Baptist Associations of the Future - 4

Another distinction of Associations of the future is their flexible design.  Former paradigms of thinking included certain commonly accepted structures.  Such structures were appropriate for their time.  The modern environment in which Associations find themselves is quite different than with former generations.  Today’s Association must deal with situations, which arise out of multi-cultural, multi-linguistic, multi-religious and multi-racial contexts.  The world is at our doorstep like never before.  Associations must be willing to change any structure, which does not allow for continual growth.  Anytime an organization’s configuration becomes inflexible, the organization will become less effective and efficient.  Structures should never hinder the growth and fulfillment of an organization’s purpose.  The fulfillment of purpose is primary and a flexible organizational design helps accomplish the purpose for which Associations exist.  Flexibility is a characteristic of future Associations.  Associational frameworks should be pliable to assist, encourage and resource churches to meet the changing challenges of various ministry contexts.  Such adjustable designs enable the Association of the future to better support churches to fulfill their unique expression of Great Commission efforts.  The Association’s fulfillment of the mutually held purpose statements, core values and priorities must be primary.  Structure or design serves purpose, core values and priorities.  Associations of the future will change any configuration, which does not promote growth and vision fulfillment. 

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