Category Archives: Ministry

Those who work in the secular work force will agree that in order for a business to succeed, the leaders of that organization must develop the proper administrative or management skills to carry out the objectives of the company. An institution can have goals and objectives, but unless they have the right people who can effectively administrate them it will soon expose its weakness and fail.

I believe this business principle applies in church ministry as well. The local church is not a business, but it is the business of God’s people to carry out God’s work with excellence. Thus, successful administration is important in carrying out the vision that God has for His local church.

What happens when churches do not implement essential administrative responsibilities? Primarily, the overall ministry will experience obstacles in carrying out the work of God with excellence. But it should also be understood that a lack of administrative abilities can be detrimental and frustrating to the other staff and lay people who serve with our under these positioned leaders.

First Corinthians 14:40 reads, “Let all things be done decently and in order.” Our God is a God of structure, details, and purpose. Each church should prioritize the importance of successful administration to carry out the work that God has called them to do.

There are three principles that I have tried to develop in my personal ministry, both as a college administrator and pastor, to help me strive for excellence in administrating God’s work.

1. Organization.

One who is lacking in organizational skills will have a hard time administrating efficiently. For some, this is easy. For others, they must work at being organized in various areas of their life. In ministry, organization is imperative in order to carry out the vision.  Here are some considerations in being better organized:

1. 1. Be neat – “A cluttered desk is a cluttered mind.”
   2. Write observations down – don’t rely on your brain.
   3. Save important reminders or information.
   4. Categorize material so it is easy to locate – with your computer or file folders.

2. Preparation.

Once a person has become organized in his or her area of ministry they can begin efficiently preparing the responsibilities they have. Suitable preparation will include these areas:

1. 1. Plan in advance – do no procrastinate; what doesn’t get scheduled doesn’t get done.
   2. Consider every angle – prepare for each situation you might encounter the best you can.
   3. Investigate appropriately – be knowledgeable about what is going on.
   4. Arrange on paper – make the plan visible to you, your leader, and those who follow.
   5. Plan in advance – it can never be stated too much!

3. Communication.

Once you are organized and prepared you will then be ready to communicate the plan. There is nothing more frustrating than not being communicated with appropriately. This type of communication means several things:

1. 1. Communicate in a timely manner – in advance and in various forms (phone, email, memos, etc.).
   2. Persistent communication – follow up on the preliminary correspondence.
   3. Communicate the details and expectations – don’t assume those involved know all the details.
   4. Communicate information – your leaders need to always know what is taking place.

Much could be stated about administration; however, being attentive to these three areas will help one grow in their administrative abilities. It will enhance your areas of responsibilities, and improve your relationship with those you minister with and to.

Organization + Preparation + Communication = Successful Administration