Review: As You Follow Jesus, They Will Follow You: Leading begins with Following
Rating: 5 out of 5
Date: 10 28, 2013
I was given a free copy of this book by the author in exchange for an honest review.As the author of a book on leadership,Exceptional Educational Leadership: Everyone Is A Leader, this book naturally attracted my attention. Are educational leadership and spiritual leadership inherently similar? If so, how, or if they differ, in what fundamental points do they share the same principles?I did not have to wait long for Pastor Owens to clearly point out his thinking on this topic that interested me.  The message on the attractively designed cover was unmistakeable in its intent and clarity, namely, that "as you follow Jesus, they will follow you."For me, Pastor Owens is specifically sharing an unequivocal truth, namely, that leadership is always about followship. If you are a leader, that implies that you must be following somebody. Your leadership, in turn, must be consistent and coherent with the way you follow. If it is not, you will have difficulty convincing anyone to follow you.In the very first chapter of the book Pastor Owens explained this concept: "Leading begins with following". He further states, "If you can't follow, you can't lead." From personal experience in a wide variety of leadership roles, I know that statement to be absolutely true. Pastor Owens is writing what he knows about.From that point forward, he built upon his message in a highly inspirational and motivational style that will appeal to any reader, young or old, male or female. There is an ample amount of scripture and quotes to inspire the reader in this book, as you would expect from such a book as this one. Here is my favorite quote, attributed to David Livingstone:"If a commission by an earthly king is considered an honor, how can a commission by a Heavenly King be considered a sacrifice?"My favorite scriptural quote:Jesus tells us "follow me, and I will make you fishers of men" (Mt 4:19).These two quotes I believe are judiciously used and wisely employed by Pastor Owens to explain the nature of being a Christian leader.Finally, I read this entire book in one sitting. It is well written, thoughtful, and a source of inspiration and motivation for anyone seriously considering taking on a leadership role. It is a pleasure for me to recommend this book most highly as a must-read. Once you begin to turn the pages, you will not be able to stop until you turn the last page, page after page, until you have come to the end...Reviewed by Thomas Jerome BakerAuthor ofStory Tellers: In Pursuit of Happiness