Despite the many abuses of power documented throughout history as well as in the Bible, power itself is not inherently bad. If we do not name the good meaning of power, we will most likely become resigned to the bad. In the New Testament, the Holy Spirit is described as dynamis, which means power (Acts 10:38; 1 Corinthians 2:5). Jesus tells... Continue Reading
The dictionary definition of power is “the capacity or the ability to direct or influence the behavior of others or the course of events.” We use phrases like economic power, political power, balance of power, the powers that be, in power and out of power. Yet, more important than any of these are two other phrases whose prepositions make all... Continue Reading
Last week in our post, Approaches To Power In Church Leadership, we unpacked two sources of leadership power in the local church, Personal Power (Me Power) and Polity Power (We Power). But there are other ways to view power that deserve attention as well, specifically Power Over, Power With, Power Within, and Empowerment. First, we want to make a distinction... Continue Reading
Every church leader exercises power, or the ability to influence others to take action. When we misuse that power we hurt people and create organizational dysfunction. Virtually every church I know bears scars of hurt due to a failure of leaders to wisely steward power. Regretfully, I am no exception. Because for too long I failed to understand two important... Continue Reading
Jim is a Church Organizational Leadership and Management Coach, Consultant and Trainer. Throughout his career Jim has demonstrated a passion for showing Pastors and Ministers how to use organizational tools for church and personal growth and health.
More About Jim“For I may be absent in body, but I am with you in spirit, rejoicing to see how well ordered you are and the strength of your faith in Christ.” Colossians 2:5