Rural Think Tank : Episode 4 – A “game changing” shift in rural ministry practice
Are You the Quarterback or the Coach?
Most pastors see themselves as the quarterback. They call the plays. They execute the strategy. They are the ones who do the ministry.
But what if the pastor’s primary role is not to be the quarterback? What if it is to be the coach?
The Difference
A quarterback executes. A coach equips. A quarterback is on the field. A coach is on the sideline.
Greg Stier, founder of Dare2Share, says the key is to “tap into that primal root of eternity in the soul of a teenager, and turn it toward Christ and sharing Christ.” When young people are equipped and empowered, they become the most effective evangelists in their communities.
Paul told the Ephesians that God gave leaders “to equip the saints for the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ” (Ephesians 4:11-12). The saints — the congregation — are the ones who do the ministry. The pastor’s job is to equip them.
Why This Shift Matters in Rural Ministry
In rural churches, the pastor is often the only staff member. The pastor does everything. And eventually, the pastor burns out.
The shift from quarterback to coach changes everything. Instead of trying to do everything yourself, you equip others to do it. One pastor can only do so much. But a pastor who equips ten others can accomplish ten times more.
How to Make the Shift
Identify the gifts in your congregation. Give them opportunities to use their gifts. Provide training and support. Get out of the way. And celebrate their successes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What if no one in my congregation wants to serve?
Start small. Ask one person to help with one thing. Most people want to serve — they just need to be asked.
How do I equip people who have no training?
Start with what they have. Build on their strengths. And provide resources to help them grow.
What if someone makes a mistake?
That is how people learn. Correct gently. Encourage them to try again.
How do I let go of control?
Start with small things. Delegate one task. Then another. The ministry is God’s, not yours.
Where can I find resources for equipping my congregation?
MinistryPlace.net offers free and low-cost resources for small-church ministry.
Brent Lacy has spent over 25 years in small-town and rural ministry. He has learned that equipping others is the path to multiplication.
Rural ministry is different. Your resources should be too.
MinistryPlace.net exists to serve small and rural church leaders with free and low-cost resources — curriculum, toolkits, and practical guides that help you build God’s kingdom in your community without the big-church budget.