Russell Huizing | Toccoa Falls College (original) (raw)
Published Papers by Russell Huizing
Journal of Biblical Perspectives in Leadership, 2018
Since Servant Leadership has become a popular leadership theory, consideration of when this style... more Since Servant Leadership has become a popular leadership theory, consideration of when this style does not seem to attain its anticipated outcomes is important to deliberate. The paper uses intertexture exegetical analysis of Mark 10:17-31 to examine why the rich young ruler failed to respond to Jesus’ appeal to sell all of his property, to give to the poor, and to come and follow Him. The research suggests that values must be aligned before servant leadership will be effective. Value alignment and communication are considered as possible next steps in the development of servant leadership.
Evangelical Review of Theology, 2018
This research uses both quantitative and qualitative methods to determine the emphasis of apprent... more This research uses both quantitative and qualitative methods to determine the emphasis of apprentice—based or pupil—based teaching in early Christian follower development. The quantitative analysis bases its results on domain of meaning words that are associated with the Greek word for teaching, didasko. The quantitative results suggested an emphasis towards apprenticeship. The qualitative analysis is based on human coder results. The results also tended to emphasize an apprenticeship model. This shift in meaning has impact on the development of followers and leaders in the church, Christian education, and disciple—making methods.
Contemporary leadership contexts are rife with stress, competitiveness, and demanding expectation... more Contemporary leadership contexts are rife with stress, competitiveness, and demanding expectations. These contexts litter the newsfeed with examples of leaders who have lost control either in their professional or personal lives. Genesis provides the story of Joseph and his inimitable degree of self-control in the presence of those who have forgotten and forsaken him. Out of this study of mastering, curbing, and restraining one’s desires and passions one might wrongly deduce that self-control limits freedom. However, the study of ancient material suggests just the opposite – that it is out of freedom that the most effective self-control is cultivated. This then begins to explain an aspect of the effective leadership characterized by Abraham Lincoln, Nelson Mandela, and police officers.
While gentleness is not typically on a list of leadership characteristics, we can see from the tr... more While gentleness is not typically on a list of leadership characteristics, we can see from the triumphal entry of Jesus into Jerusalem on Palm Sunday that the concept of a gentle leader has both Old and New Testament roots. This chapter will analyze this type of gentle leadership that is able to flourish in the midst of resistance and injustice while finding leniency in the midst of judgment. The contemporary model of Social Power Base Theory provides a framework for applying these ancient insights to contemporary leaders. It is out of this comparison that not only a more fascinating understanding of biblical gentleness is seen but also how gentleness becomes exemplified by the cultural desire to see gentleness that offsets stern laws.
An implicit requirement of successful organization outcomes is the faithfulness of both leaders a... more An implicit requirement of successful organization outcomes is the faithfulness of both leaders and followers. David’s faithfulness to the faithless king Saul becomes a helpful biblical example. This chapter will analyze a biblical understanding of faithfulness and its application to organizational leadership. This analysis will show faithfulness to be not only a characteristic of God but also an expression of one’s standing with God, with others, and with one’s own adherence to the beliefs that govern their life. From the covenant of the Old Testament to the authenticity of Greek understanding to the endurance under suffering of the New Testament, this characteristic has several important applications to contemporary organizations. These applications are applied to a contemporary example of funeral directors.
Scandinavian Journal for Leadership & Theology, 2017
Using both a religious and secular example, this article seeks to understand the intersection bet... more Using both a religious and secular example, this article seeks to understand the intersection between authority and creativity in leadership. A hermeneutic of semantic theory guided the analysis of the early chapters of Genesis, supporting the use of these two attributes in effective leadership. By allowing the world to be very good and yet not perfect, God offers humanity the potential to use authority and creativity in a way that reflects His own character. The prohibition that God establishes enhances rather than hinders humanity's potential for authority and creativity by framing a context for these attributes to grow. Additionally, the contemporary leadership analysis suggests the importance of understanding how authority, power, creativity, and freedom are associated with both leadership and followership. Here, again, the literature suggests that a boundary marking authority is needed for the fullest expression of creativity to occur. The question naturally arises as to what occurs when there are varying levels of authority and creativity in an organizational context. These varying levels result in the development of a model of leadership that seeks to understand the dimensions of Order and Freedom in four typologies measuring the degree of authority and creativity in organizational contexts and recommends a greater balance between authority and creativity for both leadership and followership.
In the following interview, Russell explains how confessing sins to each other makes for a health... more In the following interview, Russell explains how confessing sins to each other makes for a healthier, more humble church.
Luke’s account of the African eunuch in Acts 8:26–40 provides for the modern reader a glimpse int... more Luke’s account of the African eunuch in Acts 8:26–40 provides for
the modern reader a glimpse into how the early church recognised its
leaders. Using socio-rhetorical criticism, the ideological texture of
the passage is studied, distinguishing principles within the text
similar to the modern theoretical concepts of organisational identity
and leadership identification. Drawn from the ideology of Luke are
recommendations on using identity as indication of leadership
development.
The integration of biblical principles with leadership theory has proven a monumental undertaking... more The integration of biblical principles with leadership theory has proven a monumental undertaking. Can such principles actually guide Christian leaders even though they are sometimes in tension with current concepts of leadership? It might seem like a difficult balance to achieve. However, by delving into Peter's basic and presuppositional commitments, a clear picture of biblical leadership emerged. Using 1 Peter 5 as the investigative platform, thorough analysis revealed a Trinitarian belief structure underpinning Peter's concept of leadership. Significantly, the transition from simple fisherman to apostle demonstrated a radical transformation in both thought and application of leadership principles. Ultimately, a precise understanding of God's eternal character forms the bridge between theology and leadership theory, offering a glimpse of Trinitarian leadership as a paradigm for future study.
International Journal of Leadership Studies, Feb 2015
Rotter’s Internal-External Locus of Control scale has been broadly used in both American contexts... more Rotter’s Internal-External Locus of Control scale has been broadly used in both American contexts as well as in other cultures around the world. A review of the research that first transitioned this scale into other cultures shows a number of significant validity and reliability threats. Given that many more recent studies have based their validity and reliability on these earlier studies, it is important to understand the threats that existed so current research can strengthen the validity and reliability of this important scale across other cultures. Recommendations for various forms of validity and reliability are provided.
Downside Review, 2013
The Holy Rule of Saint Benedict provides the ecclesial leader with a structure for transforming b... more The Holy Rule of Saint Benedict provides the ecclesial leader with a structure for transforming believers over the course of their lives into worshippers who reflect God’s glory. Benedict presented a cyclical regulation of time that produces self-discipline for the purpose of focus upon the works of God in the moment. When the recognition of these God-moments is repeated throughout a lifetime, they produce a spiritually mature disciple with Christ-like attributes. Thus, the Rule perceives time in several dimensions including maturation, chronological, and sacral. Ecclesial leaders who apply these lessons will emphasize the benefits of relearning lessons and will reproduce these experiences in the lives of others with a radically Christ-centered emphasis.
Evangelical Journal, 2013
Guiding the reader past the myths of St. Patrick, this research provides a qualitative assessment... more Guiding the reader past the myths of St. Patrick, this research provides a qualitative assessment of his accepted writings within the context of the Ireland of his day. An overview of the political, theological, and ecclesiological assists in placing St. Patrick’s life within a historical context. Using two of his writings, Confession and The Epistle to the Soldiers of Coroticus, a thematic analysis detected four meta-themes: (a) God’s revelation to St. Patrick through written words, speech, and grace, (b) St. Patrick’s response to God’s revelation through faith and worship, (c) God’s response to the sinful deeds of His enemies with judgment, and (d) St. Patrick’s transformation shown through humility and integrity. These meta-themes provide a model for modern cross-cultural ecclesial leaders to follow. Specifically, the success of the effective cross-cultural ecclesial leader will be dependent upon the source of motivation, the response to that motivation, and the willingness to allow adaption.
Ecumenical Trends, Nov 2013
Protestants disobey James 5:16. With that as a backdrop, this article seeks to identify a path to... more Protestants disobey James 5:16. With that as a backdrop, this article seeks to identify a path to obey this command that is uniquely Protestant while drawing upon the history of Catholic and Orthodox branches of Christianity. A brief history of confession within the Catholic branch of Christianity is explored up until the Reformation. Then, a Protestant view of confession is discussed. Included are the questions of absolution, whether justified people need confession, and the contemporary Protestant method of accountability as a form of confession. The article continues by sketching a theology of confession that recognizes confession’s role in bringing sin to light, defining sin, highlighting sin’s destructiveness to relationships, and the future hope that is obtained through forgiveness. A Protestant form of confession is recommended with a description of how each step might take form within a Protestant context.
The Journal of Biblical Perspectives in Leadership, 2012
This article contains a scholarly review of the articles published in the Journal of Biblical Per... more This article contains a scholarly review of the articles published in the Journal of Biblical Perspectives in Leadership (JBPL) from 2006-2011. Each article is summarized with a listing of methodologies and leadership theories that the article interacts with. Four recommendations are made for future publications: (1) encourage the use of recognized qualitative research methods rather than a general exegetical approach; (2) encourage the use of inductive data analysis, especially in historical Hebrew and Christian sacred writing, rather than a deductive approach of identifying contemporary approaches in ancient literature; (3) call for papers that seek to add confirmability of theoretical material in modern contexts; and (4) continue to broaden the thematic elements of the journal.
Great Commission Research Journal, 2012
After a brief literature review, eight of the primary contemporary church health resources are su... more After a brief literature review, eight of the primary contemporary church health resources are subjected to a meta-ethnographic study. The resources’ combined twenty-six health indicators are translated through the meta-themes of organizational structure, developing community, church characteristics, and personal characteristics. A discussion and visual synthesis of the translations point to the church literature developing community through organizational structure which in turn cultivates church and personal characteristics. Future research recommendations include expanding the study of church metaphors beyond “body” and identifying metaphor-specifc characteristics through exegetical study.
Mentoring & Tutoring: Partnership in Learning, 2012
Researchers have shown the benefits of mentoring in both personal and professional growth. It wou... more Researchers have shown the benefits of mentoring in both personal and professional growth. It would seem that group mentoring would only enhance those benefits. This work represents a literature review of peer-reviewed articles and dissertations that contribute to the theory and research of group mentoring. This work reviews the articles that contributed
to the development of group mentoring theory as well as relevant
research. Four primary types of group mentoring emerge—peer group, one-to-many, many-to-one, and many-to-many. Despite over 20 years of research, significant gaps remain in the research methods, demographic focus, and fields of study. The review concludes with recommendations for future research. - Top Viewed Article - 2012- 2016
Journal of Applied Christian Leadership, 2011
The church’s leadership experience spanning the centuries places it in a unique position to contr... more The church’s leadership experience spanning the centuries places it in a unique position to contribute to leadership studies. Any contribution should grow out of the development of a theology of leadership. Consideration of that development should be informed by general leadership studies while uniquely drawn from its faith. Its primary elements should include a Scripture-based, God-governed, Christ-centric reflection on the use of the gifts that the Holy Spirit has empowered all believers with in order to accomplish His mission in and for the world. A theology of leadership must constantly balance the biblical narrative and contextual application. This leads to both ecclesiology and practical leadership being advanced simultaneously. Research can be furthered through greater analysis of both scriptural and historical leadership contexts.
Journal of Biblical Perspectives in Leadership, 2011
1 Timothy 2 has been the primary battleground of the church’s clash over a woman’s role in church... more 1 Timothy 2 has been the primary battleground of the church’s clash over a woman’s role in church leadership. Using the ideological component of socio-rhetorical criticism, this work will seek to draw out of the text philosophies and beliefs of the early church as recorded by Paul. It is the goal of this work to deepen and strengthen the understanding of female leadership identification and development in the early church as well as allow the text to critique and point possible avenues of future research for modern theory
Evangelical Review of Theology, 2011
The Church’s model of discipleship represents a unique voice in the development of leadership. A ... more The Church’s model of discipleship represents a unique voice in the development of leadership. A survey of biblical discipleship in Matthew, Mark, and other passages showed that discipleship represents an imitation of the life of Jesus and an incarnation of His Spirit. Evidence suggested these characteristics must be contextualized as characterized in Augustine, the early Anabaptists, and Bonhoeffer. Additional research is needed to understand the contexts of Christian leaders throughout history.
Journal of Biblical Perspectives in Leadership, 2010
The contemporary model of spiritual realization (completing or accomplishing specific experiences... more The contemporary model of spiritual realization (completing or accomplishing specific experiences as a sign of spiritual maturity) is an insufficient model of spiritual growth. Rather, researchers and theologians should adopt a seasonal paradigm. This work applies this model to ecclesial leadership, recommending the seasons of calling, formation, role identification, and praxis. This model suggests that these four seasons will be recurring in the life of the ecclesial leader with perennial growth as the outcome. Additional research is recommended to confirm that these seasons are the best descriptions of an ecclesial leader’s development and whether other seasons exist.
Journal of Biblical Perspectives in Leadership, 2018
Since Servant Leadership has become a popular leadership theory, consideration of when this style... more Since Servant Leadership has become a popular leadership theory, consideration of when this style does not seem to attain its anticipated outcomes is important to deliberate. The paper uses intertexture exegetical analysis of Mark 10:17-31 to examine why the rich young ruler failed to respond to Jesus’ appeal to sell all of his property, to give to the poor, and to come and follow Him. The research suggests that values must be aligned before servant leadership will be effective. Value alignment and communication are considered as possible next steps in the development of servant leadership.
Evangelical Review of Theology, 2018
This research uses both quantitative and qualitative methods to determine the emphasis of apprent... more This research uses both quantitative and qualitative methods to determine the emphasis of apprentice—based or pupil—based teaching in early Christian follower development. The quantitative analysis bases its results on domain of meaning words that are associated with the Greek word for teaching, didasko. The quantitative results suggested an emphasis towards apprenticeship. The qualitative analysis is based on human coder results. The results also tended to emphasize an apprenticeship model. This shift in meaning has impact on the development of followers and leaders in the church, Christian education, and disciple—making methods.
Contemporary leadership contexts are rife with stress, competitiveness, and demanding expectation... more Contemporary leadership contexts are rife with stress, competitiveness, and demanding expectations. These contexts litter the newsfeed with examples of leaders who have lost control either in their professional or personal lives. Genesis provides the story of Joseph and his inimitable degree of self-control in the presence of those who have forgotten and forsaken him. Out of this study of mastering, curbing, and restraining one’s desires and passions one might wrongly deduce that self-control limits freedom. However, the study of ancient material suggests just the opposite – that it is out of freedom that the most effective self-control is cultivated. This then begins to explain an aspect of the effective leadership characterized by Abraham Lincoln, Nelson Mandela, and police officers.
While gentleness is not typically on a list of leadership characteristics, we can see from the tr... more While gentleness is not typically on a list of leadership characteristics, we can see from the triumphal entry of Jesus into Jerusalem on Palm Sunday that the concept of a gentle leader has both Old and New Testament roots. This chapter will analyze this type of gentle leadership that is able to flourish in the midst of resistance and injustice while finding leniency in the midst of judgment. The contemporary model of Social Power Base Theory provides a framework for applying these ancient insights to contemporary leaders. It is out of this comparison that not only a more fascinating understanding of biblical gentleness is seen but also how gentleness becomes exemplified by the cultural desire to see gentleness that offsets stern laws.
An implicit requirement of successful organization outcomes is the faithfulness of both leaders a... more An implicit requirement of successful organization outcomes is the faithfulness of both leaders and followers. David’s faithfulness to the faithless king Saul becomes a helpful biblical example. This chapter will analyze a biblical understanding of faithfulness and its application to organizational leadership. This analysis will show faithfulness to be not only a characteristic of God but also an expression of one’s standing with God, with others, and with one’s own adherence to the beliefs that govern their life. From the covenant of the Old Testament to the authenticity of Greek understanding to the endurance under suffering of the New Testament, this characteristic has several important applications to contemporary organizations. These applications are applied to a contemporary example of funeral directors.
Scandinavian Journal for Leadership & Theology, 2017
Using both a religious and secular example, this article seeks to understand the intersection bet... more Using both a religious and secular example, this article seeks to understand the intersection between authority and creativity in leadership. A hermeneutic of semantic theory guided the analysis of the early chapters of Genesis, supporting the use of these two attributes in effective leadership. By allowing the world to be very good and yet not perfect, God offers humanity the potential to use authority and creativity in a way that reflects His own character. The prohibition that God establishes enhances rather than hinders humanity's potential for authority and creativity by framing a context for these attributes to grow. Additionally, the contemporary leadership analysis suggests the importance of understanding how authority, power, creativity, and freedom are associated with both leadership and followership. Here, again, the literature suggests that a boundary marking authority is needed for the fullest expression of creativity to occur. The question naturally arises as to what occurs when there are varying levels of authority and creativity in an organizational context. These varying levels result in the development of a model of leadership that seeks to understand the dimensions of Order and Freedom in four typologies measuring the degree of authority and creativity in organizational contexts and recommends a greater balance between authority and creativity for both leadership and followership.
In the following interview, Russell explains how confessing sins to each other makes for a health... more In the following interview, Russell explains how confessing sins to each other makes for a healthier, more humble church.
Luke’s account of the African eunuch in Acts 8:26–40 provides for the modern reader a glimpse int... more Luke’s account of the African eunuch in Acts 8:26–40 provides for
the modern reader a glimpse into how the early church recognised its
leaders. Using socio-rhetorical criticism, the ideological texture of
the passage is studied, distinguishing principles within the text
similar to the modern theoretical concepts of organisational identity
and leadership identification. Drawn from the ideology of Luke are
recommendations on using identity as indication of leadership
development.
The integration of biblical principles with leadership theory has proven a monumental undertaking... more The integration of biblical principles with leadership theory has proven a monumental undertaking. Can such principles actually guide Christian leaders even though they are sometimes in tension with current concepts of leadership? It might seem like a difficult balance to achieve. However, by delving into Peter's basic and presuppositional commitments, a clear picture of biblical leadership emerged. Using 1 Peter 5 as the investigative platform, thorough analysis revealed a Trinitarian belief structure underpinning Peter's concept of leadership. Significantly, the transition from simple fisherman to apostle demonstrated a radical transformation in both thought and application of leadership principles. Ultimately, a precise understanding of God's eternal character forms the bridge between theology and leadership theory, offering a glimpse of Trinitarian leadership as a paradigm for future study.
International Journal of Leadership Studies, Feb 2015
Rotter’s Internal-External Locus of Control scale has been broadly used in both American contexts... more Rotter’s Internal-External Locus of Control scale has been broadly used in both American contexts as well as in other cultures around the world. A review of the research that first transitioned this scale into other cultures shows a number of significant validity and reliability threats. Given that many more recent studies have based their validity and reliability on these earlier studies, it is important to understand the threats that existed so current research can strengthen the validity and reliability of this important scale across other cultures. Recommendations for various forms of validity and reliability are provided.
Downside Review, 2013
The Holy Rule of Saint Benedict provides the ecclesial leader with a structure for transforming b... more The Holy Rule of Saint Benedict provides the ecclesial leader with a structure for transforming believers over the course of their lives into worshippers who reflect God’s glory. Benedict presented a cyclical regulation of time that produces self-discipline for the purpose of focus upon the works of God in the moment. When the recognition of these God-moments is repeated throughout a lifetime, they produce a spiritually mature disciple with Christ-like attributes. Thus, the Rule perceives time in several dimensions including maturation, chronological, and sacral. Ecclesial leaders who apply these lessons will emphasize the benefits of relearning lessons and will reproduce these experiences in the lives of others with a radically Christ-centered emphasis.
Evangelical Journal, 2013
Guiding the reader past the myths of St. Patrick, this research provides a qualitative assessment... more Guiding the reader past the myths of St. Patrick, this research provides a qualitative assessment of his accepted writings within the context of the Ireland of his day. An overview of the political, theological, and ecclesiological assists in placing St. Patrick’s life within a historical context. Using two of his writings, Confession and The Epistle to the Soldiers of Coroticus, a thematic analysis detected four meta-themes: (a) God’s revelation to St. Patrick through written words, speech, and grace, (b) St. Patrick’s response to God’s revelation through faith and worship, (c) God’s response to the sinful deeds of His enemies with judgment, and (d) St. Patrick’s transformation shown through humility and integrity. These meta-themes provide a model for modern cross-cultural ecclesial leaders to follow. Specifically, the success of the effective cross-cultural ecclesial leader will be dependent upon the source of motivation, the response to that motivation, and the willingness to allow adaption.
Ecumenical Trends, Nov 2013
Protestants disobey James 5:16. With that as a backdrop, this article seeks to identify a path to... more Protestants disobey James 5:16. With that as a backdrop, this article seeks to identify a path to obey this command that is uniquely Protestant while drawing upon the history of Catholic and Orthodox branches of Christianity. A brief history of confession within the Catholic branch of Christianity is explored up until the Reformation. Then, a Protestant view of confession is discussed. Included are the questions of absolution, whether justified people need confession, and the contemporary Protestant method of accountability as a form of confession. The article continues by sketching a theology of confession that recognizes confession’s role in bringing sin to light, defining sin, highlighting sin’s destructiveness to relationships, and the future hope that is obtained through forgiveness. A Protestant form of confession is recommended with a description of how each step might take form within a Protestant context.
The Journal of Biblical Perspectives in Leadership, 2012
This article contains a scholarly review of the articles published in the Journal of Biblical Per... more This article contains a scholarly review of the articles published in the Journal of Biblical Perspectives in Leadership (JBPL) from 2006-2011. Each article is summarized with a listing of methodologies and leadership theories that the article interacts with. Four recommendations are made for future publications: (1) encourage the use of recognized qualitative research methods rather than a general exegetical approach; (2) encourage the use of inductive data analysis, especially in historical Hebrew and Christian sacred writing, rather than a deductive approach of identifying contemporary approaches in ancient literature; (3) call for papers that seek to add confirmability of theoretical material in modern contexts; and (4) continue to broaden the thematic elements of the journal.
Great Commission Research Journal, 2012
After a brief literature review, eight of the primary contemporary church health resources are su... more After a brief literature review, eight of the primary contemporary church health resources are subjected to a meta-ethnographic study. The resources’ combined twenty-six health indicators are translated through the meta-themes of organizational structure, developing community, church characteristics, and personal characteristics. A discussion and visual synthesis of the translations point to the church literature developing community through organizational structure which in turn cultivates church and personal characteristics. Future research recommendations include expanding the study of church metaphors beyond “body” and identifying metaphor-specifc characteristics through exegetical study.
Mentoring & Tutoring: Partnership in Learning, 2012
Researchers have shown the benefits of mentoring in both personal and professional growth. It wou... more Researchers have shown the benefits of mentoring in both personal and professional growth. It would seem that group mentoring would only enhance those benefits. This work represents a literature review of peer-reviewed articles and dissertations that contribute to the theory and research of group mentoring. This work reviews the articles that contributed
to the development of group mentoring theory as well as relevant
research. Four primary types of group mentoring emerge—peer group, one-to-many, many-to-one, and many-to-many. Despite over 20 years of research, significant gaps remain in the research methods, demographic focus, and fields of study. The review concludes with recommendations for future research. - Top Viewed Article - 2012- 2016
Journal of Applied Christian Leadership, 2011
The church’s leadership experience spanning the centuries places it in a unique position to contr... more The church’s leadership experience spanning the centuries places it in a unique position to contribute to leadership studies. Any contribution should grow out of the development of a theology of leadership. Consideration of that development should be informed by general leadership studies while uniquely drawn from its faith. Its primary elements should include a Scripture-based, God-governed, Christ-centric reflection on the use of the gifts that the Holy Spirit has empowered all believers with in order to accomplish His mission in and for the world. A theology of leadership must constantly balance the biblical narrative and contextual application. This leads to both ecclesiology and practical leadership being advanced simultaneously. Research can be furthered through greater analysis of both scriptural and historical leadership contexts.
Journal of Biblical Perspectives in Leadership, 2011
1 Timothy 2 has been the primary battleground of the church’s clash over a woman’s role in church... more 1 Timothy 2 has been the primary battleground of the church’s clash over a woman’s role in church leadership. Using the ideological component of socio-rhetorical criticism, this work will seek to draw out of the text philosophies and beliefs of the early church as recorded by Paul. It is the goal of this work to deepen and strengthen the understanding of female leadership identification and development in the early church as well as allow the text to critique and point possible avenues of future research for modern theory
Evangelical Review of Theology, 2011
The Church’s model of discipleship represents a unique voice in the development of leadership. A ... more The Church’s model of discipleship represents a unique voice in the development of leadership. A survey of biblical discipleship in Matthew, Mark, and other passages showed that discipleship represents an imitation of the life of Jesus and an incarnation of His Spirit. Evidence suggested these characteristics must be contextualized as characterized in Augustine, the early Anabaptists, and Bonhoeffer. Additional research is needed to understand the contexts of Christian leaders throughout history.
Journal of Biblical Perspectives in Leadership, 2010
The contemporary model of spiritual realization (completing or accomplishing specific experiences... more The contemporary model of spiritual realization (completing or accomplishing specific experiences as a sign of spiritual maturity) is an insufficient model of spiritual growth. Rather, researchers and theologians should adopt a seasonal paradigm. This work applies this model to ecclesial leadership, recommending the seasons of calling, formation, role identification, and praxis. This model suggests that these four seasons will be recurring in the life of the ecclesial leader with perennial growth as the outcome. Additional research is recommended to confirm that these seasons are the best descriptions of an ecclesial leader’s development and whether other seasons exist.
In light of the current American political climate, this article asks the question, “What is a pe... more In light of the current American political climate, this article asks the question, “What is a person of faith to do when there is no one to vote for?” Examples of the ways that our hopes can be placed in political leaders are examined from a Christian perspective using the gospel of Matthew. Recommendations based on that analysis include understanding the character of leaders modeled scripture, using that to make an informed decision, prayer when there is confusion, and faith that the individual will be guided to the person that God wants them to vote for.
The 15th Annual International Leadership Association Global Conference, 2013 Proceedings, Montreal, Quebec. , Nov 1, 2013
A review of ritual and follower theories suggests an intersection valuable for follower developme... more A review of ritual and follower theories suggests an intersection valuable for follower development. Ritual embodies organizational values resulting in stronger social identity. Effective followers have robust social relationships, specific traits, and display acceptable behavior. Ritual’s ability to strengthen social identity, practice valued traits, and define normative parameters suggests ritual is a tool for follower development. Future research includes development of a ritual measurement, analyzing similar and dissimilar rituals across organizations, and identifying ritual translation methods.
Leaders must find a way for followers to accomplish organizational goals while maintaining the va... more Leaders must find a way for followers to accomplish organizational goals while maintaining the values and purposes embraced by the organization. Rituals are invaluable to this task. However, if ritual is to be used as a tool, it must be flexible enough to be adapted to changing contexts. After describing the intersection of ritual, follower and organizational theories, a biblical examination of the translation of Jewish festivals in the Pauline corpus is examined. Additionally, seven techniques for translating historical ritual into new contemporary contexts are recommended. Future research requires the further analysis of case studies involving ritual translation.
To be present requires physicality. Thus, heart, mind and soul presence are embodied in actions. ... more To be present requires physicality. Thus, heart, mind and soul presence are embodied in actions. Ritual - taking the abstract, symbolic, or intangible and creating concrete, involved, and substantial representations - becomes an important form of identifying, communicating, and enacting presence. An overview of ritual study shows the importance of leveraging ritual in organizational contexts and the necessity of translating ritual in changing contexts. Seven forms of ritual translation are identified with examples. Future research needs to build on this to adeptly identify and analyze organizational ritual and develop ways for leadership to purposely manage the power of rituals.
Author Bio: Russell L. Huizing (Ph.D., Ecclesial Leadership, M.A., Religious Studies) serves as a... more Author Bio: Russell L. Huizing (Ph.D., Ecclesial Leadership, M.A., Religious Studies) serves as an ordained Senior Pastor of the Pleasantview Alliance Church in Saegertown, PA as well as an undergrad adjunct instructor at Regent University. He has diverse leadership experiences in a variety of contexts including ecclesial environments, a Global Fortune 50 corporation, and as a family business owner. He has been a featured speaker at seminars and has consulted with ecclesial organizations. Research materials include ecclesial leadership, follower development, mentoring, discipleship, exegetical study, and the development of ritual translation.
McKenna and Eckhard (2009) provided a helpful starting point for assessing the effectiveness of p... more McKenna and Eckhard (2009) provided a helpful starting point for assessing the effectiveness of pastors. However, several recommendations would assist in improving and furthering their research. Their assessment should be rigorously analyzed to confirm that it is measuring biblical characteristics of leadership rather than culturally defined characteristics. Additionally, their measurements should be identified with Biblical leadership examples to ensure Biblical association. Finally, integrating Hazy’s (2006) model of assessment would offer a stronger qualitative contribution to the assessment process.
Decision-making across multiple cultures can present difficult integration issues based on cultur... more Decision-making across multiple cultures can present difficult integration issues based on cultural differences. Four primary decision-making models are identified and shown how their use differs in Eastern and Western cultural contexts. The organization with influence in both cultures must be willing to recognize the strengths and weaknesses of each model to take the best of both cultures to further decision-making.
Revelation 2 and 3 provide researchers a unique sampling of churches who received from Jesus mess... more Revelation 2 and 3 provide researchers a unique sampling of churches who received from Jesus messages that included commendations, criticisms, potential judgments, recommendations, and future hopes, all of which reflected His own character. This research analyzes the structure of the passage, the social and cultural context of the seven churches, and a content analysis to identify characteristics of a healthy church. Five indicators of healthy churches surfaced from the research: (a) Christ-centered worship, (b) faithful obedience to the King, (c) present endurance rooted in future justice, (d) pursuit of truth, and (e) repentance of sin.
The church is a unique entity. It is at once an organism that has biotic characteristics and an o... more The church is a unique entity. It is at once an organism that has biotic characteristics and an organization that has both hierarchal and capital composition. It is equally a body and a temple.
Fiedler and Garcia’s (1987) Cognitive Resource Theory (CRT) predicts job stress moderates the rel... more Fiedler and Garcia’s (1987) Cognitive Resource Theory (CRT) predicts job stress moderates the relationship between an employee’s job experience and job performance. When job stress is greater, job experience (rather than intelligence) will be a better predictor of job performance. Other research has shown that Locus of Control (LOC) and spirituality may alter the perception of stress. God-Locus of Control (God-LOC), which combines aspects of both LOC and spirituality, could moderate the perception of job stress. Analysis of data collected on the relevant variables was inconclusive on both anticipated CRT results and whether altered perception of stress changed anticipated CRT outcomes.
Using exegetical research of Revelation 2 and 3, this work develops the Overcomer Church Health S... more Using exegetical research of Revelation 2 and 3, this work develops the Overcomer Church Health Survey. This scale seeks to measure five variables drawn from the exegetical research: (a) Christ-centered worship, (b) faithful obedience to the King, (c) present endurance rooted in future justice, (d) pursuit of truth, and (e) repentance of sin. An item pool was created, a panel of experts tested face and content validity, a pilot study was administered to a convenience sample, and the data was analyzed. Results did not support discriminate validity through factor analysis. Further research is recommended.
The Great Commission is proposed to be a better source of baseline indicators for church and indi... more The Great Commission is proposed to be a better source of baseline indicators for church and individual faithfulness than the descriptions of churches in Acts or the epistolary material from Revelation. Seven elements of the Great Commission are analyzed including being born again, baptism, catechesis, serving, community touch, evangelism, and discipling. Each of the elements are shown to be drawn directly from the context of the Commission as well as representing a reflection of the life and ministry of Jesus. As such, the more these elements are present in the individual or church, the more Jesus is being reflected. Further research is necessary to identify the items best able to capture each element.
Using a text-based search of EBSCO and Academic OneFile, 31 peer-reviewed journal and periodical ... more Using a text-based search of EBSCO and Academic OneFile, 31 peer-reviewed journal and periodical articles are used to develop an understanding of the impact of the American Christian and Missionary Alliance denomination. The research is classified into six categories: a) charismatic gifts, b) cross-denominational influence, c) theological, d) interaction with secular culture, e) CMA culture, and f) educational prototype. Recommendations include further exegetical analysis of the CMA position on charismatic gifts, additional research on the impact of the CMA and its educational institutes on other denominations, research on the CMA interdenominational effectiveness as a model for other denominations, and study of the changing theological and social views of CMA consituency.
Ritual is often considered too mystical for secular organizations and too empty and formulaic for... more Ritual is often considered too mystical for secular organizations and too empty and formulaic for Protestant Christians. This research begins the work of changing those attitudes by showing the importance of ritual for follower development. An overview of American Protestant discipleship literature confirmed a lack of use of ritual for follower development. This study begins bridging that gap by examining the extent of importation of Jewish festival ritual into the New Testament narrative to increase follower development. However, the outcome of the study was also relevant to secular organizations who seek to strengthen organizational identity and effectively communicate and instill core purpose and values in organizational followers. The study identified the use of ritualization in one of history’s largest follower organizations—the church. The research was framed through the question: In what ways does the Pauline corpus use narrative ritual from the Jewish festivals of Leviticus 23 in the development of Christian followers? A review of ritual theory and followership theory and surveys of Leviticus and the Pauline corpus plotted the intersection of these various avenues of research. Rituals embody truth that nurture development of meaning, purpose, and values for followers as well as strengthen social identity. Priestly rituals, like those included in Leviticus, were given by God to develop in His followers the type of behavior, thinking, and beliefs consistent with His righteousness and to create a social identity. The goal of this work was to show that at least a portion of those rituals were not abandoned with the advent of Christ but remained a useful tool for first-century discipleship. Specifically, this research used sociorhetorical critical analysis (Robbins, 1996) to perform an inner texture examination of Leviticus 23 using the parameters of Klingbeil (2007). Additionally, an intertexture analysis of the Pauline corpus using select echo parameters of Hays (1989) was employed. Recommendations for application of this research include the development of biblical ritual for ecclesial contexts and the purposeful use of ritual within organizational leadership.
Mentoring & Tutoring: Partnership in Learning, 2012
The 16th Annual International Leadership Association Global Conference, 2014 Proceedings, San Diego, USA. , Nov 2, 2014
This research uses both quantitative and qualitative methods to determine the emphasis of apprent... more This research uses both quantitative and qualitative methods to determine the emphasis of apprentice-based or pupil-based teaching in early Christian follower development. The quantitative analysis bases its results on domain of meaning words associated with the Greek word for teaching. The quantitative results suggested an emphasis towards apprenticeship. The qualitative analysis bases its results on human coder results. The results, although insignificant, tended to emphasize a pupilship model. Recommendations for future research included stronger coding instructions. However, the importance of determining the proper balance between apprenticeship and pupilship will impact both ecclesial and organizational leadership environments.
The 16th Annual International Leadership Association Global Conference, 2014 Proceedings, San Diego, USA. , Nov 2, 2014
This research uses qualitative methods to analyze the leadership references in Fortune magazines ... more This research uses qualitative methods to analyze the leadership references in Fortune magazines from 1935-1942. Methodology considerations identified and catalogued content based on genre, leadership types, and nationality purview. Results indicated the presence of each of these leadership styles during this tumultuous time. This indicates that historical methods of research should be used not only to identify contemporary leadership methods in an anachronistic manner but rather can use historical leadership as a means of comparing, contrasting, and critiquing contemporary theories.
Qualitative analysis applied biblical ideological research methodology (Robbins, 1996) on Matthew... more Qualitative analysis applied biblical ideological research methodology (Robbins, 1996) on Matthew 28:20 to examine the role of mentoring in turbulent times for leadership and followership. This analysis revealed ways of providing stability through spirituality and psychosocial approaches resulting in peace in an uncertain environment. Through mutual responsibility, leaders and followers engage in a reciprocal relationship that allows composure to be attained together rather than through other common student-teacher methods and traditions (DeSilvia, 2004).
The analysis revealed four spheres of how this ancient text expressed mutual relationship between leader and follower enabling both to take ordinary relationships to a greater level. The mentoring model drawn from the research provides a component of empowerment and equality. The four spheres that emerged include: (1) Being, the start of mentorship; (2) Doing, the act of shared leadership; (3) Achieving, the place of empowerment; and, (4) Building, mastery and changed lives. The unique nature of this model is that its empowerment and equality allows peacemaking leaders to replicate themselves in followers who in turn can become peacemakers. It is in this aspect of togetherness within the dyadic relationship, as well as the togetherness in the plurality of peacemakers in an organization, that makes this model so critical during times of turbulence.
This model holds a key for peacemaking initiatives in the workplace as research on the equality of leadership and followership is underdeveloped and in need of more attention (Yukl, 2013). In this model, key organizational behavior aspects are explored such as the leader’s ability for practical application, starting the process of mentorship, engaging with the follower, empowering the follower, and bringing the follower to a place of self-efficacy and mastery.
The challenge for the leader is taking the wisdom of the scared text and applying it relationally with followers personally, professionally, and spiritually in a way that empowers the follower’s perspective rather than presuming that the leader is ‘right.’ All too often when the nine-to-five workday begins, faith-based leaders are left wondering what could be done to reach out to their staff to form real working and empowering relationships in new and better ways. By considering this research, organizational leaders may be able to make a greater impact on the lives of those they lead within their organization. Whether the organization is artistic, educational, familial, political, media-based, or faith-based, more opportunities for mentoring can emerge when these four mentoring spheres are practiced. Furthermore, when leaders enable empowerment and equality with followers, a deeper organizational fellowship emerges (Faulhaber, 2007). Often, followers do not have the same background as their leaders and may wonder how they can be peacemakers in their workplace. Using this mentoring model, individuals will come to a dyadic peace through the investment of deep fellowship, empowerment, and commitment to each other that can be expanded throughout the organization through replication. An overview of the mentoring model includes:
Being: The Start of Mentorship
The ancient text begins with leaders exemplifying basic life lessons by having a great interest in the follower. The goal at this point of mentoring is for the follower to become the person who they are meant to be. The analysis suggests lessons of personal values, behavior, treatment of others, spirituality, priorities, warnings of deception, obedience, faith, and healing. During this time of being, followers develop an expression of trust and friendship with their leader (Penno, 2010).
Doing: The Act of Shared Leadership
Once the followers embody the first sphere, their relationship with the leader shifts. The next step is a shared experience with the leader extending authority to the follower: sending them out while giving them personal advice and warnings about the responsibilities of ‘going out’ into their communities. This act of debriefing and knowledge sharing is a reflection of shared leadership (Northouse, 2013) and represents the art of doing. The act of shared leadership occurs when a leader enables his followers to participate in events, interpret events, and solve problems (Yukl, 2013). Too often leaders who are people of faith overlook and misunderstand this important step, opting instead for control. Rather, investing in the development of the follower who will have access to the power and authority of leadership, expressed in the follower’s unique way, will create a leader who is able to contribute to stability in turbulent times in unexpected ways. Too often, this simple perspective is neither understood nor taught (Yukl, 2013).
Achieving: The Place of Empowerment
While it may seem like shared leadership is the same thing as empowerment, it is not. The exegesis of the Matthew passage explored a deeper depth of empowerment through permission for the follower to represent the leader, even including confrontations with antagonists. The analysis included decision-making, extending faith by the leader for tasks that appear impossible, and resulting in a follower’s increasing confidence to the next sphere (Spreitzer, 1995, 1996).
Building: Mastery and Changed Lives
In this last sphere, the leader mentors the follower at a higher level. This occurs when the follower experiences mastery and self-efficacy. As a result, this final phase brings the leader-follower mentorship to completion. The follower is then at the highest level of mentorship. As a result, they begin to exemplify mastery and a better quality of life. This in turn qualifies them to reciprocate this mentoring model to other followers.
By considering what has been revealed through this ideological analysis of Matthew 28:20, organizational leaders can follow this directive and implement the spheres of ideology to make a greater impact on the lives of those they lead within their organization while bridging the gap between turbulence and peace in the workplace.
This chapter uses an expository exegesis to examine the value of faithfulness through the ethics ... more This chapter uses an expository exegesis to examine the value of faithfulness through the ethics of graciousness and engager. Hosea’s behavior exhibits the value of faithfulness expressed through his engager with God and graciousness towards Gomer, who, in turn, hopefully, will engager with Hosea. As indicated in the text, this is reflective of God’s relationship with His people. Engager is defined as partnering together to accomplish shared values. It is more than loyalty and more than commitment; it is a purposeful pursuit even in the darkness. Thus, to become faithful, one must embrace the ethics of engager and graciousness. However, the paradox of engager and graciousness with God is that the values gravitating around are not some Platonic form that is outside of God – the values of God are the character of God Himself. Therefore, with the example of faithfulness, it is God’s faithfulness that is being gravitated around by those who engager with Him and are gracious to others. Ultimately, then, God is the image of ethics and values.