Book Review: I Am A Follower

 I Am A Follower

The Way, Truth, and Life of Following Jesus

(It's Never Been About Leading)

 by Leonard Sweet

“We have been told our entire lives that we should be leaders, that we need more leaders, leaders, leaders. But the truth is that the greatest way to create a movement is to be a follower and to show others how to follow. Following is the most underrated form of leadership in existence.” (p. 14)

This is a book that should be read, highlighted, and re-read. While it might be considered an indictment against the Leadership propaganda/culture/dogma running rampant in the Church, it is so much more. It is a call to remember true discipleship. To follow Christ. “It is time we owned up to the false category of leader and its idolatry. Leadership is a function. Followership is an identity.” (p. 34)

It exposes the travesty of Church hierarchy and reminds us that we are all equal. We are brothers and sisters – it's all about relationship: “The vines and branches of our human spirit are pushing through the cracks in our concrete sidewalks and buildings, rescuing us from the prison of individualism and hierarchy, returning us to a thriving garden of relationship.” (p. 176) (One of many quotes that proves why Shane Claiborne calls Leonard Sweet, “a theological poet.”)

The integration of other forms of media into this book is innovative and inspiring. Sweet begins and ends the book with a “Reel to Real.” The first “Reel to Real,” which is a link to a YouTube video, vividly demonstrates what it means to be a “first follower.” And the final one demonstrates the power of joining in and becoming the music. “The greatest developmental task of life is to discover your song and sing it ravishing to the glory of God.” (p. 258)

This book should challenge your paradigm and shift your perspective, but the section divisions and mostly short chapters make it not an “easy” read, but an “ease” to read.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 <http://www.access.gpo.gov/nara/cfr/waisidx_03/16cfr255_03.html> : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”