Several years ago I put together some notes that I entitled a “philosophy of ministry.” How does one form a philosophy? Here’s a formula for philosophy:
Precepts + Principles = Philosophy
Man’s philosophy whould always derive from the precepts and principles of the Word of God. So, when it comes to developing a philosophy of ministry this philosophy should be developed from the precepts and principles of God’s Word not the popularity of ideas and concepts. It is my passion for Laurel Baptist Church to be a healthy church. Becoming a healthy church is birthed out of the right philosophy. Ultimately, our blueprint for the church is found in the book of Acts, but in conjunction with the book of Acts here are 8 marks of a healthy church and what I consider my philosophy of the ministry of the local, New Testament Church.
1. Relationships will determine the Spirit of the Church. People do not care how much you know until they know how much you care. Strong relationships should exist among the local church as they labor together with God.
2. Personnel will determine the Potential of the Church. As a church grows there is much need for personnel to carry out the various ministries of the church. The staff must be gifted, top caliber, and willing servants to the congregation.
3. Prayer will determine the Power of the Church. When we work, we work. When we pray, God works.
4. Structure will determine the Size of the Church. A church must be willing to always evaluate and change its structure to accommodate future growth.
5. Preaching will determine the Strength of the Church. The pastor must always be prepared in the pulpit and preach the biblical truths of God’s Word to help believers strengthen their relationship with Jesus Christ.
6. Outreach will determine the Growth of the Church. We must make a great commotion of the great commission. Our passion must be reaching the lost and discipling the saved. Our outreach must extend from our city to the ends of the earth.
7. Leadership will determine the Success of the Church. A successful leader is a navigator not a dictator. Everything rises and falls on leadership. The leadership must holy, godly men of God who are separated unto Christ and His purpose.
8. Vision will determine the Future of the Church. We are limited not by our abilities but by our vision. It should be the desire of God’s people to see the vision of Christ for the local church and to follow that vision. It should not be small vision.
Laborers Together, Pastor Blankenship
