"Cracking code" (79). Ford says that finding an organization's code is more of an art than a science. It requires use of both sides of the brain (logic and intuition). To crack code, take in symbols: architecture, decor, heroes, rituals, myths, strategy, mission, vision, values, code. Questions to use on page 80.
Power is taken. Authority is granted. Leadership is practiced (95)
"Changing circumstances lead to competing values." (100) "Change cannot occur without healthy conflict" (122).
Pacing change is important (116). "When you change the music on a particular Sunday, don't have the ushers come in through the window at the same time." - Haddon Robinson.
Cloister/Missional
Many churches are on permanent retreat from the world (125).
Many churches are under the assumption that "if we build it, they will come." This consumer model for church is unsustainable and not what God has called us to be. We must be missional.
Mission is based on love. Fear is an antonym for love. Fear manifests itself in many symptoms (insecurity, incompetence, insignificance). As a leader, you must be on the lookout for these symptoms and be able to get to the source of fear in order to lead well through change. (133)
Mission statement - must state reason for existence, intended outcome, primary beneficiary.
Strategy - do a few things well. Don't try to be all things to all people. It is not possible.
Inertia/Reinvention
Inertia - Newton's first law of motion (159) "the tendency of a body at rest to remain at rest or of a body in motion to remain in motion in a straight line unless disturbed by an outside force." Churches function similarly. If moving/successful, they usually continue in this path. If slow/immobile/stuck, they usually remain here UNLESS disturbed by an outside force.
Say no to some good minstries that aren't part of your strategic plan (182). Funny, I've received the same advice for my own personal ministry/leadership. "Say no, in order to say yes to something else." It really is important not to spread yourself too thin. God does not expect me (any other leader or organization) to be a part of every good thing.
This book has caused me to reflect on this question: What are my red zones?
I think I just identified one in my last statement - wanting to participate in every good thing.
I would like to incorporate Ford's statement into my own missional/leadership statement: "empower people to become partners and not consumers" (183).
Ford's purpose of the church: To transform people in the image of Christ (187).
A book which builds on this theme of a church's unique character is Will Mancini's "Church Unique." Mancini, who is a church consultant like Ford, helps churches to discover their uniqueness and then to create a "vision frame" to give them guidance about how to stay true to who they are.
ReplyDeleteI was challenged by your comments about the "red zones". That's an important reminder personally as well as corporately.