Are Logic and Strategy Enemies of the Faith?
Pier at Ocean City, CA
In writing strategic annual plans for the church, what’s the right balance between logic and strategy and faith? In planning for 2025, how much do you plan on the Holy Spirit to move in your church? How do you plan for the Holy Spirit?
The church is not a business, you know.
Sadly, the business world has become better at planning and developing logical strategies than the church. Businesses employ complex business models, advanced strategies, and invest heavily in developing their leaders so they can maximize something as fleeting as profit. What if the church used that same level of strategic thinking to reach people, to share the gospel, and to make disciples?
What does the Bible say about logic, strategy, and leadership development?
Clearly Proverbs is packed with wisdom about the value of planning and charting a course. And you don’t have to dive that deep into the Scriptures before you encounter high levels of planning, strategy and leadership. Look at the life of Moses, do you think he could have led millions of people out of Egypt without some level of strategy, organizational development, and planning? Or, what about David’s skillful building of a nation, or Jesus’ organization of his followers into groups of 70, 12, and 3. Or, think of the explosive growth of the early church in the book of Acts. Any church that cares about people must care about organizing people, reaching people, and caring for people. Strategy…when done well can be a powerful tool that gives flesh to the gospel.
So, where does the Holy Spirit fit in?
You can analyze, research, model, forecast, and strategize all you want, but if your plans are not wrapped in prayer seeking God’s will, consistent with Scripture, genuinely biblical, and making room for the Holy Spirit…your plans are meaningless.
One question for you the Lead Pastor…does your annual budget have a line item called “Movement of the Holy Spirit?” Do you set aside money and resources for the Holy Spirit to move in your church? What happens if the Holy Spirit moves, and your church has no resources to act on this new idea?
Need help in developing your annual strategic plan?
Due North has extensive experience in writing strategic plans. The system works. It’s worth the effort. If you’re interested in having a 30-minute conversation about strategic plans, please contact us at DueNorthConsulting.net or Jim.duenorth8890@gmail.com.
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