Our Leadership gathering in Oxford looked at Leadership at the threshold aided by much wisdom from Paul and Sarah Williams. They made the case that we are in a period of sustained and destabilising change – entering a new era. They looked historically at how the Bible, and the church have approached significant change. This left me with a profound thought – this is a time of immense challenge for leaders – they either enable change or get run over by it.
Let me share a reflection from one leadership context I am connected with…
Like church, this is an organisation on the threshold of big change
I have been working to help set up a new Integrated Care Board working closely with the Chief Executive. This health board takes responsibility for the health needs of over two million people. I believe there are big similarities as we look at the spiritual needs for our cities, towns, regions. Like church, this is an organisation on the threshold of big change – moving from two teams to one, with reduced resources. Success depends on the whole organisation having a shared vision, shared values, shared ways of working – where individual expertise and calling is also encouraged.
We have looked at Patrick Lencioni’s concept of organisational health. Lencioni argues that the big gift leaders give is clarity. They achieve clarity by good robust discussion; they challenge each other to get the very best outcome. They give a story/narrative to what is changing. The leader’s prime focus is excellent communication – so that everyone at the front line knows what is expected of them.
In a leadership at the threshold stage getting clarity is difficult. Many of us need to recognise we are in a transition stage and that needs a different approach.
Here are three of my key reflections from the Leadership at the Threshold Event held on 2nd December:
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- What is our purpose and calling now? – in 2026 and beyond? New issues are emerging – we need a much more deliberate approach to discipleship as many come to Christ from a ‘non religious’ setting. We need to build an inter-generational church – a culture that listens to and builds up every age, we need an Ekklesia mentality of the people of God sent out, we need a church that welcomes all.
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- Leaders communicate – in transition we need humility as we do not have all the answers – but we will listen and engage and most of all seek God. We model God dependency. As we gain clarity we communicate vision. Testimony becomes a vital tool to show change, to demonstrate what is God’s heart and encourage growth.
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- What has God put in your hands? – We have a passion, we have a calling to serve our place, we have capable people and prayer routines. Now hand them over to Jesus – the good shepherd multiplies what we have in our hands – he feeds 5000 with a few loaves and fish. We become more aware of our limitations and more aware of God’s great goodness. We expect new leaders, new voices, innovation, but also new challenges. Often our default stance is busyness – but God is calling us to put listening first. Be still and know that I am God – the good shepherd who leads, provides and encourages.
These are times when leaders need friends, mentors, and support. But these are also the times when we see God moving more deeply in our lives. Let us step over the threshold and go where God brings great fruitfulness.
STEVE BOTHAM
Steve Botham is supporting and advising Gather Movement. Steve comes from a business background, having worked in senior roles in HR and Training in the Motor Industry and Financial Services. He was CEO of a Change and Consultancy firm and Chair of a Community Development “think tank”. Previously, Steve was Director of the World Prayer Centre in Birmingham. Steve is a regional connector for the Midlands and gives us a focus on prayer and workplace ministry.
Steve is married to Carol and they have 2 grown-up children.
