The Book of Philippians is filled with expectations Paul had for that church, whom he considered partners in the Gospel (1:5), to function with Christ-like character and integrity. Whether paid or volunteer, our church staff need to exhibit the same. And so, we come to another staff expectation — the development of Christ-likeness.
Expectations for Christ-like Character & Integrity Undergirded by Prayer
Paul wasn’t promoting a self-improvement program for the Philippians but rather made it clear to them from the start where his confidence for them to function this way laid. — “being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.” (Phil. 1:6) — He consequently undergirded this expectation with prayer.
And this is my prayer: that your love may abound more and more in knowledge and depth of insight, so that you may be able to discern what is best and may be pure and blameless for the day of Christ, filled with the fruit of righteousness that comes through Jesus Christ—to the glory and praise of God. (Phil. 1:9-11)
How can we address a lack of Christ-like character and integrity in ministry staff if we haven’t been praying for them?
The Steering the Church Toward Christ-like Character Leadership Guide includes some additional thoughts about why expecting Christ-like character and integrity is so important. It also gives a reminder that this expectation is not about perfection.
For More on These Topics, Go To:
All Posts about Staffing:
- Church Staff Expectations
- Communicating Expectations to Church Staff
- Church Staff: Expect Alignment with Church Purpose
- Church Staff: Expect Adherence to Body Life Principles
- Church Staff: Expect Pursuit of God’s Mission
- Church Staff: Expect Christ-like Character & Integrity
- Church Staff: Expect Reliance on God’s Power
- Church Staff: Expect a Partnership Mentality
- Encourage Church Staff to Grow in Grace
- Encourage Church Staff to Walk by the Spirit
- Encourage Church Staff to Use Their Spiritual Gifts
- Spiritual Gifts Best Suited for Staffing Ministry
- Encourage Church Staff to Pray Without Ceasing
- Encourage Church Staff to Regularly Feast on God’s Word
- Lead Staff by Shepherding
- Encourage Church Staff to Be Strong in the Lord
- Encourage Staff to Do Everything in His Name
- Encourage Staff to Set Their Hearts & Minds on Things Above