Introduction:

In this episode of Church is a Team Sport, Lance and Jim dive into a crucial leadership principle: the "leadership lid." Every leader has limitations, and those limitations affect the entire team. They discuss how to assess personal leadership growth, receive constructive feedback, and build a culture of coaching and accountability within the church. This conversation is packed with practical insights on developing leaders from within, creating a culture where coaching is the norm, and ensuring that leadership growth doesn't become the limiting factor in the church’s mission.

Key Takeaways:

1.   Leadership Growth Determines the Church’s Capacity:

o  Just like an athlete must continue training to improve, a leader must consistently develop to avoid capping the growth of the church.

o  Leaders must be self-aware, acknowledging their weaknesses and allowing others to fill in their gaps.

o  A coaching culture creates an environment where feedback is welcomed and expected.

2.   The Importance of Receiving and Filtering Feedback:

o  Leaders must learn to distinguish between helpful, godly feedback and unhelpful criticism.

o  Wise counsel from trusted individuals helps confirm or challenge areas needing growth (Proverbs 11:14).

o  Having a strong accountability system prevents leaders from blind spots that could hinder the church’s mission.

3.   Raising Up Leaders from Within:

o  A healthy church culture fosters leadership development by giving people opportunities to lead.

o  Instead of hiring externally, building leaders from within ensures continuity in mission and values.

o  Coaching others means embracing a team mindset where success is measured by the growth of others.

4.   Balancing Leadership Strengths and Weaknesses:

o  Leaders should grow in weaker areas while also empowering those gifted in those spaces.

o  Emotional and spiritual health are just as important as leadership skills—burnout or personal struggles can limit effectiveness.

o  Leaders must know when to step back for rest and renewal rather than pushing through at the expense of their well-being.

5.   Creating a Culture of Coaching and Accountability:

o  Leaders set the tone for coaching by modeling humility and a willingness to be coached.

o  Honest feedback should be welcomed at all levels—up, down, and across leadership teams.

o  Regular assessments, such as a 360-degree review, help ensure accurate self-awareness and growth.

Discussion Questions:

• What are some areas where you feel you might be a "leadership lid" for your team or ministry?
• How do you typically respond to feedback—defensively or with a willingness to grow?
• Who are the trusted people in your life that you allow to speak into your leadership?
• In what ways can you help foster a culture of coaching and accountability in your church or ministry?
• How do you balance leadership development with emotional and spiritual health?

Action Steps:

• Assess Your Leadership Lid: Take time to reflect on where you may be limiting growth in your ministry.
• Seek Honest Feedback: Ask trusted mentors, peers, or team members to give you constructive input on your leadership.
• Create a Coaching Culture: Lead by example—show humility in receiving coaching and actively mentor others.
• Prioritize Spiritual and Emotional Health: Ensure you’re in a place of health so you can lead effectively without burnout.
• Invest in Leadership Development: Encourage those around you to step up, take responsibility, and grow in their calling.

Closing Encouragement:

Leadership isn’t about having all the answers—it’s about being willing to learn, grow, and empower others. As you continue leading in your church or ministry, remember that God is the one who determines the mission’s success, not our personal strengths or weaknesses. Keep developing, stay accountable, and create a culture where coaching is embraced. Together, we can build a thriving, disciple-making church where leaders grow and multiply.

Scripture References:

• Proverbs 11:14 – “Where there is no guidance, a people falls, but in an abundance of counselors there is safety.”
• Matthew 4:1-11 – Jesus' reliance on scripture to combat temptation.
• John 14:27 – Jesus' promise of peace amid struggles.
• Ephesians 4:11-16 – Equipping the saints for ministry and leadership growth.
• 2 Timothy 2:2 – The call to entrust leadership to faithful people who will teach others.

Be sure to check out more resources on leadership and discipleship at JimPutman.com. See you next time!