Our church holds its Annual Meeting tomorrow and that along with what leads up to it is the source of this post. I've had a couple people tell me that they don't want to serve on a committee or they don't like church meetings because it's all too political. I think I know what they mean, but I don't believe that is a good reason to not serve or not attend meetings. I also believe that church politics have a place when properly understood. I agree that meetings can be a waste of time, can even do more harm than good. Sometimes the best attitude I can muster is that meetings are a necessary evil. But I know deep down that for those who believe in congregational government, meetings are important and much good can be accomplished.
I want to take a moment to define some related words that apply to this subject. These are simple definitions that come from Encarta World English Dictionary. The word politics means "the theory and practice of forming and running organizations." There obviously needs to be organization in church. Boards and committees and such are necessary so there will be politics.
The word political can have a more negative connotation. It is often used to describe something that is "carried out for reasons that best serve a desired outcome rather than for reasons that are, for example, morally justifiable." Partisan is another word that can have a similar negative meaning. This word is defined as "a strong supporter of a person, group or cause, especially one who does not listen to other people's opinions." Here's where we run into problems on church committees and at Annual meetings.
When people come with their minds made up and won't even listen to others, meetings turn into battle zones where people are only concerned about protecting their position and getting people on their side. This is ungodly and does great damage.
The Bible shows us the better way in Philippians 2:1-4 (ESV)
So if there is any encouragement in Christ, any comfort from love, any participation in the Spirit, any affection and sympathy, 2 complete my joy by being of the same mind, having the same love, being in full accord and of one mind. 3 Do nothing from rivalry or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves. 4 Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others.
When we put Christ first, humble ourselves and concentrate on our shared goals, church politics are just fine. When we put self first, promote ourselves and push our personal agendas, the devil gains ground and we all lose. Let's not be afraid of politics, but let's continually check our own attitudes, motives, words and actions.
Grace and peace,
Dave
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