The national motto for Luxembourg is “Mir wëlle bleiwe wat mir sinn”. This is etched in stone in many places throughout the city. It means, “We wish to remain as we are.” While the country simply states its desire to remain independent and sovereign, they have drawn a line in the sand – we will not change. In the same way, many Christians do all they can to resist change – they wish to remain as they are – whether individually or as a church. Change is often viewed as a bad thing, but leadership demands change.
Resisting change is a strange position for a Christian to take in view of our theology. Repentance is a 180-degree change of direction. Regeneration and sanctification are all about change. Discipleship and counseling have as a main goal bringing about change in a believer’s life. 2 Corinthians 5:17 says that the believer is a “new creation.” We have an unchanging God who brings about change all the time.
Intrinsic to the definition of leadership is the idea of change. Leading is about going somewhere. If you look out the window of your car and the scenery isn’t changing, you’re standing still. The very activity of leading others demands change. It is the leader’s responsibility to look over the horizon to see what is coming and determine the future direction. To get to that horizon will mean change.
Minimising the Anxiety of Change
Change makes people nervous. It’s a difficult thing for some to move forward into unknown territory. One way to minimise this anxiety is to identify the anchor points and assure people that the ropes tethering you to them will remain unbroken. Some constants for your church are truth, mission, and values. Doctrine is not up for grabs. The purpose statement of an organisation is a north star that provides long-term continuity. Clearly articulated values provide borders and help to demarcate the path of the church or ministry. Any change initiative should be preceded by a clear statement of what will NOT change. But after that, go for it – it’s what’s needed to continue progressing forward.
Embracing Change
The problem is not change. The problem is what is being changed. I don’t know who to credit for the following statement, but it is profound: Some churches die because they change what they should never change. Some churches die because they refuse to change what they are free to change. The programs and strategies of a church are merely vehicles to accomplish the mission and vision – the ways and means. Therefore, the primary focus should be the end goal. Once this is in place, church leaders may need to lead change to accomplish it. This should be expected. Instead of resisting change, embrace it. Love it. Do it! It isn’t a dirty word. It is another word for progress.
How We Can Help
Biblical Ministries South Africa has free workshops to help pastors and church leaders set direction for the church and manage the change. Our seasoned faculty will walk your leadership team through a planning process to help you identify where your church should go in our Charting Your Course workshop, and help your church navigate the difficult waters of change through Tradition and Transition.
If you’re ready to set or reassess your church’s mission, vision and strategy, contact us to schedule your free workshops!
