This is the fifth and final part of the series 5 Values of a Great College Leader.
1. Gospel-Centered 2. Sent 3. Empower 4. Kingdom-Minded
We live in a culture that is constantly asking, “Where do you stand?” when it comes to certain issues. This is a question students wrestle with too. They are cultivating a worldview and developing an understanding of truth. Great leaders are willing to answer the tough questions, helping students see where Scripture meets the world’s deepest needs.
WHO THEY ARE: Culturally Engaged
Great college leaders know it’s paramount to be culturally engaged in order to reach college students. By culturally engaged I don’t mean cool, hip, or any of those buzz words. I mean this: helping students deal with cultural issues from a biblical worldview. A great college leader does not rely on what they have heard or what they assume to be true, but they dig into God’s word to determine what the Bible says as it pertains to cultural issues. They become a conduit of grace in a world that needs biblical answers to contemporary issues. They are the prophetic voice speaking out when culture screams against kingdom values.
Great college leaders know it’s paramount to be culturally engaged in order to reach college students.
WHAT THEY DO: Let the Bible Meet Culture
Great college leaders are known for listening more than they speak. They hear the voice of culture and listen to the pain. They also love more than they judge, knowing that judgment is God’s alone.
Great leaders don’t shy away from the tough subjects of the day, but instead they take them head on. They create series, Q&A sessions, Bible studies, and other avenues to help students see their world from a biblical worldview. The church cannot ignore the hot button issues of the day, but must address them in a way that is biblically accurate. If the church doesn’t disciple students on these issues, culture will. Therefore, great college leaders are proactive and not reactive when it comes to helping students develop a biblical worldview. They help students see the relevance of the Bible when it comes to addressing cultural issues.
…great college leaders are proactive and not reactive when it comes to helping students develop a biblical worldview.
Diagnostic Questions
- What are the hot button items of the day?
- Are you addressing hot button issues in some capacity from Scripture?
- Do you know the felt needs of your students?
- Do you know the felt needs of society?
Key Verse:
“While Paul was waiting for them in Athens, he was deeply distressed when he saw that the city was full of idols. So he reasoned in the synagogue with the Jews and with those who worshiped God, as well as in the marketplace every day with those who happened to be there” (Acts 17:16-17, CSB)
Leader Statement:
I will be a conduit of grace in a world that needs biblical answers to contemporary issues. I will be a prophetic voice speaking out when culture screams against kingdom values. I will create avenues to help students see their world from a biblical worldview.
Resources:
Students (talk to them!)
