I had one of those epiphany moments this morning as I walked the dog. Of course, in Michigan at this time of year it is still more like sledding with the dog. Walking in early March adds a degree of difficulty as well since there will be some snow and ice melt during the day… Continue Reading
Category Archives: Leadership
Redeeming Christianity
Is that a presumptuous title or what? For the last few years I’ve been engaged in some separate studies that have come together in a surprising way. One of the great benefits of being in full time ministry is the time I get to spend in study and research. The pressure to present it adequately… Continue Reading
Appropriate Levels of Complexity
Complexity is probably one the most important factors in church organization, yet it is one that is rarely talked about. A system that is too complex or is not complex enough will not meet the needs of the church. I was first introduced to the concept of organizational complexity by way of Mike Armour’s work… Continue Reading
Flexible Systems
Different churches need different types of organizational systems. I think most of us would agree to that. For example, a local church without elders for qualification reasons is no less of a church than the large church with dozens of elders. However, different organization systems are required for each one. One area of organization that… Continue Reading
The Makings of a Good System
There are nearly infinite versions of organizational systems that can be found to frame churches around. Some are traditional/pragmatic, such as having elders make decisions or using ‘men’s business meetings’. Some are progressive/research based and are introduced after serious study of culture and organization. Some are simply marketing tools generated to sell books or capitalize… Continue Reading
Jethro II
As a response to the development of Theory Y and the increased focus on individuals within society, Jethro II emerged as a new take on an organizational system designed by Moses’ father-in-law thousands of years ago. The difference was significant: The most important part of the system is the individual. Now, it is easy to… Continue Reading
Theory X and Theory Y
Some of you may have guessed that the failure with Jethro I was that it didn’t take into account the needs and value of the individual. Sure, Jethro’s original advice to Moses mentioned not wearing people out, but the focus of the system is on the benefits it provides to management/leaders and on getting the… Continue Reading
Jethro I
Several years ago, as I was just getting into ministry, I became enamored with the idea of small groups. Initially because it was different than traditional (that’s been a theme with me), then because I was hired to manage small groups for a church. I’ll work small groups in later in our organization discussion but… Continue Reading
Leadership and Organization
I’m attracted to church leadership and organization like a moth is drawn to flame. I know some people find it terribly boring, but I find it completely fascinating. I get enchanted just looking at it. The similarities with fire are almost scary. It moves and changes, comes in all different sizes, shapes, and colors. It… Continue Reading
Bristol Road Praise Team
This was mastered by one of the members of our praise team. The notes on his original posting read: “The Power Of The Cross” Sung by the Bristol Road Church Praise Team (BTW, my microphone kept cutting out, and we only did one take…) I understand disclaimers. I use them all the time. This, however,… Continue Reading
