“He who heeds discipline shows the way to life, but whoever ignores correction leads others astray” (Proverbs 10:17 – NIV).
Let’s just say it…we all have authority issues. We hate being told we are wrong or what to do. I know I do. But being able to admit you are wrong and fixing the issues is a sign of real spiritual maturity. We sometimes need to be reminded that we are called to submit to Christ, our ruling authorities, our bosses and our pastors. Again, I know I do. In fact, the Christian life is a life of submission from beginning to end.
Why is correction so important? Because, “…whoever ignores correction leads others astray.”
I have found throughout my time in ministry that discipline and correction are necessary to ensure your growth in Christ, the growth of the people you lead and the vision of the Church. I think this is a “necessary evil” of being a pastor. I know some will disagree with that term and embrace the opportunity to confront people in sin, but I don’t. I wish there where no such thing as sin (thanks Adam and Eve). However, sin is a reality, and while it is, correction is going to be needed.
What should a pastor do when someone is not submitting to the correction/direction of the church and ministry (something they are called to do – Hebrew 13:17)? Here are some things to consider:
- Pray. “The prayer of a righteous man is powerful and effective,” James 5:16. Do I have to explain to you the importance of prayer? OK…
- Approach the situation in love (Ephesians 4:15). Everything we do and say should edify and encourage the body. If what you are going to say doesn’t, you probably shouldn’t say it.
- Be clear. Don’t “tip-toe” around any issues. Get it out there so the situation can be addressed.
- Do not major on the minors. Many times “correction-type” conversations stem from personal preferences and “convictions” about the way church should be done. Don’t get caught up in defending what you personally believe. Stick to concrete things the Bible addresses. If you don’t, you will find yourself going in circles. If you disagree on personal preferences/convictions, maybe it’s time to part company.
- Agree on something. Even if you agree to disagree, that is good. If you don’t, you will, again, find yourself going in circles.
- Talk long, talk wrong (source: Pastor David). Try to keep all conversations under 30 minutes. In my experience, conversations that last longer are never productive.
- Do not be afraid to “clean house”…nicely (see #2). This should be the exception, not the rule. However, there are A LOT of churches out there that teach/believe different things. There is no sense in anyone being unhappy at any church. It is not productive, edifying or encouraging for the church or the people involved. In addition, I have found that unhappy people like to find other unhappy people who agree with them. This is dissension and only makes matters worse. It is unhealthy for any church…I don’t care who you are.
- Make the decision clear. Whatever the outcome of the conversation, make sure everyone involved knows it. There is nothing worse than walking away from a conversation with no clear “now what.”
It should be noted that this is a personal list for me. It is mostly a reminder on how I should handle correction. I learned most of this stuff the hard way…through experience. Am I always successful in doing everything on the list? NO. If I was, I wouldn’t be human. However, I do strive to honor Christ in all my communication.
What would you add to the list?
