Church boards, committees, and ministry teams provide a great means of showcasing Body Life in the Church as God designed us to function, each doing our part (Rom. 12:1-8). That requires healthy handling of disagreements and other issues that arise. Notice how further in the Romans passage we’re told, “If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone” (Rom. 12:18). What will it take to do that? — the right heart qualities to drive what we do
When we, as leaders, possess these qualities, we’re in a better position to lead by example, showing members how to peacefully resolve differences. We begin with the first two verses in Romans 12 — presenting ourselves fully to God and being transformed by the renewing of our minds. It is than we “will be able to test and approve what God’s will is — his good, pleasing and perfect will.”
Leader Qualities Needed to Promote Peace on Boards and Ministry Teams
Look at the whole of Romans 12 for the qualities that need to drive the way we function:
- Love so we’re not driven by self-fulfillment
Be devoted to one another in love. (v. 10)
Share with the Lord’s people who are in need. Practice hospitality. Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse. Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn. (v. 12-15)
- Integrity so we’re not driven by a need to manipulate to get our way
Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good. (v. 9)
- Humility so a sense of superiority doesn’t drive how we relate with others
Honor one another above yourselves. (v. 10)
Live in harmony with one another. Do not be proud, but be willing to associate with people of low position. Do not be conceited. (v. 16)
- Perseverance so we’re not driven by discouragement to give up
Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord. (v. 11)
Be joyful in hope … (v. 12)
- Self-Control so we don’t let emotions drive us
Be … patient in affliction, faithful in prayer. (v. 12)
Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everyone. (v. 17)
Do not take revenge … (v. 19)
Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good. (v. 21)
For More About a Leader’s Character, Go To: Leader Qualities and Attitudes Resources
All Posts about Boards, Committees, Ministry Teams:
- Purpose in Boards, Committees & Ministry Teams
- Healthy Church Boards Exercise Body Life
- Agendas Versus Relationships
- Contributing in Committees, Boards, Ministry Teams
- Differences of Opinion Don’t Have to Divide
- Division of Responsibilities
- Boards, Committees & Ministry Teams Need Focus
- Boards, Committees & Ministry Teams Need Accountability
- Christ-like Boards, Committees, Ministry Teams: Purposeful
- Christ-like Boards, Committees, Ministry Teams: Servant-Oriented
- Christ-like Boards, Committees, Ministry Teams: Team-Oriented
- Christ-like Boards, Committees, Ministry Teams: Upward-Focused
- Christ-like Boards, Committees, Ministry Teams: Process-Oriented
- Effective Church Committees or Ministry Teams
- Understanding Needed about Team Members Contributing
- Christ-like Boards & Committees Possible Due to the Gospel
- Christ-like Boards & Committees Because of the Holy Spirit
- Pulling on Spiritual Gifts of Board, Committee, Team Members?
- Spiritual Gifts of a Board or Committee Chairperson
- Christ-like Boards & Committees a Result of Grace
- Coming Together Because of the Name of the Lord
- Christ-like Boards & Committees Keep His Word Central
- Overcoming Power for Church Boards and Committees
- Spiritual Alertness Needed in Boards and Ministry Teams
- Praying for Unity on Boards and Committees
- Leader Qualities that Promote Peace on Boards and Teams