Ministry and leadership can be a lonely task, but we need not face this alone. One of the sad realities of mission and church leadership in Europe is just how many good, godly men and women find themselves isolated and alone, devoid of meaningful peer ministry relationships and community. Too often, this leads to disillusionment and burnout. It is abundantly clear that this is not God's intention, and neither is it necessary. This seminar explores how to create authentic New Testament relationships as Gospel missionaries and leaders and how to avoid becoming isolated and alone in ministry.
Part 1: What Do We Mean by a Biblical Culture of Relationships?
Mission is not simply about achieving mission objectives – how these objectives are achieved is of paramount importance to God. We are not simply trying to tick off a list of aims and goals; we are trying to create and propagate a culture of what it means to be God’s new nation in the earth, a counter-cultural demonstration of what it means to live under the rule and reign of God, our heavenly Father. Paul draws a distinction between what he teaches and also his ‘way of life’ – it’s not just about the values and doctrines and methods, it is also about the culture that grows up around these; our ‘way of life’.
Part 2: Creating Authentic New Testament Relationships
Writing to the saints at Philippi, Paul provides a great insight into personal relationships within the early church, calling them his brothers, his beloved, longed for, joy and crown (Philippians 4:1), not terms used in a professional relationship. As their apostle, he establishes a foundation of personal warmth, Godly delight, affectionate ambition, and ultimate commitment. Nowhere to be found are the formality and externalism which sometimes characterise the modern church. Let's try to rediscover the true nature of the church and the beauty of its fellowship.
Part 3: Counter-Cultural Biblical Leadership
Counter-cultural Biblical leadership understands the importance of creating a relational culture of genuine care, released through leaders and into the life of local churches, and gathering these leaders into community with leaders of other churches. Such relationships would be characterised by a family atmosphere and willing leadership accountability. Businesses work hard and produce things; loving and healthy families are very fruitful and multiply. Spiritual fathers and mothers create the atmosphere of care in the church family.
Part 4: Principles for Leading Relationally in Your Context
Paul reminds the Corinthian church (1 Corinthians 14:15-17) that even with thousands of guardians and teachers, we still all need spiritual fathers (and we might add spiritual mothers also). Mentors and coaches are very valuable, but a spiritual parent is very precious and reflects a completely different relationship. It’s much more than an experienced and thoughtful advisor. It involves an intimate and trusting relationship of the heart. Paul goes on to encourage the Corinthians to imitate him, imitate his personal culture. Timothy would remind them of not just his methods and techniques, but of his way of life, as well as remind them of what he teaches everywhere.
Part 5: A Biblical Vision of Real Relationships
The New Testament is rich with the fragrance of dear friendships and real relationships. Romans 16 typifies Paul’s relational culture, showcasing his deep affection for his friends in the early church. This chapter reflects the strong bonds of love, loyalty, and encouragement that characterise Paul’s relationships with his fellow believers, highlighting the importance of community in faith.
