In church leadership, striking the right balance between visibility and service is crucial. This paradox of leadership is especially significant for those involved with the Association of Related Churches (ARC)—also known as ARC Churches—where the focus is on planting and growing healthy, life-giving churches. Drawing from insights shared by Pastor Brett Jones in a recent UNSCRIPTED episode, we’ll explore how church leaders navigate this delicate balance.
The Paradox of Leadership
The paradox of leadership lies in the tension between being a visible figure and maintaining a servant’s heart. On one hand, church leaders must be visible to inspire, guide, and connect with their congregation. On the other hand, true leaders emphasize humility and service—often behind the scenes.
Pastor Brett Jones, a planter of ARC churches, illustrates this beautifully through his experiences. He recounts the story of Elisha, who was known as “the one who poured water on the hands of Elijah.” This humble introduction speaks volumes about the importance of serving others before stepping into the limelight. For any church or church leader involved with the Association of Related Churches (ARC), this model of servant leadership is foundational.
Humility in Leadership
One key takeaway from Pastor Jones’ discussion is that effective leaders do not seek recognition. Instead, they focus on serving their community and fulfilling their roles with humility. This is particularly relevant within the network of the Association of Related Churches, where the emphasis is on building up the church and its members rather than personal glory.
A poignant example shared by Pastor Jones involves a young church planter who found himself unclogging toilets after Sunday services. Despite the unglamorous nature of the task, he recognized it was a necessary part of serving his community. This story underscores that true leadership often involves performing humble tasks without seeking recognition.
Visibility Through Service
Visibility as a leader is also crucial. Church leaders must be accessible and approachable, embodying the values they preach. For the Association of Related Churches, this means being present and active within the community, participating in various activities, and leading by example.
Pastor Jones mentions how Jesus made himself of “no reputation,” yet his impact was undeniable. He served others without seeking fame, yet his deeds were well-known. For leaders of ARC churches, this means their actions and dedication to service will naturally enhance their visibility.
Practical Steps for Leaders of ARC Churches
For those involved with the Association of Related Churches, here are some practical steps to balance visibility and service:
- Lead by Example: Engage in everyday tasks and show your congregation that no job is too small. This demonstrates humility and fosters a culture of service.
- Be Approachable: Make yourself available to your community through regular office hours, participation in community events, casual interactions, or other means.
- Communicate Clearly: Use your visibility to communicate the church’s mission and values. Share stories of service and highlight the contributions of others to inspire and motivate your congregation.
- Empower Others: Encourage and empower members of your church to take on leadership roles. This will distribute responsibilities and help build a stronger, more resilient community.
- Reflect and Adapt: Regularly reflect on your leadership approach. Seek feedback and be willing to adapt to better serve your community.
Balancing visibility and service is a vital aspect of effective leadership within the Association of Related Churches. By embodying humility, maintaining a servant’s heart, and being visible in the community, church leaders can inspire and guide their congregations. Drawing from the lessons shared by Pastor Brett Jones, leaders can navigate this paradox and create a lasting impact on their church and community.
About the Association of Related Churches (ARC)
The Association of Related Churches (ARC) represents a collaborative network comprising independent congregations from various denominations, networks, and backgrounds. Its primary mission is to provide essential support and resources to church planters and pastors, enabling them to effectively share the teachings of Jesus Christ. The ARC’s operational approach revolves around empowering and equipping church leaders, thus helping them foster the widespread dissemination of Christ’s life-changing message. Established in 2000, the Association of Related Churches has evolved into a worldwide entity and has played a pivotal role in facilitating the establishment of over 1,100 new churches globally.
