LEADERSHIP ROLES

Today in the office, we looked at the Ephesians 4:11, 12 qualities of pastor, teacher, evangelist, prophet, apostle - to see what the breakdown on our own pastoral staff was, with the thought that churches may be heavy on pastor/teacher types and skimpy on evangelist/prophet/apostle types. For the church to function in completeness, ALL of those characteristics should be present.

They don't have to all necessarily be present right within our own staff, but we were curious if they were. I won't share what everyone ELSE's results were - not sure that would be fair or right to do in this column without permission from the others. So I'll just share mine.

Of the five leadership functions given in Ephesians 4, my FIRST PRIMARY ended up being TEACHER. Another identifying name for this person would be "THE COMMUNICATOR." According to the evalution, he is a recruiter to the organization who markets the ideas or products and gains loyalty to a brand or cause.

Characteristics are:
Effective communicator of truth -- Philosopher, imparter of ideas and principles -- Encourages exploration in thinking toward solutions -- Has a curiosity to know more and to explain this knowledge -- Willing to take time for people to understand for themselves -- Helps lead others into a deeper understanding and ownership -- Translator of great complexities into simple teachings -- Core issue is understanding -- Discerns audience's ability to comprehend and starts there -- Guides others with wisdom and understanding.

My SECOND PRIMARY (not sure how you can have a SECOND primary, but this evaluation gave you one) was APOSTLE. This person is described as "THE ENTREPRENEUR." He is an innovator and cultural architect who intitiates a new product or service and develops the organization.

Characteristics are:
Visionary thinking and motivation -- Entrepreneurial interests to build communities of faith -- Pioneering new endeavors -- Sees things holistically, part of a larger system -- Deep relationships at a distance -- Comfortable crossing boundaries -- Strategic decision maker -- Uncomfortable with status quo.

As I reflect on what I just wrote, it feels a little self-serving that I would tell you all that about myself, but it's not my intention. Because with every leadership role you HAVE, there are also things you are LACKING. And I don't WANT to tell you what those things are -- but trust me, they're there (or NOT there, actually).

What was gratifying and interesting to me was that our current staff is fairly well-balanced across the five leadership styles - either primary or secondary primary. And that felt real good to know.

You can take the same online evaluation at www.theforgottenways.org/apest/. It'll cost you $10 but it's worth it.

And be blessed.