Creating a safe place for a dangerous message is a reality of making “great commission” disciples. The LPD coaches its church planters to have an open mindset to receive honest and corrective feedback in an environment of trust and accountability. Trust is critical for collaborative relationships, if there is an expectation that insights might be generated for the hope of personal transformation. As Ed Catmull explains, open and honest conversations are essential to creativity, innovation, and change. He writes:
“In many ways it is no different than any other group of creative people – within it, you will find humility and ego, openness and generosity. It varies in size and purpose, depending on what it has been called to examine. But always, it’s most essential element is candor. This isn’t just some pie-in-the-sky idea – without the critical ingredient that is candor, there can be no trust. And without trust, creative collaboration is not possible.”
Creativity, Inc. Overcoming the Unseen Forces that Stand in the Way of True Inspiration Pg. 87 Ed Catmull
I recognize the fear of vulnerability will erode trust within my groups and teams. In order to establish trust, I must both set a cultural expectation of vulnerability for the group and model vulnerability as an example to follow. Without relational trust, I cannot lead well. A lack of trust will be a barrier for me to make “great commission” disciples.
How is relational trust established in your church so that you will both survive today and thrive tomorrow?
How has your church remained focused on disciple making during this current COVID-19 opportunity that will help you both survive today and thrive tomorrow?
The LPD Church Planters I am coaching view our current COVID-19 crisis as a God given opportunity to revitalize their church and their ministry. I would love to share these insights with you and encourage you as you lead your church and ministry. We are all in this together.
Steve Sharpe
