In last month’s newsletter we talked about the reality of obstacles that hinder congregational redevelopment.  This month, I want to take a moment to more clearly define what is meant by the term “coaching.” 

By using this term, I am referring to “a collaborative relationship which forwards action or deepens understanding, based on trust and integrity.”  In this sense, coaching “focuses on the goals, development and dreams of the congregation being coached [CBC], with specific expectations for growth.”  Successful coaching, therefore, is “a mutual conversation that follows a predictable process and leads to superior performance, commitment to sustained improvement, and positive relationships.” (1)   

According to the International Coach Federation, “professional coaching is an ongoing partnership that helps clients produce fulfilling results in their personal and professional lives. Through the process of coaching, clients deepen their learning, improve their performance, and enhance their quality of life.” (2)  

The most notable model of this coaching process is found in Jesus Christ.  However, we only have 40 days recorded about Jesus’ coaching of the twelve.  Still, an in-depth study of the Bible reveals that a coaching model was not only a part of the New Testament, but coaching skills and other elements were prevalent throughout the Old Testament as well.  Hence, the content for a Christian coaching program had already been written several thousand years ago. (3)  Accordingly, I believe that the Christian coaching model for congregational redevelopment is a must for the 21^st century church in a post-modern culture.

The Christian coach assumes untapped potential in every congregation and insists that it be discovered and developed.  The Bible gives some basic tenants on which a Christian coach builds his coaching.  First, the coach enters into each coaching opportunity with an understanding of Psalm 139:14-16 and John 1:12-13 which say we are all wonderfully made children of the Creator.  The Bible gives a Christian coach incredible hope to share with the congregation. Genesis 1:28-30 also is foundational in the coaching process; God has given the congregation dominion over all the earth.  From the very onset of the coaching relationship the congregation needs to understand and be reminded of Jeremiah 29:11-13 that God knows the plan for that congregation, and according to Ephesians 1:18-23, 3:16-21 His hope, riches, and power are at their disposal.  The coach needs to continually bring the congregation to Acts 1:8 and coach the congregation in using the power of the Holy Spirit.

After looking at this biblical foundation it becomes more apparent that biblical coaching is about giving support, inspiring, challenging, modeling trust and integrity, facilitating growth and change, and partnering for success.  The goal of coaching is the development, growth and success of the CBC.  Coaching is supportive, respectful, encouraging, curious, and positive.  Coaching is about positive movement.  It is important that the coach sets the foundation of what can be expected from him and what he expects from the church before coaching begins.