The history of the United States is comprised of a rugged individualism, spirit of independence, and self-support. The lone ranger is seen as a hero—the one who is able to get the job done on his or her own, answering to no one. Dependence on those outside of ourselves is thought to be a limitation and a challenge to greatness. But the kingdom of God relies on a different value, one that places a great emphasis on partnership and community.
Ministry has always been a team sport. While we do find examples in the Bible of individuals serving the Lord on their own (such as Elijah in 1 Kings 17–19 or Philip in Acts 8), the model of people co-laboring takes priority. This is most evident in the disciple-making and church-planting efforts of the apostolic church. In the Gospels we read that Jesus sent out the seventy-two in teams (Luke 10:1), and the first missionaries from Antioch were the team of Paul and Barnabas (Acts 13:2–3). In God’s economy, the missionary team is vital to the propagation of the gospel and the multiplication of disciples, leaders, and churches.
Resources abound on the topics of team formation and development, team leadership, and the strengths and limitations of teams. However, I want to focus on seven essential characteristics of church-planting team members, as seen in the life of Barnabas. Healthy manifestations of these practices should be present for each team member, regardless of their personal gifts.
A team member who demonstrates Barnabas’s characteristics is someone who.... Read More
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