The London Institute of Contemporary Christianity (LICC) is very much aligned with the BAM movement in its essential understanding of simple theological truths.
The London Institute of Contemporary Christianity exists to help every Christian in the UK discover three simple truths:
- Wherever we are, we can join in with what God is doing – whether he’s placed us in an office, a builders’ yard, a school, a sports club, or anywhere else.
- The tasks we do matter deeply to God – from writing reports to fixing lights, caring for parents to driving buses, who we are and what we do has God-given purpose.
- We can be fruitful in all kinds of ways – by modelling godly character, making good work, ministering grace and love, molding culture, and being a mouthpiece for truth and justice and a messenger of the gospel.
In an article published on October 2, 2025, CEO Paul Wooley sums up what makes a good leader. When I read it, I thought of our BAM leaders around the world. He has good reminders for all of us.
But what makes a good leader? And how could the approach of Jesus offer insight?
First, good leadership is rooted in service rather than self-interest (Mark 10:42–45). True leadership seeks the good of others. Many enter politics with a genuine desire to serve, but when leaders cling to power, dodge responsibility, or put personal ambition first, public trust evaporates.
Second, leaders should possess vision, purpose, and the means to act. Jesus didn’t simply announce that the kingdom of God was near (Mark 1:15) – He described what it looked like (Luke 13:18) and took concrete steps to bring it about. While political leaders cannot deliver the kingdom of God – and should not claim to – they can clearly articulate their vision of a just and flourishing society, along with the practical means to achieve it.
Third, leaders must see the world as it is. They should listen to the concerns of the people they serve, especially those in forgotten communities. Jesus spent the majority of His time with ordinary people – tax collectors, fishermen, labourers, and outcasts – not just the elites.
Finally, leaders need a team. Jesus gathered a diverse group, trained and supported them, and then entrusted them with responsibility. Good leaders equip others to lead.
The demands of leadership are immense, and often costly. Yet good leadership has the power to renew our common life, and we all have opportunities to lead, whoever we are and wherever God has placed us.
Paul Woolley is CEO of LICC.
Larry W. Sharp, BAM Support Specialist, IBEC Ventures
Larry.Sharp@ibecventures.com