This is a re-post from 17 July 2010, on the vital subject of how to keep the peace:
In our Church, there has been no conflict during the past decade -- which is, conflict which came into the open, or became a matter of concern to the whole Church, in the Church Meeting. The way that we achieved this is multi-faceted, but I would include the following points:
In our Church, there has been no conflict during the past decade -- which is, conflict which came into the open, or became a matter of concern to the whole Church, in the Church Meeting. The way that we achieved this is multi-faceted, but I would include the following points:
• We sought to see all things in terms of exalting Christ.OBSERVATION: In a typical year, I estimate that I spend less than 1% of my time on conflict. This is liberating for ministry. Christian leadership professor Bobby Clinton states: "I would guess that most leaders spend the majority of their time and energy dealing with conflict."
• We helped people feel secure about how issues are handled (so no need for power plays, as procedures are in place).
• I took decisive action where I saw potential trouble-spots.
• I rejected leadership models according to which Church leaders have an influential role in the Church. Influence is the role of the Holy Spirit.
• And our membership is restricted to confessing, active Christians.
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