As leaders we can only ask people to follow our example as we follow the example of Christ (1 Cor. 11:1) — even in the use of church records.
Jesus Used Records
Jesus obviously didn’t have paper or digital records but He still used data. On two occasions Jesus fed multitudes of people with a very small amount of fish and loaves in a very organized fashion (Mk. 6:34-44; 15:22-38). Each time we find specific statistics recorded of what they started with, how many they fed, and what was left over. Later, in Mark 8:14-21, we find Jesus using that data.
The disciples had forgotten to take enough bread with them. When Jesus warned them to be careful to “watch out for the yeast of the Pharisees and that of Herod”, they thought it was due to their lack of bread. Jesus pointed to the statistics
How Jesus’ Example Models the Way We Should Use Church Records
Though He couldn’t pull up a database or flip through record books, Jesus was thoroughly aware of the numbers. He didn’t just do ministry and ignore results. As we “follow the example of Christ” we can ask others to follow our example in the use of church records. Here’s what we can learn:
1) Find appropriate moments to use the records. (Mk. 8:14-16)
Jesus didn’t constantly or randomly point to His accomplishments in feeding the multitudes. It wasn’t about bragging about His power. He pointed to it at an appropriate time when the disciples needed reminders.
2) Challenge people to remember what God has done. (Mk. 8:17-18)
The disciples shouldn’t have questioned their lack of bread. Jesus had proved He was fully capable of multiplying what they had. His response wasn’t about berating them but challenging them. Like the disciples, we often forget. People need reminders of God’s power and faithfulness. It isn’t about what we’ve done but what He does.
3) Make people think rather than simply tell. (Mk. 8:19-20)
Jesus asked questions about the specifics of His feeding of both the five and four thousand people (what they started with, how many they fed, and what was left over). That helped reinforce their faith by making them remember rather than telling them.
4) Reinforce the conclusions. (Mk. 8:21)
After guiding the disciples in a review of the statistics of these miracles, Jesus asked one last question about their understanding of the situation. We mustn’t assume people get it but rather clarify their understanding.
For more on this topics:
- Church Record Keeping Resources
- Resources about Christ-like Character Leading to Christlikeness in All We Do
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