LEADING COMMITTEES &

OTHER SMALL GROUPS

Leadership Resources for the African Church

Jefferson S. Labala

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Books in the Series

Church Administration Simplified (2009)

Prayer Ministry (2010)

Developing Dynamic Congregations with Integrity (2011)

A Primer for Advanced Pastors (2012)

Effective Membership Care (2013)

Lay Leadership Development (2014)

Leading Committees And Other Small Groups (2015)

Transforming Evangelism Ministry (2016)

Organizing Effective Outreach Ministry (2017)

Church Finance: Theology and Practice (2018)

© Copyright 2014

All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced without written permission

from Jefferson Labala, P. O. Box 983, Easton, Maryland 21601. USA.

Cover Design: Wala-Neh Labala

www.dimdigital.com

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To

Reverend Thomas Nyen Voker

Reverend Jesse N. Guanu and

Mr. Wendell Caldwell

for their extraordinary dedication

to ministry with various groups

in the Church of Christ

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CONTENTS

Acknowledgments

Introduction 6

1. Biblical and Theological Foundations 7

2. A Perspective on Leadership 17

3. An Inventory of Key Factors for Leading A Committee 19

4. An Effective Christian Leader 20

5. Responsibility of the Members 22

6. Group Dynamics 23

7. Conducting Meeting: an outline 25

8. Discussing Issues in a Meeting 27

9. Implementing Committee Decisions 29

10.Conclusion 30

Glossary 31

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ACKNOWLEDGMENTS

We want to acknowledge some of the many who have had some part in this

project. We praise God for my parents, Nau Ley Kou and Sei Gongbe Labala, whose

faith and dedication to the church of Jesus Christ inspired me at a very early age; Kpain

UMC where we were first exposed to the faith; Miller McAllister UMC where we had

our conversion experience in 1964; a profound debt of gratitude to the Reverend J.

Nimeju Kartwe who served as my dean, pastor, teacher, and my mentor in ministry. We

praise God for Perkins School of Theology, Southern Methodist University, and Dr. G.

Douglass Lewis, president of Wesley Theological Seminary for the training and

preparation for ministry. We praise God for Bishop Arthur F. Kulah who appointed my

wife and me on the mission field, which experience transformed us and gave us a glimpse

of the future task God had for us. We praise God for St. John United Methodist Church,

Gbarnga, and the United Methodist Conference in Nigeria (Muri), which served as the

initial major laboratory for the ideas in the series when God manifested God-self in

amazing ways. We praise God for Bishop Peter D. Weaver who appointed us as director

for Strengthening the Black Church in the Peninsula Delaware Conference, UMC, which

experience helped us refine the resources we had developed over the years. Special

thanks and deep appreciation to the Reverend Demarcus Mulbah and the Rev. F. L.

Sackitey who read the manuscript and gave us helpful feedback. We praise God for the

love and support of my family, especially my partner in life and in ministry, Dr. Hilderia

Brumskine-Labala, whose spiritual sensitivity and wise counsel have been invaluable in

our life and ministry together, and who has typed the manuscripts for all the series in the

book. My family has been an integral part of my ministry, and together we implemented

these principles and practices in the series. All these persons along my life journey helped

prepare me for this task. Above all, we praise the Almighty and gracious God for God’s

amazing love, and the opportunity given us to undertake this task, and the grace and

strength to do it at such time when personally, we felt it was practically impossible. To

God be the glory!

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INTRODUCTION

Have you ever had the experience of attending a church meeting (be it a group or

committee) and felt afterwards it was a waste of your time? That nothing was

accomplished and therefore nothing to show for the time spent with the group? Was it

also the case that you did not experience the love of God, even though you were among

fellow Christians? Did the discussion get so heated and almost out of control?

Why does the behavior of the same members seem so different in committee

meetings compared to being in worship service? Has such thought ever crossed your

mind? Is it that in one setting the Lord is present and in the other setting the Lord is not?

What could account for the differences in the behavior of the members? Indeed, if people

were asked, they would give a number of reasons. How can we make small group

meetings much more productive and the atmosphere more welcoming?

The focus of this volume is to assist committee leaders and members make

the most of the time of the committee, and so help the committee accomplish its

purpose in a welcoming atmosphere. The content includes the biblical and theological

foundations, followed by a perspective on leadership, and the key factors the leader can

influence in order to impact the committee or small group in positive ways. Our hope and

prayer is this slim volume will be used of the Lord to enhance the ministry of the local

church in Africa to God’s glory.

As you begin your study, it would seem appropriate to begin with prayer and

seek God’s guidance and illumination. Let us join together in this prayer:

Lord, as we begin our study on Leading Committees and Other Small

Groups, we invite you to come and be our Teacher and Our Guide.

Come and open our minds and our hearts by the power of your Holy

Spirit. Enable us to learn what is truly needful to make our committee

meetings much more productive, and a setting in which we experience

your love and presence. In the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.

Amen.

Reflection

1. What has been your experience like in committee or group meeting compared

with the description in the Introduction?

2. What are some sources of heated discussion or disagreement in committee

meetings?

3. Why do people generally behave much better in worship service than in

committee meetings?

4. Should our Christian behavior be limited to the worship service? Discuss.

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BIBLICAL AND THEOLOGICAL FOUNDAITONS

Every building requires a foundation. A strong foundation gives rise to a strong

building while a weak foundation gives rise to a weak building. A building is therefore as

strong as its foundation. In our experience in the practice of ministry, certain principles

have proven valid and effective in the development of vital congregations. These

principles have served as a firm biblical and theological foundation for vibrant, life-

changing ministry. They have come to be known as VITAL PRINCIPLES for developing

and maintaining vibrant congregations. We summarize these principles below and form

the basis for this manual.

The Vine Principle The Vine Principle states that the fruitfulness of the branch depends on its

connectedness to the vine. This principle deals with helping the church leaders become

very much aware of their true source of power and strength for vital ministry.

The mission of the church is a divine task; divine task requires divine power.

Prayer is at the heart of connecting with the Lord for dynamic ministry. Prayer and the

other means of connecting with the Lord and staying connected are called spiritual

disciplines. Some of these other spiritual disciplines are one’s personal daily devotion,

the regular study of God’s Word, spiritual retreat, fasting, and Christian fellowship. It

takes real discipline to stay strongly connected to the Lord for vibrant ministry because of

the many demands on the time of church leaders, in particular, pastors.

Jesus reminds his disciples that he is the vine; the disciples are the branches. The

branches that bear much fruit are those that stay connected to the vine, hence the Vine

Principle (John 15:1-6). Church leaders who want to develop vital congregations need to

first make time for their personal spiritual growth and development. This practice was

even lived out by Jesus in his ministry (Mt.14:23; Luke 6:12). Nurturing one’s God-

connectedness on a regular daily basis is therefore the key to developing life-

changing ministry in the local church.

Quite often, the challenges of ministry become overwhelming. Only the grace of

God is able to carry leaders through these times of challenges successfully. Staying

connected to the Lord becomes the primary means of availing oneself of the grace of God

during such times as well as other times. Moreover, church leaders need guidance and

direction for ministry. To whom do they turn? If the Lord has called one into ministry,

then the Lord should be the primary source for guidance and direction in the congregation

and in the life of church leaders. This means church leaders are able to discern God’s

leading as they wrestle with decisions of ministry and other issues in the congregation.

Human power and ingenuity, though important, is not adequate for the divine

mission of the church. If it were, Jesus would not have told his disciples they needed to

abide in him for fruitful ministry, and without him they could do nothing (John 15:1-7).

All church leaders, especially pastors, need to be divinely empowered and guided for

ministry if they will be equipped and become the vehicles for Christ’s continuing

ministry in the world. The Vine Principle shows the way for pastors to do that.

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Reflection

1. State the Vine Principle in your own words.

2. What is the significance of the Vine Principle, and how is it relevant for

effectiveness in Christian leadership? b) As committee chair or member of a

committee?

3. Read Matthew 14:23; Mark 1:35, John 11:41-44; and Luke 6:12. In light of these

passages, discuss the importance of the Vine Principle in: a) Jesus’ life and

ministry, b) your life and ministry.

4. How is the Vine Principle important for working in a committee, especially if you

are serving on one now? b) In a Christian group?

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The Love Principle This principle states that love inspires and creates. God is love and those who

abide in love abide in God. For where there is genuine Christian love God is present, and

where God is present God’s power is available for vital ministry. The power of love in

transforming the attitude of members of the local church for vital ministry cannot be

overemphasized. Indeed, love inspires and creates! Church members begin to give of

themselves from the depth of their hearts when they begin to experience the depth of

God’s love.

The ministry of the church is rooted in the very great love of God for humanity.

For God so loved the world that God sent Jesus Christ into the world for the redemption

of the world. The ministry of the church is the continuation of Christ’s redemptive

ministry in the world. Ministry is the concrete expression of God’s love through the

church. To be in ministry is to be about the business of God’s love. We love because God

first loved us. Love here means a deep abiding care and concern for the welfare of others

for their own sake.

God is love, but to speak of love is to speak of a distinctive kind of relationship.

The very heart of God expresses a life of relationship. The doctrine of the trinity is a

theological articulation of the validity of the foregoing assertion. God is disclosed as the

God who is in relationship with God-self as Father, Son and Holy Spirit. Out of this rich

fellowship flows abundant life. For as Jesus said, “I have come that you may have life,

life in all its fullness” (John 10:10).

The Christian God is the related God. The supreme indication of this is the

incarnation. In the incarnation, God took residence among us human beings as Jesus

Christ to identify with us in all of our circumstances of life. And most importantly, God

was in Christ Jesus reconciling the world to God, and God has entrusted the church with

the ministry of reconciliation (2 Cor. 5:17-20). To speak of reconciliation is to speak of

relationship, a life of fellowship with others.

Caring for members is one expression of love. When this is done by the pastor it

is called pastoral care. When it is carried out by other members in the church it is

membership care. Genuine love expressed by the church leaders and the members is

essential in bringing out the best in the congregation. Pastors and other church leaders

who want to cultivate vital ministry should learn to love and love with God’s love. They

should learn to love not because it will influence members to give more to ministry, or

more people will be motivated to become members of the congregation. While these are

all very good reasons, these are not however the primary reasons to love people. The

minister and other church leaders should love because this is integral to their calling as

Christians. Love is both the foundation and the heart of Christian ministry. Ultimately,

people come to know and are convinced we are Christians by our love.

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Reflection

1. State the Love Principle.

2. How does the author define Christian love? Do you agree or not? Discuss.

3. What are some of the positive effects of the presence of genuine Christian love in

a congregation? Be specific.

4. What is the relevance of the Love Principle for Christian leadership? b) As a chair

of a committee?

5. How is this principle relevant for the work of a committee and other small

Christian groups? b) If you are presently serving on a committee, how do you

intend to use this principle to improve the work of your committee in practical

ways?

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The Identity Principle The Gospel of John states that, “the Word was made flesh and pitched his tent

among us” (The Jerusalem Bible, alternate reading). In plain African language the

passage would read, “The Word was made a human being and built his house in our

town.” Among the Mano people in Liberia, when a stranger who has been living in a

community decides and builds his house in that community, this act of putting up his

home in the town says that he has truly become one with the people. This act seals and

signs his commitment to the people among whom he has been living. The incarnation

from an African perspective seals and signs God’s commitment to the human community

by “putting up His house” among human beings. The Word has become one with human

beings and truly committed to them. This commitment led Jesus Christ to make the

ultimate sacrifice by giving his life for us that we might be made right with God. No one

wants to identify with a group of people or tribe until that one really loves them, and

wants to live among them. This is the choice Jesus made to be among us. This is the

meaning of the Identity Principle: one’s identification with a group of people leads to

one’s commitment to them.

People begin to make enormous investment in an organization in which they feel

a strong personal sense of belonging. The more members identify with an organization,

the more likely and stronger their commitment to such an organization. A strong

personal sense of belonging creates a strong sense of commitment. This is the identity

principle. Implementing this principle will transform your church in important ways.

People want to belong; people want to count for something. We have been created

with a sense of purpose and meaning. People expect the church to be that fellowship in

which they feel they belong and count for something. They expect to find meaning and

purpose for their lives in relation with others in the church. This is one reason they attend.

It is difficult to become committed, much less become enthusiastic, about an

organization in which we feel we do not belong; an organization in which we are not

affirmed, appreciated or fully accepted; and our opinions and contributions are not

valued. In a typical Liberian town, when a stranger is sitting in on a case where decision

is made by the people, until the stranger is welcomed and accepted to speak on the issue,

this person remains silent, and will not participate and make contribution. Similarly, we

should not expect people to become committed, indeed, become enthusiastic in working

for an organization until they feel welcome. A key then to getting members committed

and enthusiastic about working in the local church is to make them feel they belong, for

they truly belong as members of the Body of Christ. Make them feel welcome,

appreciated and fully accepted, and value their contributions to the life of the church.

The pastor and other church leaders need to remind themselves regularly that

people are very precious in the eyes of God; for these are the ones for whom Christ gave

his life. They are the concrete object of God’s acceptance and affirmation and love in

Christ Jesus. While it is true that one’s commitment to God is crucial, that will not always

lead to commitment to any local church or congregation. It is that strong sense of

belonging to that local church which creates a strong sense of commitment to that

particular congregation. The pastor and other church leaders who want to get members

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committed ought to work diligently at creating a strong sense of community and

fellowship among the members of the local church.

This principle attempts to address two critical issues: who we are (the Body of

Christ) and what we are about (mission). A group of people, such as a congregation, can

benefit enormously from a clear sense of who they are and what they are about. Such

clear sense of identity and mission inspires commitment. Without identity, a group of

people do not know who they are; neither do they know what they are about, thus, the

need for a people to constitute themselves as a cohesive community with a clear sense of

purpose or mission.

The life of the early church illustrates the essential elements in creating a strong

sense of community and fellowship. These elements were put to use in the early church at

the very beginning and they created a cohesive community. This cohesiveness is clearly

seen in this passage in Acts 2:42-47:

They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teachings and fellowship, to the

breaking of bread and prayers. Awe came upon everyone, because many wonders

and signs were being done by the apostles. All who believed were together and

had all things in common; they would sell their possessions and goods and

distribute the proceeds to all, as any had need. Day by day, as they spent much

time together in the temple, they broke bread at home and ate their food with glad

and generous hearts, praising God…

The four broad areas illustrated in the passage above cover the following:

Teaching and training the members (Education)

Building a fellowship of genuine care and concern (Fellowship)

Attending to members and their needs (Service)

Concentrating on praising God (Worship)

Having identified these four broad areas, the reader needs to be reminded of the central

role played by the Holy Spirit in bringing into being the church and maintaining the unity

and dynamism of the church. These four areas were used of the Holy Spirit to do that.

These four areas taken together, are called in-reach ministry, the ministry the

church has to its members. The congregation needs to first experience God’s love

together in order for the members to live out that love in the world. In order to be in

ministry, the congregation ought to first experience being ministered to. We love because

God first loved us. That love ought to be exemplified in the Body of Christ.

Reflection

1. What does the Identity Principle say?

2. What is the significance of this principle for the functioning of a committee and

other small groups? b) For the well-being and vitality of a church?

3. If members of a committee are not able get along, how does that affect the

committee, the work of the committee, and the fulfillment of its goals or

objectives?

4. What specific suggestions are given here that can assist members of a committee

or group get along?

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The Empowerment Principle

The empowerment principle states that empowering members of the

congregation leads to their involvement in ministry. God has gifted all believers for

the work of ministry; however, they need to be equipped and empowered and supported

to get involved in ministry. Training is very important in equipping and empowering

members for ministry. The church is the Body of Christ. All members of this body are

ministers (servants, for this is what the word minister means), but with different kinds of

ministry. Spiritual gifts are the means of carrying out the ministry of the church, thus the

need to have these gifts developed.

Equipping and empowering and supporting the laity who constitute the

congregation creates the readiness and opportunity for ministry. It also unleashes a

powerful and transforming dynamism in the life and ministry of the congregation. Some

lay people want to get actively involved in ministry, but due to their unreadiness, or the

action and attitude of the pastor, these lay people are held back, and therefore can do very

little. Pastors need a constant reminder that one of their primary responsibilities is

to train and empower the congregation for involvement in ministry.

As earlier stated, the Holy Spirit has bestowed spiritual gifts on all believers for

ministry. The church as the Body of Christ has many members to carry out various

functions in the Body of Christ. These two biblical truths call into question the validity of

the tacit assumption in many churches that the pastor is compensated to do ministry on

behalf of the local congregation. (Pastors, by their attitude and the way they operate, tend

to support this assumption.) In the first place, the pastor alone does not posses all the

spiritual gifts bestowed upon the church for the work of ministry. Secondly, some

members possess skills the pastor may not have and can do some things very well, even

better than the pastor. Finally, the Scriptures do not support this tacit assumption

regarding the purpose of leadership in the local church.

According to the Scriptures (Ephesians 4:11 – 13), central to the purpose of

leadership in the church is to equip all God’s people for the work of ministry in order to

build up the members in Christ to Christian maturity. This implies teaching and training

the members, including helping members to discover their spiritual gifts for ministry.

Those who already know their gifts should be encouraged and trained to put their gifts to

use for the ministry of the local church. These actions are measures needed in equipping

and empowering members for active involvement in ministry.

Many pastors are good preachers; there is need for emphasis on teaching and

training also. As shepherd of the flock, the pastor is to feed the flock in order that the

flock might grow- spiritually, intellectually, socially, -yes, grow in all areas. In the

context of the giftedness of the Body of Christ, it means the pastor is to institute a

ministry of training to help develop the gifts of leaders and members. This means the

pastor too needs ongoing training. In addition, the pastor is to support and give guidance

to the members in order that they will use their gifts for the benefit of the whole Body of

Christ.

The attitude we have about our gifts or special talents or ability is just as

important as how we use these gifts. Gifts are not intended for those who possess them;

they are for the work of the Lord. Members are to be educated as servants of Christ to

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use their gifts in the service of God and for the people of God. Gifts are for the

edification of the whole Body of Christ. The possession of certain gifts does not make

anyone more important than others. These are all important spiritual insights members

need to be educated regarding spiritual gifts even as they are trained for ministry.

One of the most important responsibilities of the pastor is to prepare members of

the congregation and get them involved in ministry in the local church. To do so is

empowering the members.

Reflection

1. What does the Empowerment Principle mean, and how is it important in

developing vibrant congregation?

2. How can the empowerment principle be applied to the work of a committee or a

small group? (Use your committee or small group if you are now serving on one.)

3. How might a committee suffer in performing its duty when the Empowerment

Principle is not applied in the execution of its duty? Be very specific

(NB: This requires thoughtful reflection.)

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The Principle of Gratitude Praise and thanksgiving is the proper response to God’s mighty acts. This is

the principle of gratitude. Recognizing and thanking members for their ministry is a

Christian thing to do. Even the Lord shows gratitude! And so does St. Paul, one of the

greatest missionaries we meet in the New Testament. Near the beginning of many of

Paul’s letters to the churches, he gives thanks and praises to God for these Christians and

recognizes them for their service and contribution to his ministry. Writing to the church

at Rome Paul says, “I thank my God through Jesus Christ for all of you, because your

faith is proclaimed throughout the land” (Romans 1:8). To the church in Corinth he

writes, “I give thanks to my God always for you because of the grace of God…” (I

Corinthians 1:4). Elsewhere, Paul recognizes the gift of the Macedonia churches in giving

generously (II Corinthians 8:1-4). In the parable of the talents told by Jesus, we hear the

master who represents God, saying to each of those servants who have demonstrated

faithful stewardship, “Well done, good and faithful servant…” (Matthew 25:21f). Jesus

paid compliments to others. Jesus complimented people for demonstrating faith (Mark

7:29; Luke 7:9). He complimented Mary for the expensive ointment lavished on him

(John 12:1-7; and he recognized the widow who gave her last penny as offering (Luke

21:1-4). From these examples, it is abundantly clear that leaders are to give thanks and

praise to God for the contribution of members to ministry.

Recognition of members’ contribution to ministry does several things for the

people and the church. It shows that their ministry is appreciated and valued. It

encourages others to get involved. It highlights the ministry of the whole people of God.

It helps create group cohesion and strengthens the ministry of the congregation. It

inspires those who are in ministry to do even more.

The author loved going to school at an early age, and worked very hard to make

good grades. One thing that contributed in a very significant way for this love of school

was what our parents and the school did. At the end of the school year, a big country

cook was held. All the students ate and were honored for their attendance throughout the

school year. Besides, those students who did exceptionally well were given special

recognition for their academic success. Our parents and the school were very proud of

our hard work and they showed it. This made me want to work even harder the next

academic year. I believe similar practice should characterize the attitude of the pastor and

the church leaders toward the members of the local church. They ought to show

appreciation for the work the members do in the local church.

These acts of gratitude and recognition center on what God is doing in and

through the members. Stated another way, God is the focus. These recognitions are

essentially testimonies to God’s glory. In some local congregations, a special service of

praise and thanksgiving is the context of the recognition, at which time the various

ministries of the church are highlighted to God’s glory.

These five principles set forth the foundation for the elements discussed in leading

a committee and other small groups in a productive way, and in a welcoming atmosphere.

While these factors are very basic, they are however, instrumental in growing a

congregation that is dynamic, life-changing and actively involved in ministry. Two things

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need to be stressed. First, these elements constitute a unit, that is they go together.

Secondly, the whole process of developing a vital congregation should be supported by

regular, fervent prayer, and spearheaded by the leadership of the congregation. Such

effort in praying includes the pastoral and lay leadership of the congregation and all

members.

Reflection

1. What does the Principle of Gratitude mean in the practical sense? Be as specific

as possible.

2. Why is it important to show appreciation and thank people for serving the Lord?

3. We should serve in the church because we love God. If this is true, what is the

point of thanking people and showing appreciation for what people do in the

church? (Be biblical as much as possible.)

4. If you are in leadership in your church, have you taken the time to personally

thank members for what they did? b) As a member of your church, have you ever

been thanked for some work you did in your church? If so, who thanked you?

5. Some Christians would argue that this principle does not belong in ministry.

People will want to serve just to receive thanks and appreciation. Do you agree or

not? Discuss.

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A PERSPECTIVE ON LEADERSHIP

In Liberia there is a saying: Fish begins to rot from the head. The explicit meaning

of this proverb is that the decline of a group or organization is ultimately traceable to the

leadership. However, considering this proverbial saying and the African social setting

within the context of leadership, this may throw light on African understanding of

leadership. Africans generally hold the view that a weak leader promotes a weak

organization while a strong leader promotes a strong organization. And a far-sighted,

goal-oriented leadership promotes a far-sighted, progressive and vibrant organization

while a corrupt leadership promotes a corrupt organization. In short, Africans are of the

conviction that the quality of leadership has a tremendous impact on an organization for

good or ill.

From an African perspective, the leader is the pacesetter. As pacesetter the leader

sets the vision and guides and influences the people. The leader is expected to guide the

group and give a clear sense of direction. The leader influences the morale of an

organization–the zeal and enthusiasm, the sense of indifference or don’t care attitude of

the people, or their commitment to the purpose of the organization, and how fast or slow

they are to carry out the task, and the quality of work done.

The leader is the head. Biologically, the head is the center of thought and

creativity. The whole body gets its sense of direction, purposefulness from the head. A

healthy organization or committee may be compared to an organism, its leadership

representing the head. The head ought to give a clear sense of direction or bring it about.

In essence it ought to lead. This analogy has direct relevance to the church. The church is

called the Body of Christ. In this analogy, the church ought to function more like an

organism than as a company or corporation, whose leader orders employees around and

addresses them as subordinates.

As an organism the church has many members endowed with various gifts and

talents by the Holy Spirit. These gifts and talents are to be used for the up-building of the

Body of Christ, and the accomplishment of its purpose. In this regard the leadership

serves as the center of creativity and initiative, or at the least, promotes the condition for

creativity and initiative, and calls forth and nurtures the gifts and talents of members for

the ministry of the church. The leader is therefore to set forth a clear vision, direction and

purposefulness as a biological head does for an organism. The leadership does not

determine everything. However, it influences key factors, which in turn, influence the

entire life of the church, especially with respect to the mission of the church. With

regard to a committee or small group, this means the leader facilitates a conducive

atmosphere in the committee, sets forth or makes clear the purpose of the

committee, and calls forth and utilizes the creativity of the members to accomplish

the task the committee has to carry out.

When the picture of an organism is pursued further in light of the church and its

leadership, we come to see that the power of the head of an organism is “neither

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dictatorial nor authoritarian, neither oppressive nor domineering.”1 The head in reality

serves the rest of the body even as other parts do, but in a more distinctive way. Its

power derives from the nature of service the head renders the rest of the body.

The implication of this discussion is that servanthood is the basic meaning of

leadership in the church, be it a leader of a committee, small group, or the whole church.

The biblical and theological foundation of servant leadership is that God is at our service

in Jesus Christ to help us become what God has called us to be. This idea of servant

leadership arises from Christ Jesus as the head of the church. Jesus taught this kind of

leadership, lived it and exemplified it. And in a dramatic way he demonstrated it on the

night of the Passover when he washed the feet of his disciples. 2 Washing others’ feet in

Palestine was the duty of the servant of the house. By washing the feet of the disciples,

Jesus placed himself in the role of a servant.

Leadership role in the church is defined by the nature of the service one is called

to render to others. Leaders in the church are called to give of themselves that members

may become what God in Christ has called them to be. Leaders are to give themselves in

equipping the people of God, and building them up for ministry, leading to full maturity

in faith (Ephesians 4:11-13). The specific expression that giving of oneself takes as a

leader is determined by the particular way one is called to serve.

At the heart of leadership in the church is relationship with the members and

influence on them. One cannot be a leader without followers, and people will not follow

one who has no influence over them. This is especially the case in voluntary

organizations such as the church. The most positive influence the leader can have on

the members is to inspire them.

In this volume on leading committees and other small groups, we will be treating

some of the key factors the leader can influence in order to impact the committee or small

group in positive ways, leading to the fulfillment of the task the committee is called to

carry out.

Reflection

1. In the African understanding, how important is a leader to a group or

organization?

b) Is this understanding in line with Christian understanding? Discuss.

2. If Jesus Christ is the head of the church, what is the relation between Jesus Christ

and the local church or group leader?

3. What is the key term that is the biblical meaning of leadership?

4. What defines leadership role in the church?

5. Some believers think that a large part of the problem in our churches is due to

worldly style of leadership. Are these believers right? Why or why not?

1 Kennon L. Callahan, Twelve Keys to an Effective Church (San Francisco: Harper &row, 1983), 41.

2 Matthew 20:25-28; John 13:1-17; Philippians 2:7.

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AN INVENTORY OF KEY FACTORS FOR LEADING A COMMITTEE

There are certain key factors the leader can influence, which in turn, will impact

the effective functioning of a committee or group. Here, we give an inventory of these

key factors. An inventory here is a list of items. The purpose of the list is to help the

leader and members become aware of these key factors. Secondly, they are to put in the

time and concentrate on those factors they need to become more familiar with and

improve their knowledge and skills therein.

1. Effective Leadership

2. Clear-cut goal or purpose of the committee or group

3. Group dynamics (quality of interaction of the group members)

4. Clear procedures to follow in the committee proceedings

5. Effective use of the time and talents of members of the group

6. How to conduct a meeting

7. How to discuss issues and come to a decision

8. Ways to implement a decision.

These key factors will constitute the primary content of the book from here on. Some of

these factors will be discussed under broader headings. It should be emphasized that the

degree of positive influence of a leader on these elements depends basically on the

implementation of the five principles presented in the biblical and theological

foundations, with particular emphasis on the Vine Principle, the Love Principle, and the

Identity Principle.

Is there a very important factor required for the effective functioning of a

committee that seems to be missing from the list? What might that be?

Reflection

1. According to the author, the significance of the leader in the committee lies in the

leader’s influence on key factors. List five of these key factors.

2. Is it truly the case that the effective functioning of a committee depends largely on

the eight key factors? Discuss.

3. What is responsible for a leader’s positive influence on these key elements?

4. The author is saying in this chapter that leadership in the committee is basically

about influence. Do you agree or not? Discuss.

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AN EFFECTIVE CHRISTIAN LEADER

A Christian leader in the church is a servant of God in the service of God to the

people of God. The people of God in the context of a group or committee are the

members who make up that body. As an effective Christian leader, you cultivate your

God-connectedness through the spiritual disciplines discussed in the Vine Principle, with

particular emphasis on prayer. You are to be attentive to the leading of the Lord. What

sets the church apart, along with its committees and organizations, from non-Christian

groups and organizations is Christ’s presence and leading. Without this, the church and

its various units are no different from other groups or organizations. The kind of

committee meeting described in the INTRODUCTION usually takes place when

members forget this fundamental difference. An effective Christian leader is very much

aware of this difference. Therefore, he or she relies totally on the Lord for guidance,

strength, and wisdom for the task of leadership. An effective Christian leader hears

from the Lord and follows the leading of the Lord. An effective Christian leader has

the ability to harness the wisdom, skills and resources (gifts) of the group to accomplish

the purpose of the group through the grace of God.

Leading A Committee

The leader or chairperson of a committee or group needs to have knowledge and

skills in certain areas in order to guide the group and conduct the affairs of the group,

especially the meeting of the organization. Besides one’s God-connectedness, what are

other considerations for effective leading of a committee or small group? We will list

some of them now:

1. Effective leading of a committee requires knowledge and skills in those areas

listed in the inventory (Review them).

2. Effective leading of a committee or group requires that the leader have clearly in

view the purpose or objective of the committee - what reason the members have

been brought together as a committee.

3. Effective leading necessitates knowledge of the primary functions of leadership. It

is to:

i. Communicate clearly the goal and vision of the group

ii. Mobilize the members and resources to accomplish the goal

iii. Generate the interest and momentum among the members to pursue

the goal.

4. An effective leader knows the three primary means of influencing people, namely,

relationship, example, and education (training).

5. Effective leading requires knowing how to convene a group or meeting.

6. An effective leader knows how the local church operates, including the

procedures and line of authority.

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7. Effective leading requires inter-personal skills.

A leader who does not have the skills and knowledge in these areas, especially how to

conduct meeting, will have difficulty being effective. Meetings often times get out of

control and achieve very little when a leader does not have the ability to control the

meeting, in particular, the discussion. It is strongly suggested that leaders review the

areas included in the inventory, and improve their leadership skills in areas they are

weak. A leader who is effective in conducting meetings will have learned how to lead

discussion group and use meeting time wisely.

Purpose and Clear-Cut Goal of the Committee

There is a saying, “if you are going nowhere any road will take you there.”

Another one says, “many people aim at nothing and hit it with remarkable precision.”

These sayings highlight the significance of a clear-cut goal. Without a clear-cut goal,

one drifts aimlessly. The same is true of a committee at meeting.

The importance of a clear-cut goal or purpose in leading a committee meeting

cannot be over-emphasized. The members of a committee may do so much; however,

if they have not accomplished the goal for which such a committee meeting has been

called, these persons have not yet fulfilled their aim or purpose. In short the meeting

has been a failure. Thus, the African proverb says, “He who forgets the aim of his

journey is still on the road.”3 It is therefore very important for the leader to be

absolutely clear about the purpose of the committee and what is to be accomplished;

for that is why the leader ought to mobilize the members and strive to accomplish.

Reflection

1. How does the book describe an effective Christian leader in this chapter? Do

you agree or not? Discuss.

2. What sets the church apart from non-Christian groups? Is that really true?

3. If a Christian claims to have heard from the Lord, how do you make sure?

Come up with reliable guidelines to evaluate such claim. (e.g. it does not go

against the clear teachings of Jesus Christ.)

4. The author lists seven factors for effective leading of a committee. What are

these factors? Which of these seven factors is basic or foundational?

5. How does the lack of knowledge and skills in these seven areas impact the

work of a committee?

6. Discuss the importance of a clear-cut goal for the work of a committee.

3 Guy T. Zona, The House of the Heart Is Never Full And Other Proverbs of Africa (New York: Simon &

Schuster, 1993), 104.

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RESPNSIBILITY OF THE MEMBERS

Just as the leader of a group or body has certain important duties and

responsibilities to the group, so do the members. Some of these duties and responsibilities

of the members include the following:

1. They are to attend meetings.

2. They are to make sure they understand what is communicated and discussed at

meetings.

3. They are to respect the leader.

4. They are to behave and react in the meeting in ways that further the goals of the

group.

5. They are to carry out any duty assigned to them.

6. They are not to allow their personal opinions hinder the work of the group.

7. They are to respect and abide by the decisions taken by the group.

Some persons sometimes cause confusion, or hinder the group or its work when

decisions are taken that do not go along with their suggestions. When persons do that,

they are allowing Satan to rule. If a member has an issue, the person should use the

proper procedure in the group or church to address it. If one does not know the procedure,

the person should ask the leader what to do. (The third book, Developing Dynamic

Congregations, deals with conflicts.)

Reflection

1. Can an organization function effectively if the members of a group do not

cooperate with the leader? Discuss.

2. What are the members’ responsibilities to the group if a particular member

continues to cause confusion and rejects the authority of the leader?

3. What are some common sources of problem in a group or organization, and

what can be done before the problem comes up? Be specific.

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GROUP DYNAMICS

Group dynamics refers to the interactions among group members. And the quality

of such interaction can greatly impact the performance of a group such as a committee.

Have you ever been a member of a group who had difficulty getting along? How did that

affect the task on hand? The simple fact is the way people interact in a group does

influence the group. Also, the way most individuals act and behave while alone is not

usually the way they behave in a group. An effective group leader knows how to manage

a group and facilitate healthy interaction among members for the purpose of achieving

the goal of the group, or the task at hand.

In order for a committee leader to guide a group and facilitate healthy

interaction among the members, the leader should know how to influence the two

primary functions of a group. These two primary functions the leader needs to

influence are:

1. The task-related function

2. The group maintenance function.

The task-related function deals with the goal or purpose the group is to accomplish. The

task-related function is achieved by the leader as the leader carries on the primary

functions of leadership:

1. Communicating clearly the vision/goal of the group;

2. Mobilizing the members and resources to achieve the goal of the group; and

3. Generating the interest and momentum among members to pursue the goal.

The first function of the group is difficult to achieve if there is no healthy

interaction among the members, thus the need for the group maintenance function. The

leader needs to help hold the group together and for members to exhibit a certain quality

of interaction in order for them to work toward achieving the goal, or do the task at hand.

The leader can facilitate healthy interaction and thus influence the group

maintenance function by these means:

1. Promoting a sense of fellowship and respect among members;

2. Giving clear guidelines for interaction and speaking up; and

3. Laying out procedures to follow in the group proceedings.

The first means can be fostered through sharing time at the beginning of the meeting,

prayer and devotion, and allowing members to greet each other and interact

informally, or introducing each other to the group. The main point here is to do

activities that promote fellowship and help the group form an integral unit.

The HEART principle can serve as a helpful guideline for the second element:

Hear and understand me

Even if you disagree, please do not make me wrong

Acknowledge the greatness within me

Remember to look for my loving intentions

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Tell me the truth with compassion.4

The third means of helping healthy interaction is to lay out such procedures that

will allow all members to participate fully in the discussion, and not allow one or more

members to dominate the discussion. The latter shuts others out, or makes it very difficult

for others to participate in the group deliberations and activities.

Reflection

1. What does the author mean by group dynamics?

2. What is the importance of group dynamics?

3. There are two primary functions of a group the leader of a committee needs to pay

special attention to. What are they?

4. Explain these two primary functions and their relationship to each other and

importance.

5. What are helpful suggestions for the leader in making sure these two primary

functions are achieved?

4 The Business World too has the heart principle – Honesty, Excellence, Accountability, Respect,

Teamwork.

25

CONDUCTING MEETING: AN OUTLINE

This is a very important factor for the influence of the leader on a committee.

Many a meeting gets out of control because the leader does not know how to conduct a

meeting: The leader does not know parliamentary procedure where this is used, how to

lead a group discussion or the effective use of time, and how to bring about closure on a

discussion and have the committee reach a decision. Some of these elements will be

taken up later for discussion. Leaders need to follow church policy and procedures in

calling church meetings, including committee meetings. Not following policy or

procedures can also be a source of problem in meetings.

Here, we would like to suggest an outline for conducting a church meeting, in

particular, a relatively small committee or a group. It is very important to have an agenda

– the list or outline of the content of the meeting.

After calling the meeting to order, follow the steps below:

1. Start with a brief devotion by someone designated at the previous meeting.

If this is the first meeting, the chairperson or one asked ahead of time may lead. It

is suggested that the devotion, as much as possible, set the tune for the meeting

and place the Lord right at the center of the meeting.

2. Do introduction of persons if needed. (Some prefer that #2 be the first item.)

State the difference between church meeting and other kind of meetings at the end

of the introduction: Christ’s presence and guidance. If possible, have something

on display during the meeting to remind members of this difference. Some use the

cross or an open Bible on display. Others use an empty seat to remind the

members of Christ’s presence. Having devotion is one other way to remind the

members. Prayer before making decision is one way also. The key here is to have

a visible reminder of Christ’s presence in the meeting, because Christ is indeed

present (Matthew 18:20).

3. Do some relationship building by having members share their joys, praises

and concerns. (Testimonies should be brief.)

Persons should be assigned to check on members who are absent. These persons

who are absent could be sick, some emergency came up, or there could be other

reason for their absence. The purpose is to show care and concern that these

persons are valuable members of the group. (The purpose is not to show

displeasure for their absence.) A show of care and concern helps to create group

cohesion and commitment, and builds relationships. Prayers should be offered for

those who are sick and facing other issues. At this point, give guidelines regarding

how to interact, ask questions, or respond to questions. The HEART principle

may be read out at this time along with other guidelines.

4. Review the goal or purpose for the gathering to help focus the members.

Read the mission statement of the church and relate it to the goal and purpose of

the committee meeting. (If the purpose of the committee relates in no way to the

mission of the church, then the meeting should be called into question.) All group

26

or committee meetings and their purposes should contribute to the fulfillment of

the mission of the church. If not, they are a waste of time.

5. Read previous minutes if any. If this is the first meeting of the committee, then

go to step #8.

6. Follow reading of minutes with matters arising from the minutes. These are

such things as what was to be done, who was to do what, what actions were to be

taken, who was to be contacted, what information was to be obtained, etc.

7. Old Business comes next. These include matters that had been tabled or put off,

reports from individuals, or follow-up, etc. (Sometimes #6 and #7 overlap)

8. Next comes new business. Discuss issues one at a time.

9. Bring meeting to a close after all issues on the agenda have been covered.

Some committees set a time to end the meeting. Wherever the members are on the

agenda when the time comes, they bring the meeting to a close, and table the rest of the

agenda items for next time. Such approach can help the members make the best use of the

time they have for the meeting. When discussion seems to be getting out of control or

nowhere, it is a good practice to pause and pray for guidance. It is also good practice to

pray when the committee members are deciding an issue. It is strongly advised using the

consensus method for coming to a decision. The leader should encourage the committee

to strive to discern the will of the Lord in each case. The parliamentary procedure is then

used to formalize the decision already reached.

Reflection

1. According to the author, what is one major reason many meetings get out of

control? Discuss.

2. Why is it important to remind church members at meeting of the presence of

Christ with them?

3. What is the benefit of relationship building time at the beginning of the meeting?

(Relate this to group maintenance function in the previous chapter).

4. What should be done when discussion gets heated or reaches an impasse?

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DISCUSSING ISSUES IN A MEETING

This is one of the most important areas in which the skills of the leader are

needed. Much time is wasted, and the meeting can quickly get out of control, especially

during the discussion of emotionally charged issue, or one in which members hold

opposing views. We set forth simple guidelines to assist the leader and the members in

how to discuss issues in a meeting.

The chairperson of the meeting should give guidelines about speaking one at a

time. And one should only speak when the person has been recognized to talk. The

chairperson should avoid calling on the same person over and again, or having one

individual dominate the discussion. A simple, but helpful rule in this regard could be this

one:

Everybody will be given an opportunity to talk once before anyone is given the

opportunity to talk again on the same topic.

Another important rule to save time and help members stay on the topic of discussion is

this:

A person will be ruled out of order who has not been recognized by the chair, who brings

a different issue for discussion, one not directly related to the one on the floor, or does

not help in the discussion at hand.

In responding to a question, make sure you understand it or the question (state it

in your own words) before you respond. The chair should thank members for their time

and effort and commitment.

Decisions reached at the meeting should be clearly stated, along with actions or

tasks to be carried out, and the persons who will be responsible for doing them. Stress

matter of confidentiality regarding certain issues that are discussed.

Some Basic Guidelines

Here are some basic guidelines in the actual discussion during meeting. (The

HEART principle should be used.)

1. Topics for discussion should be introduced for discussion one at a time, except in

a few cases when one topic cannot be discussed meaningfully without another.

Let the person whose idea it is present and give reasons for bringing up the topic.

2. Pray as a group that God will guide the committee in the discussion.

3. State how the proposal will further the goals/objective of the committee, and how

it fits in with the mission of the church and the priority of the committee/church.

This is very important to ensure that a committee is not undertaking issues and

activities that are not contributing to the mission of the church, or the goals for

which the committee was set up. Another reason is not to have an activity

competing with what is already going on in the church, or spend resources on

ministries that are not the priority of the committee or church. No topic should be

discussed that does not in any way contribute to the furthering of the goal or

28

objective of the committee. Such a topic probably belongs to another committee.

The same is true with the entire church. No topic should be entertained for

discussion that does not contribute to the mission of the church (as expressed in

the mission statement of the church).

4. Let members suggest the advantages of the proposal and discuss them.

5. Let members suggest and discuss the disadvantages of the proposal

(N.B. Use the HEART principle here.)

6. Allow members to give their overall view in light of the advantages and

disadvantages.

7. Clarify any misunderstanding and ask for further feedback.

8. Assess the overall view to see if the members are generally for or against the idea

(proposal).

9. If the proposal seems generally favorable, concrete suggestions should be given

regarding the following issues if they have not yet come up for discussion:

a. The need for it

b. The relevance

c. Available funding if required

d. Length of time to begin and end the program of activity

e. The place

f. Who will implement the idea

g. When is it appropriate to start

h. Is the proposal in conflict with something already going on?

The key here is to get specific about carrying out the proposal as a ministry

activity. (If the sense of the committee is not favorable, proposal should be tabled

then.)

10. Build consensus for idea:

i. Allow for modification of the proposal

ii. Be open to contrary views

iii. Is new information required

iv. Should proposal be implemented, or put off for later time

v. Help members stay on topic.

11. Before taking a formal decision, members of the committee should stop and pray

for discernment regarding the will of the Lord.

12. Make a decision as a committee. It is suggested that the consensus method be

used. A formal vote would then formalize the decision of the committee.

Reflection

1. What may go wrong if the chair of a group or committee does not know how to

lead a discussion?

2. Carefully go over the twelve suggestions for discussing an issue. Discuss the

importance of each suggestion. Which are very important for saving time? For

making good decision? Achieving the goal of the committee? For avoiding

conflict with ministry of the church?

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IMPLEMENTING COMMITTEE DECISION

One weak link in the committee is implementing decisions made in the committee

meeting. In short, there is usually no effective follow-up to ensure that the decisions

taken are acted upon. We are aware that some decisions need to go to a larger body. Even

in such cases, someone (usually, the chair of the committee) should make such

presentation. This action is part of follow-up on decisions taken.

Proper follow-up requires that someone be designated whose responsibility it is

t do certain things, in this case, act on the particular decision. The action may be

presenting it to a larger body, getting some information, contacting someone, or making

some arrangement. In assigning members to a task, take into account members’ gifts and

talents and their availability.

It is the responsibility of the chair of the committee to check and see that persons

designated for particular tasks of the committee carry out their duty, and within the

required time. Line of authority is also important. This includes who is to be contacted in

case of giving and receiving certain information, who to report to, and who has the

authority to make certain decisions when the committee is not in session.

Pastoral Guidelines For Chairs Of Committees

These are some things the pastor can do to help committee chairs function much

more effectively:

1. Build healthy relationships with your chairpersons, e.g. fellowship time, sharing

what God is doing in your life, in their life and the church.

2. Pray for chairpersons on a regular basis.

3. Meet with chairpersons on a regular basis, either in group or on individual basis

for prayer, consultation, to share your vision and passion, and for opportunity for

shepherding.

4. Provide for ongoing follow-up and guidance on tasks assigned to committees

i. Training in spiritual disciplines

ii. Training in conducting meetings

iii. Training in responsibilities of their respective committees and role of

the chairperson

iv. Provide chairpersons with educational resources.

If the suggestions and guidelines presented in this manual are followed, much will

be accomplished in our committee meetings. The effective functioning of committees

and other small groups has positive impact on the total life of the church.

Reflection

1. What are suggestions for ensuring decisions taken at committee meetings are

carried out?

30

2. What can the pastor do to help chairs of committees function more effectively?

CONCLUSION

Committees, large and small, are the context in which many issues are discussed

and decided in the church. In a sense, the extent to which these committees and small

groups function effectively is the extent to which the church is functioning effectively. It

goes to say these committees impact the life and ministry of the church in very important

ways. It is therefore necessary that pastors and other church leaders educate and train

members to learn how to work in committees and small groups, and lead committee

meetings.

This volume has been written as a resource to provide such help to pastors and

other church leaders in their education and training effort. We hope the information

contained herein has been very useful and practical.

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GLOSSARY

Assumption –n. a belief or statement usually not said, accepted without evidence

Cohesive – adj. n. cohesiveness- very close as a fellowship or group

Committee-- n. a specific group of people organized by the church to deal with a defined

task or issue

Conducive - adj. suitable, appropriate, fitting

Consensus – n. meeting of the mind, mutual understanding or coming to an agreement

Crucial – n. adj. critical, very important

Designate – v. to appoint someone for a task

Dominate – v. to boss others, overpower, control

Domineering- adj. bossy, overpowering

Dynamism –n. vitality, liveliness

Edification –n. up building, building up spiritually

Empowerment –n. making one capable of doing something or task such as by training or

teaching the person.

Endow –v. to bestow on, give to

Enormously – adv. Greatly

Equip –v. to prepare, make ready for something or to perform a task

Evaluate – v. to make sure, find out the truth about something

Exhibit – v. to act a certain way, or do something, show to boss others

Facilitate – v. to help bring about, promote

Group Dynamics – n. how group members interact and influence the group

32

Harness –v. to bring together for use

Impasse – n. going nowhere, has come to a standstill such as a discussion

Incarnation –n. God becoming a human in Jesus Christ

Ingenuity –n. cleverness, creativity

Lavish –v. to pour out upon in great amount

Mobilize – v. to bring together or gather for a purpose

Parliamentary procedure – formal method used in operating in a meeting

Passover – n a Jewish festival commemorating God’s deliverance of the Jews from Egypt

God killed the first-born of the Egyptians but spared (passed over) the first born of the

Jews.

Perspective – n. a view or way to see and understand something

Procedures – n. steps to follow in doing a task or carrying out some work or a function

Stewardship –n. proper management or caring for the blessings and resources God has

made available to us

Spiritual gifts –n. a belief or statement usually not said, accepted without evidence

Subordinates – n. low-class, inferiors

Tacit – adj. something communicated without saying it

Unleash –v. to let loose, let go forth

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR

The Reverend Dr. Jefferson S. Labala is an ordained elder in the Peninsula Delaware

Conference of the United Methodist Church. He received the B.Sc. degree from the

University of Liberia, the M.Th. degree from Perkins School of Theology, Southern

Methodist University, Dallas, Texas, and the Doctor of Ministry from Wesley

Theological Seminary, Washington, D. C. with concentration in Practical Theology.

He has served as academic dean and Professor of Practical Theology, Gbarnga School of

Theology; director of Field Education, Gbarnga School of Theology; director of the Lay

Leadership Training Institute, Liberia Annual Conference of the United Methodist

Church; missionary and administrative consultant and leadership development along with

his wife, Dr. Hilderia Brumskine-Labala in the Nigeria Annual Conference of the United

Methodist Church; member of the Board of Ordained Ministry, Peninsula Delaware

Conference; chair, Board of Directors of the Northeastern Jurisdictional Local Pastor

Licensing School of the United Methodist Church; and director for Strengthening the

Black Church, Peninsula Delaware Conference; as well as having served in the local

church. He has produced more than fifty resources for effective leadership and vital

congregations, including the books, Incarnation and The Nature of Scriptures: exorcising

the ghost of Marcion ; Through African Eyes: biblical parallel to African religion and

culture and its implications for a new theological paradigm; The Battle Over the Ten

Commandments: challenging the witness of Christians in society; and Models for Making

personal Decisions: approaches, principles and practices. He presently lives with his

family in Easton, Maryland.