No, I don't agree with the way Bill Hybels worded it. But I think it's worthwhile exploring the significance of sound ecclesiology and the role and impact of leaders within the local congregation. So I'd rather word it this way:

The hope of the world is Jesus. The primary agents to bring Jesus to the world are the members of the body of Christ. And the leaders within the local church are playing a key role in motivating and equipping those members to do just that.

I wouldn't buy it, but could I rent it for the weekend? :-)

I will not question Hybels' heart, but I am convinced Bill and the WCA have hastened the decline of the church in the west - overemphasizing leaders rather than the priesthood of all believers.

I've heard him say the first half of that quote TONS of times, but never the 2nd half. I would say if it is true, it is probably from a leadership summit conference, which would provide a little better context.

did Hybels say that? That's a dangerous statement, and it puts a lot of burden on the shoulders of those poor leaders... We all should incarnate the Kingdom and be the church I guess... And leaders should be the ones coaching us to grow more in discipleship. So that we all together can be the hope of the world and Jesus' feet and hands in this broken creation. But in the end Jesus, the Christ is the hope of the world...

Jesus is the hope of the world. If it's the local church, God help us all. ;)

I've always had problems with that statement, even when the church I was in was trying to re-invent itself as a mini Willow Creek. Jesus is the only hope of this world. That hope should be embodied by the Church, but even that is not limited to any particular local assembly.

I have a Masters in Org Leadership and it still bristles against me. I just think its very disempowering to the people listening.