How to lead a mission team

Ministry
and missions are most effective when done in teams. But so many teams are dysfunctional. We should lead as Jesus did – he employed his
senses to lead, beginning with his sense of hearing. He said: “By myself I can do nothing;
I judge only as I hear, and my judgment is just, for I seek not to please
myself but him who sent me.” (John 5:30)

To lead a team well, employ not only your sense of hearing,
but sight and touch as well.

1. LISTEN

• First to God – what is He asking you to do?
  Inquire of God (As David did 1 Samuel 30).

• To your own heart. Know yourself.
• To the hearts of your team (not just what they say).
• To your leaders. They have a perspective you need.

2. SEE

• Your followers’ best selves. See others shining; lift them up.
• Where you are going. Describe it so your team can see it too.
• Your followers functioning as a team. Have a vision for unity.
• Who needs to lead the next phase. It may require a change of leadership.

3. TOUCH

• Connect with your followers at a heart level.
• If appropriate, hug or touch them.

• Help them to connect with one another. Practice the ministry of reconciliation.

• Find a venue where connecting can happen – a time and a space where people can let their hair down.