Moses and leadership: a book review by Julie Craythorne

A new book, The Crucible of Leadership by Dr Alan Wilson, a Bible college lecturer and pastor, draws on Wilson’s expertise in church and spiritual leadership and is set within the framework of the story of Moses. The book is not so much a how-to guide but more a reflection upon character formation. Every lesson Moses learns is found in the melting pot of who Moses becomes and how the children of Israel are shaped. 

Each chapter begins with a scripture verse which sets the emphasis on this being God’s story, as Wilson says, ‘a gracious summons.’ For Moses, the wilderness years were foundational, and pivotal to the lessons is Moses’ relationship with God. Each chapter concludes with a set of reflection questions that could be undertaken by those in leadership positions and are thought-provoking for individual or group use.

Other biblical leaders are also referred to. Recently published literature is mentioned for those who wish to read more widely, whether new to leadership or wanting to finish well.

Alongside Moses’ development, the concept of team is closely followed as we see those who influenced this great man (such as Jethro), those who would accompany him (such as Aaron), those who would grumble incessantly to him (the children of Israel). It is in the context of others that Moses must live and exercise God’s will for the people. Yet all for the glory of God and to God. 

The bedrock of such work must find its source in the understanding that we are ‘the Beloved’ (drawing on the work of Henri Nouwen). The middle chapter of the book is titled ‘Wise Leaders Know That God Loves Them.’ Rooted in the assurance of the Lord’s love, we are told stories of modern church leaders who have powerful testimonies to this foundational truth. This is summarized by Wilson, ‘how significant hearing God’s voice is for our stability and the health of our leadership.’

The strength of this advice girds us for the final chapters on criticism and character flaws, as inevitable as they are amongst human leaders and human followers. Wilson steers us towards Christ, again reminding us that ‘spiritual leadership, like all of life, has His glory as its goal.’ Finishing well and handing on the baton are addressed before a final epilogue on the rock-striking incident of Moses and a reminder that this is God’s story for God’s glory. Wilson concludes by reflecting upon the Meribah incident and the leader’s task to lead others to Jesus, ‘the bread of life’ and ‘source of living water.’

A book of invaluable insight into the authentic challenges of leadership, the grace of God, and his unrelenting love for His people, all interwoven with the intriguing character of Moses. Moses, through all his trials, is remembered as one who knew God intimately. In Exodus 33:11 we are told, ‘The LORD would speak to Moses face to face just as a man speaks with his friend. Wilson’s The Crucible of Leadership allows us to travel alongside this friend of God and to know more of God. 

Podcasts
It was a delight to see the launch of Alan Wilson’s book, The Crucible of Leadership having thoroughly enjoyed listening to the podcasts, The Leadership Journey. (https://thecrucibleofleadership.co.uk/blog-and-podcast/) The podcasts are a series of interviews with ministry leaders and follow the peaks and valleys of their paths in leading.

Reviewer
My name is Julie Craythorne and I am a local preacher in training with the Methodist Church in Ireland. I receive Preach magazine and find it invaluable. Thank you for the in-depth studies. As an avid reader, I also enjoy reading the book reviews.

The Crucible of Leadership is published by Instant Apostle (June, 2022) RRP £10.99. https://instantapostle.com/books/the-crucible-of-leadership/

IMAGES: (left) Book jacket of The Crucible of Leadership (right) author Dr Alan Wilson.