Perhaps the greatest lesson the Bible teaches about leadership is the vital relationship that exists between the first and second chair leaders. No leader is great or does great things on his own, it is only because God had established a solid second chair leader (or third and fourth) to work along side of him to achieve the purpose of the mission.
Moses had Aaron, Joshua had Caleb, Elijah had Elisha, Paul had Silas—even Jesus was second to the will of the Father. Whenever the Bible shows a group of people achieving something great for God, it is not only because there is a strong leader present, it’s also because he or she has great people standing beside him or her. Each one contributes their individual gift to compliment one another in the roles they serve. The result is an organization which reaches its maximum effect for the glory of God.
The Second Chair Leader serves in a subordinate role to advance the corporate vision as emphasized by the primary leader. Much like a second fiddle, the second leader compliments and accentuates the first chair leader by using his or her special talents to enhance the overall tone (or melody) of leadership in the organization. Leadership is not solo act; it is a sonata which stays in tune only when every instrument plays the role assigned by the conductor—Jesus Christ.
Second Chair leaders deserve special credit. Most of them are more than capable to be First Chair leaders in their own rite. They are visionaries, creative, strong administrators and have the ability to rally followers. They are deep in their own expertise and experience while remaining content and enthusiastic about their role in the organization’s future. Most of the time, the only difference between them and the first chair is how God has set them. He places each one in their respective roles according to his wisdom and purpose.
This edition of Leadership Teaching Magazine is dedicated to the Second Chair leaders. Written by leaders who have worked primary and subordinate roles, these articles will be an invaluable resource to those who serve in second (and third and fourth) chair roles. Not only will they encourage you, these essays will help you become more motivated, productive and fulfilled in your unique role. Drawing from their own (and others’) experiences in this vital role, the authors offer insight and practical advice for how second chair leaders are instrumental to enhancing and improving the overall performance of their church or organization.
