“Then the LORD replied: ‘Write down the vision and make it plain on tablets so that a messenger may run with it. For the vision awaits an appointed time; it speaks of the end and will not prove false. Though it linger, wait for it; it will certainly come and will not delay…but the righteous will live by faith.’“ (Habakkuk 2:2-4)
Across the years, we have learned that while we as church leaders clarify mission, develop vision and build strategy, changing the culture of a church is such an important objective in shaping a great future. It is our culture that determines the receptivity of people to new ideas. It is our culture that unleashes creativity, builds enthusiasm, fosters encouragement and creates a sense of ownership as we serve together. Ultimately, it is the culture of a church that shapes individual morale, teamwork, effectiveness, and directly impacts our long-term church health.
Does your church ever talk about its “culture?” Is your church unnecessarily complex in its systems, processes, ministries or even Sunday worship? If you’re not sure, here are two questions that may help. 1) What is taking much more time than it should in your church? 2) What is more difficult than it should be? Many things can be going right in our church, but if our “relational culture” is off, that can quickly derail the church’s progress.
Vision determines where we are going, structure and strategy determine the path we will take, and our people relationships determine if we get there. Is our “people culture” healthy and productive? Do we experience high trust and do we practice genuine honesty? Do we give grace to each other and also practice “accountability?”
You may be thinking, “I’m not sure what you mean by ‘church culture.’” It is not a simple thing to define. It includes things we can see, like the way people dress and behave, the look of the church and the pictures and messages we put on the walls. It includes our values, both stated and unstated, our beliefs and assumptions, not just doctrinal beliefs but operational policies. How is our spiritual health celebrated? How are problems addressed? How do we demonstrate trust and respect for each other?
So, what are two things about your culture that you want to celebrate? What are two things about your culture that you feel need to be improved? Our culture is a product of what we create and also what we allow. Let’s be wise, seek wisdom from the Holy Spirit (John 16:13) as together, we keep developing a healthy church culture! The Spirit can show us a better future (John 16:13). Thanks for all your church is doing to take positive steps forward by focusing on the basics of what the Lord has revealed to us for a healthy future:
mobilizing everyone in unity
blessing your community
bringing people to Jesus
becoming Christlike disciples
Also, thank you for serving so well on the Chicago Central District. Let’s continue to be Christ in Action. You are loved.
Larry McKain, Superintendent
Chicago Central District
Church of the Nazarene