Church Leadership: a contrast

by Dr. David Wong - www.batteredsheep.com  This article appeared in the December, 1991 issue of Evangelical Now. Dr. David Wong summarizes the differences he has observed regarding how church leadership is viewed and practiced in China (read as House Church) and the West.

In The West...	In China (House Church) ...
1. Leadership is usually formal.	1. Leadership is often more informal.
2. Leadership endorsement comes from those who are "above."	2. Leadership endorsement comes from those who are "below."
3. Leadership is often based on "capability" in society, e.g., If a man is a bank manager or owns his own company, he is more likely to become an elder.	3. Leadership is more often based on Christian character.
4. Leadership is a matter of "charisma," i.e., dress, style and manner.	4.Leadership is more a matter of a gift; it is spiritual --no superstars.
5. Leadership is often a matter of thorough training, diplomas, certificates.	5.Leadership is more a matter of testing than of formal training.

6. Western churches have a great ability to organize; it is sometimes a case of planning versus prayer. In the West they "know much about God."	6. Leadership and church life are more organism-oriented--prayer before planning. In China they "know God."
7. Leadership is often rewarded, and this affects leader's motivation.	7. In China it is the exact opposite: leaders face persecution and loss of children and family. Therefore, the motivation for leadership is different.
8. Leadership is more like the stereotype of Martha--busy, always occupied.	8. Leadership is more like the picture of Mary--quiet and listening.
9. The church is "result oriented."	9. We have a tendency to measure our congregation by their potential under God: "so-and-so could do such-and-such."
10. Leadership is often viewed as climbing the ladder of influence to power and Christian prestige.	10. Leadership may well bring persecution--no ladder, no climbers.
11. Most leadership is male.	11. Women are used in a greater way!
12. Leadership generally carries an awareness of self-importance.	12. Most leaders are completely unaware (unselfconscious) of what they have done and what they are.
13. Leadership arises from a sense of calling.	13. Leadership springs much more from a sense of commitment.
14. Profile is important. High profile leads to being a "master," and to being in "charge."	14. A high profile is detrimental, so they seek a low profile which gives the glory to God and leads to being a servant.