Leading Through ChangeSample

Change is difficult in any context, but it is especially true when you're the one leading. As we reflect on leading change, there are few better examples than how the Apostles led radical change in the Church. To best understand the context, let's look at what's happening in the Church up until that point.

As Acts begins, the Apostles (and by extension, you and I) receive the divine mission of being Christ's witness in Jerusalem, Judea, and Samaria, and even to the ends of the Earth (Acts 1:8). With this mission and the power of the Spirit of God, Peter began teaching with incredible results. As those three thousand new believers joined the Apostles, the early Church was officially established in Jerusalem (Acts 2:41-42). 

As time passed, however, the Church began to experience difficulties; Stephen was martyred (Acts 7:58), the Church began to experience severe persecution, and the people dispersed throughout Judea and Samaria (Acts 8:1). But God remained unstoppable. In spite of the persecution, the Word continued to be preached in Judea and Samaria (Acts 8:4-5, 27, 11:19). The mission that once began in Jerusalem was now reaching Judea and Samaria, and the Church was being built up (Acts 9:31).

New things were happening. In new places. And with new people. This was the beginning of change. 

Acts 10 tells the story of how two leaders, abiding in an intimate relationship with God (Acts 10:2 & 9), were given a call to change. Both Peter and Cornelius (a military leader within the Roman army) were given a clear call from God. From this, Peter came to Cornelius' home, and as he was preaching, God affirmed the change with the presence of His Spirit (Acts 10:44).

APPLICATION/ REFLECTION:

As you consider leading through change, it's important to consider three essential contexts for change. First, the leaders in the early Church knew the mission God had given them. Second, their leadership reflected resilience as they experienced hardship and difficulties. Finally, the leaders of the early Church were ready to listen when God called them to change. Think about your own life and leadership.

Reflect on the lessons you've learned while leading through hardship. Consider the following:     

• What is the primary vision/mission God has given you?     
• What did God teach you the last time you led in the midst of hardship or difficulties?     
• Are you actively seeking God and prepared to hear from Him?