Consistency, Congruence, and Coherence

In this blog post, the author identifies three qualities “that form a powerful means to build influence with integrity, while demonstrating reliability, authenticity, and meaning” – Consistency, Congruence, and Coherence. While this article does not address leadership from a Christian perspective, I believe the ideas are transferrable to the context of the church.

Consistency encompasses being reliable, dependable, and principled. In other words, leadership can be counted upon.

Congruence is that quality that demonstrates harmony – everything works together and reinforces each other.

Coherence is that sense that every incident, encounter, idea, program, etc. lives within the larger context or vision.

The author makes the strong point that “most people are hungry for interactions with others that are dependably authentic and meaningful.” Nowhere is this more truth than in the church. People are hungry for meaning in their lives which can only be realized in right relationship with God. The structure that introduces, supports and encourages sojourners on that path is the church.

New believers in particular, look to the church leaders not only for guidance and direction, but as representative of that relationship. To the extent that church leaders are able to demonstrate consistency and faithfulness to the Gospel, barriers of cynicism and distrust will be eroded. Congruence is evidenced within the Godhead itself. Just as the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit live and work in perfect harmony, the church should strive to exemplify this principle. Finally, coherence ensures that church leaders focus on the Kingdom of God and the Gospel in all that they do.