We long for loving relationships with God's people. We place great value on fellowship in Christian service. The Bible's word for a caring faith community is koinonia . When biblical leaders like the Apostle Paul sensed something had come between him and a brother, like Silas, or hurt church fellowship, like Corinth, it was viewed as a serious matter. Today's leaders want to get the job done, whatever their vision for some task, like church growth or community service.
Leaders live in the gap between vision and community.
The authentic pastor respects members of the congregation while performing a job or pursuing a worthwhile goal. Market-oriented church consultants press leaders to innovate and embrace change. A think-alike leader's temptation is to press too hard for some objective and evoke criticism in the process. We face the constant challenge of using properly our authority in leadership. Winning the task war and, at the same time, wounding congregants' spirits can damage fellowship.