Fifth, understanding and hearing the voice of God and the presence of the Holy Spirit is misplaced. When denominations believe the voice of God and the presence of the Holy Spirit are greater in denominational headquarters than they are at the grassroots level, they lessen the power and impact of the Triune God throughout their movement.
Sixth, when denominational headquarters does not understand the difference between a strategic framework and a strategy, it may be committing suicide. A strategic framework is what is needed at denominational headquarters, and even in many middle judicatories. Specific contextual strategies are what emerge at the grassroots level through individual congregations and networks of congregations.
Seventh, when denominations regularly restructure, their focus is usually on rearranging the chairs on the Titanic. The primary outcome of denominational restructuring is often setting that denomination up to restructure again within five years. Even when there are attempts at broad-based ownership among congregational leaders for restructuring efforts, the focus is still on managing the past rather than leading into the future.
It is suicide. It is slow. It is sure. Many denominations seem unable to stop themselves, and it is devastating.
