Date of Award

1999

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Bachelor of Arts

Department

Leadership Studies

Abstract

The teachings of Jesus were a leadership paradox. He said that to live one must die; to be first one must be last, to move up, one must move down, and to become rich, one must become poor. If we look at people, problems, situations and life itself through the eyes of this astounding Galilean carpenter, there are unlimited things we can learn about leadership. In the process, we also learn about ourselves, our motivations, our weaknesses and strengths, and our ability or inability to command a following that will have a lasting impact. Each of these areas are critical in the development of a true leader.

Given the need for a model of effective leadership, what could bridge this gap in leadership studies? I propose a new class in the curriculum based on the leadership of Jesus of Nazareth in the Jepson School of Leadership Studies. It will center on a leadership approach to the teachings of Jesus and a scholarly base in history and leadership. It will be exciting, controversial, and practical for our lives and learning in leadership. I have heard presidents and other world leaders say that the leadership challenges that we face today have already been faced and answered by Jesus. It is time to do something about it.

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