Ten Massive Leadership QuestionsNäide

Who are my men?

So, an apology is certainly in order to all our lady readers. “Who are my men?” includes women, but since all ten of the questions in this reading plan start with an “M” … You get it, right? I know my fellow friends with obsessive-compulsive tendencies will completely understand my predicament.

Back to the question. I do not know who said it first, but I have heard a solid truth: “One is too small a number for greatness”. When studying for my Masters of Organizational Leadership many years ago I read in the coursework about a simple leadership test. Leaders speak of “we”, not “I”. Significant achievements always require many people involved – even if it is behind the scenes. In fact, leaders are by definition only leaders if others are involved. John Maxwell said it best, “if no one is following, you are simply taking a walk!”

When it comes to continuation, longevity, and legacy, “who are my men?” becomes indispensable. In one of our scripture readings today the apostle Paul, speaking to Timothy, mentions four generations. Himself, Timothy, trustworthy men, and those to whom those men entrusted the gospel. Effective discipleship requires four generations, not just two or three. If you are not reproducing a reproducing disciple-maker, the discipleship was not successful.