Kings 5:13-18. There area number of places in scripture showing leaders commanding or directing others to complete jobs. See Genesis 44:1; 2 Samuel 18:5; Acts 27:43. The Bible offers examples of controlling—such as shepherd counting his sheep to be determine if any are missing. See Luke 15:4. And in the parable of the talents, the lord reviewed how his servant had used his resources. See Matthew 25:14-30. We should approach management in a biblical way. We pray for guidance when planning and organizing. We commit our plans to the Lord, not merely working for personal gain. We look to see what the Lord is doing, and join the Lord in that work. We are sensitive to the guidance of the Holy Spirit. As spiritual leaders, we manage and teach people, and people are more important than programs. So as we lead, we may modify programs or sacrifice short-run efficiency in order to accommodate people in the church. Of course, we avoid compromising scriptural principles in order to make people happy, but we focus on discipleship—training people in the ways of God. We want to show love—emphasizing rewards rather than punishment. We praise when praise is due. We avoid negative discipline unless it is necessary. Paul set an example by monitoring or controlling the progress of churches that he established. Paul spent time in each church, in order to disciple the believers. He appointed leaders to oversee them in his absence. He did not abandon them, but maintained contact by letter or by followup visits. He prayed for them. When churches were going astray, he sent correspondence to direct them back to the correct path.
