People Will Not Follow Ministers Who Do Not Grow
By Michael Mooney, Exec. Elder
Personal growth in ministry is a major part of the human experience; although some people experience much more than others. Growth without change is inconceivable; therefore, it follows that both are a part of the process. The natural desire for familiarity is likely one of the biggest reasons why change is often resisted (Welch & McCarville, 2003). Ironically, in spite of the predictability of change, it still equals things that are unknown and thereby diminishes predictability.
Ordained ministers have an obligation to growth, but even they are not above resisting change (Mann, 2000). It seems normal to think of leaders as being initiators of organizational changes. However, it is not as obvious to note that they too undergo changes through personal growth. “The Servant Leader nurtures his or her own desire to grow. Growth is power. People will not follow a leader who does not grow…Growth means one has to take action” (Tellerman, 1999, p. 2). As a result, leaders must perpetuate continual improvement if they want to maintain a following. It is not enough to think that they are ministers of the Word, and for this reason alone people should listen. Before ministers become preachers of the Word, they should be doers of the Word that they compel others to obey. James says, “If someone listens to God’s word…he is like a person who looks at his face in a mirror” (Jas 1:23 GW). The Bible should cause every one of us to see ourselves in the light of needed improvements.
Goleman (2002) describes this transformation as being self-directed (meaning that leaders must accept responsibility for their development). Yet, complacency has the power to make people forget the necessity of such directness. That is, until life brings remembrance in the form of wake-up calls. Whether through emergencies or determination, growth usually begins with a stage of awareness.
How Ministers Grow: Stages of Personal Growth in Ministry
- The first stage of personal improvement is the discovery of whom you wish to become as a minister.
- It is from the first stage that leads to the second: discovery of whom you presently are. Self discovery is where comparisons and contrasts are made between your real self and your ideal self.
- Next is a more focused approach where personal strengths and weaknesses are considered within the context of maximizing your positive personal qualities for the glory of God.
- Taking this information, in the fourth step, you begin to seek situations where you can exercise your strengths to further improve them. Then, you position yourself within the reach of a support group or relationships of encouragement and accountability (Goleman, Boyatzis & McKee, 2002).
- Lastly, you call upon the Holy Spirit in every step of the way to reveal to you His holy insights regarding your life and development. Following this protocol will ensure that you are never in a stagnate state of non-growth, and will increase the effectiveness of your leadership and ministry.
Further Development in Leadership Growth in Ministry
Robert Neuschel utilized his understanding of the Judeo-Christian heritage to establish a theory of several key qualities that accompany servant leaders. He believes that such leaders should facilitate their people to perform at their highest levels of competence by helping them find significance in their duties. This is in conjunction with leadership’s efforts to develop the whole persons (mind and soul) of others through continual growth processes. The attitude that leads this way does not see their positions of leadership as social advantages, but rather as a means of personal growth that raises everyone around them. Neuschel’s concept is that knowledge is not enough to lead others because people will not follow leaders who do not personally grow themselves. Therefore, knowledge must translate into actions that water the seeds of growth (Tellerman, 1999).
Reflective Questions:
1) In your own personal ministry, in relation to the process discussed in this unit, can you give an example of a situation where self growth took place?
2) As opposed to the first question, can you reflect on a situation where you may have been complacent to self growth or resisted it all together?
3) Do you feel that there will always be areas in which growth is required in ministers or is there a point where present condition is sufficient to minister to others?
4) Are knowledge and growth the same thing? And why?
Frequently Asked Questions About Personal Growth in Ministry
What is personal growth in ministry?
Personal growth in ministry refers to the continual development of a minister’s character, spiritual maturity, and leadership effectiveness through intentional change and self-awareness.
Why is personal growth important for ministers?
Personal growth is essential because ministers must lead by example, and growth ensures credibility, effectiveness, and alignment with biblical standards.
How do ministers grow spiritually?
Ministers grow spiritually through self-examination, obedience to Scripture, accountability, and reliance on the Holy Spirit.
What are the stages of growth in ministry?
The stages include identifying who you want to become, understanding who you are, evaluating strengths and weaknesses, applying growth practices, and relying on the Holy Spirit.
Can a minister stop growing?
No, stagnation weakens ministry effectiveness, and continual growth is necessary for faithful leadership and spiritual maturity.
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