Brilliant entry and so well said.

The only thing I can add is the need for organizations making the transition from founder to second generation leadership is the old addage, Success without a successor is failure.

Whatever the basis of selecting the next generation of leadership, whether it is a family member or a groomed and targetted associate, any organization, ministry related or otherwise, that doesn't put some thought and planning into this area is just asking for problems.  If a ministry organization is based upon the talents and gifts of a particular ministry personality and the successors gifts are different, then the organization is going to have to change to some degree based on those gifts.  You touched on some of this earlier with the mention that downsizing may be a legitimate option as opposed to debt.

It's not an issue of right or wrong.  It's recognizing the differences.  It's not just a spiritual issue.  There is plenty of room for prayer and faith and that is the first priority.  If an organization chooses not to adjust however in that type of change, it should at least be an informed faith with the board and leaders knowing what they are trusting God for.

With the changes businesses and nonprofits will find that what worked for years is no longer working. The bright and nimble will move not just to new media, but to new strategies, tactics and messaging. Others will be overtaken by the creeping ice of irrelevancy as the glacier of a new generation once again proves unstoppable. Then in about 2043 the process will reverse as those still here see a shift back into an idealistic generation.

The civic generational cycle spawns a culture that places more value on authenticity, relevance, and action. Motives for support will likely change from giving to get into giving to those who are really making a social and spiritual impact. These values have already been birthed in the emerging generation. They will teach us all if we will listen.

Excellent post, Phil.

It might be easy to get confused by attempting to look at it in one light without factoring in that element as well.  What others are there as well?

Phil, you and Chris are really opening my eyes in this field to a lot of things.  Thank you.

Charismatic personalities have been iconic from the beginning of time…Abraham and David to Martin Luther and John Huss to the Wesleys and Charles Finney.  Much as some might desire, the "personality" of a leader is never going away.  We are programmed that way by our Creator.  The search and wait for the Messiah with His ultimate arrival, leads man on this eternal quest of "creating leaders."  Will their rewards be any greater(?)…doubtful…we just need mentors and role models to show others it can be done.  Then there are the originators, creators and inventors who are innately inspired and can do it all "on their own."

"Second generation leaders"…their style…could be due to continued over-exposure to sex and violence, consequently accepting what the first generation saw as blatant sin.  Like some in the political arena they are more inclined to discussion than action.