The Next Generation of Leaders is the January/February 2025 issue of Christian Standard, devoted to leadership development in the church. This issue explores how Christian leaders are formed, mentored, supported, and prepared for faithful service across congregations, ministries, colleges, and global mission settings. From elder development and preaching to succession planning and ministry education, the issue presents a broad look at the need to equip rising leaders for the future of the church.
Feature articles examine leadership through both biblical and practical lenses. David Timms reflects on what it means to lead like Jesus, while Tom Ellsworth highlights encouragement and mentoring for ministers through A Time of Refreshing. The e2: effective elders team focuses on how local churches are developing elders, and John D. McArthur Jr. looks at leadership development in the Restoration Movement. Doug Lucas surveys lessons from churches around the world, and Justin Horey reports on how Christian colleges and universities are preparing the next generation of leaders. Regular departments add further perspective on parenting, marriage, preaching, church metrics, missions, and elder health.
The Next Generation of Leaders offers a useful snapshot of Christian Standardโs emphasis on leadership development at the start of 2025. For pastors, elders, ministry students, church staff, and Christian educators, this issue provides thoughtful articles on forming leaders who are biblically grounded, spiritually mature, and ready to serve the church with wisdom and humility.
