Every pastor must be the leader of his church. As Dr. Roberson often stated, “Everything rises and falls on leadership.” Does that mean the pastor must know everything? I don’t think so. A good leader can actually learn from his followers. Utilizing the abilities and knowledge of others is actually a sign of great leadership. The knowledge and experience of others can keep you from making bad mistakes.
One of the reasons members are helpful is that they are lifelong residents in your community and they know how things work and who makes them work. Zoning and building laws can be an obstacle to the church and having men that know how to navigate these local commissions can be invaluable. Church leaders may have knowledge about music, construction and finances along with many other aspects of the running of the church that can be helpful to you. It is the pastor’s responsibility to channel individual talent so as to strengthen the local church. Not every member has good ideas but listening to everyone gives you the best information to make decisions.
Trustees and deacons should all have something to offer to the leadership of the church. The Bible makes it clear that utilizing the gifts and abilities of men and women in the church is vital to its growth. For to one is given by the Spirit the word of wisdom; to another the word of knowledge by the same Spirit; To another faith by the same Spirit; to another the gifts of healing by the same Spirit; To another the working of miracles; to another prophecy; to another discerning of spirits; to another divers kinds of tongues; to another the interpretation of tongues: —1 Corinthians 12:8-10.
Preachers must not be intimidated from the suggestions of members. Getting people involved in a ministry of the church will make them stronger Christians and they will benefit the church. Ruling the church through intimidation may get people to follow but it will lessen their effectiveness and stymie their God-given gifts. The church with good leadership will be a happy and growing body.
The Bible gives many examples of Christians helping in the ministry of the early church. There are over one hundred coworkers of the apostle Paul that are mentioned by name in the New Testament. There must be many more that were instrumental in the expansion and growth of the early church that are not mentioned. Likewise, there are many wonderful saints in our churches who are essential to its operation. We must get them involved and use their talents.
The pastor’s role is to edify the church. However he is not alone in this endeavor. The church must edify itself. Wherefore comfort yourselves together, and edify one another, even as also ye do. – 1 Thessalonians 5:11. The pastor’s role is to coordinate the gifts of each member and develop their leadership skills. At the conclusion of his life the Apostle Paul wrote to Timothy concerning the training of men. And the things that thou hast heard of me among many witnesses, the same commit thou to faithful men, who shall be able to teach others also. — 2 Timothy 2:2.
Regardless of how smart we may be we can all learn from others, especially from the leaders of our church. If we are humble and spirit-led we will utilize the help of our fellow believers.
