Ten Contrasts Between Pastors as Entertainers, and Pastors as Leaders. 

There is a tendency within human nature to crave the affirmation of other human beings. Some people’s need for affirmation is so great that it hinders their ability to discern God’s will from the will of man. One of the many reasons this is alarming is that those who lead churches and Christian organizations are not exempt from this tendency. If you are a local church pastor or CEO of a ministry or business, you are called to lead, not entertain. Many leaders do not understand the difference. If your primary goal is to make people happy, then you should become an entertainer, not a leader. Leaders should be on the cutting edge of God’s will. They should challenge people to leave their comfort zone, which often causes people to be upset with their leader. Leaders should also keep people accountable to standards of excellence. This becomes especially difficult when a leader is close friends or family with those who are also under their spiritual authority. Many do not understand how to discern between business and friendship, which often causes a rift in the relationship.

The following are ten contrasts between entertainers and leaders:

1. An entertainer’s primary goal is to make people happy. A leader’s goal is to empower people to achieve excellence. 

An entertainer’s primary focus in their ministry is to keep their people happy and satisfied. Sometimes folks are content because they are comfortable and feel secure, but their hearts are deceiving them. A true leader’s primary goals are to disturb the comfortable and provoke them to excellence. For example, if a coach never pushes his athletes to the point of pain in his training, the athletes will never excel. True leaders push their people to the perimeter of their potential in Christ.

2. Entertainers perform. Leaders lead. 

Pastors who are entertainers put all their effort into the public performance. This includes becoming a more polished speaker, having a cutting edge worship team, employing the best visual effects, and keeping an excellent public appearance. They fail to take a whole lot of time evaluating whether their followers are growing in Christ. A true leader should not only care about their public appearance but should also put more focused time towards bringing people into the promised land of their destiny.

3. Entertainers avoid disagreement at all costs. Leaders often provoke disagreement and discomfort. 

Since entertainers crave affirmation because of their lack of self-esteem, they will attempt to avoid strife and disagreement with their people. True leaders don’t care so much about conflict because their primary motivation is to move people from passivity to purpose. 

4. Entertainers gauge their success based on numbers. Leaders base their success on obedience to their assignment. 

Pastors who are entertainers count nickels and noses. It is all about church attendance and offerings, and if both are high, they are happy. True biblical leaders gauge their success on remaining faithful to the call of God upon their life and organization. For example, Jeremiah is considered one of the greatest prophets of all time, yet he had only a few who believed him. He was not only rejected by his leaders and thrown into prison, but he also died in exile. When the prophet Isaiah received his mandate from God, God told him nobody would listen to him, and the cities would eventually become desolate (Isaiah 6). John the Baptist had only a six-month ministry and died in prison. Yet, Jesus called him the greatest person ever born of a woman (Matthew 11:11). By today’s standards of success, Jeremiah, Isaiah, and John the Baptist, to name a few, were very unsuccessful. Even Jesus had only one hundred and twenty faithful followers after more than three years of ministry (Acts 1).  The real gauge of success in the kingdom is obedience to our assignment, not numbers.

5. Entertainers are popular with the mainstream. Leaders are often disdained by the mainstream. 

Entertainers always put their hands in the air to sense where the wind is blowing, then they go in that direction. They are like politicians who crave the vote of the majority and do not care about the holy minority. They only preach what will receive the least resistance and always stand on the edges of compromise, so as not to offend. They will never say anything controversial when it comes to social and moral values. It is not just what they say, but what they will not say that matters. Leaders like Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and Winston Churchill spoke the truth even when it might have cost them their careers or lives. When true leaders lead, they are often on the prophetic edge of what God is saying and only have “innovators and early adaptors” as their followers. It is easy to go with the mainstream but difficult to swim upstream. Leaders swim upstream and are counter-cultural.

6. Entertainers make people feel good. Leaders transform people.

Entertainers dream about the ways they can make people feel good about life or themselves. Leaders dream about how they can make disciples that will transform the world. Entertainers focus on attracting the crowds, but leaders, like Jesus, focus on the few that will eventually build a movement that will change the world. 

7.  Entertainers long for acceptance. Leaders provoke respect.

Entertainers live to be loved, while leaders primarily desire influence and respect. For example, good parents are not always liked, but they are respected by their children even after correcting the children. Good parents have their children’s best long-term interests in mind. Likewise, leaders understand that maintaining respect is more important to release God’s purpose than garnering social acceptance and likeability. Jesus wasn’t always liked and understood, but His followers always respected Him  (John 6: 60-71). 

8. Entertainers are focused on the present. Leaders focus on the future. 

Entertainers are focused on making people feel happy in the moment. They base all their strategies around programs, hype, and visceral experiences that lift the soul. Leaders want to lift the soul emotionally and want to transform the lifestyle of the soul towards a divine trajectory. 

9. Entertainers focus on their public persona. Leaders focus on their interior life. 

Many entertainers spend hours in front of the mirror, practicing their public speaking and reviewing their body language and appearance. They focus primarily on their outward appearance to attract the most followers. In contrast, true leaders focus more on their interior life and give God space to transform their souls. They obey the words of Jesus, who said that one should first cleanse the inside of the cup, and then the outside will also be clean (Matthew 23:26). 

10. Entertainers receive the accolades of men. Leaders receive their accolades from God.

At the end of the day, entertainers may go down in history as popular with men, but what will the verdict be when they stand before God? In eternity it will be known that many loved the glory that comes from men more than the glory that comes from God (John 12:43). Leaders may not always be the most popular ones while they are alive, but they will be received into eternity with a rich reward and will eventually have the most influence on the earth with men. 

Purchase Joseph Mattera’s latest book, “The Jesus Principles”, available now on Amazon here.

The Lord Jesus Christ was the most excellent motivator and example of living a purposeful life that the world has ever seen! Since He is the living Word of God, He lived by the scriptures (John 1:1). This is why all the greatest books on leadership and management operate with latent biblical principles, whether intentional or not.

The following seven principles are some of the primary ways Jesus empowered and released purpose.

1. He asked questions.

Instead of just giving the answers to life’s questions, Jesus demonstrated that the best way to teach people was to ask them questions. He asked over three hundred questions and answered only three (read Jesus is the Question by Martin B. Copenhaver). When we allow people to answer questions, it reveals how much they know. Asking questions is one the best ways to see what is really in people’s hearts. Asking questions brings people into the process of discovery that enables them to remember and learn better. 

2.  He had goals and objectives.

If a person has no specific goals or outcomes, they will never know if they have succeeded or not. If a person has no vision or mission, they are clueless and have no idea what their final destination will be. In contrast, when Jesus began His ministry in Nazareth, the first thing He did was announce His vision statement, which was found in the prophet Isaiah’s words (Luke 4:18, Isaiah 61:1-2). Furthermore, Jesus operated with objectives and goals, which enabled Him to fulfill His mission and vision with a daily understanding of what, when, and how to function (Luke 13:32).

3. He invested his time with those who bore fruit. 

The Pareto principle teaches us that eighty percent of the work done is accomplished by only twenty percent of the people in any given church or organization. That being said, Jesus was wise and only invested most of His time with disciples, who bore much fruit, instead of with the crowds. (John 15:1-7 shows that He expected His followers to bear much fruit if they abided in Him.) Even though the Pareto theory was not yet written, Jesus knew that He would get the most results from pouring into a few rather than focusing on the many. Although He ministered to the crowds, the gospels clearly show that He invested most of His time first with His twelve apostles and then the seventy disciples (Luke 9:1, Luke 10:1).

4. He confronted superficial religion. 

Jesus did not like superficial religion. He attacked religious leaders who misrepresented His Father’s heart (Matthew 23)! He insisted that religious leaders allow God to first cleanse the inner man before focusing on outward rituals and religion (Matthew 23:26, Mark 7:15). Jesus also taught that religious tradition often nullifies the word of God (Mark 7:13). Since He confronted superficial religion instead of placating it, He was able to raise powerful men of God who demonstrated the truth with powerful preaching replete with signs and wonders (Acts 3, Acts 6-7).

5. He confronted political power.

When Jesus was with Pilate, He confessed that the primary purpose He had was to be recognized as the King (John 18:37). He was not afraid of offending those loyal to Ceasar (which is the main reason why He was crucified). Jesus understood that people’s loyalty had to be shifted to another King (himself) if a transformational change would occur. Furthermore, He told Pilate that the power of His Kingdom did not emanate from Rome but from His Father (John 18:36). He did not say that His kingdom is not in this world, but that it was not of this world! 

6. He was motivated by compassion.

Jesus did not heal merely to demonstrate His lordship, but because He was moved by compassion (Mark 1:41). He was great because He had empathy and a connection to the pain of those around Him (Hebrews 4:15). Any leader without strong feelings of love for his people will not be motivated to serve and release them to greatness. 

7. He was willing to die for His purpose.

Life is not worth living if there is no transcendent purpose worth dying for! Jesus not only believed in His mission but was also willing to die to fulfill it (Hebrews 12:2).  Consequently, He instilled and inspired such passion in His followers that most of the original twelve apostles died a martyr’s death while preaching the gospel. Indeed, the seed of the early church was the blood of the first and second-century church. Even today, two thousand years later, thousands of Christ-followers continue to die for the cause of Christ, which is the main reason why Christianity became the largest and most formidable movement in the history of the world!

For more information on this subject, purchase Joseph Mattera’s latest book, “The Jesus Principles”, available now on Amazon here.

The historic global rise of Ukrainian President Zelensky is replete with applicable leadership lessons for all. His story is so compelling thus far that at this point, in my opinion, he is the leading candidate for TIME magazine’s “Person of the Year.” The following are ten leadership lessons based upon observing his life.

1. It is never too late to pivot toward your greater purpose.

Zelensky, born January 25, 1978, is a former Ukrainian actor and comedian who is the sixth and current president of Ukraine. At about the age of 41, he pivoted, shifting his career and defeated an incumbent, Petro Poroshenko, becoming the president of Ukraine in 2019. Hence, he completely redirected his life at mid-age, showing that it is never too late to redefine yourself and fulfill your highest purpose.

2. You never know your leadership capacity until a crisis hits.

As Winston Churchill manifested his greatness during WWII and was rejected during peacetime, Zelensky’s courage and leadership abilities have manifested during the greatest crisis in Europe since WWII. History has shown that a huge crisis usually reveals the destiny and capability of its leaders.

3. Life is not worth living if it’s not worth dying for something.

A U.S official confirmed that Ukraine President Zelensky rejected an offer from the American government to evacuate Kyiv. A senior American intelligence official with direct knowledge of the conversation quoted the president who said, “the fight is here” and that he needed anti-tank ammunition, “not a ride.” He refused to escape despite the fact there have been numerous assassination attempts upon his life, in addition to the threat of war, which also directly impacts his family. Thus, Zelensky has demonstrated that he will die for his nation’s freedom. 

4. Despite all odds, take your stand for truth.

When a great leader strongly believes in something, his commitment to the cause overcomes any inherent fear that can cause him to overthink or calculate based on the percentages for success and failure. He and Ukraine are like David fighting the Goliath-like Russian army to many. Nobody gave the Ukrainian army much of a chance, yet they are still resisting the Russian military both on the ground and in the air at the time of this writing! 

5. One person’s courage can inspire billions of people.

Zelensky and his beloved Ukraine have already inspired billions of people worldwide, whether they ultimately win or lose the war! Consequently, Vladimir Putin and Russia have already become worldwide pariahs attacking a sovereign nation.

6. Never negotiate a compromise with your enemy.

When Russian President Putin offered to negotiate with Zelensky, the Ukrainian president refused to negotiate any deals without a ceasefire and the immediate pullout of all Russian troops. He knew that anything less than that was not worth negotiating since it would have compromised their national sovereignty. 

7. You must stand for truth even if all your allies abandon you.

Zelensky has taken a bold stand against Russia despite feeling abandoned by the United States and other western nations who pledged their military support. Some of their aid came much too late! 

8. Never take the easy way out if it compromises you.

Zelensky could have compromised before the Russian attack by pledging that Ukraine would never join NATO. He could have also escaped with his family before the war broke out. However, he probably would not have been able to live with himself if he did not remain faithful to his values. 

9. Peace and safety should not be the ultimate priority.

Unfortunately, history has illustrated that many people would surrender their freedom for peace and safety. Conversely, the American revolutionary war was won because they had people like Patrick Henry, who famously said in a speech, “Give me liberty or give me death!” Similarly, during one zoom meeting, President Zelensky told world leaders that that might be the last time they see him alive. If his highest priority were merely peace and safety, he would have immediately surrendered his nation to Russia when the war commenced. Thankfully, he exhibits the attitude of one who values freedom over mere peace and safety! 

10. When you take a stand, others will come out of hiding to support you.

A few days ago, after an inspiring speech from President Zelensky, approximately 16,000 fighters from foreign nations volunteered to fight for Ukraine. This new development enabled the Ukrainian army to increase its fighting and weapons capacity with people they never knew before. This happened because people often will follow a compelling vision from inspired visionary leaders who will stand despite the odds stacked against them. 

(I just released my latest book, The Purpose, Power, and Process of Prophetic Ministry. To purchase click here. )

13 Traits of “Orphan Spirit” Leaders 

One of the greatest needs in the body of Christ is to release the spirit of sonship (Romans 8:15). Since the nation of Israel and the church were modeled after the biblical family structure, its leaders were supposed to function more as spiritual parents than corporate executives. The apostle Paul said that we have only a few fathers even though we have numerous teachers (1 Corinthians 4). Those who have not been properly fathered in the natural, tend to walk with an “orphan spirit.” Unfortunately, many leaders in the church and marketplace still function emotionally with an orphan spirit even though they have been adopted as sons into the family of Father/God. ​​

Leaders with orphan spirits are limited in their capacity to make disciples and maximize their kingdom purpose. I write this article to shed light on this vital subject so leaders can become more self-aware and go to the Lord and others to be healed.

The following are ten traits of orphan spirit leaders:

1.They are hyper-sensitive.

Those with an orphan spirit walk around with a spirit of rejection. Hence, they are hyper-sensitive and unconsciously assume that people are against them. Consequently, they are easily offended and overreact to minor infractions and experience continual misunderstandings when interfacing with others.

2.They don’t know how to be a spiritual parent.

Pastors and all mature leaders in the body of Christ should first and foremost function as spiritual fathers that can nurture young believers (I John 2:12-14). When new people come into the church, they intuitively yearn for spiritual parents who will care for them. Many people are hurt because there is no opportunity presented to them in the church for personal nurture and development. First and foremost, the body of Christ needs its leaders to function as spiritual parents, secondarily, preachers and leaders. 

3.They are always in competition with other leaders.

The lack of affirmation by a father contributes to an orphan spirit. Those with an orphan spirit are constantly striving to prove themselves to others. Consequently, in their striving, they compete with other gifted leaders (including peers not within their organization).

4.They are driven by a search for significance.

Due to the lack of affirmation from a father growing up, those with an orphan spirit are constantly striving to succeed. Hence, they rarely rest because they are on a quest to elevate themselves amongst others so they can feel good about themselves. Orphan spirit leaders are driven more by personal ambition than being led by the Holy Spirit. Hence, it can leave much destruction in their wake as their ambition, rather than the Holy Spirit, motivates and directs their work.

5.They don’t know how to connect emotionally.

Orphan spirit leaders may be competent at dispensing tasks to their followers but may be handicapped regarding emotional intelligence. Affirmed sons are better able to connect emotionally with other people since they have already experienced (and developed) an intimate relationship with their heavenly and spiritual father. 

6.They do not feel good about themselves.

I have observed that even highly accomplished leaders may have low self-esteem. They desperately try to compensate for this self-disdain with their achievements. Some of the most successful people I have ever met were laden with self-hatred. All this is hidden behind looking good physically and having a tremendous public persona, but it comes out in one or more of the traits mentioned in this article.

7.They do not know how to treat others. 

Leaders with an orphan spirit often mistreat or abuse those under their leadership. This comes out sometimes because of the deep subconscious resentment and anger (from being abandoned by their father) embedded in their soul.

8.They do not interpret reality correctly.

I have found that those who carry an orphan spirit interpret everything through the lenses of abandonment, rejection, and disappointment. Consequently, they interpret reality differently than other people, which causes others they hurt to think these leaders are either liars or delusional.

9.People are objectified to obtain their goals. 

Leaders with an orphan spirit often use people for their agenda rather than viewing their leadership assignment as a way to love and empower others.

10.They are always looking for approval and recognition.

Those with an orphan spirit have a massive void in their heart that only God can fill. Their pain is so great that they look for temporary (superficial) relief by getting people to notice them so they can receive their accolades. Until and unless they allow the Lord to heal their woundedness, they will live a life seeking the approval of others. 

11.They do not know how to submit to spiritual authority. 

Those with an orphan spirit have a very difficult time understanding how to be a son to another father. Hence, they have difficulty trusting anyone enough to receive correction and genuinely submit to authority and spiritual leadership. I have found that most “lone rangers” are just people with an orphan spirit.

12.They have a difficult time with their own family.

Those with an orphan spirit are so driven they often do not keep boundaries. Consequently, they do not know how to relax and spend quality time with their family. Work and accomplishment are always at the center of their life. Also, because they have never been fathered, they do not understand how to be a parent and emotionally connect to their biological and spiritual children. These two issues cause significant friction between spouses as well as the alienation of children. 

13.They have a difficult time relating to God as their Father 

Those with an orphan spirit either view God as a harsh taskmaster or a distant father who cannot be fully trusted. This is because growing up, they experienced abandonment from an authority figure, transferring this view into their relationship with God. They need a spiritual experience with God that permeates their soul and revolutionizes their view of Father God. Also, they need a spiritual father in their life who will represent God to them and restore their soul.

In conclusion, nobody has been fully healed emotionally on this side of heaven. Every leader, including me, has deep emotional issues and needs continual transformation by God. Hence, there are no perfect marriages, children, and leaders (and no perfect churches or organizations).

May the Lord use teachings like this to open our eyes, help us be self-aware, and look for Him to bring people, situations, and His word to conform our heart, mind, and soul into the image of Jesus, the only perfect Son of the Father.

12 Final Legacy Lessons from Saint Paul 

Paul’s second letter to Timothy encapsulates his final admonitions to his top protégé. This letter reveals some of Paul’s powerful and significant life secrets. A person’s final words are usually the most important before they depart this world. Consequently, we need to take the second letter of Paul to Timothy seriously because it’s the apostle’s final words meant to perpetuate his ministry to the next generation and beyond.

1. Paul knew he was sent by God, which meant that his faith in his purpose and calling was unshakable (2 Timothy 1, 2 Timothy 11).

 He called himself an apostle, which means “sent one.” He framed his letter to Timothy with that description, thus reminding him that he wasn’t just a professional minister. God sent Paul to be a primary voice in Timothy’s life. Unfortunately, too many approach ministry as a profession instead of a calling. If it is just a profession, one is merely a hireling, not a true shepherd. To function with that divine mindset, one has to sow one’s life into the gospel. One must not preserve any part of it for one’s self interest. 

2. Paul considered Timothy his beloved child (2 Timothy 1:2). 

Paul considered the church as a family of families. Consequently, he wasn’t merely looking for church members, but for sons and daughters.

3. Paul lived a life of intercession for key people in his life (2 Timothy 1:4, 2 Timothy 5).

He also remembered Timothy’s tears. Thus, he was connected to people emotionally, not just in ministry.

4. Paul imparted spiritual gifts and knew his disciple’s divine assignment (2 Timothy 1:6).

Paul knew Timothy’s spiritual condition and sense of purpose and calling, so he could keep reminding him of it. He commanded Timothy “…to preach the word; be ready in season and out of season; reprove, rebuke, and exhort, with complete patience and teaching” and to “be sober-minded, endure suffering, do the work of an evangelist, fulfill your ministry” (2 Timothy 4:2-5). 

5. Paul left a pattern of sound words. (2 Timothy 1:13,14)

This refers to a system of teaching doctrine that was to be a spiritual deposit for Timothy and others. They were to keep these with them to carry on the preaching ministry long after Paul was gone. Too often, pastors preach topically with excellent oratory and rhetorical skills, but do not leave a systematic way of thinking for the congregation. A by-product of this is a lack of discernment and vulnerability to heresy.

6. Paul admonished Timothy to reproduce himself in others (2 Timothy 2:2).

He left Timothy with the criteria he used in picking potential disciples; people needed to be faithful and able to teach. I.e., if a person had the ability but did not prove to be faithful, they would not fit the criteria Paul used to make them a disciple.

7. Paul admonished disciples to be tough (2 Timothy 2:3-7).

True biblical discipleship requires a similar mindset as being in the military or athletics. Consequently, it takes focus and perseverance. A person needs to relentlessly push themselves to go forward, even while experiencing pain and suffering.

8. Paul focused primarily on the Scriptures. 

Paul didn’t waste his time with endless genealogies, foolish controversies, and conspiracy theories. He was devoted to studying the Old Testament and writing parts of the New Testament. He said, “All Scripture is breathed out by God and is profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work.”

9. Paul expected Timothy to befriend other sincere believers (2 Timothy 2:22).

Paul exhorted Timothy to “flee youthful passions and pursue righteousness, faith, love, and peace, along with those who call on the Lord from a pure heart.” He also told Timothy to avoid those who “have the appearance of godliness, but deny its power” (2 Timothy 3:5). Hence, Paul admonished his disciples not to spend discretionary time with insincere people. 

10. Paul modeled leadership with his life (2 Timothy 3:10, 2 Timothy 11). 

He reminded Timothy, “You, however, have followed my teaching, my conduct, my aim in life, my faith, my patience, my love, my steadfastness, my persecutions and sufferings that happened to me at Antioch, at Iconium, and at Lystra—which persecutions I endured; yet from them all the Lord rescued me.”

The greatest lesson taught by a leader is the life they lead. Christianity is caught, not merely taught.

11. Paul finished his assignment well.

He said, “For I am already being poured out as a drink offering, and the time of my departure has come. I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Henceforth there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, will award to me on that day, and not only to me but also to all who have loved his appearance.”

Thus, in his final words before his execution by Nero, Paul had no regrets. He knew he had finished the race and fought the good fight. Before Jesus died, He said, “it is finished” (John 19:30). Psalm 91 ends by telling us that with long life, God will satisfy us and show us His salvation. God wants us to die satisfied by fulfilling all He has given us to accomplish. 

12. Paul knew he could not die until his assignment was finished (2 Timothy 4:17, 2 Timothy 18).

As long as he was in the will of God, Paul knew the devil could not kill him. Paul had divine protection; hence he was temporarily impervious to death until he finished the race. I.e., He testified while preaching one of his last messages, “the Lord stood by me and strengthened me, so that through me the message might be fully proclaimed and all the Gentiles might hear it. So I was rescued from the lion’s mouth.” This gave him the faith and patience to endure hardships, challenges, and personal suffering.

In conclusion, may we all learn from Paul’s final lessons so that we can perpetuate the faith for generations to come.

As a full-time church leader since 1980, I have observed and experienced various tests and temptations in my inner life and public ministry. Often my articles are the results of my musings regarding what I watch or sense from the Lord regarding the state of the church, culture, and leadership. Today, my musings have led me to think about ten of the top demonic strategies employed by Satan to destroy a spiritual leader.

It is well known that the devil and his minions target pastors and churches that threaten His kingdom. Ignorance of these strategies is a cause for great harm and even the failure of pastors and leaders. The following are ten demonic strategies used to destroy pastors:

1. Sacrificing their family on the altar of ministry.

One of the most common ploys the evil one uses against spiritual leaders is to tempt them to neglect the spiritual and emotional well-being of their spouse and children because of ministerial priorities. Many pastors either leave the ministry, have marital challenges, or both. They point to the demands of their local church for their family’s stress. 

The demonic principle here is if you can destroy a spiritual leader’s family, you can destroy his ministry. A pastor who is not careful can easily neglect their home while trying to save others. What good is it if you win the whole world but lose your children?

2. Being motivated to succeed by American standards.

Many pastors want to have a megachurch because the cultural standards of American success have to do with a value system that says “bigger is better.” However, by this standard alone, the Apostle Paul was a small success because he usually left a congregation when it had elders who could care for the flock. Hence, he went before the church maximized its growth potential.

When a pastor’s primary motivation is to have the most prominent church, it often breeds competition with other pastors that eats away at the soul and inner life of the leader. If not repented of, this issue can lead to the destruction of the pastor and their ministry.

3. Adulterous soul-ties 

Amid ministry, many opportunities arise to minister to those you find attractive in nature. Consequently, the evil one always ensures several alluring candidates in each congregation are vulnerable enough to fall into an unhealthy relationship with the pastor. Some of these situations go no further than soul ties, which is emotional adultery; however, many result in sexual sin, which has caused many great leaders to destroy their legacy and ministry.

4. Spiritual and emotional burnout 

Many spiritual leaders attempt to live up to the standards of other pastors and the expectations of their elder board and congregation. Unfortunately, many spiritual leaders operate outside their grace gifts and function in natural strength resulting in burnout. Even if a leader has a robust prayer and devotional life, they can experience burnout if they attempt to minister in a way incompatible with their internal wiring.

For example, big-picture entrepreneurial leaders cannot function and focus the same as shepherding pastors, whose primary focus is detail in caring for individuals rather than big projects that compel corporate vision. Leaders need to be who they are, not as others want them to be, or they will be miserable and self-destruct.

5. Doing the work instead of equipping others

When pastors attempt to do the work of the ministry instead of equipping others to do the work of the ministry, they lose balance and grow weary (Ephesians 4:11-12). This weakened state causes them to be susceptible to various demonic temptations, leading to a potential scandal or moral failure.

6. Isolation in life and ministry

Many spiritual leaders have no one they can trust or confide in regarding their life and ministry. This isolation detaches them strategically from other capable leaders within and without their church. This often produces a vacuum that begets myopic decisions because there was a  lack of objective counsel. Isolation also breeds loneliness, which opens the door to seducing spirits, pornography, and substance abuse, wreaking havoc on leaders.

7. Diffusing their energy and focus 

Many spiritual leaders will not fall for obvious demonic temptations, so the enemy often tempts them with good opportunities that are not “God opportunities.” This lack of focus means they need more energy and time to accomplish their primary purpose. The old adage “less is more” is relevant in this case. Whenever a leader says yes to something, he says no to something else that may be even more essential to their mission. This dissipation in focus can subtly destroy the main ministry of a spiritual leader.

8. Pursuing ministry more than pursuing Christ

One of the most common demonic methods used to destroy church leaders is to tempt them to be so busy with ministerial activities that they become dull spiritually. This results in ministry without true spiritual authority and anointing, which leaves them ineffective. Many pastors have actually fallen away from their first love, even though they have the correct doctrine and work hard in the church. If they do not repent, Jesus will remove their lampstand (Revelation 2).

9. Living for the praise of men

As Satan tried to lift himself to attract praise (Isaiah 14:2-4), he tempted spiritual leaders to perform ministry functions for the adulation of men. This egocentric pattern causes leaders to stumble and lose everything they achieved in the flesh because God resists the pride which comes before a fall. It is no accident that the apostle Peter warns of pride before mentioning that Satan wants to devour believers. Pride leads to destruction by opening the door to demonic attacks (1 Peter 5:6-9).

10. Living in self-denial rather than self-awareness

Spiritual leaders often live above the surface of the deep waters of their emotions and inner being. This is because they can often perform ministry functions with their natural and spiritual gifts while ignoring unresolved heart issues.

When leaders live superficial lives, they deny the true condition of their souls and lack self-awareness. They become ticking time bombs, ready to implode and explode. This is why so many people are shocked when their leader falls since all seemed well on the outside based on ministerial function and preaching.

The enemy is not as naive as church members who gauge the condition of their leader merely on ministry performance rather than discerning the true condition of their souls. Finally, may the Lord reveal to all His leaders the difference between our true and false selves, and what is genuinely rooted in Him and what is not. 

Please check out the latest book from Joseph Mattera here!

Many people fail to distinguish between being an entertainer and a leader. If your primary aim is to bring others happiness, becoming an entertainer is more suitable than being a leader. The following are ten key differences between entertainers and leaders:

1. Entertainers prioritize making people happy, while leaders aim to empower people toward excellence.

Entertainers focus on ensuring their audience is content and satisfied. However, true leaders understand that proper growth and excellence often require stepping outside one’s comfort zone. Leaders challenge and provoke individuals to reach their full potential in Christ.

2. Entertainers perform, while leaders guide.

Pastors who are entertainers invest significant effort in the public performance aspects of their ministry, such as speaking, worship teams, visual effects, and appearance. They may devote little time to evaluating whether their followers are growing in their faith. On the other hand, genuine leaders prioritize leading people to the fulfillment of their God-given destinies.

3. Entertainers avoid disagreement, while leaders often encourage constructive disagreement and discomfort.

Due to their insecurities, entertainers seek constant affirmation and tend to avoid conflict or disagreement with their audience. In contrast, true leaders understand that healthy disputes can lead to growth. They focus on moving people from passivity to purpose, even if it means challenging them and causing discomfort.

4. Entertainers measure success by numbers, while leaders measure success by obedience to their calling.

Entertainers often gauge their success based on church attendance and offerings. If both numbers are high, they consider themselves successful. Genuine biblical leaders, however, measure their success by remaining faithful to the specific call of God in their lives and organizations. The examples of prophets like Jeremiah, Isaiah, and John the Baptist highlight that success is not defined by popularity or large numbers but by faithfulness to one’s assignment.

5. Entertainers cater to the mainstream, while leaders are often marginalized by the mainstream.

Entertainers constantly seek to please the majority, going in the direction the wind blows. They prioritize popularity, avoid controversial topics, or take a stand on moral and social values. In contrast, true leaders like Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and Winston Churchill speak the truth regardless of popular opinion. They are often prophetic voices, attracting “innovators and early adopters” as followers. Leaders are willing to swim against the current and challenge the status quo.

6. Entertainers make people feel good, while leaders transform people.

Entertainers focus on bringing temporary happiness to people, while leaders have a vision to disciple individuals who will transform the world. Entertainers aim to attract crowds, whereas leaders like Jesus invest in a select few who will ultimately build a movement that can bring about lasting change.

Let’s clarify an important distinction: popularity and influence are different. Someone may be highly popular on social media due to their entertaining content but may need more ability to influence or transform their followers truly.

7. Entertainers yearn for acceptance, while leaders inspire respect.

Entertainers crave love and approval, whereas leaders prioritize influence and respect. Good parents, for example, may not always be liked by their children when correcting them, but they earn their respect because they have their children’s long-term interests at heart. Similarly, leaders understand that maintaining respect is more crucial for fulfilling God’s purpose than seeking social acceptance and likeability. Jesus wasn’t always liked or understood, but His followers respected Him (John 6:60-71).

8. Entertainers focus on the present, while leaders focus on the future.

Entertainers strive to create immediate happiness and base their strategies on programs, hype, and emotionally uplifting experiences. Leaders seek to uplift people emotionally and aspire to transform their entire way of life toward a divine trajectory.

9. Entertainers prioritize their public persona, while leaders focus on their inner life.

Many entertainers spend hours perfecting their public speaking, reviewing their body language, and enhancing their appearance. They primarily focus on their outward image to attract a more significant following. In contrast, genuine leaders invest more in developing their inner life, allowing God to transform their character. They heed the words of Jesus, who advised cleaning the inside of the cup first so that the outside will also be clean (Matthew 23:26).

10. Entertainers receive accolades from people, while leaders receive accolades from God.

Ultimately, entertainers may be celebrated by people during their time on earth, but what will the verdict be when they stand before God? In recent years, I have witnessed numerous spiritual giants transitioning into glory without major newspapers acknowledging their significant contributions to society. However, the passing of a famous singer or entertainer often receives nonstop media coverage about their life and legacy. Eternity will reveal those who cherished human recognition over the recognition from God (John 12:43). While leaders may not always be the most popular figures during their lifetime, they will be rewarded abundantly in eternity and eventually wield the greatest influence on earth among people.

Please check out the latest book from Joseph Mattera here!

Recognizing Warning Signs: 7 Red Flags For Spiritual Leadership

Effective leadership is crucial for the success and integrity of any organization or community. However, there are times when leaders exhibit warning signs that hint at potential issues or challenges ahead. In this article, we will explore seven red flags in leadership, which serve as warning signs that should not be ignored. Recognizing these red flags can help prevent scandals or falls, fostering healthy and responsible leadership.

1. Arrogance:

Arrogance is a significant red flag in leadership. When leaders display an excessive sense of self-importance, entitlement, superiority, or an unwillingness to listen to others, it hinders collaboration, creates a toxic work environment, and stifles growth. Humility and a willingness to learn from others are essential qualities of effective leadership. Often leaders don’t submit to the rules they established in their organizations. I.E., Pastors often don’t have a small group they are accountable to, even in churches that require every member and leader to be in a small group for emotional and spiritual support. Too often, the pastor is the only one in the Church exempt from such expectations since they think they are too spiritually mature to be expected to adhere to the same rules as everyone else in the Church, which is a form of arrogance.

2. Isolation:

Isolation is another warning sign to watch for in leaders. When leaders become isolated and disconnected from their team or community, it can lead to a lack of perspective, limited feedback, and decision-making based on personal biases. Engaging with and being accessible to those they lead fosters trust, collaboration, and accountability.

Furthermore, when it comes to spiritual leadership, such as a lead pastor role, they should function collaboratively with other pastors in a peer relationship collective. This lends itself for mutual support with others they can empathize with who understand their pain.

I tell new church planters to find lead pastors in their city they can connect with for prayer, counsel, and friendship so they have a sustainable support system beyond their own local church eldership. 

Hence, isolation in spiritual leadership is unnecessary and a hazardous trait. 

3. Lack of accountability:

Leaders who evade accountability for their actions or decisions raise a red flag. Accountability is vital to ensure ethical conduct, responsible decision-making, and transparency. Leaders who demonstrate a lack of accountability may create an environment that enables misconduct or unethical behavior within the organization.

Every pastor should be accountable to a team of elders related to the direction and vision of the church and a board of trustees related to the management of the finances. Hence, they should lead as much as possible with the consensus of a multiplicity of ministries and leaders. If it is a new church plant, they may need to utilize mature spiritual leaders outside their local church until their members matriculate to occupy these vital roles of support and accountability for the lead pastor. 

4. Cliques:

Spiritual leaders who form exclusive cliques or only socialize with a small inner circle raise concerns about favoritism and exclusion. Cliques can lead to a breakdown in teamwork, trust, and the equitable distribution of resources or opportunities. Inclusive leadership that endeavors to shepherd the whole flock will foster a sense of belonging essential for a healthy church culture.

Of course, when it comes to leadership development, Jesus and the Apostle Paul were very particular about who they invested most of their time with. In 2 Timothy 2:2, Paul advises Timothy to disciple those who are faithful, with ability, who can communicate the word to others. This is not an unhealthy clique in the context of this article since the object of said discipleship is to expand the shepherding capacity for the benefit of the entire church. 

5. Inappropriate boundaries:

When leaders display inappropriate boundaries, particularly in their interactions with members of the opposite sex, it is a significant red flag. Crossing professional boundaries can lead to misconduct allegations, damage the leader’s reputation, and harm the organization’s credibility. Leaders must maintain appropriate boundaries, demonstrating respect and professionalism in all relationships.

Spiritual leaders should avoid counseling members of the opposite sex alone or getting too familiar with them via text and private social media messaging. What may start as an innocuous conversation can quickly escalate into romantic and erotic content that can scandalize and derail a person’s ministry and family. One way to avoid this is for married pastors to give their spouses full access to their phones and social media accounts. Single pastors should give an elder the same access to create a firewall in their personal life that is not easily compromised. 

6. Lack of a solid biblical foundation and private devotional life: 

Leaders in religious or faith-based organizations must possess a deep and substantive understanding of their faith and its principles. When leaders lack a solid foundation in biblical understanding, they may promote distorted teachings, engage in unethical practices, or mislead their followers.

Also, they should have a healthy, robust devotional life with the Lord. If the only time they read the word and pray is to prepare messages to preach, it illustrates that they have a superficial relationship with God, which is a trainwreck waiting to happen. 

7. Unhealthy dependence on charisma:

Leaders who rely solely on their charisma (spiritual gifts) and natural abilities rather than prioritizing their spiritual formation, raise a significant red flag. Charisma can initially attract followers, but without spiritual depth and character development, it can lead to a lack of substance and authenticity in leadership. Leaders must prioritize personal growth, spiritual development, and character formation to sustain long-term effectiveness and influence. Those whose charisma has been developed more than their character will not have what it takes to sustain their ministry long-term without a scandalous fall. 

In conclusion, recognizing red flags in leadership is crucial to prevent potential scandals or falls. By remaining vigilant and attentive to these seven warning signs, leaders can enjoy a long, healthy, and sustainable personal life and ministry that will positively impact future generations.

Please check out the latest book from Joseph Mattera here!