Nuggets #23

An Unstoppable Force by Erwin McManus
Prophetic Whispers
After we have expounded the purpose of the people of
God in human history and exposed the problems that must be addressed, we must turn to a third step that is critical to effectively change leadership. This step is the identification and equipping of point men and women. In this step, we must remember that the critical issue in momentum is not the establishment of structures or the implementation of methodologies but the transformation of a corporate culture. The selection of a transition team can determine one's success or failure in implementing change. The individuals you are looking for are men and women who personify spiritual pliability and responsiveness, reflecting an apostolic ethos.

Required for this role are the abilities to understand the issues, embrace the direction, and transition others emotionally. One of the most significant evidences of the work of the Holy Spirit in the change process is the emergence of these spiritual leaders. Too many times, pastors begin a radical transition process without solidifying the key spiritual leaders necessary for healthy transition. The whole of God's people will be led into a wilderness experience-through the work of these indigenous leaders.

In our present context, most pastors are, at best, welcome guests. They are what sociologists might call "the acceptable outsider." As much as a pastor may love his congregation and have a deep sense of calling and commitment to its people, the nature of his position makes him a voice coming from the wilderness. It is essential, in leading a congregation with an already established ethos into a new future, to call out from within that community those who would hear the prophetic voice and respond by embracing the calling of God.

The voice of the spiritual leader, when echoing the heart of God, resonates in the hearts of those who are already seeking after God.

The key to cultural transition is not to bring something alien into a new culture, but to call out from within that culture those things that are most true and right. Deep within the heart of the local church is the heart of God. The local church cannot live without the heart of God pounding vibrantly within her. When the leader endeavors to awaken an apostolic ethos, he should not be surprised when men and women rise up to this higher calling of God.

Wow, that was good stuff. I think it is so important, whether starting to change the culture or start a new initiative within the church, to have the staff/volunteer structure in place prior to the change. Movements need to be planned, so that everything is done in a fitting and orderly way. Cross-functional teams should work together, covering all aspects of the initiative, to make it as clear and seamless as possible. I believe congregations begin to lose trust when they see disorganization, lack of planning, and sloppiness. When these things are present in a business environment, do people go back for that kind of experience again? Probably not. Why would we expect them to behave any differently in a church environment? Whether inside or outside a church, everyone is a consumer of something. I'll stop here or I'll start tapping into my Marketing background and that's a whole other blog.