Justyn continued our series on Spiritual Gifts looking at the gift of Administration.
To view Justyn's slides (in PDF format), click here.
Gift of Administration - 1 Cor 12:28-31
The gift is included in an list alongside apostles, prophets, evangelists, and miracles. It’s there for a purpose. The passage clearly shows that it is a spiritual gift, therefore it is given by and empowered by the Holy Spirit. The same Holy Spirit who heals, saves and delivers! We need to see this gift as of equal value as all the gifts and not separate into a ‘secular vs spiritual’ mindset.
The word Administration in greek is Kubernesis meaning ‘to steer, or rule or govern’. it refers to a ships captain or master and is about guiding or directing the ship towards a goal. Administrators are often ‘jack of all trades’ and can see things through the lenses of others as they steer the whole of the ship forward. They are broad and see a big picture.
There are plenty of administrators in the bible - God (the great architect who created and sustains all things), Moses, Daniel, Solomon and Stephen to name a few.
Some important points
• Faith - key for any administrator as we need to hear and believe God as we steer the ship.
• Spontaneous vs Planned - planning is vital and is not less spiritual than spontaneity. In creation God made everything according to his plan and order. Imagine if the fish had been made before the water!
• Flexible Structures - administration is about creating flexible wineskins/structures that serve the wine/product/service of the organisation. They are to sustain and bring life, not kill it. Inflexibility and focus on the structure, not on the spirit of the organisation creates bureaucracy and ultimate death.
• He wastes nothing - God works all things for good. He doesn’t waste our, or others mistakes, they are all learning opportunities.
• Handling Tension - nothing is perfect, but when tensions arise we need faith to see that the tension creates energy, and that energy should be used to bring the breakthrough needed.
Questions
1. We are called to ask for gifts, so it this is something we can, and should ask God for, even in a small measure!
2. Do you identify having the gift of administration?
3. Do you prefer spontaneity or planning? How do you feel about people to work the oppose way? How can we honour our differences?
4. In your work place, does the structure hind or help the life of the organisation? Can you bring something of the kingdom of God in that influence new life? How you manage, encourage and relate to others has a huge impact.
