Learning From A Failed Leadership Decision

We have had an eventful week in Christianity! I know that I am a small fish in a big sea, and my thoughts are not widely read, but they have been swimming in my mind over the past few days and I hope they can be an encouragement to you.

One week ago, World Vision US, adopted a policy that allowed legally married same sex couples to be employed by their ministry. Not surprisingly, the LGBT community cheered, some denominations (mostly those who hold a very loose interpretation of scripture, or do not hold it to be authoritative) also cheered. At the same time most of evangelical supporters of WV saw it for what it was, an abandoning of Scripture. This decision really didn't surprise me, I figured at some point, some board would go this route, I just didn't know who. WV was the first to test the waters. But it isn't the decision that I want to really focus on, they reversed course just 24-48 hours later, I want to look at the statements, process, and how that applies to us.

First, let’s look at part of the statement as they introduced what they were about to do. Notice how they want to know that they have a board full of wise people in high places and they have spent a great deal of time praying over this issue.

“By way of background, our board of directors is recognized as one of the leaders among Christian organizations in the U.S. It includes deeply spiritual and wise believers, among them several pastors, a seminary president, and a professor of theology. Since this policy change involves the sensitive issue of human sexuality, the board spent several years praying about and discussing this issue”

Second, they want to be sure that you know they aren't compromising:

“I want to reassure you that we are not sliding down some slippery slope of compromise, nor are we diminishing the authority of Scripture in our work. We have always affirmed traditional marriage as a God-ordained institution. Nothing in our work around the world with children and families will change. We are the same World Vision you have always believed in.”

Third, this is a quote from the recanting of the new position back to the old one:

“We are brokenhearted over the pain and confusion we have caused many of our friends, who saw this decision as a reversal of our strong commitment to Biblical authority. We ask that you understand that this was never the board's intent. We are asking for your continued support. We commit to you that we will continue to listen to the wise counsel of Christian brothers and sisters, and we will reach out to key partners in the weeks ahead.”

Here is where I think we can learn from WV. 

First, wisdom doesn't come from having a board of really important people. 

Second, the will of God never violates the Word of God (spend more time reading the Word). 

Third, just because someone says they are not compromising doesn't they aren't. 

Fourth, if you change, be big enough to admit it. 

Fifth, realize when you abandon Scripture, the true church will be offended. 

Sixth, realize that you can’t please the world, you were created to please God, so do that instead!