Most new leaders hear the same phrase in some form: “This is the way we do it here.” Resistance to change is common, and it is deadly to new church leadership.

Leadership transition is a critical point for the church and its new leader. Incoming leaders need a realistic perspective and practical ideas, whether their successor was long-term or interim, highly effective or dysfunctional, beloved or unpopular.

The author writes from personal experience: He helped transform a small, dying congregation, and later transitioned into leadership at a nationally recognized, historic congregation. He draws from these experiences and biblical examples to focus on practical principles, empowering the new leader to build a solid foundation.

The Next leader is calm, determined, and effective, no matter who came before.