I have observed that global changes are often instigated from the top tiers of leadership, based on individual convictions. For example, leader X becomes ill and is convicted by the lack of visits he receives. As a result he affects the leadership group under him, and consequently the church, to have a more family-orientated focus. How can we foster changes within the church, based on godly convictions from all levels (the congregation, too)? What does the scripture say about decision making? -- Paul Rowbotham (London)
You are right, influence should (and does) flow "upwards," not only "downwards." A wise leader seeks feedback and input, and wise followers offer it. A few things the scriptures reveal about decision making:
* Plans emerge from times of prayer and reliance on the Lord (Acts 13). We, in our fleshliness, tend to make our plans and them "commit" them to the Lord without proper reliance on him.
* In more mature congregations, decision-making is the province of the group more than of the individual. As I have often written, a single man may lead the fledgling congregation, but an eldership, or team approach, is more appropriate for most congregations.
* A final lesson--often repeated--we think we know what we are doing and where we are going, but ultimately God is the one whose sovereignty we must respect. (See the book of Daniel, and especially the Proverbs.)
You might also want to read Garry Friesen's book, Decision Making and the Will of God (Multnomah Press).
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