In Keller’s article, he discussions the comparison of ministry movements versus “institutions.” This is a very important conversation to have in our current ministry context. Keller defines a “movement” as a vital, dynamic human organization that is marked by an attractive, clear, unifying vision for the future together with a strong set of values and beliefs. According to Keller, it is this unifying vision that drives the proper attitudes, creativity, and continued organic growth, not only numerically as a whole, but specifically attracts leaders and is able to draw leadership out of those that are a part of the “movement.”
I wholeheartedly agree that the necessity of a clearly articulated and compelling vision is one of the greatest tools that a leader has. People will follow personalities for only so long. If there is not a clear direction that the organization is moving, those with passion and leadership abilities will become frustrated at best, or completely abandon the community at worst. I think that the need for a clearly articulated vision is especially important. I have read vision statements that seem to have a great amount of content but they are very difficult to get behind.
We have to ask ourselves when we craft a vision statement, “Is this complete enough to encompass our direction and vision and simple enough to be picked up any individual who desires to get on board with the movement?”
Vision in leadership is imperative to foster growth in the body of Christ. Without vision that the ministry can grasp and take ownership of, the ministry tends to suffer. I was engaged by the articles mention of the attributes of vision that show that vision is sacrificial, practical, flexible and innovative. As leaders, these attributes bring growth to a ministry so that we can answer the question you posed and goes another step recognizing the vision creates the desire in the ministry to follow the vision. God does not call us to stand still but to keep moving and movement requires vision because without vision where are we going? Simplicity of the vision is a must. The article also points out that the vision should be unified which is true for the organization to operate in excellence. Although the movement may resemble an institution in structure, we have to remember that God is a God of order and He is ultimately in control. Institutions are more dependent on their self centered idea that they are in control and are grounded with rules and regulations whereas the Christian organization with vision recognizes that the movement of the vision to manifestation is based on God’s control and His authority.
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