Phase 3: Building Effective Teams

So far we have covered Phase 1 ( “Beginning the Journey” ) and Phase 2 ( “Developing Trusting Relationships” ) of the Serving Leadership Journey . Phase 3 is all about building effective teams by bringing those relationships together. Over the next few months, we will cover our leadership framework of BE, KNOW, and DO and look at the disciplines in terms of teamwork.

For a quick review, consider that Jesus first led himself before leading others. He built trusting relationships with a few disciples, formed a team, and then launched a worldwide movement known as the church. This phase focuses on building teams (to provide a foundation for an organization—Phase 4) with good team leadership for successful teams.

A team is more than one person and will vary in size depending on the task. Having an odd number helps break a stalemate when making decisions. Having too many people slows down the process. Diversity in age, gender, background, experience, and skill sets ensures greater effectiveness. When each member offers their strengths to complement other team members’ weaknesses, everyone wins.

A team always forms around a mission or task and collaborates to accomplish it. Achieving results is the greatest motivator. Consider how Jesus called the disciples to become fishers of men. He formed his team around this mission. Furthermore, reflect on the disciples’ response after returning from their mission in Luke 10. The text notes that they “returned with joy and said, ‘Lord, even the demons submit to us in your name’” (verse 17).

[Next week we will further define team by looking at some key terms in Mark 3:13-15.]