A Missionary's Corner

 

I am going to start this article by emphasizing the last four words above: KEEP US ON TRACK. If you are traveling on a train, you do want it to stay on the tracks. However, we do know that sometimes trains derail for various reasons.  Well, churches, associations, and Christian organizations can be derailed spiritually for various reasons too. The apostle Paul reminds us in Ephesians 6:10-18 that we are engaged in a spiritual battle with the forces of evil that work to derail us spiritually. However, the Lord has provided His armor to every Christian to put on so he/she may be able to stand against the wiles (cunning devices) of the devil. One piece of the armor is “the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.” The Holy Spirit has given us Scripture for doctrine, reproof, for correction, and for instruction in righteous (II Timothy 3:16). This “sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God” gives us the CORE VALUES THAT KEEP US ON TRACK and from getting derailed. By the way “derail” can also mean “to throw off course.” 

 

Now let us clarify what CORE VALUES means for the new structure of our association. Hugh Townsend in his book SET THE JOURNEY, defines CORE VALUES: “the constant, passionate, biblical beliefs that drive the ministry.” Then he adds these important statements: “Well-defined core values help you STAY ON TRACK so that your resources and time will be used wisely. Values lead to mission, mission leads to vision and vision leads to strategy.“   

 

THE CORE VALUES OF ELKIN BAPTIST ASSOCIATION

1. Prayer as our priority

2. Equipping as our model

3. Missions as our commitment

4. Unity as our method

5. Vitality as our fulfillment

6. Urgency as our motivation

 

These CORE VALUES (Biblical Beliefs) can enable us to “Stay on Track” as we work together to fulfill our Mission and Vision.  Therefore, the Administrative Team can help by leading the way to develop “biblical beliefs that drive the ministries of our association.” 

 

Amazing Grace! How Sweet the Sound

Larry

ENDNOTE

 

Hugh Townsend, Set the Journey, A Strategy Development Process for Associations (North American Mission Board, SBC, 2001), pp. 61,17. Used by permission.