Widely accepted general leadership theories often focus on leaders and/or followers. These general leadership theories have been applied by all different areas of society, including churches. One would think the church, a theological enterprise, would want a clear theological basis for its thinking about leadership rather than general leadership theory. This proposal will discuss alongside general leadership theory an alternative theory, a theology of Leadership (TOL), as such a theological basis and response. Research highlights that “whilst it is true that the church has much to learn from secular leadership, problems constantly arise because of an uncritical adoption of these models” (Nott 1986, p.139). Ayers (2006,) concluded that the separation of theology and leadership has potentially allowed for numerous problems, such as a “lack of moral and ethical clarity in the principles and practices of leadership, the egocentric outcomes of leadership, the inner dysfunctions of leaders, and the relationship of these dysfunctions to behaviours” as well as having no “guarantee of well-being or effectiveness” from general leadership theory training. Ayers (2006) believes his research highlights a “moral and spiritual void in leadership that results in a lack of clarity, security, and purpose so necessary for leaders today” and suggests that TOL maybe the answer to addressing some of these matters. 

This paper will focus on the Australian Christian Churches (ACC) context. The ACC have a considerable leadership basis, with over 3,200 pastors across 1,000 churches, leading over 375,000 constituents. I am interested in the subject of what leadership theories are exhibited in the thoughts and practices of ACC pastors and what potential implications exist for the next generation of pastors. This is because I have observed a lack of a formal ACC TOL and think that there are potential dangers from not adopting one as alluded to previously (Ayers, 2006), as well as potential benefits to adopting one. The leadership thoughts and practices of ACC pastors need investigation. I seek to understand what leadership theories are exhibited in the thoughts and practices of ACC pastors and what are the potential implications for the next generation of pastors? I am particularly well suited to researching this issue because I am an ACC pastor, who loves the denomination that I serve, and who strongly believes we should have, teach and practice a TOL. This presents a personal bias and a lens through which I approach this research. However, it also means I have a particular set of knowledge and experience due to being part of the ACC church since 1992, attending ACC conferences since 2005, having my Probationary Minister’s credential since 2012 and my Ordained Minister’s credential since 2015. In this proposal I will explore leadership theories. I will review the ACC leader, follower and theology foci through the lens of these leadership theories. And I will present my methodology and research design for surveying and interviewing ACC pastors regarding their leadership thoughts and practices.