Essence of Organisational Structure in the Church

An organisational structure defines how activities such as task allocation, coordination and supervision are directed toward the achievement of organisational aims.

In Exodus 18: 13, we see Moses sit to judge the people from morning until evening until his father in law said to him “What is this thing that you are doing for the people? Why do you alone sit, and all the people stand before you from morning until evening?”

Naturally Moses replied its because the people needed him. Many church leaders are like Moses, who feel a sense of responsibility to their flock (and rightly so); they must be the one to attend to the prayers, needs of the people, etc.

His father in law rightly told him, he would not only wear himself out but also the people. His father in law admonished him that the work load was too much for him alone.

He gave him 2 sets of advice;

1. Teach them the statutes and the laws, and show them the way in which they must walk and the work they must do

2. He should appoint sets of leaders.

He then gave Moses the selection criteria for leader such as;

- Able men

- Men who fear God

- Men of truth

- Haters of covetousness

Levels of Authority

Level 1 - Rulers of Thousands

Level 2 - Rulers of Hundreds

Level 3 - Rulers of Fifties

Level 4 - Rulers of Tens

Only difficult, great matters, they shall bring to Moses, whilst they deal with smaller matters

Benefits

It will be easier for Moses

The Leaders will bear the burden with him

Moses will be able to endure and be more productive

The people shall get good result and go to their place in peace

Conclusion

Church leaders can learn from this counsel, to appoint and delegate authority to others to make them become more effective. Failure to do so leads to diminishing returns, the quality of what you are able to offer is a function of your capacity.

Structures can also be a pre requisite to growth. God is not an author of confusion, where there is disorder; he may not send His people. Good structure is a foundation and scripture says where the foundation be destroyed what can the righteous do.

If you still feel burdened by the workload, perhaps, your structure needs to be re-examined or you may have ineffective leaders.

At THC, we are happy to advice you on the most suitable structure for your Ministry.