We only have to think of what happens when there is no leadership to recognize its necessity. Imagine a class without a teacher; an army without a general; or a government without a prime or first minister. The church is no different.

This book is born out of the author's desire to encourage and train people for this vital role of leadership in the church. Christian leadership is unique in that it must be always and completely subject to its ultimate head, the Lord Jesus Christ. Leaders should therefore accept his authority and that of his Word, the Scriptures, and should shape their vision and objectives accordingly.

This extremely practical book is concerned primarily with leadership in the local church, but is not just for pastors and elders; it is relevant to any who hold positions of responsibility within the church. Drawing on his vast experience as a pastor, serving the church at home and abroad, the author deals with such issues as: tests for leadership; qualities for leadership; efficiency; dealing with colleagues; delegation; perils.

But this book should not be read just by leaders; Derek Prime helpfully shows those of us who are not leaders that we should know what to expect of those who rule over us, and how we can best assist them in fulfilling their God-given task. To this end there are two sets of pertinent questions at the conclusion of each chapter, one for use in Bible study groups, and one for church leaders themselves.

After serving churches in the UK as a pastor for a total of approximately thirty years - first at Lansdowne Evangelical Free Church, West Norwood, in London; and then at Charlotte Chapel in Edinburgh - Derek Prime has devoted himself since 1987 to an itinerant ministry and to writing. He is also the author of Living for God's pleasure and the Welwyn Commentary on Esther, Unspoken lessons about the unseen God.

'Mr Prime's pastoral discernment and well balanced judgements shine on just about every page.'
Review from New Life Australia (26 April 2007)

'This book is a revision of a much earlier version published when Prime was just starting his preaching / teaching ministry more than a generation ago. In the large paperback format it is very user-friendly as are the contents which are very simple, straight forward, time-tested, biblical, wise, helpful and sane.'
Review from Australian Presbyterian (May 2007)

'This book would be of great use to those starting out in Christian leadership as well as those who have served for many years to bring as a constructive corrective to the "bad habits" in leadership which we are all prone to fall into. Mr Prime has a very clear syllabus of instruction based on 1 and 2 Timothy included (p.68-69). Highly recommended.'
Review from New Life [Australia] (5th July 2007)