Why are some people afraid to volunteer? What is so scary about serving the Lord? Maybe the problem is created more by the leadership than by the one being asked to serve. The solution is found in smaller proportions.
For example, in our backyard, we have a unique species called a worm snake. These are about the size of an earthworm, but are reptiles. They live in topsoil and eat things like termites. They never bite and are quite calm to hold. Our three young boys love to find a worm snake. From my understanding, a 15 foot Python could be just as gentle. But let me assure you, I ain’t getting near one if I can help it. It is big and it is scary. No thanks.
Why do some tasks in the church scare people away faster than a mammoth-sized snake? Some positions require a great amount of responsibility and consume a large portion of one’s time. Placing the wrong person in this position could be disastrous for the church and completely disheartening for the member. The risk is high and very unnecessary.
Church leaders have a responsibility to equip people for ministry. This means that throwing a new Christian or a new church member into a “big scary” position is rarely a good idea. Every ministry should have an entry level position, something that allows the member to “get their feet wet.” This should be an opportunity for a person to try out a ministry area and see if it is a good fit. There should be no pressure on the person to continue if this is not the right fit.
People should methodically graduate from one position to another of higher responsibility, as long as it is evident that they are serving with joy and effectiveness, using their spiritual gifts for the glory of God. For example, a person who may be a candidate for a Sunday School teaching position wouldbegin as a classroom substitute when the regular teacher is present. If all goes well and the person desires another opportunity, then he or she could becomes a classroom assistant, sharing the teaching responsibility. The potential new teacher could also substitute when the regular teacher is away. After a process of advanced training and evaluation, the person could be offered a class to teach (or start a new unit).
People have a natural fear of failure. Church leaders can calm the fears of members by offering opportunities that have a very low or no risk potential. After a “trial” period, the person and the leader should evaluate the experience and procede with a higher responsibility (if the first experience was positive) or look for another opportunity (if it was negative).
The bottom line is that volunteer ministry leadership is not easy. It requires a deep investment in people over a long period of time. It requires patience and discernment. When the effort is made, however, ministry becomes a blessing to everyone involved.
Read the previous posts in this series:
The Four Hurdles to Volunteer Ministry Overview
Who is “Called?”
Are Pastors Killing the Ministry?
The Next Article: “Blindfolding Ministry”
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Also you may want to view past topics on volunteer ministry by visiting the BiG IdEaS link.
Shepherding Well 