The Question Everyone Ought to Be Asking
As you know…there are no problem-free strategies or solutions. Every strategy, every solution comes with a set of problems. Wise leaders simply choose the set of problems they’d rather have. See also, 5 Strategic Flaws That Cripple Ministry Impact.
With me?
Once you come to the conclusion that there are no problem-free strategies or solutions, the very next step is to begin determining goals and objectives based on your mission (or the business you are in). Once you’ve set goals and objectives based on your mission, it’s time to determine the best way to accomplish your goals and objectives. This is about the model or the program you will choose to use. See also, Supercharge Your Ministry with These 5 Questions.
What is the best way to _____________? Fill in the blank with whatever your goal or objective is. For example:
- What is the best way to connect everyone to a small group?
- What is the best way to help everyone find a way to serve that fits their unique shape?
- What is the best way to help everyone overcome the me-first self-centered view that is so common?
- Etc.
What is the best way to ____________?
Have you learned to ask this question? Or are you still stuck with legacy models and strategies? You know what I mean by legacy models, right? Think about the programs you’re still using that were installed in another era. Good examples might be Wednesday or Sunday night programing. Others would be Monday night visitation and Sunday morning programs that are designed to disciple or connect adults (but in many cases are really smaller versions of the weekend service).
Nothing Wrong with Legacy
Listen, there is rarely anything inherently wrong with a legacy model or strategy. Asking what is the best way to __________? simply uncovers…wait for it…the best way to ___________. And that is the point. Right?
Why Don’t We Ask the Question?
What is the best way to ___________?
Why don’t we ask the question? Too often we don’t ask the question because:
- The champions of the legacy programs are very influential (and haven’t been mentored or discipled into a biblical understanding of stewarding “according to their ability.” See also, Top 10 Things I Need to Know about Discipleship.
- The participants of legacy programs have trouble understanding the differences in the culture of the 21st century (and haven’t been challenged with an others centered approach). See also, Small Group Ministry Roadblock #4: A Myopic Understanding of the Culture.
- Working through necessary changes is unsettling. See also, External Change > Internal Change = Irrelevance and The Cost of Change and the Status Quo.
Have You Asked the Question?
Have you asked the question? Why not? Want to argue? You can click here to jump into the conversation.
