Three Simple yet profound ways to Build influence
Image by Sammy-Sander from Pixabay
Share via:
A leader’s approach makes a big difference in how people respond.
I recently reread Paul’s first letter to the Thessalonians – a young church under duress, feeling stressed, in need of instruction – and it struck me that his approach differs from most leadership I have experienced.
I would respond quite positively to Paul’s approach if he, as my leader, needed to address some issues with me.
The Purpose of the Letter
Paul only stayed a couple of weeks when the church was first established and hadn’t been back to visit. Although he longed to see the church again, he had been hindered from doing so. At one point he sent Timothy. But now he writes directly to them.
He wanted to encourage this young church. Paul greatly desired to strengthen and encourage them, especially considering the difficulties and persecution they were experiencing.
Now, to his unique approach.
First, he overtly and repeatedly expresses affection for them.
Paul gushes over them.
He makes overt expressions of love for them. He tells them how he could hardly stand not seeing them and his longing for them.
For example, while encouraging them to love one another, he mentions his own overflowing love for them:
“And may the Lord cause you to increase and excel and overflow in love for one another, and for all people, just as we also do for you;”
He also points out and affirms positives and strengths.
“For you, brothers and sisters, became imitators of the churches of God in Christ Jesus that are in Judea, for you also endured the same sufferings at the hands of your own countrymen, even as they did…”
Second, he approaches them as equals.
In humility, he appeals to them as ‘brethren’. No assertion of apostolic authority is utilized here.
One example:
“...But we entreat you, brethren, that you abound more…”
That may sound simple but humility matters.
Third, he did not leave important things unsaid.
While approaching them as equals and expressing great affection, he did not as many are tempted, leave important things unsaid.
Here’s an example. Commentators suggest that some believers had stopped working in expectation of the Lord’s immediate return.
Paul tells them:
“Make it your ambition to lead a quiet life and attend to your own business and work with your hands, just as we instructed you.”
Paul then reviews the details of a correct understanding of the Lord’s return. More generally he urges them to increase in love and to walk in sanctification and holiness.
Even then, he sandwiches such exhortations between affirmations and expressions of affection.
What About You?
Does Paul’s approach to his young followers differ from how most leaders have approached you? Have you experienced this kind of loving and affirming leadership?
What about your own approach to inexperienced Christians? Or members who are discouraged? Or Christians who seem to be going down some kind of doctrinal rabbit hole?
To what extent do you embrace those folks with affection and affirmation, approach them as equals, yet confront the hard truths that must be stated?
Get your copy today!