Catalysts, Not Kings: Polycentric Leadership in the Way of Christ

by James Whitley

In a world constantly seeking the next great leader, Joseph Handley’s Polycentric Mission Leadership offers a refreshing and convicting model: leaders are not commanders at the top, but catalysts within a Spirit-led community. They do not draw followers to themselves—they stir the Body toward Christ. If we take this seriously, it reshapes how we define leadership, how we relate to those we lead, and how we cultivate communities of faith.

Charisma Isn’t About You

Handley’s research places charisma at the center of effective leadership, but not the kind of charisma we associate with spotlight personalities or natural-born influencers. In this model, charisma is the compelling moral clarity and conviction that flows from a life of integrity. A good leader lives what they believe—and believes something worth living for.

That conviction-driven life points to a larger truth: the real leader is the value system itself. And for us as followers of Jesus, that value system is not abstract—it’s a person. Jesus Christ, His character and commands, provide the vision and values we must embody. If we walk with the Spirit and live in obedience to Christ, we don’t just lead well—we lead as those being led by Someone greater.

Relationships Over Rank

Polycentric leadership decentralizes authority. Instead of hierarchy, it builds on relationships. It doesn’t ignore structure, but it refuses to let titles and power define how things get done. When authority shifts from individuals to shared values, relational trust becomes essential. Healthy relationships are the glue that holds vision and community together.

Kingdom leadership is always relational. It’s impossible to embody Christ’s values without selfless love. We don’t build programs—we build people. The most effective leaders care deeply about the spiritual growth of those around them. They don’t just delegate tasks—they invest in transformation. And as they equip others, they multiply the very DNA of the Kingdom.

Empowerment Is the Goal

All of this leads to something beautiful: a participative, Spirit-led community where everyone is empowered to walk in their calling. The Body of Christ is not a stage with a spotlight—it’s a field of gifted men and women, each uniquely designed by the Spirit to contribute.

Polycentric leadership creates space for that contribution. It doesn’t require permission from the top; it releases initiative from the ground. When people are trusted, trained, and sent, the Church becomes agile, dynamic, and responsive to the Spirit’s promptings. Accountability still exists—but it’s to values, not personalities. Christ becomes the Head, not just the figurehead.

Putting It to Work at Unbound

At Unbound, we’re putting these principles into practice. As we launch small groups, we’ve chosen to start with the Alpha Course—a tool designed to teach the foundations of faith in an open, conversational environment. One of the core values is openness—creating space where people can explore the gospel without fear of judgment.

To embody that value, I need to do more than just run a good program. I need to deeply understand the vision and communicate it clearly to every volunteer. It also means I can’t lead alone. This effort requires a team—people who are faithful, available, and willing to help shoulder responsibility.

True leadership here won’t come from control—it will come from shared conviction. When volunteers begin to own the vision, communicate the values, and disciple others, we won’t just be hosting small groups. We’ll be cultivating a multiplying, Spirit-led movement within our community.

Conclusion: Leadership That Lasts

Polycentric leadership invites us to lead differently. Less like CEOs, more like shepherds. Less like visionaries trying to impress, more like stewards trying to invest. It calls us to embody the values of Christ, build deep relationships, and equip others to do the same.

When we lead this way, we don’t just build programs—we build people. And when we build people on the foundation of Christ, we build something that lasts.