Team Dynamics 

God on Monday
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For as in one body we have many members and not all the members have the same function, so we, who are many, are one body in Christ, and individually we are members one of another (Romans 12.4-5). 

Reflection 

This passage from Romans was written to encourage culturally diverse congregations in Rome to recognize each other’s unique contributions to the expansion of God’s kingdom. But its insight - that God desires both diversity and unity – can be applied to the healthy and effective functioning of teams.

In organizing a large event, I once led a team that included people from diverse professional and cultural backgrounds. The project experienced delays, and registrations were low. For two hours we held a problem-solving meeting, in which we discussed the root problems, debated potential solutions, navigated conflict, and planned the next steps. Our unity of purpose, combined with our diverse contributions, made the whole greater than the sum of our parts. We left the meeting with a positive and energized spirit. 

In contrast, I was part of another team that lacked unity of purpose and failed to value the unique contributions of its members. Trust eroded, leading to conflict and an inability to reach consensus on a plan. We were left feeling depleted, discouraged, and resentful. Ultimately, the team had to disband. It was disappointing that talented individuals had made less progress together than they could have done alone. 

The Book of Romans makes it clear that the gospel of Jesus provides the basis for the unity and diversity of the Kingdom of God. When we extrapolate this truth and apply it to the teams we are part of, the purpose of the work is the unifier, and the diverse gifting and identity of each team member is the way to achieve that purpose.   

Response

Consider the teams you belong to. Are some of them flourishing, while others struggle?  

• Do the struggling teams each have a unified purpose?
  • If so, what is it? If not, could this be because of conflict and hidden agendas?
  • How can you help bring unity of purpose to the team?      
• Is the role of each team member understood and valued?  
  • Do you value the role of others as much as you value your own role?
  • Is there something you can do to encourage the work of the least valued team member? 

Prayer

Lord, help us act as agents of unity in and through our work. May we value each person’s contribution to the team, and consider our own success less important than that of the team. Thank you that team dynamics can help us learn about your kingdom. Amen.

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God on Monday is produced in partnership with the Church of England. The reflections are based on the scriptural readings designated for the next Sunday in the Church's lectionary. You can sign up to Faith in Business here to receive each God on Monday instalment.    

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