Methods and Power

Something I've been thinking about recently is the balance between engaging good ministry methods and the power of the Holy Spirit. There are two extremes. The first is an overdependence on techniques and methodology that leaves ministry as nothing more than a purely man-powered attempt at achieving eternal impact. The other extreme is an approach that devalues the use of the mind and creativity and using the Holy Spirit as a cover up for sloppiness. I think both are dangerous.

Ultimately it is only God's power that changes lives. True eternal impact is the result of God's power being released in our weakness. This however, does not negate the fact that God is honored by our diligence since we are called to love him with all of our mind and to be diligent to present ourselves to him as "workmen that need not be ashamed, correctly handling the word of truth."

I think the balance is found in the heart. Good ministry methods must serve the heart and the truth of the power of God in our lives, but they must never become a substitute for them. The moment our methodology is void of Spirit-dependence we have begun to do things in our own strength, which as said before, can ultimately accomplish nothing. Good ministry methods are a way of honoring the Lord by being responsible, yet they must be used with absolute Spirit-dependency.

The slickest methods, void of spiritual power is nothing but wheel spinning. However, God has given us minds to be stewarded well for his glory. He is not honored with sloppiness. When his eternal, life-transforming power connects with our weak yet heartfelt attempts to reach people, his power is released in a way that that glorifies him because we are not dependent on our methodology, but on his Spirit.

Any thoughts?