Hit the Bullseye: How Denominations Can Aim the Congregation at the Mission Field, by Paul Borden (Abingdon Press, 2003)
Review by: Benton Heisler, West Michigan Director of Connectional Ministries
Paul Borden, the executive minister of the American Baptist Churches of the West denomination, has written an insightful book that challenges other denominations to assess their current direction and intentionally make changes. He emphasizes the importance of a clear alignment between tactics, strategies and foundational principles.
He emphasizes healthy congregations are growing and they grow by making new disciples and creating new congregations. The reader is reminded in multiple ways that, “We measure what matters!” We must take seriously the concept of success as a result to be measured. Congregations are expected to measure up and be evaluated.
A primary ingredient is leadership.
He asserts that two metaphors that hinder are the “pastor as shepherd” and the “church as family.”
The leader should equip others to provide the care for sheep. The proper term would be “congregational care,” not “pastoral care.”
The church’s primary purpose is not to be family. It is to be on a constant mission/purpose of seeking souls for Christ. True community comes together to care for one another as the community accomplishes a purpose.
Accountability is a basic requirement for change and must be based upon objective measurements. Changed expectations demand resources to reach expectations. Training and resources are essential along with mentoring programs.
Small and large is not the defining criteria – healthy is!! We must take the Great Commission seriously enough to enforce mutual accountability for our behaviors.
Key for the judicatory is, “What is best to accomplish the mission, not preserve the institution. It must be willing to address those who are unable or unwilling to make the changes or worked against them.”
Healthy congregational thinking means that one leads by attraction, not compulsion. You attract people to your significant mission and compelling vision.
Borden would encourage us to discard the shepherd role, stop conflict mediation, stop honoring unfruitful behavior; and honor those open to change, who take leadership seriously, are willing to be held accountable and are committed to helping other congregations.
Borden goes into great detail explaining the importance of the alignment of: Responsibility, Authority, Accountability, Results and Resources of Support.
He reviews the extensive process that yields the five key components of: Learning, Coaching, Consulting, Laity training and Follow-up — all working in accordance.
This is an excellent 140-page book that will help leaders chart new directions.
0 comments:
Post a Comment