A classmate of mine recently made mention of something that I find fascinating. She referred to how Hindu scriptures take a holistic view of the human experience, which can also be found in many other of the world’s religions, particularly in eastern religions and some non-theism religions of the new-age. A common theme is that humans are a part of a larger continuum that includes people, nature, the spiritual realm, and the universe itself. What is fascinating is that these belief systems seem to have figured out the concept of a living system (interconnected) far better than many who practice Christianity, which scripturally authenticates living systems in the form of the body of Christ. Each person who calls Christ Lord is a part of the body with very specific individual purposes, yet absolutely interdependent upon every other person. This is evidenced in books in the Bible such as Ephesians, 1 Corinthians, and Romans, which states, “For as one body we have many members, and the members do not all have the same function, so we, though many are one body in Christ, and individually members one of another” (Romans 12:4-5, English Standard Version).
So, why do so many Christians and their churches struggle with interdependence? I posit that it is because Christianity, particularly in its western form, has been overly influenced by the cultures of the western countries, which favor independence and competition over relationships and group-identity. Even more so, Americans tend to pride themselves in their ability to independently succeed on their own terms. Many successful leaders will even claim the label of being “self-made.” Perhaps American Christians could learn a lot from other religions that value collective effort, creative collaboration, lessened competition, and the ability to find strength in the comfort and security of the group, or in biblical terms, the body. Perhaps leaders, Christian or not should do the same.
As you lead today, remember that your organization will be strongest when it is the most tightly interconnected. Every person is important, every position valuable, and all work is honorable. Dump the hierarchy and go for a unified team effort.
Lead well.