Building on a strong foundation
Foundations are important in the kingdom of God; and they are important in the workplace. Christian leaders have been given position and influence in the workplace for God’s kingdom. Therefore, it can be said that foundations are doubly important for workplace leaders.
This matter of foundations is a concept of leadership that will help you connect with the workplace leaders in your spheres of influence. But first, it is important to speak from what you yourself know, believe and walk out in faith.
To that end, here are three foundational considerations; first for your own organization, and then for the leaders you are discipling.
Strong foundations take time
"Therefore thus says the Lord God: 'Behold, I lay in Zion a stone for a foundation, a tried stone, a precious cornerstone, a sure foundation; whoever believes will not act hastily.' ” (Isaiah 38:16).
Foundation building should not be done hastily. Progress for progress sake can be disastrous. Don’t start on the superstructure until you are sure the foundation has been laid firmly on the Cornerstone. Inspect the foundation regularly.
Strong foundations require obedience
"Whoever comes to Me, and hears My sayings and does them, I will show you whom he is like: He is like a man building a house, who dug deep and laid the foundation on the rock. And when the flood arose, the stream beat vehemently against that house, and could not shake it, for it was founded on the rock"(Luke 6:47-48).
The wise man builds his house (i.e., organization, fellowship) on a strong foundation. Notice that the rock is something more than Jesus Christ. It is our obedient relationship with Him – hearing and doing what He says. The fruit of that obedience is an organization and/or fellowship that will withstand even the most violent storm.
The elementary principles of Christ
"Therefore, leaving the discussion of the elementary principles of Christ, let us go on to perfection, not laying again the foundation of repentance from dead works and of faith toward God, of the doctrine of baptisms, of laying on of hands, of resurrection of the dead, and of eternal judgment. And this we will do if God permits"(Hebrews 6:1-3).
What better foundation to build on the Cornerstone that is Jesus, than the foundation that is found in the elementary principles of Christ. Would you build on anything else? Would you build without even one of the principles?
Consider this: First, these principles are elementary to the child of God – easy to teach and easy to understand. There is mystery beyond, but the writer of Hebrews describes them as milk for babes.
Second, leaders in the workplace, including pastors, must build their organizations on solid business principles. These seemingly secular foundations become holy when they are birthed out of the elementary principles of Christ. Work with your leaders to find the connections; and you will be making disciples of disciple makers.
 | Rob Streetman serves the body of Christ as President of two parachurch ministries: inLight Consulting (a workplace transformation ministry) and 2:2 Collective (a unity and church growth ministry). He is the author of two books: The Map Maker and A Storm is Coming. Rob’s heart desires is to encourage, edify and equip Christian leaders as disciple-makers and transformation agents—that they would become houses that stand in the storms of this life. He previously worked in various IT industry positions. Learn More » |
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