Teamwork

To answer the question, “What would Jesus do,” we need to examine what did Jesus did? Early in Jesus’ ministry He formed a team. The Apostle Paul had a team. If we will accomplish our given assignment, it will be done as a team. What God has given us to accomplish is too large for any individual. Each of us is an individual member of the body of Christ. We need others.


Mark 3:13 - 15 (NASB) "And He went up on the mountain and summoned those whom He Himself wanted, and they came to Him. And He appointed twelve, so that they would be with Him and that He could send them out to preach, and to have authority to cast out the demons." Jesus chose twelve guys to hang out with Him. Then he sent them out to preach. When He sent them out, He sent them with authority to get the job done. We try to follow this example in everything we do at Cornerstone Church.


There are many reasons not to form a team. It is too messy. More people means more problems. In the beginning it is easier and faster to do things yourself, than to train others. Yet, ultimately this frees you to pursue other things. It requires organization—meetings, discussion, persuasion. There is the false belief that no one can do it as well as I can. There is an insecurity of being replaced.

We don't want to lose control. An inexperienced or insecure leader wants to give directives, not share leadership and decisions. This results in people feeling unappreciated and they become uninterested in helping you. Tradition keeps people from forming a team. “We’ve always do things this way. We’ve never done that before.” The people expect the pastor to perform certain duties based on tradition, not on actual Biblical mandate.

There are many great reasons to form a team. The Bible endorses it. Success is not limited to an individual effort. It builds true community and unity. Teamwork creates synergy, which generates results far greater than the sum of the parts could have achieved. There is a multiplying effect in group dynamics.

Teamwork multiplies love, joy, peace…fun! It reduces stress. Success and failure is shared. The work load is shared. I can do what I am equipped to do, knowing that others are doing what I am not good at doing. I am not stressed out trying to perform duties that I am ill equipped to perform. There is more innovation in a group than in an individual.

I have a great team around me. Michelle, my wife, is my key teammate. JD, Greg, and Brent work closely with me every day. Amy and Barb are so valuable. Miss Lisa is awesome with our children, especially in Jumpgate. Jame does a wonderful job leading our music TEAM. Ronda and Jen are great. Judy runs a wonderful day care. Miss Kay is the best preschool teacher around. David keeps our facilities clean and running great. Our volunteers minister to others every day. We have about 20 LIFE Groups operating between Cornerstone and KC Life Churches combined.

God is good. Jesus is Lord. Life is great. Teamwork is one of the great reasons why.

Peace,
Stan