Good Intentions and Ministry

The old saying I believe is, “The road to Hell is paved with good intentions.” I can tell you unequivocally that professional ministry is crammed with good intentions as well. And, having been a victim of these so-called good intentions, I can say that few things are more dangerous than a leadership that uses its good intentions as a sword of influence. Want to know how to enforce your “vision” upon the masses, upon the eldership, the board and the ministry staff? Invoke God’s name as a blessing for your good intentions. Here’s how you do it (pastors, take notes for future reference).

1. Start by going on a retreat, a conference, or, for added emphasis, go on a 3-month sabbatical  (so everyone knows that you’ve been super in-tune with the Almighty). 

2. On this retreat have a vision of what you believe God wants you to do.

3. Come back and declare that you have received from God a plan for the future (for added points call it a “vision” or “showing”).

4. Formulate your plan into fancy diagrams, charts. Use Power Point or Keynote for more pizazz.

5. This is the most important and essential part of the process: tell everyone it is God’s will. Make sure to include the phrase “I believe” before invoking the God’s-will strategy so as to appear humble and open to error (though neither are a possibility). For added effect it also helps to say, I’ve/we’ve spent a lot of time in prayer over this…” This is especially useful when firing staff or pushing through your agenda.

Okay, all repressed bitterness aside it has become quite en vogue in the church to justify questionable programs and ideas and messages under the guise of good intentions, bolstered by Christian-ese lingo. All manner of bassackwards decisions are made, some terribly contrary to the scriptures and the life of Christ, and more in line with American civil religion and the cult of consumerism, with “good intentions” and supported with words like, evangelism, outreach, and discipleship. If the church does it it must be all right. Right?

Wrong. Good intentions are not our guide for living like Christ as the Body of Christ. The Christ of the gospels is our guide. Now obviously how we interpret His life is essential to the discussion. However, a cursory look at the accounts of His life would reveal what his intentions for His people are: justice for the poor, compassion for the sick, forgiveness for our enemies, freedom for the captives, healing the sick, visiting the imprisoned, etc. These should govern our churches, not useless, resource-consuming, attendance-boosting programs justified by our good intentions and Christian language.  

shalom, matt