Leadership and Calling Through the Prism of Scripture

ISBN-13: 9783031414084 / Angielski / Twarda / 2023

Opis

This volume offers phenomenological studies that examine the lived experiences of biblical leaders, emphasizing external summons and a prosocial intention while offering suggestions for future research. Part 1 focuses on various aspects of divine calling and leadership, covering topics such as the calling of biblical prophets like Jeremiah and Samuel, and the downfall of Solomon. Part 2 explores successful biblical leadership and followership from a qualitative, phenomenological lens, analyzing the experiences of Abraham, Paul, and Samson. Part 3 presents both positive and negative portrayals of biblical leadership, demonstrating how both types can lead to social justice outcomes.Presenting a Christian perspective of the relationship between the leaders and their sense of calling, this book employs a phenomenological approach to investigate the significance of various aspects of God’s calling, such as the leader’s discernment of the calling, predictors of a leader’s calling, the social- cultural influences of the calling, the relationship between personality traits and calling, and the evolution of a leader’s calling. This book will contribute to scholarly discussions related to meaningful work, workplace satisfaction, employee engagement, and responsible leadership.

Spis treści

Unit 1- Chapter 01:

Can All Become Divinely Called Leaders? A Phenomenological Study of Korah’s

Rebellion

 

Fred

Wantante Settuba-Male, PhD  

 

Abstract

A phenomenological exploration of the sense of calling and

power struggle in a leadership team as recorded in Numbers 16:1–50 reveals a

deadly power play in a group of leaders. Socio-rhetorical criticism was used to

gain a deeper understanding of the leaders’ interpretation and sense-making of

their lived experience of what was going on in the group. In agreement with previous

studies, the study confirms that hierarchical power dispersion promotes

predictability and role clarity, thus minimizing the potential for group

conflict. God alone is the “calling” and appointing authority. However,

low-power variety (i.e., when all members draw their power from the same

source, such as the same transcendent source) contributes to group conflict.

Certain levels of leadership are a privilege God gives to some. According to

French and Raven (1960), there are six sources of power and influence. The

findings highlight divine power or enablement from a transcendent source as

another source of power. The study provides gaps for future research by

exploring the significance of divine empowerment and calling from a

transcendent source among leaders.

Unit 1- Chapter 02:

Significance

of the Source of Calling: Jeremiah Chapter 1

Jason Styles, PhD and Lisa J.

Knowles, PhD 

 

Abstract

This study is

a sacred texture analysis of Jeremiah 1:1–19 (NIV) that uses ancient text from

the Old Testament to glean how a prophet was chosen and mentored to perform the

Lord's work and fulfill God's purpose at a specific time in Israel's history of

disobedience, specifically with the tribe of Judah.  Specifically, this study examines the

emerging prophetic authority and inspiration of a young man named Jeremiah, who

comes of age and prophetic ministry before and during a time of immense tumult

for the children of Israel. Osborne (2006) surmises that it is usually linked

to a specific historical event (p.267).  Such

is the case with Jeremiah: a clear calling from God, with a clear message that

followed, before and during the Babylonian invasion and captivity of the

children of Israel. To better understand the nurturing of the prophet Jeremiah,

this study uses socio-rhetorical criticism, such as sacred texture analysis, to

explore the divine aspect of Jeremiah's deific journey. Therefore, the research

for this study was structured around the question: How do we identify the

significance in the source of Jeremiah's calling? 

 

Unit 1- Chapter 03:

God’s Calling of Samuel: Calling as a Process

 

Sarah Rolle, PhD

Abstract

Abstract: The purpose of this chapter is to examine Samuel’s

calling and the impact of that calling on Samuel’s life. This study used phenomenological

research to investigate the phenomenon of calling. 1 Samuel 1-28 was used as

the data source via bracketing. The themes were combined to create

superordinate themes, which were applied to modern relevance to understand

calling. This study found that calling is a process rather than a singular

event. As a process, calling evolves over time and leads to action behaviors. A

person’s calling is influenced by others and can result in negative emotional

outcomes. This research is unique as it studies 1 Samuel 1-28 in light of

phenomenological research to study calling.

Unit 1- Chapter 04: Predictors

of Calling: The Example of Joseph

Frederick S. M. Kawuma, PhD

Abstract

This chapter discusses the predictors of a divine call, with a specific focus on

the life of Joseph, the eleventh son of Jacob. A hermeneutical phenomenological

approach is used in examining Joseph’s lived experiences, as given in the Biblical text of Genesis 37:1–50:21, a strategy

that helps understand the meanings in the context of a

person's lived experience. A socio-rhetorical analysis of the above text guided the answers to these

questions: (a) What were the predictors of the divine

call in Joseph’s life? (b)What were the phenomena in Joseph’s

experiences that pointed to the divine call on his life?  (c) How were the

characteristics of a divine call evident in Joseph’s life? Pitt’s (2012) four

characteristics of the divine call, altruism,

authority, autonomy, and abstract expertise,

are examined explicitly in their relevance to Joseph's experience in aligning with

the predictors of the call on his life from the Biblical record. The evidence

of Joseph's call is seen at an early stage in his life when he shared the

dreams that he had dreamt, which his father could relate to, from his own

experience. His father asked, “What is

this dream that you have

dreamed? Shall your mother and I and your brothers indeed come to bow down to the earth before you?” (Genesis 37:10

NKJV). Notwithstanding the call on his life, Joseph had to be taken through a

period of testing and preparation before God could

unveil the role that He had prepared for him to become Prime Minister of Egypt. Joseph was a man who stood out

significantly in light of the various tests where he remained faithful to God and became

an excellent example of a person that

fulfils the call that God had on their life.

Unit 1- Chapter 05: Lessons from Solomon for Christian’s Today

 

Debra J. Dean, PhD

Abstract

From worldly standards, Solomon had it all. He was healthy,

wealthy, and wise. He had women, wine, and countless worldly possessions. This

chapter will examine how a person with so much wisdom can make such a big mess

of life. This chapter serves as a guide for believers to avoid the pitfalls of

life while focusing on all the abundant blessings from God. This study will

examine Solomon, the tenth son of David, the second son of David and Bathsheba

(born 1010 BC), and the third king of Israel (970 to 931 BC) who spent seven

years erecting the First Temple in Jerusalem (957 BC). The same Solomon that

wrestled with idolatry, power, and wealth despite his God-given wisdom. In

closing, this chapter will offer recommendations for Christians to avoid sin,

temptation, and worldly pleasures today while keeping a keen eye on honoring

and glorifying God.

Unit 2- Chapter 06: The Evolution of God’s Call: A

Phenomenological Investigation of Abraham’s Calling Over Time and His

Communication with God

Gia

R. Tatone, MS, PhD

Abstract

 

This

chapter is a phenomenological longitudinal research study that uses qualitative

methods to investigate the phenomenon of Abraham’s calling as written in

Genesis to understand how God’s call evolves over time. Using this approach

allowed the researcher to consider an interpretative tool for understanding

both the connections and conflicts within the text between certain individuals

(Robbins, 1996) over the span of a specific chronological period. While it is

commonly discussed that 4,000 years ago God called Abraham at age 75 to leave

his country, home, and his people to go to a new land, lesser discussed is what

influenced Abraham to have the willingness to hear God’s voice in the first

place, as Abraham’s father’s household worshipped idols (Joshua 24:2). This

chapter analyzes how that communication took place and transformed over time in

order for Abraham to fulfill his calling. As a result, this study constructs a

written account of Abraham’s experience and calling using Old Testament text, so

that a better understanding can be further understood and related to our lives

and our work, as the same God that spoke to Abraham is the same God that speaks

to us today.

 

Unit 2- Chapter

07: Deuteronomy’s Human King: Social-Cultural Context Influence on the Devine

Call to Leadership

Larry D. Phillips, PhD

Abstract

Through Socio-Rhetorical Interpretation and

Inner-Textual Analysis this study reveals the social cultural context of the pericope Deuteronomy 17:14-20. This multi-dimensional phenomenological investigation of the text discloses the

individual identity of the kingship and sociocultural context of a society in

diaspora. Through repetitive-progressive analysis of the sacred author's pericope the implied social

place develops as a constitutional judiciary of kingship for a transitioning exiled Israeli organization

entering into the Promised Land. Two preconditions and nine expected behaviors

of the expected leader emerge through the text’s disclosure of Israel as a nation. Through hermeneutic

exegesis investigation and review of social psychology developed theories of

prototypical leader and social development processes are linked with the

divinely ordained behaviors of kingship. Exclusive inclusion of the Divine

expectation of humility in human kingship and expectation to keep the law of

the Torah provide the bedrock for the lived authentic behavior of espoused

Christian values within leadership development.     

Unit 2- Chapter 08:

The Links Between Satisfaction, Success, and Calling: A Phenomenological

Examination of Saint Paul’s Life Events in the New Testament

 Chad H. Newton, PhD-HRD

and Debra Jean, PhD

Abstract

This chapter focused on a qualitative examination of Saint

Paul’s epistles and documented interactions in the New Testament (NT) writings

in order to discover links between life satisfaction, success, and a vocational

sense to one’s calling. The use of Van Manen’s (2014) explanation of thematic

analysis in phenomenology and its definition, Saldana’s (2013) description of

the analytical process in thematic work, and Smith’s et al (2009) description

of phenomenological interpretations guided the study. These three approaches

composed the hermeneutical process of qualitative interpretation. The

researchers collected data from five pericopes that contained key patterns of

psychological and lived experiences. The New King James Version (NKJV)

represented the best translation because it received satisfaction from both

Catholic and Protestant communities, met multiple perspectives of theology, and

concurred with the original meanings expressed in the ancient Koine-Greek

language.

Unit 2- Chapter 09:

Samson: “They Did Evil in the Eyes of the Lord”: The Powerlessness of an

Ineffective Follower

 

Nestor L. Colls-Senaha, PhD

Abstract:

The chapter explores what type of follower Samson is in

comparison to Kelley’s (2008) followership typologies. The Bible institutes a participatory

organizational design based on a relational interaction that’s intended to draw

out the best practices to become effective followers in the organization.

Samson’s lessons learned can help illuminate or avoid ethical blind spots

impacting individuals and present-day institutions by identifying character

traits, which are required to be an exemplary follower.

Unit 2- Chapter 10:

Cessation of a Calling and Generational Callings

R. Lewis Steinhoff, PhD

Abstract

Scholars

are undecided about the cessation of a call upon the leader. King David finally

realized it was time to bow out of leadership and prepared his son Solomon to

take over the responsibility to govern a vast kingdom. Prior to this

relinquishing of his royal duties, he had been told by God that he would not be

the one to build God’s house but rather his son Solomon.  This chapter seeks to answer the questions;

"Can a specific call or mission upon a leader spill over to the next

generation? Does the call cease to be in force with the death,

disqualification, or refusal to accept the call?"  The chapter examines the scriptures and the

literature on God’s generational callings with special focus on Kings David and

Solomon and their sense of responsibility for leading Israel and completing the

building of the temple.  A couple of

modern-day examples will be discussed using the Bush and the Graham families as

an example of having a sense of duty.

Unit 3-

Chapter 11: Gender and Calling:

A Content Analysis of Deborah's

Call To Lead Israel,

Judges 4:4-16 and 5:1-31

Jean Millicent Williams, PhD

Abstract

Gender is a

significant issue in leadership environments —calling requires forte, and bravery, and commitment. Leadership propels people to step

forward, stretch their capabilities, grow and thrive in their vocations. As

Christian leaders, the goal is to advance God's kingdom and requires leaders to answer the call and

extend to higher unfamiliar levels with the imminence of new responsibilities,

standards, practices, and resoluteness. Deborah answered the call to leadership, anointed and appointed by God to serve the people of Israel. This phenomenological study is a

content analysis of Deborah's life and calling as a woman and

the lessons of her leadership impact in Israel.

 

Unit 3- Chapter 12: The Mystery of God’s Calling: An Intertexture Analysis of

Pharaoh Exodus

 

Shawn Sejera, MBA, PhD 

 

Abstract

This study provides an exploration

and analysis of portions of the Biblical Exodus story that relate to the

calling of Pharaoh and the hardening condition of his heart with a discussion

of God’s plans, purpose, and sovereignty. The study uses an intertexture

analysis process, within the broader discipline of socio-rhetorical criticism,

to interpret the meaning and context in which Israel’s exodus from Egypt and

Pharaoh’s calling occurred, to attempt to unravel the ways God works in and

through leaders by both showing mercy and delivering justice and to provide

insight into God’s nature and character. An examination of God’s calling, plan,

and purposes is presented with the intent of revealing broader implications

revolving around Pharaoh’s actions, highlighting leadership qualities, and the

basis of divine calling. This study may benefit those seeking to understand

spiritual mission, the relationship between human freedom and sovereignty, and

gain a richer understanding of Scripture.

O autorze

Fred Wantante Settuba-Male is Pastor of Makerere Full Gospel Church in Kampala, Uganda. He completed his PhD in Organizational Leadership at Regent University, USA. His research interests include sense of calling in the workplace, dark leadership, and power in organizations. He is also a lecturer for the Master's Program in Organizational Leadership at Uganda Christian University.

Gia R. Tatone is an Adjunct Professor at Robert Morris University, USA where she teaches communication skills and organizational leadership courses. She also serves on the Board of Trustees for the Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh and holds a PhD from Regent University, USA in Organizational Leadership. Her research interests include God's calling, communication, crisis management, self-development, and peace leadership.  

Blurb

This volume offers phenomenological studies that examine the lived experiences of biblical leaders, emphasizing external summons and a pro-social intention while offering suggestions for future research.

Part 1 focuses on various aspects of divine calling and leadership, covering topics such as the calling of biblical prophets like Jeremiah and Samuel, and the downfall of Solomon.

Part 2 explores successful biblical leadership and followership from a qualitative, phenomenological lens, analyzing the experiences of Abraham, Paul, and Samson.

Part 3 presents both positive and negative portrayals of biblical leadership, demonstrating how both types can lead to social justice outcomes.

Presenting a Christian perspective of the relationship between the leaders and their sense of calling, this book employs a phenomenological approach to investigate the significance of various aspects of God's calling, such as the leader’s discernment of the calling, predictors of a leader’s calling, the social-cultural influences of the calling, the relationship between personality traits and calling, and the evolution of a leader’s calling. This book will contribute to scholarly discussions related to meaningful work, workplace satisfaction, employee engagement, and responsible leadership.

Fred Wantante Settuba-Male is Pastor of Makerere Full Gospel Church in Kampala, Uganda. He completed his PhD in Organizational Leadership at Regent University, USA. His research interests include sense of calling in the workplace, dark leadership, and power in organizations. He is also a lecturer for the Master's Program in Organizational Leadership at Uganda Christian University.

Gia R. Tatone is an Adjunct Professor at Robert Morris University, USA where she teaches communication skills and organizational leadership courses. She also serves on the Board of Trustees for the Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh and holds a PhD from Regent University, USA in Organizational Leadership. Her research interests include God's calling, communication, crisis management, self-development, and peace leadership.