The idea for this book began with a personal conviction. That conviction is
based on what I regard to be one of the most dangerous problems facing Jesus
Christ’s followers. The dangerous problem: the gap that exists and often
separates a congregation from its appointed leadership. The gap exists for two
basic reasons (many things contribute to the gap’s existence). (1) A basic
contributor is the unrealistic expectations of a congregation. (2) Also, a basic
contributor is the leadership’s concept that focuses on being an administrative
force instead of focusing on people.
This gap must be reduced and—if possible—eliminated. Congregations must change
expectations that crush instead of encourage leaders. Leaders must stop being
administrators who are removed from the people and people’s needs. To the degree
that the gap is eliminated by successful understandings, to that degree will a
congregation become more spiritually effective.
The chapters are short by intent. Attention was given to making the thoughts
readable, thought-provoking, and insightful. For most people, time is frequently
a problem. Hopefully, the material is presented in a manner that makes you want
to read it as it encourages you to think.
Some of the concepts are repeated. Hopefully, each time such occurs, it occurs
in a different context. There are times when a concept is relevant to different
situations. Hopefully, the repetition is a constructive part of the situation
under consideration.
This is not a “how to” book. The reasons for it not being a “how to” book should
be evident as you read. A method that may work wonderfully with people at one
place may be highly ineffective with other people in other places. What is
needed at one stage of spiritual development frequently is not needed in another
stage of spiritual development. A method that serves well in one generation may
not be effective in future generations.
This is a “think about it” book. Your agreement with the material or the
presentation of the material is not sought. If you think, see the need, and
understand the problems, the book’s purpose is served. Agreement or disagreement
is not the foundation for effectiveness of the material. To regard the material
as THE solution to a complex problem would be arrogance. Seeing the need,
understanding the need, and seeking to address the need in meaningful ways are
the focus of the material.
If good Christian men are to serve as shepherds who guide the flock
(congregation) closer to God and His purposes in Jesus Christ, they should
include “a walk in the pasture” in their concept of leading. Good congregational
leadership knows the problems of the daily lives of the congregation’s people,
and it addresses those challenges. Good leaders help the people they lead. Good
congregations respect the sacrifices of the men who serve in leadership.