Original Research - Special Collection: Festschrift Nelus Niemandt

Refining a paradigm of missional leadership

Kirk J. Franklin
Verbum et Ecclesia | Vol 46, No 4 | a3474 | DOI: https://doi.org/10.4102/ve.v46i4.3474 | © 2025 Kirk J. Franklin | This work is licensed under CC Attribution 4.0
Submitted: 25 February 2025 | Published: 04 July 2025

About the author(s)

Kirk J. Franklin, Melbourne School of Theology, Wantirna, Australia

Abstract

This article explores how the author’s empirical research of ‘leadership clusters’ can be integrated with Nelus Niemandt’s trialogue of church, culture and biblical narrative to produce a concise paradigm of missional leadership. Franklin’s (a student of Niemandt) development of leadership clusters was derived from global missional leaders’ philosophies. To strengthen the biblical foundation, the study explores shepherd-servant-steward metaphors of leadership. Together, these enrich the understanding of (global) missional leadership by highlighting characteristics such as participatory engagement, adaptive responsiveness, relational integrity and transformative action. The integration of biblical models with (global) missional leadership paradigms ensures an integrated approach that aligns with God’s mission while addressing the complexities of globalised contexts.

Intradisciplinary and/or interdisciplinary implications: This study contributes to missiology, theology and leadership studies by integrating biblical leadership models with contemporary missional leadership paradigms. This intradisciplinary research bridges missiology with global leadership studies and organisational leadership. By engaging with theological and leadership frameworks, the article offers a comprehensive model that is contextually relevant with a biblical basis and missiological direction, equipping leaders for effective participation in the missio Dei across diverse contexts.


Keywords

participatory; transformative; adaptive; relational; discerning; empowering; accountability; missional leadership

Sustainable Development Goal

Goal 16: Peace, justice and strong institutions

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