Wisdom. Dedication. Leadership. Advisors. These are all terms commonly used to describe nonprofit board members. And all of these terms are applicable and relevant. But what about board members of the average nonprofit ministry? Is there one role that is more needed or desired over another? Or should other roles be added to the list?
To start, ministry board members play a unique role that contrasts with the secular nonprofit boards. Ministry board members are involved in spiritual work, that is, the mission of their organization takes its lead from the Lord and so all that comes under the heading of the organization is subject to the Lord’s leadership. This may sound overstated, but you might be surprised at how some board members of Christian organizations forget their spiritual roles.
Yes, there are common obligations for both secular and Christian boards. For example, board members have responsibility for the organization’s mission and strategic direction, for ensuring its fiscal health, for hiring and evaluating an executive director, for being an advocate of the organization, for making and monitoring policy, and for developing resources. In the Christian organization, let’s add to the list these items: ensuring the witness of the institution, promoting a Christian worldview, maintaining standards based in Scripture, and keeping the organization accountable to God.
Ministry board members have a double dose of responsibility. One thing is certain–continued success for the ministry depends on regular prayer and seeking the Lord’s direction above all else. Board members should not take this role too lightly. Spiritual direction is key and should drive all other decisions of the organization.
This spills over into developing support for the ministry. Board members must view fund-raising not as a transaction, but rather a chance to be involved in the transformation of the giver. When we understand that God owns it all and that we have a duty to be good stewards of all entrusted to us, it becomes exciting to be involved in the asking process. This is a direct invitation to lay up treasures in heaven, to have something credited in heaven to the giver’s account.
As ministry board members grab hold of the transformation process and realizes the significance of their roles, they will be better equipped to exercise faithful leadership for the organizations they serve.
