This is a fantastic article by Glenn Brooke at The Institute for Faith, Work, and Economics.
Brooke argues that we were poised on the edge of a new renaissance period, but we can only rise up to this opportunity if we have the right kind of leaders. “This is a massive leadership development opportunity for the church, which is uniquely qualified to develop them.”
The right kind of leaders have a big view of God, sound theology, inclination to harness technology for addressing large global problems, and actually understand the nature of leadership. Above all, they are people of character.
Glenn looks at the main features of our leadership landscape today, and how they compare to the hallmarks of the European Renaissance of the 14th through 17th centuries. Then he points out that, in light of this, what we need is “a critical mass of entrepreneurial leaders of high character.”
These are people who can let go of the old (even successful) ways of doing things. They have large imaginations and the drive to turn that imagination into something better in the world.
You don’t solve the world’s problems through government programs and handouts, though these have a place. You improve the lives of millions through businesses which add value and support families. We’ve seen this story repeatedly in history.
He then looks at what leaders must do to meet the challenges of the future, and the leadership opportunity this presents for the church.
It is a truly fantastic post that brings together an understanding of the massive opportunities of our time with a solid and biblical understanding of leadership. Go read the whole thing — and if possible, read it several times so you can truly absorb and reflect on what he is saying.