into a book length treatment (John Piper, I’m calling you out). Also, there tends to be a startling lack of nuance in dealing with the biblical text. Self-help seems to require boiling down a complex message into mush that you can gum down without chewing. That may be a bit harsh, but it’s frustrating to see topic-specific books lose sight of the complexities of the Bible. I guess I’m just an exegesis and context nerd who doesn’t love book chapters that start with one verse from the Bible and then build the rest of their argument on modern Western self-help ideas. Also, common, self-help books tend to have terrible, lowest denominator type writing.
Phew. Rant ended. My irritation isn’t so much with this book in particular as it is with the genre as a whole, though this book certainly has an extremely simple premise.
December 14, 2024
My previous experience tells me that Ken one of the greats in self-help/management books with a unique skill at packing revelatory ideas into tights space. Quite literally, he is the king of brevity.
Unfortunately, at least in this edition, Lead like Jesus revisited, their is a complete lack of brevity, and the punchy life changing ideas are lost in a sea of hum drum Sunday School lessons. If this had been an 82 page punch list it might be a great book, as their are some unique ideas about how Jesus trained is followers, worked toward legacy, served others, eschewed the limelight. But page after page reads like a bland sunday school lesson about following Jesus teaching. Which is good stuff, just not well written and with no unique perspective.
I enjoyed several things about this book including this idea early on about what leadership is. "Leadership is a process of influence. Anytime you seek to influence the thinking, behavior, or development of people in their personal or professional lives, you are taking on the role of a leader."
If someone is a follower of Christ they have heard these concepts dozens of times before, and if someone is not a follower of Christ they will be probably not be compelled by this presentation.
I would say that this book can easily be skipped and would recommend it only to those in business leadership who have newly become Christ followers as this may be the prefect book to catch you up to speed on how your new relationship with Christ should impact how you lead your business or organization.
There is some very good stuff here but not enough to warrant the 300 pages to get there.
Unfortunately, at least in this edition, Lead like Jesus revisited, their is a complete lack of brevity, and the punchy life changing ideas are lost in a sea of hum drum Sunday School lessons. If this had been an 82 page punch list it might be a great book, as their are some unique ideas about how Jesus trained is followers, worked toward legacy, served others, eschewed the limelight. But page after page reads like a bland sunday school lesson about following Jesus teaching. Which is good stuff, just not well written and with no unique perspective.
I enjoyed several things about this book including this idea early on about what leadership is. "Leadership is a process of influence. Anytime you seek to influence the thinking, behavior, or development of people in their personal or professional lives, you are taking on the role of a leader."
If someone is a follower of Christ they have heard these concepts dozens of times before, and if someone is not a follower of Christ they will be probably not be compelled by this presentation.
I would say that this book can easily be skipped and would recommend it only to those in business leadership who have newly become Christ followers as this may be the prefect book to catch you up to speed on how your new relationship with Christ should impact how you lead your business or organization.
There is some very good stuff here but not enough to warrant the 300 pages to get there.
August 16, 2024
I listened to this which was diveded into a bunch of live seminars. At first, they are asking about the greatest leader of all time and come to the conclusion that it is Jesus Christ.
- Jesus is the greatest leader of all time. We should get inspired by Him to incluence yourself and other people in a good way. Jesus was also a good life coach. Life coaches inspire other people to make good decisions and find their true purpose. Jesus wants us to win in every single moment, he is our greatest supporter (died on the cross for our sins!). The key to fullfilement is absolute surrender to God. Make differences in other's lives.
People are watching you. So you have to make responsible decisions.
People are beautiful. It's just their decisions that are wrong sometimes. Start close to you with everything and then build from that.
"Keep playing. We are going to finish together".
"Our charachter is essentially the sum of our habits"
The most important traits are:
1. Total humility
2. Absolute resoluteness
Ghandi: "If all Christians acted like Christ, the whole world would be Christian." We have the mandate to lead like Jesus. It is not an option. All leaders are learnes. The moment you think you have everything figured out - is the moment you fall over. It's not possible.
In some form everyone are also a leader. A parent is a leader for example.
P - plant churches
E - equip leaders
A - assist the poor
C - care for the sick
E - educate the next generation
- Jesus is the greatest leader of all time. We should get inspired by Him to incluence yourself and other people in a good way. Jesus was also a good life coach. Life coaches inspire other people to make good decisions and find their true purpose. Jesus wants us to win in every single moment, he is our greatest supporter (died on the cross for our sins!). The key to fullfilement is absolute surrender to God. Make differences in other's lives.
People are watching you. So you have to make responsible decisions.
People are beautiful. It's just their decisions that are wrong sometimes. Start close to you with everything and then build from that.
"Keep playing. We are going to finish together".
"Our charachter is essentially the sum of our habits"
The most important traits are:
1. Total humility
2. Absolute resoluteness
Ghandi: "If all Christians acted like Christ, the whole world would be Christian." We have the mandate to lead like Jesus. It is not an option. All leaders are learnes. The moment you think you have everything figured out - is the moment you fall over. It's not possible.
In some form everyone are also a leader. A parent is a leader for example.
P - plant churches
E - equip leaders
A - assist the poor
C - care for the sick
E - educate the next generation
October 22, 2025
Lead Like Jesus started strong, but it faded over time. During the intro and first couple chapters I was highlighting like crazy and was really excited about reading the book, but that faded over time as I felt like things got more high level and repetitive. My favorite part of the book was a discussion on meditating on the Bible. Over the last 10 days or so, I've been turning to page 112 each day and focusing on meditating on small portions of Scripture. I'm hopeful that this could be the most impactful part of this book for me.
Favorite quotes:
Intro - "The most important thing in leadership is the leader; the most important part of the leader is his or her heart; and the most important connection to a leader's heart is God."
p. 31 - "When people know the leader cares about them and wants to help them grow, a new culture of trust and community develops, resulting in both high performance and great human satisfaction."
p. 53 - "Pride-filled or fear-filled people are quick to judge, quick to take offense, quick to speak, quick to blame, and quick to accept praise."
p. 60 - "The biggest barrier to intimacy is a fear of vulnerability - the fear of having to admit you don't know all the answers, that you may need help, and that your abilities as a leader may be questioned."
p. 93 - "When the world tells you that you are not enough, when fear paralyzes you because failure seems imminent and inevitable, the habit of accepting and abiding in God's love will help you remember that you are unconditionally loved."
p. 141 - "None of us is as smart as all of us."
Favorite quotes:
Intro - "The most important thing in leadership is the leader; the most important part of the leader is his or her heart; and the most important connection to a leader's heart is God."
p. 31 - "When people know the leader cares about them and wants to help them grow, a new culture of trust and community develops, resulting in both high performance and great human satisfaction."
p. 53 - "Pride-filled or fear-filled people are quick to judge, quick to take offense, quick to speak, quick to blame, and quick to accept praise."
p. 60 - "The biggest barrier to intimacy is a fear of vulnerability - the fear of having to admit you don't know all the answers, that you may need help, and that your abilities as a leader may be questioned."
p. 93 - "When the world tells you that you are not enough, when fear paralyzes you because failure seems imminent and inevitable, the habit of accepting and abiding in God's love will help you remember that you are unconditionally loved."
p. 141 - "None of us is as smart as all of us."
April 22, 2024
“Lead Like Jesus: Lessons from the Greatest Leadership Role Model of All Time"
is a transformative guide that reshapes the way we think about leadership. Written by Ken Blanchard and Phil Hodges, this book is not just for those who identify with the Christian faith; it is for anyone seeking a more profound, ethical approach to leadership.
The book's premise is revolutionary: it proposes that the greatest leader ever is Jesus Christ, and it meticulously outlines how His model can be applied to everyday leadership scenarios. From dealing with personal ego to fostering empowerment in others, the authors distill timeless principles into actionable strategies that are both inspiring and practical.
What sets this book apart is its depth of insight combined with real-world applicability. Blanchard and Hodges use simple, compelling language to draw parallels between biblical teachings and contemporary leadership challenges. The reflections and exercises at the end of each chapter prompt introspection and real change, making the journey through the book not just informative, but transformative.
"Lead Like Jesus" is a treasure trove of wisdom for those aspiring to lead with integrity, humility, and effectiveness. It challenges readers to elevate their leadership from a quest for personal success to a calling to serve others, making it a pivotal read for anyone committed to making a positive impact through leadership.
is a transformative guide that reshapes the way we think about leadership. Written by Ken Blanchard and Phil Hodges, this book is not just for those who identify with the Christian faith; it is for anyone seeking a more profound, ethical approach to leadership.
The book's premise is revolutionary: it proposes that the greatest leader ever is Jesus Christ, and it meticulously outlines how His model can be applied to everyday leadership scenarios. From dealing with personal ego to fostering empowerment in others, the authors distill timeless principles into actionable strategies that are both inspiring and practical.
What sets this book apart is its depth of insight combined with real-world applicability. Blanchard and Hodges use simple, compelling language to draw parallels between biblical teachings and contemporary leadership challenges. The reflections and exercises at the end of each chapter prompt introspection and real change, making the journey through the book not just informative, but transformative.
"Lead Like Jesus" is a treasure trove of wisdom for those aspiring to lead with integrity, humility, and effectiveness. It challenges readers to elevate their leadership from a quest for personal success to a calling to serve others, making it a pivotal read for anyone committed to making a positive impact through leadership.
May 30, 2025
This book was part of our leadership course, and I thoroughly enjoyed reviewing it. The authors begin by challenging conventional, hierarchical views of leadership, particularly as seen in modern organizations where power typically increases with position. Instead, they propose a broader, more inclusive definition: leadership is anytime we influence the thinking, behavior, or development of another person. By this measure, everyone is a leader, regardless of title or role. The book distinguishes between life-role leadership, which operates within lasting relationships like those of parents, spouses, and friends, and organisational leadership, which tends to be more situational and transient.
One compelling concept explored is the test of a leader’s impact not only when they are present, but also in their absence. A cornerstone of the book is the alignment of four leadership domains: Heart, Head, Hands, and Habits. Each domain examines a critical area of leadership. Reading this book has opened my eyes to profound truths that were once hidden from my view. The phrase, “Leaders are made, not born,” is indeed true. It has profoundly shifted my understanding of leadership- not as a matter of confidence, charisma, or control, but of love, service, and identity in Christ.
One compelling concept explored is the test of a leader’s impact not only when they are present, but also in their absence. A cornerstone of the book is the alignment of four leadership domains: Heart, Head, Hands, and Habits. Each domain examines a critical area of leadership. Reading this book has opened my eyes to profound truths that were once hidden from my view. The phrase, “Leaders are made, not born,” is indeed true. It has profoundly shifted my understanding of leadership- not as a matter of confidence, charisma, or control, but of love, service, and identity in Christ.
February 4, 2025
Lead Like Jesus redefines leadership through the example of Jesus. It emphasizes that true leadership is not about power or status but about serving others with humility, love, and integrity. The authors focus on four key areas of leadership which are the heart, head, hands, and habits. They show how aligning these with Jesus’ teachings can transform the way we lead.
What I love about this book is how practical and relatable it is. It is not just theory because it provides real-life applications and personal reflection questions that help you examine your own leadership style. Whether in work, ministry, or family life, the book challenges us to shift from self-serving leadership to servant leadership just like Jesus did.
In a world that often promotes leadership based on authority and control, this book is a refreshing reminder that the greatest leader of all time led with humility and love. It encouraged me to look inward, examine my motives, and strive to lead with a servant’s heart. If we truly want to make an impact, we need to lead more like Jesus in our daily lives.
What I love about this book is how practical and relatable it is. It is not just theory because it provides real-life applications and personal reflection questions that help you examine your own leadership style. Whether in work, ministry, or family life, the book challenges us to shift from self-serving leadership to servant leadership just like Jesus did.
In a world that often promotes leadership based on authority and control, this book is a refreshing reminder that the greatest leader of all time led with humility and love. It encouraged me to look inward, examine my motives, and strive to lead with a servant’s heart. If we truly want to make an impact, we need to lead more like Jesus in our daily lives.
did-not-finish
March 22, 2025*DNF at 134 pages (52%) because I was borrowing the hard copy from a friend while traveling and wasn’t interested enough to lug it around with me in order to finish.*
Toward the beginning, the authors lay out an interesting take on the tiers of leadership (whether in structural or “daily life” relationships):
1. Lead self; outcome: perspective.
2. Lead another; outcome: trust.
3. Lead others; outcome: community.
4. Lead an organization; outcome: culture.
I especially appreciated the verbalization that trust is an outcome of leading another person well, and not something to expect from those you lead.
One of the writing characteristics that made me start to skim (and made me ok with leaving the book behind when my travels continued on) was that many of the injunctions for leaders were things like “choose to find your worth in God” - something I agree would be best, but is rather unhelpful if you’re already in a pattern of finding your worth in your performance, other people’s opinions, etc. and don’t know how to change.
Toward the beginning, the authors lay out an interesting take on the tiers of leadership (whether in structural or “daily life” relationships):
1. Lead self; outcome: perspective.
2. Lead another; outcome: trust.
3. Lead others; outcome: community.
4. Lead an organization; outcome: culture.
I especially appreciated the verbalization that trust is an outcome of leading another person well, and not something to expect from those you lead.
One of the writing characteristics that made me start to skim (and made me ok with leaving the book behind when my travels continued on) was that many of the injunctions for leaders were things like “choose to find your worth in God” - something I agree would be best, but is rather unhelpful if you’re already in a pattern of finding your worth in your performance, other people’s opinions, etc. and don’t know how to change.
April 30, 2019
This book is a great way to stretch your thinking on how you lead. I haven't read any of Kenneth Blanchard's or Kenneth Hodges' work before, but I enjoyed "Lead Like Jesus." Filled with lots of examples, useful graphs and personal studies, this book was one that I have flagged with Post It notes and written in the margin.
Through a proven leadership strategy, Blanchard and Hodges encourages the reader to evaluate their current leadership goals and styles to formulate a more cohesive way to lead. By looking to Jesus' example, the authors show how we might improve our standards of behavior and ask for help, constructive criticism and find better ways to serve those we are attempting to lead.
Concise, developed book with much encouragement for those in leadership positions, Christian or not. Many of the strategies within the book are applicable to just about anyone.
Through a proven leadership strategy, Blanchard and Hodges encourages the reader to evaluate their current leadership goals and styles to formulate a more cohesive way to lead. By looking to Jesus' example, the authors show how we might improve our standards of behavior and ask for help, constructive criticism and find better ways to serve those we are attempting to lead.
Concise, developed book with much encouragement for those in leadership positions, Christian or not. Many of the strategies within the book are applicable to just about anyone.
December 21, 2021
One of the best book I read about leadership. And I'm glad to realized Ken Blanchard is a Christian. Well, I liked the author's One Minute Manager (no doubt) but this book gave better insights about what true leadership is all about, and how to learn it-- from the greatest leader of all, our Lord Jesus Christ.
What I regret is just being able to read it now. I have handled various "organization" leadership roles for the past 16 years now (leadership = influence) and I deeply regret the kind of leader I was before -- I was self serving, self absorbed, conceited and I hurt a lot of people. This could have save a lot of pain (for me and from me).
Overall, I gave it a five star and would definitely recommend this to all leaders and future leaders.
What I regret is just being able to read it now. I have handled various "organization" leadership roles for the past 16 years now (leadership = influence) and I deeply regret the kind of leader I was before -- I was self serving, self absorbed, conceited and I hurt a lot of people. This could have save a lot of pain (for me and from me).
Overall, I gave it a five star and would definitely recommend this to all leaders and future leaders.
February 15, 2023
2-3 stars. I’ll give it 2 since I didn’t feel it was worth reading, personally.
I think this book was a good overview on basic Christian practices and for discussion. However, that’s not what the book represents itself to be. It’s a book about leadership.
Some of the passages I found to be alarming and misrepresentative of the verses that were referenced.
It’s clear to me that Jesus’s message was meant to be transformative. I felt that putting Jesus into the box of “a good teacher of organizational leadership” was a weird choice and a weird way to represent his life and teachings.
Would be fine as an intro to Christian life but I didn’t feel that this book said anything new about Christian living or leadership.
I think this book was a good overview on basic Christian practices and for discussion. However, that’s not what the book represents itself to be. It’s a book about leadership.
Some of the passages I found to be alarming and misrepresentative of the verses that were referenced.
It’s clear to me that Jesus’s message was meant to be transformative. I felt that putting Jesus into the box of “a good teacher of organizational leadership” was a weird choice and a weird way to represent his life and teachings.
Would be fine as an intro to Christian life but I didn’t feel that this book said anything new about Christian living or leadership.
September 18, 2023
This book has a lot of really good things to say, and I don’t think there’s anything explicitly wrong with it, but it just felt so…average. There wasn’t a lot in here that felt distinctive, and there were a couple parts where I struggled with the writing style. A lot of it was basically just a typical introductory spiritual formation book with a slight emphasis on leadership, and I know that’s the point, but it just never really captured me.
I know this book is probably really useful to a lot of people, but I don’t see it being something that I’ll revisit anytime soon, even in a skimming or reviewing capacity.
I know this book is probably really useful to a lot of people, but I don’t see it being something that I’ll revisit anytime soon, even in a skimming or reviewing capacity.
July 22, 2022
Rated: B-
I am a fan of Ken Blanchard ever since he wrote the One Minute Manager. Since then, his walk with Christ has blossomed and now many of his more current books reflect his faith and reference Scripture. So, I was excited about reading this book. While reading, I seemed underwhelmed by its content. It seemed in places the authors were trying to bend the bible to reinforce an idea. However, when I completed the book, I looked back over my notes and found I had recorded quite a few. Bottom-line: good, but not great book on leadership using Jesus as a good example.
I am a fan of Ken Blanchard ever since he wrote the One Minute Manager. Since then, his walk with Christ has blossomed and now many of his more current books reflect his faith and reference Scripture. So, I was excited about reading this book. While reading, I seemed underwhelmed by its content. It seemed in places the authors were trying to bend the bible to reinforce an idea. However, when I completed the book, I looked back over my notes and found I had recorded quite a few. Bottom-line: good, but not great book on leadership using Jesus as a good example.
June 4, 2021
Ken & Phil have really done an exceptionally good work. Simple in narration yet powerful. The entire work has veen themed around keeping Jesus first with compelling examples on how to deal with leadership challenges. The content has been structured well and is very helpful. Have also provided sufficient tools making it easy to pick up faster. By constantly putting to practice and submitted to the call ,we surely will be able to lead in our calling
November 6, 2021
This book was required reading for my Master’s degree. I did not enjoy it but want it to count for my book count because I read it. Jesus was a good role model and leader, very cool dude. Lots to learn from him. That’s why I gave this book 2 stars. Suggesting that a leader must lead only to glorify God is not a sound argument and was the basis of the rest of the book. Not my jam- but maybe yours?
October 22, 2018
This is a transcription of a "Lead Like Jesus" conference and is very interesting. It is the kind of book that needs to be reread several times over a period of time. There are just so many nuggets of insight and so much presented, that it cannot be digested at one time. Well worth the time. Highly recommend.
February 26, 2017
Uses Jesus as the Ultimate tole model of Leadership.
Top takeaways:
Gods final exam:
1. What did you do with Jesus?
2. What did you do with the resources you were given in life?
Who are you and Whose are you?
Your character is the sum of your habits.
Top takeaways:
Gods final exam:
1. What did you do with Jesus?
2. What did you do with the resources you were given in life?
Who are you and Whose are you?
Your character is the sum of your habits.
November 15, 2018
Highly recommend
Great book for guidance and motivation to become or remain a good Stewart of the Lord. I will use this book as my daily manual in both personal and professional journey.
Great book for guidance and motivation to become or remain a good Stewart of the Lord. I will use this book as my daily manual in both personal and professional journey.
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