Interview with Mr. Daton - Lakeview Wesleyan
1) When New staff comes into a church thinking that they are the solution, or have the solution to all of a churches problems. New staff needs to remain humble and learn about the church, how things are done, and what the deeper problems are, before they can be of any help.
2) When new staff comes in thinking that there will be someone there to do there work. they need to take up leadership right away and do what the church is paying them to do. These are their responsibilities, they can not be passed of on to supporting staff or to people in the congregation.
3) New staff needs to let people do what they have been doing, they don't need to come in and take over everything thinking that they have to do it all. If you push yourself in and take over, those that have been there for along time will get burnt by the situation, the new staff is likely to get burnt out as well.
Tuesday, March 31, 2009
Week 11: Mistakes Ministers Make>>>Trenton Prieshoff
Interviewed Peggy Prieshoff
- One chronic mistake is to avoid crisis. It is okay to give the two sides some time to work it out themselves (and would even be baby-ing to step in right away without them ever talking it out themselves), but there is a very fine line between giving time to work things out and neglecting the situation entirely. As soon as it is seen that the two sides are not coming to an agreement, the minister needs to step in and bring some level of authority to the situation.
- Be in constant prayer. In fact, use too much time for prayer. When first starting out, it might seem as if you are caught up in a torrent of tasks to accomplish. Prayer is usually the first thing out the window.
- Remember two things about ministry: first, it is a business and you need to be responsible for resources, for producing results and expecting others to do the same. Second, it is not a business: it is ministry. You need to be able to put the results aside from time to time in order to develop people.
- Don't expect to work 40 hour weeks. First, being a minister is a title that characterizes you 24/7 so you don't get a chance to "switch off." Second, if you expect your laity to work 40 hours a week and then be involved with other church programs for another 10-20 hours, then you need to do the same.
Sunday, March 29, 2009
Week 11 - Anton Folz Maxwell Book
Week 11 – Maxwell Book- Anton Folz
March 30th 09
The Law of Process– Leadership Develops Daily, Not in a Day
This quote by Maxwell in his book The 21 Irrefutable Laws of Leadership captures well the powerful truth that while people may be given talents and abilities from birth, a truly powerful and influential leader must develop and hone their talents and abilities over time. Just as someone would invest in the stock market, waiting and taking time to make sure that their investment is well handled, leaders must also invest into themselves. A leader cannot become great overnight, but rather it takes years of experience and active investing to become a great leader. So even though people may have natural gifts for leadership, it takes time to bring together all aspects of an effective leader such as vision, experience, respect, and discipline. When all of the aspects of leadership are working together, one is then able to be their most effective, and the result of all their investment of time and energy over the years will then pay off.
March 30th 09
The Law of Process– Leadership Develops Daily, Not in a Day
This quote by Maxwell in his book The 21 Irrefutable Laws of Leadership captures well the powerful truth that while people may be given talents and abilities from birth, a truly powerful and influential leader must develop and hone their talents and abilities over time. Just as someone would invest in the stock market, waiting and taking time to make sure that their investment is well handled, leaders must also invest into themselves. A leader cannot become great overnight, but rather it takes years of experience and active investing to become a great leader. So even though people may have natural gifts for leadership, it takes time to bring together all aspects of an effective leader such as vision, experience, respect, and discipline. When all of the aspects of leadership are working together, one is then able to be their most effective, and the result of all their investment of time and energy over the years will then pay off.
Mistakes Ministers Make - Anton Folz
Mistakes Ministers Make – Anton Folz March 30th, 09
I interviewed Mr. Daton at 12:20 pm Sunday March 29th 09
Mistakes that he identified;
1) Coming in thinking that you have all the answers as a new staffer. This is basically an attitude problem, where the new guy or gal thinks that they have all the answers to all of the problems that the church has. They do not maintain a humble attitude, and do not listen to what others have to say about how things should be run.
2) They come into the ministry position thinking that everyone else will do all the work. They are taking a leadership role, and with it comes many responsibilities, and they must be ready and willing to pick up the tasks that they are being paid to do. This occurs when they allow all the supporting staff or lay people in the church do all the work.
3) Not allowing anyone else to help. Some new staffers come in with this idea that they are the ones that have to do everything. They push in and take over everything, and often times people that have been volunteering for many years will get burnt. The other problem with this is, that the new staffer burns themselves out in the process.
I interviewed Mr. Daton at 12:20 pm Sunday March 29th 09
Mistakes that he identified;
1) Coming in thinking that you have all the answers as a new staffer. This is basically an attitude problem, where the new guy or gal thinks that they have all the answers to all of the problems that the church has. They do not maintain a humble attitude, and do not listen to what others have to say about how things should be run.
2) They come into the ministry position thinking that everyone else will do all the work. They are taking a leadership role, and with it comes many responsibilities, and they must be ready and willing to pick up the tasks that they are being paid to do. This occurs when they allow all the supporting staff or lay people in the church do all the work.
3) Not allowing anyone else to help. Some new staffers come in with this idea that they are the ones that have to do everything. They push in and take over everything, and often times people that have been volunteering for many years will get burnt. The other problem with this is, that the new staffer burns themselves out in the process.
Thursday, March 26, 2009
Week Ten – Maxwell Book – David
Maxwell’s Book The 360 Degree Leader
In the book The 360-Degree Leader, the author, John C. Maxwell shows how 99% of all leadership in most organizations takes place in the middle; and then he shares the secrets of how to increase our influence from wherever we are. Maxwell teaches that people who desire to lead from the middle of organizations face unique challenges and are often held back by myths that prevent them from developing their influence. His book, however, sets straight the myths, shows us how to overcome the challenges, and teaches us the skills we need to become an all-around 360-degree leader.
Maxwell teaches us about leading down, and it is more that just getting people to do what we want. He says that it is our attempt to add value to them in any way we can. One principle I feel will be helpful to me to use as a “rule” when working with people, would be his principle to “Transfer the vision.” Maxwell says that as middle leaders, we are the crucial link in the process of transferring what is primarily the vision of others (248). He continues that the vision may be cast by the top leaders, but rarely gets transferred to the people without the “whole-hearted participation of the leaders lower in the organization.” Even though the middle leaders do not always invent the vision, Maxwell reminds the reader that almost always they have to interpret it. To interpret this vision in a way that will ignite people and set them off in the right direction, he says that we must present it with the following: clarity; a connection to the past, present, and future; a purpose; goals; a challenge; stories and a passion.
Maxwell, John. The 360 Degree Leader: Developing Your Influence from Anywhere in the Organization. Thomas Nelson Inc, 2006.
In the book The 360-Degree Leader, the author, John C. Maxwell shows how 99% of all leadership in most organizations takes place in the middle; and then he shares the secrets of how to increase our influence from wherever we are. Maxwell teaches that people who desire to lead from the middle of organizations face unique challenges and are often held back by myths that prevent them from developing their influence. His book, however, sets straight the myths, shows us how to overcome the challenges, and teaches us the skills we need to become an all-around 360-degree leader.
Maxwell teaches us about leading down, and it is more that just getting people to do what we want. He says that it is our attempt to add value to them in any way we can. One principle I feel will be helpful to me to use as a “rule” when working with people, would be his principle to “Transfer the vision.” Maxwell says that as middle leaders, we are the crucial link in the process of transferring what is primarily the vision of others (248). He continues that the vision may be cast by the top leaders, but rarely gets transferred to the people without the “whole-hearted participation of the leaders lower in the organization.” Even though the middle leaders do not always invent the vision, Maxwell reminds the reader that almost always they have to interpret it. To interpret this vision in a way that will ignite people and set them off in the right direction, he says that we must present it with the following: clarity; a connection to the past, present, and future; a purpose; goals; a challenge; stories and a passion.
Maxwell, John. The 360 Degree Leader: Developing Your Influence from Anywhere in the Organization. Thomas Nelson Inc, 2006.
Week Ten – Mistakes Ministers Make – David
Mistakes Ministers Make
Brookhaven Wesleyan Church
I interviewed Pastor John Walton the assistant pastor
March 16, 2009
What are three mistakes a new staffer should avoid making in their first job on church staff?
1. Having a “know-it-all” attitude. Do not come in thinking that you know everything and that you do not need to learn what is new in this church.
2. Not able to manage time. Make sure you do not only heed the flock of the church, and neglect your family.
3. Having an “I-can-do-it” attitude. Do not come in thinking that you can do everything on your own.
Here are some extra blurbs from Pastor John.
•When they do not have a learner’s attitude
•When they get ties up in doing everything
•When they lack sensitivity to people’s feelings
•When they have an attitude of “I am the pastor, I don’t have to do that.”
•When they come in and try to change things too quickly.
-(i.e. let’s no longer use bulletins; let’s only preach from the NKJ version.)
•When they woo Pastors/people to themselves.
•When they come in with no balance in their devotional life, putting work higher than God.
Brookhaven Wesleyan Church
I interviewed Pastor John Walton the assistant pastor
March 16, 2009
What are three mistakes a new staffer should avoid making in their first job on church staff?
1. Having a “know-it-all” attitude. Do not come in thinking that you know everything and that you do not need to learn what is new in this church.
2. Not able to manage time. Make sure you do not only heed the flock of the church, and neglect your family.
3. Having an “I-can-do-it” attitude. Do not come in thinking that you can do everything on your own.
Here are some extra blurbs from Pastor John.
•When they do not have a learner’s attitude
•When they get ties up in doing everything
•When they lack sensitivity to people’s feelings
•When they have an attitude of “I am the pastor, I don’t have to do that.”
•When they come in and try to change things too quickly.
-(i.e. let’s no longer use bulletins; let’s only preach from the NKJ version.)
•When they woo Pastors/people to themselves.
•When they come in with no balance in their devotional life, putting work higher than God.
Week 10 - Thurs. - Josh
3/26 - Thurs
People Work
The most helpful thing that I have begun to practice when working with others is to try and understand them. Understanding creates connections and connections create sympathies. If I can understand where a person is coming form or why they approach a situation the way they do, I then have a foundation to build my interactions with that person on. By seeking to understand the person rather than the position they are taking, I can then find areas were we relate and create a relationship without having to conform or agree with any particular view point or ideas
When we try and understand a person, we start to grow in the process. Our experiences broaden, and we can begin to see a person’s motives behind their choices and reactions. When we start to see others motives we can begin to work together with others productively and in a health environment.
People Work
The most helpful thing that I have begun to practice when working with others is to try and understand them. Understanding creates connections and connections create sympathies. If I can understand where a person is coming form or why they approach a situation the way they do, I then have a foundation to build my interactions with that person on. By seeking to understand the person rather than the position they are taking, I can then find areas were we relate and create a relationship without having to conform or agree with any particular view point or ideas
When we try and understand a person, we start to grow in the process. Our experiences broaden, and we can begin to see a person’s motives behind their choices and reactions. When we start to see others motives we can begin to work together with others productively and in a health environment.
Week 10: People Work>>>Trenton Prieshoff
Working with people is not one of my fortes. I am introverted and I have an odd sense of humor which make me seem really awkward or rude to people who don't know me well. At the same time, I am more of a counselor in that I am a good listener and I empathize with people well.
Any people skills I have, I have learned from watching people like my youth pastor who is a lot like me (but outgoing). I find ways to do what he does and imitate the way he acts (while still being myself). What I feel is one of the most important things for me in working with people is developing similar interests. Find out what other people like and learn more about it. Enough that you can talk about it, ask questions to get them talking, and even if you sound like an idiot, they can see that you care and are interested. That goes a long way.
Having similar interests and generally just liking each other helps a lot with the group feel. When people feel a connection with each other, they can be excited to be together.
Its early, I don't know what else to say...
Any people skills I have, I have learned from watching people like my youth pastor who is a lot like me (but outgoing). I find ways to do what he does and imitate the way he acts (while still being myself). What I feel is one of the most important things for me in working with people is developing similar interests. Find out what other people like and learn more about it. Enough that you can talk about it, ask questions to get them talking, and even if you sound like an idiot, they can see that you care and are interested. That goes a long way.
Having similar interests and generally just liking each other helps a lot with the group feel. When people feel a connection with each other, they can be excited to be together.
Its early, I don't know what else to say...
Tuesday, March 24, 2009
Week Nine – People Work – David
How can one learn to better work with people?
The best way to work with people is by putting yourself out there with people and doing things with them. I work best with people when I have begun to understand who they are and how they work. I believe that the best thing one can do to work with others better, is to communicate well. In my own relationship with my fiancé, we have little meaningless argument. We always resolve these by communicating to each other how we feel and what not. Through this experience we have learned that it is best to always communicate how the other is feeling, before and argument arises.
Have you ever heard of the ARC Triangle? This is a very useful term I learned about when I was younger; it helps me cope with people better. The ARC triangle is called a triangle because it has three related points: Affinity, Reality, and (most important) Communication.
Affinity - an emotional response; it is the feeling of affection or lack of it, of emotion or misemotion connected with life.
Reality - solid objects; the real things of life.
Communication - an interchange of ideas between two persons who can receive, relay or send a communication.
It is a triangle because without affinity there is no reality or communication. Without reality there is no affinity or communication. Without communication there is neither affinity nor reality.
The best way to work with people is by putting yourself out there with people and doing things with them. I work best with people when I have begun to understand who they are and how they work. I believe that the best thing one can do to work with others better, is to communicate well. In my own relationship with my fiancé, we have little meaningless argument. We always resolve these by communicating to each other how we feel and what not. Through this experience we have learned that it is best to always communicate how the other is feeling, before and argument arises.
Have you ever heard of the ARC Triangle? This is a very useful term I learned about when I was younger; it helps me cope with people better. The ARC triangle is called a triangle because it has three related points: Affinity, Reality, and (most important) Communication.
Affinity - an emotional response; it is the feeling of affection or lack of it, of emotion or misemotion connected with life.
Reality - solid objects; the real things of life.
Communication - an interchange of ideas between two persons who can receive, relay or send a communication.
It is a triangle because without affinity there is no reality or communication. Without reality there is no affinity or communication. Without communication there is neither affinity nor reality.
Monday, March 23, 2009
Week 10 Church Fight - Anton Folz March 24th 09
Week Ten – Anton Folz
March 24th, 09
Church Fight
I interviewed Rev. Brad Terhune on Sunday March 22nd, 09 at Lakeview Church
1. There were a number of doctors attending this local church and one of which was an OBGYN, and happened to deliver a number of the babies that were from families in the congregation. There was one girl in particular that was born, and was delivered by this particular doctor, and ended up being very physically and mentally handicap due to a number of health concerns and entanglement of the umbilical cord. As the years moved on, some people began to convince the mother of the disabled child that she was in the right to sue the doctor that delivered her baby. This is where the problem began to amount to something real and divisive.
When the daughter was about six or seven years old, this whole issue began to grow rapidly, and soon the family with the child were no longer allowed to speak to the family of the doctor due to the legal advice of their lawyer. Both families continued to attend church faithfully, but always apart and sat on the opposite sides of the church. This began to breed disconnection and confusion among many in the congregation that knew the situation was taking place. There was not necessarily anger or strife; so much as it became a divisive tool that was pulling the church apart.
2. It got to the point that many, if not all of the people in the church knew what was going on, and the even though the two families worshipped in the same area, they could not ever talk to one another. This carried on for years, and to this day has some very deep and unresolved conflict that still occurs between the two families because of their inability to have fellowship and to communicate to one another.
3. It seems that some in the church, along with the pastors on staff, should have tried to talk with the two families. Although there was some deep heart and disconnect due to the legal advice that the family with the disabled child received, there could have been some sort of attempt to bring the two parties together to have them reconcile the problem, rather than allowing it to grow and continue to feed into the thoughts and feelings of disunity within the body of that Christian church. The senior pastor should have sat down with each party individually and then maybe tried to bring the two together. If they refused, then he should have gathered others with him, such as the supporting staff, and got to talking to the families. Anything would have been better than allowing the two to grow apart so far that there now seems to be no reconciliation possible between the two.
March 24th, 09
Church Fight
I interviewed Rev. Brad Terhune on Sunday March 22nd, 09 at Lakeview Church
1. There were a number of doctors attending this local church and one of which was an OBGYN, and happened to deliver a number of the babies that were from families in the congregation. There was one girl in particular that was born, and was delivered by this particular doctor, and ended up being very physically and mentally handicap due to a number of health concerns and entanglement of the umbilical cord. As the years moved on, some people began to convince the mother of the disabled child that she was in the right to sue the doctor that delivered her baby. This is where the problem began to amount to something real and divisive.
When the daughter was about six or seven years old, this whole issue began to grow rapidly, and soon the family with the child were no longer allowed to speak to the family of the doctor due to the legal advice of their lawyer. Both families continued to attend church faithfully, but always apart and sat on the opposite sides of the church. This began to breed disconnection and confusion among many in the congregation that knew the situation was taking place. There was not necessarily anger or strife; so much as it became a divisive tool that was pulling the church apart.
2. It got to the point that many, if not all of the people in the church knew what was going on, and the even though the two families worshipped in the same area, they could not ever talk to one another. This carried on for years, and to this day has some very deep and unresolved conflict that still occurs between the two families because of their inability to have fellowship and to communicate to one another.
3. It seems that some in the church, along with the pastors on staff, should have tried to talk with the two families. Although there was some deep heart and disconnect due to the legal advice that the family with the disabled child received, there could have been some sort of attempt to bring the two parties together to have them reconcile the problem, rather than allowing it to grow and continue to feed into the thoughts and feelings of disunity within the body of that Christian church. The senior pastor should have sat down with each party individually and then maybe tried to bring the two together. If they refused, then he should have gathered others with him, such as the supporting staff, and got to talking to the families. Anything would have been better than allowing the two to grow apart so far that there now seems to be no reconciliation possible between the two.
Week Nine – Church Fight – David
Church Fight
Brookhaven Wesleyan Church
I interviewed Pastor John Walton the assistant pastor
March 16, 2009
This is a conflict that happened in the Nazarene church that Pastor John attended when he lived in Nashville Tennessee.
The issue: Fight between Senior Pastor and his wife. The wife became jealous of the fame he got, and developed a fan club where they began to “bad mouth” him. His own partner, his roommate was bad mouthing him!
When the Pastor found out about his wife’s fan club and what they were doing, he confronted her, and asked the church board what to do. He explained to the board that he would quit the ministry for the sake of keeping his marriage.
How bad did it get: When he talked to his wife, she said that she didn’t care if he was the pastor or the president of the United States; she is not going to love him anymore. Shortly after she divorced him and left.
What could have resolved it – what should have someone done?
I honestly believe that nothing could have resolved it, the pastor did all that he could do. The wife dug herself a hole and wanted out of the relationship. The pastor was willing to leave the ministry for her but she still wanted nothing to do with him. In the end, the board said to the Pastor that his allegiance’s was to God 1st, and that they would keep him as their pastor if he was willing to stay.
The result is that when his helpmate no longer gave help… the Board aided and assisted him. He has not remarried to this day.
Brookhaven Wesleyan Church
I interviewed Pastor John Walton the assistant pastor
March 16, 2009
This is a conflict that happened in the Nazarene church that Pastor John attended when he lived in Nashville Tennessee.
The issue: Fight between Senior Pastor and his wife. The wife became jealous of the fame he got, and developed a fan club where they began to “bad mouth” him. His own partner, his roommate was bad mouthing him!
When the Pastor found out about his wife’s fan club and what they were doing, he confronted her, and asked the church board what to do. He explained to the board that he would quit the ministry for the sake of keeping his marriage.
How bad did it get: When he talked to his wife, she said that she didn’t care if he was the pastor or the president of the United States; she is not going to love him anymore. Shortly after she divorced him and left.
What could have resolved it – what should have someone done?
I honestly believe that nothing could have resolved it, the pastor did all that he could do. The wife dug herself a hole and wanted out of the relationship. The pastor was willing to leave the ministry for her but she still wanted nothing to do with him. In the end, the board said to the Pastor that his allegiance’s was to God 1st, and that they would keep him as their pastor if he was willing to stay.
The result is that when his helpmate no longer gave help… the Board aided and assisted him. He has not remarried to this day.
Saturday, March 21, 2009
Week 5 _ PEOPLE - Anton Folz (dated for Feb 12th, 09)
Week 5 - People (essay) Anton Folz March 22nd 09
With all of the demands of the common senior pastor or staff pastor in our common day, it can become very easy to focus on all of the stuff that ones has to do to the neglect of the people that one is called to serve. The paper work piles up, and the district has obligations to fulfill, but a pastor must not forget the people in the midst of it all. Thus a pastor must learn to work on getting the administration stuff completed, while at the same time work with people. This can be accomplished if a pastor makes the very most of their time, both inside and outside the office, and if they all the while carefully and prayerfully complete the tasks in the most productive way they can.
Looking first at time management, a senior or supporting pastor may try and incorporate some of their people work into the administration stuff that they have to accomplish. For example, there are many times that a pastor could take the time and opportunity that they have to get some administrative stuff accomplished to at the same time work at training someone in the church to help with the task. This principle applies best to youth and children’s pastors, but not exclusively. If one has interested volunteers, then allow them to learn and get them involved.
Next, one can also do many of the administrative tasks while at the same time be working with others. For example, if you have some hospital visitations or traveling to do, one might consider taking a person or two along with them if the situation is appropriate. The travel time can be meaningful and productive, as well as the experience of the actual visitation or session that one needs to attend.
Thirdly, one might consider spending time to create a planed schedule of time that they will specifically devote to alone time, and other time that is in office yet available to others, and finally time that they specifically devote to people work. This allows a pastor to know when they can be interrupted by others, and when they need to retreat to a closet and get their work accomplished.
Overall, a pastor must always keep people in mind as they complete their work. Often the administrative tasks can be overwhelming and boring, but if one does them with the people in mind, they might be encouraged to get them done and help them to remember why it is that they are doing it. God calls pastors to the work and service of his people, and that includes the office work that needs to get done to keep the church running smoothly. Keep God’s people in mind at all times, and allow them to be the focus of your ministry, not the administrative stuff.
With all of the demands of the common senior pastor or staff pastor in our common day, it can become very easy to focus on all of the stuff that ones has to do to the neglect of the people that one is called to serve. The paper work piles up, and the district has obligations to fulfill, but a pastor must not forget the people in the midst of it all. Thus a pastor must learn to work on getting the administration stuff completed, while at the same time work with people. This can be accomplished if a pastor makes the very most of their time, both inside and outside the office, and if they all the while carefully and prayerfully complete the tasks in the most productive way they can.
Looking first at time management, a senior or supporting pastor may try and incorporate some of their people work into the administration stuff that they have to accomplish. For example, there are many times that a pastor could take the time and opportunity that they have to get some administrative stuff accomplished to at the same time work at training someone in the church to help with the task. This principle applies best to youth and children’s pastors, but not exclusively. If one has interested volunteers, then allow them to learn and get them involved.
Next, one can also do many of the administrative tasks while at the same time be working with others. For example, if you have some hospital visitations or traveling to do, one might consider taking a person or two along with them if the situation is appropriate. The travel time can be meaningful and productive, as well as the experience of the actual visitation or session that one needs to attend.
Thirdly, one might consider spending time to create a planed schedule of time that they will specifically devote to alone time, and other time that is in office yet available to others, and finally time that they specifically devote to people work. This allows a pastor to know when they can be interrupted by others, and when they need to retreat to a closet and get their work accomplished.
Overall, a pastor must always keep people in mind as they complete their work. Often the administrative tasks can be overwhelming and boring, but if one does them with the people in mind, they might be encouraged to get them done and help them to remember why it is that they are doing it. God calls pastors to the work and service of his people, and that includes the office work that needs to get done to keep the church running smoothly. Keep God’s people in mind at all times, and allow them to be the focus of your ministry, not the administrative stuff.
Week Four - Anton Folz (Dated March 22nd, 09)
Week Four - Staff Report To Board Anton Folz - March 22nd, 09
For the week of Feb 5th, 09
When a staff member brings a report to a church board, there should be a defined reason and intended goal to be accomplished with having them do such. Staff are not often asked to attend such meetings, with the exception of a senior pastor who is the chair in the Wesleyan Church and within other denominations, and thus their time there should be planned with a goal in mind. Often if being asked to come, there is a possible position change or something within their particular area of ministry is being questioned about. Here are some ideas as to what a staff member might try to make the most of such an appearance before the board.
1. Be prepared and ready to give your presentation if you are asked to bring such.
2. Have your materials and information ready right at the beginning of the meeting in case you are asked to go first, which often happens, so that you can then be excused from the meeting after you have finished.
3. Get the necessary information into the hands of the board members. Often you will be asked to submit your data ahead of time so that it can be added into the folders or handouts that each member of the board receives. Along with this, make sure that the information is accurate and checked for errors. Do not allow this opportunity to become an embarrassing one.
4. Speak clearly and loudly enough for all to hear you.
5. Present the material in a way that will logically make sense and do so in as concise and time effective way.
With these suggestions and strategies is mind, a staff member will be able to make a good and hopefully a positive and productive effect in the meeting. This will give the board a sense that they have qualified people and it may provide you with the approval that you were looking for from them. Remember, it is all about presentation, and making sure that you are doing the proper prep work to make the meeting as productive and beneficial to all as possible. Do all of these in a loving Christ-like spirit and manor, and you will have the greatest opportunity for success possible.
For the week of Feb 5th, 09
When a staff member brings a report to a church board, there should be a defined reason and intended goal to be accomplished with having them do such. Staff are not often asked to attend such meetings, with the exception of a senior pastor who is the chair in the Wesleyan Church and within other denominations, and thus their time there should be planned with a goal in mind. Often if being asked to come, there is a possible position change or something within their particular area of ministry is being questioned about. Here are some ideas as to what a staff member might try to make the most of such an appearance before the board.
1. Be prepared and ready to give your presentation if you are asked to bring such.
2. Have your materials and information ready right at the beginning of the meeting in case you are asked to go first, which often happens, so that you can then be excused from the meeting after you have finished.
3. Get the necessary information into the hands of the board members. Often you will be asked to submit your data ahead of time so that it can be added into the folders or handouts that each member of the board receives. Along with this, make sure that the information is accurate and checked for errors. Do not allow this opportunity to become an embarrassing one.
4. Speak clearly and loudly enough for all to hear you.
5. Present the material in a way that will logically make sense and do so in as concise and time effective way.
With these suggestions and strategies is mind, a staff member will be able to make a good and hopefully a positive and productive effect in the meeting. This will give the board a sense that they have qualified people and it may provide you with the approval that you were looking for from them. Remember, it is all about presentation, and making sure that you are doing the proper prep work to make the meeting as productive and beneficial to all as possible. Do all of these in a loving Christ-like spirit and manor, and you will have the greatest opportunity for success possible.
Week Ten - People Work - Anton Folz March 22nd 09
Week Ten People Work
Anton Folz
March 21st, 09
Working in the church truly is all about the people. As a minister, one is called by God to serve His people for their entire lifetime. So while having great biblical insight is essential for the correct teaching and training of lay people in the church, and senior pastor must also be able to work with many types of people, and they must be willing and prepared to work even with those that are going to require extra grace to get along with. There are many ways in which a young college aged student or interning pastor can develop these skills, which will become vitally crucial within the first week of ministry.
The first way, and maybe even the best way is to get involved in the local church NOW! There is no time like the present for a young man or woman that has been called by God to go into fulltime ministry to start attending and working in the local church right away. They may not get to start off in the area of ministry that they would like to end up working with, but anywhere is a great start, and it may lead into something else along the way. By getting involved, one is training and teaching themselves how to work with church people, while they are still in school. This will begin to train them to work with multi-generational and multi-cultural people. Often the temptation is for students to do all that “church stuff” in the future, but the reality is, that if one does not start now, then they may be out of the loop. Once they get out of school, they will be so out of touch that no church will want them to come and pastor there. This then leads to a second way in which ministers in training can develop.
One of the next best ways to train yourself to work with all sorts of people is to place yourself in the areas that you might not always be the most comfortable. By this, it is meant that students and young people going into ministry should try internships and summer jobs/volunteer positions that are going to stretch and help them to grow. Just as one places themselves in the means of grace, such as church and the preaching of the Word, in the same way these can be means of God’s grace to help them to grow also. This can be training on how one can work with and get along with people that are not from the same background or area of the world, and thus help one to experience and appreciate the larger Christian body that exists within the body of Christ.
When it comes right down to is, education in a college or seminary community is excellent, but it needs to be supplemented with others things that are going to help young ministers to grow. In order to fulfill the great commission and to be effective as a pastor, men and women are going to need more than jus the head knowledge, and that is why it is also very effective to work within the local church and community services now while they are training.
Anton Folz
March 21st, 09
Working in the church truly is all about the people. As a minister, one is called by God to serve His people for their entire lifetime. So while having great biblical insight is essential for the correct teaching and training of lay people in the church, and senior pastor must also be able to work with many types of people, and they must be willing and prepared to work even with those that are going to require extra grace to get along with. There are many ways in which a young college aged student or interning pastor can develop these skills, which will become vitally crucial within the first week of ministry.
The first way, and maybe even the best way is to get involved in the local church NOW! There is no time like the present for a young man or woman that has been called by God to go into fulltime ministry to start attending and working in the local church right away. They may not get to start off in the area of ministry that they would like to end up working with, but anywhere is a great start, and it may lead into something else along the way. By getting involved, one is training and teaching themselves how to work with church people, while they are still in school. This will begin to train them to work with multi-generational and multi-cultural people. Often the temptation is for students to do all that “church stuff” in the future, but the reality is, that if one does not start now, then they may be out of the loop. Once they get out of school, they will be so out of touch that no church will want them to come and pastor there. This then leads to a second way in which ministers in training can develop.
One of the next best ways to train yourself to work with all sorts of people is to place yourself in the areas that you might not always be the most comfortable. By this, it is meant that students and young people going into ministry should try internships and summer jobs/volunteer positions that are going to stretch and help them to grow. Just as one places themselves in the means of grace, such as church and the preaching of the Word, in the same way these can be means of God’s grace to help them to grow also. This can be training on how one can work with and get along with people that are not from the same background or area of the world, and thus help one to experience and appreciate the larger Christian body that exists within the body of Christ.
When it comes right down to is, education in a college or seminary community is excellent, but it needs to be supplemented with others things that are going to help young ministers to grow. In order to fulfill the great commission and to be effective as a pastor, men and women are going to need more than jus the head knowledge, and that is why it is also very effective to work within the local church and community services now while they are training.
Thursday, March 19, 2009
Week 9 - Thurs. - Josh
3/19 - Thurs.
Leadership Characteristics
Attractive characteristics of a church leader
1. patience
2. diffuse hostility
3. delegate resources
4. supportive of subordinates
5. supportive of superiors
6. continually growing
7. invested in building others
Leadership Characteristics
Attractive characteristics of a church leader
1. patience
2. diffuse hostility
3. delegate resources
4. supportive of subordinates
5. supportive of superiors
6. continually growing
7. invested in building others
Wednesday, March 18, 2009
Week 9 Anton Folz March 18th 09 Church Leadership
Week 9
Leadership characteristics
Anton Folz
March 18th 09
Leadership Characteristics
Within the life of the local church, there are always going to be some pastors and leaders in the church that are able to connect with and gain volunteers more effectively than others. There often seems to be an attractiveness that brings volunteers to want to join in and help with the area of ministry that the particular staff person is involved in. Some of these characteristics are simply a matter of an attractive and enjoyable personality, but others are characteristics and techniques that any pastors can work on to become better at attracting and maintaining volunteers. The question of what makes people follow a certain pastor is a great one to wrestle with and to think about, because it then helps one identify where one can change and improve themselves to becomes more of a desirable leader figure to volunteer under. Below is an annotated list of the main things that cause people to want to serve under a particular minister.
1) They have an open and inviting personality
2) They allow and encourage creativity
3) They offer advice and suggestions in appropriate ways and in a Christ-like manor
4) Leaders that offer several ways for people to volunteer, and thus make sure that people are serving in an area that God has gifted them in.
5) They are active and sharing insights and passions for the ministry with all members of the team
6) They are not hesitant to share the ministry victories with volunteers when such credit and accomplishment is due.
7) They use encouraging means through which to boost the moral of the volunteers.
8) They make sure the volunteer environment is one that is safe, enjoyable, and reasonably not overbearing on the volunteer.
9) They must be willing to share in a few laughs now and again to keep the mode lighthearted and joyful.
Leadership characteristics
Anton Folz
March 18th 09
Leadership Characteristics
Within the life of the local church, there are always going to be some pastors and leaders in the church that are able to connect with and gain volunteers more effectively than others. There often seems to be an attractiveness that brings volunteers to want to join in and help with the area of ministry that the particular staff person is involved in. Some of these characteristics are simply a matter of an attractive and enjoyable personality, but others are characteristics and techniques that any pastors can work on to become better at attracting and maintaining volunteers. The question of what makes people follow a certain pastor is a great one to wrestle with and to think about, because it then helps one identify where one can change and improve themselves to becomes more of a desirable leader figure to volunteer under. Below is an annotated list of the main things that cause people to want to serve under a particular minister.
1) They have an open and inviting personality
2) They allow and encourage creativity
3) They offer advice and suggestions in appropriate ways and in a Christ-like manor
4) Leaders that offer several ways for people to volunteer, and thus make sure that people are serving in an area that God has gifted them in.
5) They are active and sharing insights and passions for the ministry with all members of the team
6) They are not hesitant to share the ministry victories with volunteers when such credit and accomplishment is due.
7) They use encouraging means through which to boost the moral of the volunteers.
8) They make sure the volunteer environment is one that is safe, enjoyable, and reasonably not overbearing on the volunteer.
9) They must be willing to share in a few laughs now and again to keep the mode lighthearted and joyful.
Week 9: Leadership Characteristics>>>Trenton Prieshoff
Where to start...where to start?
At my church I am quite sure a majority of the congregation not only loves Pastor, but would not hesitate to take a bullet for him. Here are some reasons I think why:
1. He has told me he doesn't think the world needs any more information, only motivation. He seeks in everything he does to encourage people and inspire people to action. He keeps things simple and powerful without a lot of "intellectual fluff."
2. He told me that when money is involved, it is business not just ministry. He is very responsible with money and resources in general, making sure to get the most out all the church's assets
3. He arrives first and leaves last. Which shows the church that he is dedicated and hard-working.
4. In all the nine years of their ministry at the church, he has never taken a raise even though he is primarily in charge of how the finances are dispersed. When he is given responsibility, he is honest and giving.
5. He practices what he preaches. The messages he preaches are not only evident in how he acts the next week, but how he has always been.
6. When applying a message, he draws attention to other ministries and the people involved with them, both giving credit to others and showing that the ministry of the church is not all about him even if he is the primary face of the church.
7. Being bi-vocational, the congregation can really relate to him as a member of their community and a co-worker.
At my church I am quite sure a majority of the congregation not only loves Pastor, but would not hesitate to take a bullet for him. Here are some reasons I think why:
1. He has told me he doesn't think the world needs any more information, only motivation. He seeks in everything he does to encourage people and inspire people to action. He keeps things simple and powerful without a lot of "intellectual fluff."
2. He told me that when money is involved, it is business not just ministry. He is very responsible with money and resources in general, making sure to get the most out all the church's assets
3. He arrives first and leaves last. Which shows the church that he is dedicated and hard-working.
4. In all the nine years of their ministry at the church, he has never taken a raise even though he is primarily in charge of how the finances are dispersed. When he is given responsibility, he is honest and giving.
5. He practices what he preaches. The messages he preaches are not only evident in how he acts the next week, but how he has always been.
6. When applying a message, he draws attention to other ministries and the people involved with them, both giving credit to others and showing that the ministry of the church is not all about him even if he is the primary face of the church.
7. Being bi-vocational, the congregation can really relate to him as a member of their community and a co-worker.
Monday, March 16, 2009
Week 9: Firing a Teacher>>>Trenton Prieshoff
God's House Ministries
Pastor Ryan McCarty
God's House actually runs entirely on volunteers. Therefore, firing is never really an issue. Pastor said when it comes to someone who is ineffective, they take a chance to sit down with them and talk about what their feelings are about their ministry (they might even meet with other leaders throughout the week so they don't feel like they are the only one being singled out). Often, if they are being ineffective, it is because they aren't motivated to do it. He said they'll try to find another area the volunteer can fit into.
I forgot: the very first thing he said they do is make sure they are not the ones who failed the teacher. He first makes sure that he has done everything he can to equip and empower and help the teacher because it would be a shame to move someone out of a ministry when he was the one at fault.
Even though God's House is run by volunteers, when anything involves money, it is business. When it comes to buying supplies, he expects people not to rip him off or not do a careful job because "it's only for a church." In the same way, if someone is getting paid and they aren't producing, it's not ministry, it's business.
Pastor Ryan McCarty
God's House actually runs entirely on volunteers. Therefore, firing is never really an issue. Pastor said when it comes to someone who is ineffective, they take a chance to sit down with them and talk about what their feelings are about their ministry (they might even meet with other leaders throughout the week so they don't feel like they are the only one being singled out). Often, if they are being ineffective, it is because they aren't motivated to do it. He said they'll try to find another area the volunteer can fit into.
I forgot: the very first thing he said they do is make sure they are not the ones who failed the teacher. He first makes sure that he has done everything he can to equip and empower and help the teacher because it would be a shame to move someone out of a ministry when he was the one at fault.
Even though God's House is run by volunteers, when anything involves money, it is business. When it comes to buying supplies, he expects people not to rip him off or not do a careful job because "it's only for a church." In the same way, if someone is getting paid and they aren't producing, it's not ministry, it's business.
Week 8: Conflict>>>Trenton Prieshoff
I am told that conflict is everywhere, that it is kind of a natural result of people living in community. Conflict, so I'm told, is not all bad. I'm not sure whether to think conflict is a result of the fall or whether there will be conflict in eternity...it's not really in my jurisdiction to decide. What I do know is that the kinds of conflict we have discussed in our interviews (not so much the ones from class) are mostly schismatic. The church, being a community of believers amongst other things, sets itself up for conflict just by the nature of what it is: a community. When the church is supposed to be "one" it is easy to often look as if the church is hypocritical and very much not "one."
While well-mediated conflict has a way of drawing people closer, Scripture is pretty one-sided about what needs to be done with conflict. It must be resolved and it must end in love.
While well-mediated conflict has a way of drawing people closer, Scripture is pretty one-sided about what needs to be done with conflict. It must be resolved and it must end in love.
Week Nine- Firing a Teacher - Anton Folz March 16th 09
Week 9
Anton Folz
Firing a Teacher
March 16th, 09
1. I interviewed Rev. Brad Terhune from Lakeview Wesleyan Church on March 16th 09
This is the advice that he gave…
2. First of all, you must realize the type of teaching situation that they are in. It they are in an “elective” types teaching setting and are ineffective, then Pastor Brad suggested starting a new venue of Sunday school class to help meet the needs of those that are not being fed in the former class. If both classes still continue on, then great, but if all the students start attending the new class, then you can simply show the former teacher that they could be used somewhere else. Often times, the old group will only be ineffective for some, and thus will still work for many to learn, but just will never bring any new people in.
In the case that it is not an elective type teaching setting, and is instead the third grade Sunday school teacher, then you should first talk to the teacher and see how you can help them through verbal communication. If that does not help, make sure to check out at least one of the class sessions yourself and see what the ineffectiveness all contains. It might be during this time that you realize that the teacher is really suited and gifted to teach another area, and thus you should suggest that they try working with that other age. Everyone has a place in the body, and thus everyone is able to work within the life of the church. You as the spiritual leader might need to help people realize where that is for them.
Anton Folz
Firing a Teacher
March 16th, 09
1. I interviewed Rev. Brad Terhune from Lakeview Wesleyan Church on March 16th 09
This is the advice that he gave…
2. First of all, you must realize the type of teaching situation that they are in. It they are in an “elective” types teaching setting and are ineffective, then Pastor Brad suggested starting a new venue of Sunday school class to help meet the needs of those that are not being fed in the former class. If both classes still continue on, then great, but if all the students start attending the new class, then you can simply show the former teacher that they could be used somewhere else. Often times, the old group will only be ineffective for some, and thus will still work for many to learn, but just will never bring any new people in.
In the case that it is not an elective type teaching setting, and is instead the third grade Sunday school teacher, then you should first talk to the teacher and see how you can help them through verbal communication. If that does not help, make sure to check out at least one of the class sessions yourself and see what the ineffectiveness all contains. It might be during this time that you realize that the teacher is really suited and gifted to teach another area, and thus you should suggest that they try working with that other age. Everyone has a place in the body, and thus everyone is able to work within the life of the church. You as the spiritual leader might need to help people realize where that is for them.
Week Eight – Leadership Characteristics – David
What makes people want to follow a leader?
An effective leader:
1. Can lead UP to those above them, ACROSS to their peers, and DOWN to those under them.
2. Knows the way, goes the way, and shows the way.
3. Lives out the vision.
4. Takes something complicated and makes it simple.
5. Communicates clearly and in good order by laying out the goals and principles.
6. Gives others authority and hold them accountable.
7. Is trustworthy and extends trust to other.
Week Eight – Firing a Teacher – David Bell
Firing a teacher
Brookhaven Wesleyan ChurchI interviewed Pastor John Walton the assistant pastorMarch 16, 2009
How do you get rid of an ineffective teacher?
The first thing that Pastor John said was that “you shouldn’t have one” I thought that was pretty funny.
1. Communicate: first we need to communicate that there is an issue.
2. Replace: tell them you have some one who will come in and replace them.
3. Respond: tell then why you are replacing them.
4. Reposition (depends on situation): Move him to another area where he can be an assistance to someone. Bump him down to a more “hands on” kind of job rather than a “lecture-based” job.
5. Rejuvenate them to a different interest. Sell them to a different job. Just because one is bad in one area, does not mean that they are inefficient at life. Pastor John says that “failure is the event, not the person”. Everyone has strengths; we just have to utilize them… Let the inefficient teacher know that all have gifts and help plug them into a position of their own interest.
Brookhaven Wesleyan ChurchI interviewed Pastor John Walton the assistant pastorMarch 16, 2009
How do you get rid of an ineffective teacher?
The first thing that Pastor John said was that “you shouldn’t have one” I thought that was pretty funny.
1. Communicate: first we need to communicate that there is an issue.
2. Replace: tell them you have some one who will come in and replace them.
3. Respond: tell then why you are replacing them.
4. Reposition (depends on situation): Move him to another area where he can be an assistance to someone. Bump him down to a more “hands on” kind of job rather than a “lecture-based” job.
5. Rejuvenate them to a different interest. Sell them to a different job. Just because one is bad in one area, does not mean that they are inefficient at life. Pastor John says that “failure is the event, not the person”. Everyone has strengths; we just have to utilize them… Let the inefficient teacher know that all have gifts and help plug them into a position of their own interest.
Thursday, March 12, 2009
Week 8: Conflict - Anton Folz March 12th 09
Week 8; Conflict
Anton Folz
March 12th, 09
Conflict is an unavoidable truth and aspect of human life and interaction. Whenever people are together and a part of the same organization or family, there will inevitably be some sort of conflict at some point or another. Within the Christian Church, conflict is also present and provides a divisive and potentially devastating effect on church members if left unresolved and allowed to gain momentum. As can be seen in the biblical text, conflict is also not a new thing in the Christian Church, but instead it is something that people have had to deal with and work through since the very beginning of mankind. So with this, theological understanding and insights can be drawn regarding interpersonal conflict, and how it might be resolved. Below is an annotated list of insights about theological considerations on the issue of conflict between people.
1. Firstly, there is this idea that a human is in a terrible situation when they are conflict with other people. Not only is that relationship marred and possibly at risk, but their relationship with God is also effected. Jesus teaches that if a man is sacrificing and realizes that he is not right with a brother, then he should leave the sacrifice there, go make amends, and then come back and sacrifice. Thus it seems that true worship of God is not possible without right relationship with other humans.
2. Next we see that people are in dire need to resolve interpersonal conflict for their own sake. Jesus teaches that when a man is being taken to court to settle a debt and man should make every effort possible to resolve the issue without the court system so that they might not be placed in prison, and left to die. Jesus makes the point that interpersonal conflict is best resolved without getting legal systems involved when possible because of the repercussions that might ensue.
3. We also see that leaving conflict unresolved causes negative effects on our relationships with others. Jesus teaches that a man should not go to bed at night still mad with another person because that has the possibility to foster even more strife, possibly even to the point of hatred.
Thus in conclusion, it can bee seen and noted that the Bible is quite one-sided on this issue of interpersonal conflict. It seem to suggest that all efforts should be made to attempt to resolve and restore relationships rather than tear them apart or allow them to go unchanged. Jesus himself modeled and taught that fact that Christians are to turn the other cheek when struck and to love even their enemies. Relationships so very important that they affect us, people around us, and even our ability to worship the Lord. Conflict must be minimized in the Christian Church, and when present, it must be resolved.
Anton Folz
March 12th, 09
Conflict is an unavoidable truth and aspect of human life and interaction. Whenever people are together and a part of the same organization or family, there will inevitably be some sort of conflict at some point or another. Within the Christian Church, conflict is also present and provides a divisive and potentially devastating effect on church members if left unresolved and allowed to gain momentum. As can be seen in the biblical text, conflict is also not a new thing in the Christian Church, but instead it is something that people have had to deal with and work through since the very beginning of mankind. So with this, theological understanding and insights can be drawn regarding interpersonal conflict, and how it might be resolved. Below is an annotated list of insights about theological considerations on the issue of conflict between people.
1. Firstly, there is this idea that a human is in a terrible situation when they are conflict with other people. Not only is that relationship marred and possibly at risk, but their relationship with God is also effected. Jesus teaches that if a man is sacrificing and realizes that he is not right with a brother, then he should leave the sacrifice there, go make amends, and then come back and sacrifice. Thus it seems that true worship of God is not possible without right relationship with other humans.
2. Next we see that people are in dire need to resolve interpersonal conflict for their own sake. Jesus teaches that when a man is being taken to court to settle a debt and man should make every effort possible to resolve the issue without the court system so that they might not be placed in prison, and left to die. Jesus makes the point that interpersonal conflict is best resolved without getting legal systems involved when possible because of the repercussions that might ensue.
3. We also see that leaving conflict unresolved causes negative effects on our relationships with others. Jesus teaches that a man should not go to bed at night still mad with another person because that has the possibility to foster even more strife, possibly even to the point of hatred.
Thus in conclusion, it can bee seen and noted that the Bible is quite one-sided on this issue of interpersonal conflict. It seem to suggest that all efforts should be made to attempt to resolve and restore relationships rather than tear them apart or allow them to go unchanged. Jesus himself modeled and taught that fact that Christians are to turn the other cheek when struck and to love even their enemies. Relationships so very important that they affect us, people around us, and even our ability to worship the Lord. Conflict must be minimized in the Christian Church, and when present, it must be resolved.
Tuesday, March 10, 2009
week 8: Motivating Volunteers>>>Trenton Prieshoff
God's House Ministries
February 22, 2009
Pastor said he does not feel it is his objective in life to add any more information to the world. There is information everywhere and if new information is all people want they can get it from anywhere. Instead, he said his desire is to instill the world world with inspiration. Every week in writing his sermons, he told me he always asks himself "Would this inspire me? Would it inspire someone who doesn't go to God's House to find out more? Would it inspire the regular people to find places they can get involved?"
Though it is difficult to lay out a "plan" for motivating volunteers by Pastor's method, I can tell you it works. At God's House, the entire church is run by volunteers: a church of more than 400 and our pastor is still bi-vocational. Some things he does practically are: He mentions several ministries (and the people involved) during his sermons to add to his point, to show how God is providing, and to show how others are serving.
One other thing is about every quarter, he has a volunteer meeting with free pizza! The meeting is for anyone who volunteers or is interested in volunteering. During the meeting, he draws attention to the ministries that are going on. He brings the leaders forward, thanks them for all they've done, prays over them, and points people to those leaders so they know who to go to when they want to get involved.
February 22, 2009
Pastor said he does not feel it is his objective in life to add any more information to the world. There is information everywhere and if new information is all people want they can get it from anywhere. Instead, he said his desire is to instill the world world with inspiration. Every week in writing his sermons, he told me he always asks himself "Would this inspire me? Would it inspire someone who doesn't go to God's House to find out more? Would it inspire the regular people to find places they can get involved?"
Though it is difficult to lay out a "plan" for motivating volunteers by Pastor's method, I can tell you it works. At God's House, the entire church is run by volunteers: a church of more than 400 and our pastor is still bi-vocational. Some things he does practically are: He mentions several ministries (and the people involved) during his sermons to add to his point, to show how God is providing, and to show how others are serving.
One other thing is about every quarter, he has a volunteer meeting with free pizza! The meeting is for anyone who volunteers or is interested in volunteering. During the meeting, he draws attention to the ministries that are going on. He brings the leaders forward, thanks them for all they've done, prays over them, and points people to those leaders so they know who to go to when they want to get involved.
Monday, March 9, 2009
Week Seven – Conflict – David
Insights on conflict from a theological perspective:
1. Conflict is an inevitable part of living
2. Resolution and prevention of interpersonal conflict is most important because it can destroy our relationship with God
3. Christianity has to do with man's relationships with others; there are many passages that talk about dealing with conflict: Matthew 5:21-24; 1 Peter 3:7; 1 John 3:15-18; 4:20
4. Both parties involved in conflict have a responsibility to communicate with each other. Jesus said, " . . . if thou . . . remember that they brother hath aught against thee . . . go thy way . . . be reconciled top thy brother." (Matthew 5:23) This verse teaches that the one who did the offending, the offender has an obligation to communicate to the one offended. If the brother has aught against you, then you have offended him. Matthew 18:15 says, " . . . if thy brother shall trespass against thee, go and tell him his fault between thee and him alone . . . " Jesus indicates that the one that is offended also has a duty to communicate to the offender. There can be no stalemate. One is not to wait on the other to make the first move. Both are responsible for making the first overture in reconciliation.
5. Interpersonal conflicts must be kept very personal for the benefit of all. Jesus said, “. . . tell him his fault between thee and him alone . . . " (Matthew 18:15) it is very tempting to tell others to get sympathy or supporters for our cause. The proper love for another would demand that one not tell others. It would save embarrassment on the part of both the offender and the offended.
Things are not always what we perceive them to be. (Mark 4:12) If our perception of a situation is wrong and we tell others before confronting the person involved, then we have dealt a grave injustice in regards to the truth and the one involved. How many times have people said, "Oh, if I only had a chance to explain." A distorted perception may cause one to see a problem that does not exist. If publicized, one is guilty of telling something that is not true and iniquity abounds! Confidentiality would save trouble and embarrassment for all.
6. There is much wisdom in keeping interpersonal conflict confidential. Such a practice would prevent gossip, more misunderstanding, more hurt feelings, dissension, and strife among family, friends, and brethren. Too many times we are guilty of getting things blown out of proportion by those who do not understand all the facts surrounding the circumstance.
Resources:
http://www.abacon.com/commstudies/interpersonal/inconflict.html
http://www.drbalternatives.com/articles/cc2.html
http://www.focusongod.com/
1. Conflict is an inevitable part of living
2. Resolution and prevention of interpersonal conflict is most important because it can destroy our relationship with God
3. Christianity has to do with man's relationships with others; there are many passages that talk about dealing with conflict: Matthew 5:21-24; 1 Peter 3:7; 1 John 3:15-18; 4:20
4. Both parties involved in conflict have a responsibility to communicate with each other. Jesus said, " . . . if thou . . . remember that they brother hath aught against thee . . . go thy way . . . be reconciled top thy brother." (Matthew 5:23) This verse teaches that the one who did the offending, the offender has an obligation to communicate to the one offended. If the brother has aught against you, then you have offended him. Matthew 18:15 says, " . . . if thy brother shall trespass against thee, go and tell him his fault between thee and him alone . . . " Jesus indicates that the one that is offended also has a duty to communicate to the offender. There can be no stalemate. One is not to wait on the other to make the first move. Both are responsible for making the first overture in reconciliation.
5. Interpersonal conflicts must be kept very personal for the benefit of all. Jesus said, “. . . tell him his fault between thee and him alone . . . " (Matthew 18:15) it is very tempting to tell others to get sympathy or supporters for our cause. The proper love for another would demand that one not tell others. It would save embarrassment on the part of both the offender and the offended.
Things are not always what we perceive them to be. (Mark 4:12) If our perception of a situation is wrong and we tell others before confronting the person involved, then we have dealt a grave injustice in regards to the truth and the one involved. How many times have people said, "Oh, if I only had a chance to explain." A distorted perception may cause one to see a problem that does not exist. If publicized, one is guilty of telling something that is not true and iniquity abounds! Confidentiality would save trouble and embarrassment for all.
6. There is much wisdom in keeping interpersonal conflict confidential. Such a practice would prevent gossip, more misunderstanding, more hurt feelings, dissension, and strife among family, friends, and brethren. Too many times we are guilty of getting things blown out of proportion by those who do not understand all the facts surrounding the circumstance.
Resources:
http://www.abacon.com/commstudies/interpersonal/inconflict.html
http://www.drbalternatives.com/articles/cc2.html
http://www.focusongod.com/
Week Seven – Motivating Volunteers – David
Motivating Volunteers
Brookhaven Wesleyan Church
I interviewed Pastor John Walton the assistant pastor
March 9, 2009
1. Lead by example: do not ask them to do something you are not willing to do
2. Be practical with your expectations: do not expect them to do everything
3. Have clear communication: clearly state the job you want them to do
4. Give reasonable expectations (time commitments): how much, how often… build a rotation
5. Give positive affirmation and feedback
6. It depends on who you ask and how you ask it…. Pray for whom it is you should ask.
Brookhaven Wesleyan Church
I interviewed Pastor John Walton the assistant pastor
March 9, 2009
1. Lead by example: do not ask them to do something you are not willing to do
2. Be practical with your expectations: do not expect them to do everything
3. Have clear communication: clearly state the job you want them to do
4. Give reasonable expectations (time commitments): how much, how often… build a rotation
5. Give positive affirmation and feedback
6. It depends on who you ask and how you ask it…. Pray for whom it is you should ask.
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