Let's keep it simple: Less management, more relationships

Here are some observations from the front lines of service:

There's a distinct difference between the ministry Christ had, and how he managed his disciples, and how churches conduct ministry and manage ministry.

Christ had clear, direct lines of communication between himself and the disciples. There was complete clarity on what needed to be done (even if there wasn't complete understanding of his teachings). He kept the counsel of his father, because his companions had some unusual or no understanding of what God's plan was.

Church communications today don't seem so clear, even with email and phones. Leadership by texting is not uncommon, and highly ineffective. As a business professional, I would never consider conducting business with clients by text, yet it seems to be an acceptable way to conduct relationships with ministry leaders.

All church leaders can't be completely aware of what's happening at the serving level, unless they are in continuous dialog with observers and participants in ministry. Too often valid observations are perceived as complaints; things that a professional organization would consider for continuous improvement are perceived as annoyances. There is little room for true innovation, because the model for innovation are the "best practices" of other churches or what is currently popular in church ministry circles (ie, copying what others have done) instead of solving a problem to create transformation.

Dave Browning at Neue states it very well: Less is more.

Less management, more relationships.  Focus on the relationships, and management will be easier.  Relationships are what create loyal followers and affinity for the cause.

Fewer distractions, more focus.  Embrace it!