Eight Crucial Leadership Principles: Part 2

Eight Crucial Leadership Principles at C3: Part Two

In the first part of this series, we explored the initial four principles that shape effective leadership at Collective Community Church (C3). Now, we continue our journey with the remaining principles that are essential to our leadership approach.

5. Solve Problems Efficiently
At C3, effective servant leadership means facing challenges that others might avoid. The ability to solve problems is one of the most critical skills a leader can possess. Jesus solved the greatest problem of all, sin, and set the model for addressing obstacles with wisdom and purpose.

Our leaders use a variety of problem-solving strategies to uncover and address issues at their root:
  • Root Cause Analysis helps identify underlying causes so problems don’t resurface.
  • Pareto Analysis (the 80/20 Rule) focuses on the vital few factors that often produce most of the results.
  • SWOT Analysis evaluates strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats to provide a balanced view of internal and external factors.
  • First Principles Thinking breaks complex challenges down to their most basic truths, inspiring creative and foundational solutions.  

This commitment to thoughtful analysis and action allows C3 leaders to overcome obstacles, foster innovation, and sustain growth.

6. Resolve Conflict and Cultivate Peace
Conflict is an inevitable part of any community, and how we handle it reveals our maturity and character as leaders. At C3, our approach follows the pattern outlined in Matthew 18:15-17, which encourages addressing issues directly and privately, involving others only when necessary, and always seeking peace.

Our leaders follow a seven-step process for biblical conflict resolution:
  1. Act First – Ensure the person raising the issue has made an honest attempt to resolve it.
  2. Accountability – Encourage each party to take ownership of their part.
  3. Listen – Acknowledge and validate the hurt of others.
  4. Empathize – Consider the other person’s perspective with compassion.
  5. Communicate Compassionately – Speak the truth in love.
  6. Resolve – Focus on solutions rather than blame.
  7. Preserve – Protect the relationship above the issue.

Through these principles and through honest, respectful conversation, we strengthen relationships, deepen trust, and maintain unity in the body of Christ.

7. Exceed Expectations
The next principle of leadership at C3 is to consistently exceed expectations. Our goal is not merely to meet standards but to elevate them. Underpromising and overdelivering is not a tactic; it’s a lifestyle of excellence.

C3 leaders plan strategically, set goals intentionally, and pursue them diligently. We use SMART goals—Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Relevant, and Time-bound—to ensure clarity and accountability.

Leaders who plan to hit a defined target are far more likely to exceed it. This mindset helps us move beyond the status quo, cultivating a culture of excellence that honors both God and people.

8. Love the People You Serve
The final and most essential principle of leadership at C3 is to genuinely love the people you serve. True leadership begins and ends with love. This goes beyond politeness or professionalism; it is seeing people through God’s eyes and valuing them as those created in His image. Love is one of our core values, Essentials, at C3. 

When dealing with difficult personalities or challenging moments, leaders must remember that if they cannot move past someone’s shortcomings, that limitation lies within themselves, not the other person. Love is not optional or conditional; it is a spiritual debt we owe.

Romans 13:8
Owe no one anything except to love one another, for he who loves another has fulfilled the law. (NKJV)


A practical way to grow in this mindset is to look at every person and remember that Jesus died for them. This shift in perspective allows leaders to see beyond offense, frustration, or preference and instead view each person’s eternal worth and divine potential.

With these eight principles, we are building a leadership culture that reflects the heart of our church and propels our mission forward.

Effective leadership is not a sprint; it’s a marathon. As we continue this journey, we remain committed to cultivating leaders who inspire, empower, and serve with humility, love, and excellence.

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