The Right Questions to Ask When Identifying Leaders in Your Church

Every church needs leaders, but finding them requires more than simply asking who is available. It takes intentional conversations that uncover a person’s heart, their readiness, and the areas where they still need to grow. The questions you ask can reveal far more than a résumé or a skill set ever could.

1. Ask Personal Questions

Do not start with tasks or responsibilities. Start with the person. Ask questions like, What is happening inside of you right now? or How is your walk with God? These questions cut through surface-level conversation and help you see where someone truly is spiritually and emotionally.

2. Learn Their Perspective

Everyone sits in a different seat, with a different story and background that shapes how they lead. Take the time to ask where they are coming from and what experiences have shaped them. This helps you place them in roles where they will thrive, instead of expecting them to fit into a mold that may not suit them.

3. Identify Deficiencies with Care

Great leaders are not perfect leaders. In fact, leadership potential is often revealed in how someone responds to growth areas. By asking questions that uncover weaknesses or deficiencies, you learn whether a person is teachable and willing to grow. Someone who is open about their challenges and eager to improve is often better suited for leadership than someone who appears to have it all together.

4. Look for the Right Heart, Not Just the Right Skill

Ultimately, leadership in the church is about character and calling. Skills can be developed, but humility, faithfulness, and passion for people are essential. Use your questions to draw out these qualities and discern whether someone has the heart of a servant leader.