Many Christians have been unnecessarily suspicious of and averse to modern management strategies and organizational techniques. Perhaps some of this stems from the church’s over-reliance on these things at times – especially in the church growth movement. But usually the hostility or disinterest flows from an over-spiritualized view of good works – as if they are only done in church or on Sundays. The rest of the week it’s just ordinary work, or “worldly” work, but certainly nothing to do with “good works.”
Other Christians seem to think that sermons are all they need to live for God’s glory in this world. They think that sermons or Christian books should just automatically produce good works. And they often look down on any helpful insights from non-Christians about how to live in a more efficient and productive way. That’s why I really appreciate what Matt Perman has been doing at his blog, What’s Best Next, for a number of years. He has been plugging away at persuading Christians how to do good works not just by listening to sermons, but by reading and studying leadership, organization, productivity and administration through the lens of Scripture. Here’s a great post that sums up his whole approach: Productivity is really about good works. And I’d also highly recommend this interview Matt gave to Christianity Today. There’s always the risk that a re-emphasis on good works in the Christian life, can end up separating the Christian from the source of his/her life, the Gospel of grace. However, from what I can see, Matt is walking the grace/works tightrope very skilfully. I’m eagerly anticipating his book on the subject next year and hope that God will use Matt’s research, insight, and writing gifts to stir up and incite His people to grace-works. And as we are on the subject, let me give you the 1-Step-Plan to Superproductivity. You won’t like it!-
fvz