Tuesday, February 23, 2010

vision for the church

As I read about leaders and leadership, I'm reminded of the obvious truth that if leaders lead, they lead toward something. In other words, in the cliched leadeship jargon, they have a vision. It is impossible to overemphasize the importance of vision.

When I asked myself whether or not I had a vision for TBC, it was refreshing and encouraging to discover that I did, and that it came very quickly, clearly and simply.... that I did not have to try to manufacture it. I put pen to paper (and then fingers to keyboard), and within minutes, my vision had words.

Here is my vision for TBC:

That TBC be:
1. Christ-focused: It is apparent to all that we are alll about Jesus is everything we do. A desire for Jesus' joy and reputation motivates us in all we do. Everyone who is a part of TBC knows Jesus and makes him known.
2. Word-centred: The Bible is preached, studied, known, loved and submitted to. Every minitry of TBC is, in some way, a 'ministry of the Word'.
3. A community of grace: People enjoy the church and love being a part of it. An atmosphere of joy, affirmation and love permeates all we do.
4. Discipled: People are consistently and measurably growing in
- knowledge of / love for Jesus
- love for people
- habits of prayer and Scripture
- character
- service and mission

Imagine it! Could TBC be such a place?
Not only 'yes it can', but 'yes it will'... and even 'it is already becoming'. I know that because we have prayed for years for 'revival', etc. and God is not the God to ignore such prayers. (Our current downward shift in attendance is, by the way, part of God's answer, so don't be alarmed by it.)

Till next time....