I have always enjoyed war history. Whether it was WWII, the American Revolution, or the Civil War. So when I heard the story of George B. McClellan I was intrigued. McClellan graduated 2nd in his class at the U.S. Military Academy at West Point. He had a few stints as a military engineer and then because of his great military knowledge, organizational abilities, and logistical understanding President Abraham Lincoln placed him over the Union’s army during the Civil War. But his tenure in that position did not last long. Why not?

McClellan was arguably one of the brightest minds of history when it comes to military tactics and strategy. He could unify the troops, organize them quickly and effectively, and ready them for the next battle better than anyone else in his day. So why would President Lincoln discharge McClellan from his post at such a needed time for such leadership? McClellan had one flaw…he hesitated to engage in battle. McClellan was a great teacher and organizer, but a lacking leader.

The same can be said for many Christian leaders. Not because they do not know enough or even have an inability to teach. The reason Christian leaders, pastors, and disciple makers are not actually leading well when it comes to discipleship is because they, like McClellan don’t finish the task. Too often those who should be disciple makers stop short of the end game. Too many believe discipleship is all about information rather than transformation.

One pastor who does get it though is Jim Putnam. Discipleship has been at the core of who Jim is for years. While I have never met him, Jim has influenced me in many ways as I continue to think through the how and what of discipleship. That is why I think you will enjoy his article “The Key to True Discipleship is This: You Never Stop with Head Knowledge“.

Check out the article and as always be with the Lord’s people on the Lord’s day.

Photo by Tbel Abuseridze on Unsplash