COMMENTARY

Don Atkin

LEADERS, MANAGERS, ADMINISTRATORS

There is a vague blending of these functions that keeps mediocrity intact in so many situations. Clearly defining specific roles will significantly refine how the body of Christ works.

Leader: A person that leads; directing, commanding, or guiding head,

as of a group or activity.

Manager: One who manages affairs or expenditures, as of a household,

a client (as an entertainer or athlete), an athletic team, etc..

Administrator: A person who has considerable executive ability.

THE NEED TO LEAD is a disease of the ego that stunts growth and hinders kingdom progress. To lead with managerial or administrative skills alone will guarantee less than ideal results. We need to have honesty and integrity with one another in determining and discerning our primary calling and gifting.

One who leads may (or may not) also enjoy some levels of managerial and administrative gifts. To the extent that he manages or administrates, he will minimize his leadership potential.

One who leads by managing will tend toward controlling others, therefore limiting his influence to those who are wanting or willing to be controlled.

One who leads by administrating will wear people out with programs and schedules.

It is painful to watch the perennial frustration of individuals who have valid managerial or administrative gifts, but are not leaders, as they work to keep their little groups together.

LOOK BEHIND YOU! Is anyone following? A few? Many? Why? Why are they following you? If they are following you because you are a vision-casting trail blazer, then you are a leader. If they are following you because they want you to manage their lives for them, then you are a manager. If they are following you because you keep their schedule full of busy activities, you are an administrator. (This is an over-simplification; and we all are composites of more than one gift.)

God is leading toward the emerging of the church in the city/region. Watch for those leaders whom He is raising up to lead, direct, command and guide others who can manage and administrate ~ until the whole body is functioning in unity and harmony. (That picture WILL include small groups meeting in homes and halls.)

"The whole is greater than any part thereof."

Don’t just look for those who are following you. Look into the bigger picture ~ for those who are to lead you. We’re going nowhere without them.