Tag: Church

Complex vs Simple

Depending on the individual, there is some subjectivity. On one hand, an older generation recalls the simplicity of dirt roads, no cell-phones, growing what was eaten, and a life without technology.

Adding technology, a black-top/concrete way of life, cell-phones, and then eliminating the garden, life can become a bit more complex.

On the other hand, a younger generation recognizes these advances as a means to simplify life and increase health and wealth.

Imagine leading people with both mindsets. We should remember that both mindsets exist in the world and the church.

Our task is not to place one above the other, but lead with both in mind.

Why Leadership…Part 3

I cannot exhaust the possibilities as to why we should study leadership, but let me share one concluding thought.

Eternity Matters: Above all else, the reason for studying leadership directs us to God’s plan beyond the physical realm. Yes, leadership is God’s plan. It is needed in the home, church, and in the lives of all people, and the reason is because eternity matters. If this one thought became the focus of all we do in life, every thought, word, and action, and every person that graced our path in life was seen in view of eternity, imagine the difference.

Why Leadership…Part 2

Why do we spend so much time talking about leadership?  

Church: The present situation speaks to the need for leadership. Any discussion about leadership regarding the church acknowledges the urgency of this crisis. However, are we moved enough to do something? If we do not establish a plan now, the future of the church offers little hope.

People: The reality is that people will follow someone or something, but who or what? Doesn’t it make sense that we focus on leading people out of darkness into His marvelous light? The church was established to be an instrument of truth and light. Let us lead as such.

Transitions

Our family has experienced transitions on several fronts. Multiple moves from one city and state to another is challenging. Add to that a change in culture and climate, the challenges increase. Transitions may or may not be as difficult as a major move, but they introduce challenges nonetheless.

The church continues to face transitions.

Regardless of where we stand on the challenges introduced during a time of transition, the bottom line is the same. Without solid, biblically guided leadership the time of transition will make or break the direction of growth.

The church cannot grow beyond the strength of its leadership.

Unscriptural or Uncomfortable?

There is a difference in something being uncomfortable versus unscriptural.

The challenge is recognizing the difference, but how?

Know the book. When knowledge of God’s word is weak, leaders will struggle to know if something is biblical or not.

Seek wisdom through prayer. Prayer is one of the most powerful tools and often neglected. God says ask for wisdom and it will be given.

Ask the right questions.
What does the Bible say about this matter? Is this practice tradition? Should it continue? How will it affect the church?

Be patient. No decision should be made in one meeting. Give it time, but be careful not to procrastinate.

How Will We Lead?

How will we lead…

Our children? The choices they make, places they frequent, friends they associate with, and work ethic they possess.

Our church? The confidence of the church, their hope for a better tomorrow, and their assurance of an eternal destiny.

Our neighbors? Who they seek during trials, where they turn with spiritual questions, and how they see Jesus.

Our friends? The development of a spiritual focus, thoughts of relationships, and how to deal with giving into temptation.

Our co-workers? Their knowledge of biblical principles, their understanding of character, and approach to life.

Considering their future is worth giving thought to how we will lead.

Leading With Love

One of the greatest needs in our world and yet so challenging involves love.

God loves us for who we are and where we are, unconditionally. Unconditionally is where the difficulty begins.

Paul told the church in Rome that God “demonstrates His love toward us.” The love God demonstrated in the past benefits us now and there is no assessment of it ever ending.

To lead others to the love of God, we must demonstrate the nature of God’s love to them.

We even love those who are not always easy to love. If God continues to love us in this way, we must do the same toward others.

John…Part 2

John’s writings identify the type of leadership he provided for the church. As I mentioned last week, several of these qualities provide an example for us today.

Fellowship: John understood the value of fellowship among Christians and with the Lord. He urged Christians to walk in fellowship with God and each other.

Vision: John knew the future of the church depended on men who were willing to work in the fields of harvest. He also knew such men needed support.

Servant: John’s writings about Jesus as a servant were followed by his own example to the church. Reading through his letters shows the qualities of a servant leader.

Paul…Part 3

Three more qualities stand out as it relates to Paul’s leadership.

Confident: Paul’s confidence was not based on who he was, but Jesus and what Christ had done for Him.

Disciplined: Paul spoke about discipline to ensure the message of the gospel aligned perfectly with the example of his life.

Faithful: Christ considered Paul faithful. Although his past was an example of blasphemy, persecution, and violence toward the church, the Lord saw something greater.

Paul exemplifies many qualities needed for leadership. If we emulate them, God will use us in powerful ways to make a difference.

Team

A leader is one who leads a team in one form or another.

The benefits to leading and working together as a team cannot be listed in one post, but here are a few to consider.

1) More work can be achieved more quickly.
2) Each person on the team can focus on using their abilities.
3) Everyone can use their abilities more efficiently.
4) Ideas are abundant when several work together.
5) Opportunities for encouragement are greater.

Within the church it takes those who specialize in cooking, cleaning, teaching, preaching, singing, praying, serving, shepherding, and the list goes on.

When everyone works together the result is growth!