Building bridges between leaders

Mike Bonem April 21, 2020

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A major freeway runs through one part of the city. On one side is a high profile church that has a far-reaching impact through its ministries. On the other side is a high profile business whose CEO is a deeply committed follower of Christ. 

Anyone trying to cross the gap between the two will almost certainly be hit by a car and killed. 

The only way to cross safely is by using the nearby bridge.

One of the most interesting and frequent conversations that I’ve had since the release of In Pursuit of Great AND Godly Leadership is about the gap that often exists between spiritually-minded leaders (usually the pastor or director of a ministry organization) and business-oriented leaders (usually board members or other key volunteers). 

The gap is like the freeway described above—difficult and dangerous to cross.

Almost every organization has both types of leaders. In many organizations, they struggle to get on the same page. 

Those with strong business backgrounds are accustomed to making quick, rational decisions. They are fond of saying, “Let the facts speak for themselves.” 

Spiritual leaders are aware that the facts don’t tell the whole story and of the need to be attuned to what God is saying. 

It’s not that these two groups are enemies or that they have different goals. Both love God (if the organization is healthy) and both want the church or ministry to succeed. 

However, they face many obstacles. The language of business can sound harsh and godless. And the spiritual language can sound indecisive and impractical.

More than ever, I am convinced that these two groups need each other and that they can find a common ground. If they will spend time truly listening to each other, they will realize their common desire for God to be at work in their lives and in the ministry. 

And if they will spend time in true dialogue, actually listening and asking questions for clarification, they will realize that they have much to learn from each other. 

When that happens, bridges will be built that will leverage the leadership gifts of both groups and that will advance the ministry toward its God-given mission.

Photo source: istock 

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Mike Bonem is an author, consultant, speaker, church leader, businessperson, husband and father. He has an MBA from Harvard Business School and a breadth of experience in ministry and business, including 11 years as an executive pastor, consulting with Fortune 100 companies, and leading a start-up business. This article was first published on MikeBonem.com. Used with permission. Learn More »

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