American Society for Church Growth - Book Review
Leading With Love and Getting More Results
In light of the onslaught of postmodern culture, Eskelin's book is timely. His prioritizing "people above product" places a leader in the most appropriate position to lead in a culture that emphasizes human relationships above all else. The author encapsulates his thesis in the title of the book, Leading With Love and Getting More Results.
The book is well written, dusted throughout with stories, quotes, lists, and Scripture references that support and explain the author's intent. Eskelin has both created and quoted informative lists including: "Ten Expectations That Followers Want From Their Leaders;" "Fourteen Qualities Of Leadership;" "Four Principles of Criticism;" and "Ten Keys to Create Lasting Relationships."
Though there are numerous and helpful lists in this book, the author has written the book in an easy-reading style that flows smoothly and entices the reader. Leading With Love could easily be used as a study manual, and yet is written in a fashion that captivates the reader's interest. Even though Eskelin quotes Scripture passages throughout, he does so with the sensitivity that would enhance even the non-church mindset; and, therefore, makes this text appropriate in both the church and secular environment.
This book belongs in the library of any person who takes his or her leadership responsibility seriously and desires to find additional methods to become even more effective as a leader.
Reviewed by James D. Harless, pastor at Tri-County Christian Church in Middletown, Indiana, and adjunct professor for Indiana Wesleyan University.
This review was originally published in Strategies for Today's Leader.