EC – “Vision” [Andy Stanley]
Posted by Jason Oesterling on May 7, 2008
Andy Stanley’s session on vision was classic Andy Stanley. Clear, concise, well-illustrated, well-communicated. For those who may be unfamiliar, Andy Stanley is the son of Charles Stanley, and is pastor of North Point Community Church in Alpharetta, GA. Here’s the summary:
Vision = a mental picture of what could be, fueled by a passion that it should be. It’s something you can’t get out of your head. As a leader communicating vision, you must realize that it has to be clear for people, otherwise they don’t know how to follow you. Accordingly, here’s 5 steps to making vision stick:
- state it simply. Memorable is portable. It can’t be complete (otherwise it’s too long to be effective). Examples: Bono’s One campaign – “making poverty history.” Obama’s presidential campaign – “change.” Hillary’s? McCain’s?
- cast it convincingly. Nehemiah 2 – define the problem, offer a solution, explain why and why now. If people don’t feel the problem, they won’t embrace the solution.
- repeat it regularly. Find the rythym of your organization, and talk vision at the high points.
- celebrate it systematically. celebrate the wins. Display personal examples of those who are living it out.
- embrace it personally and publicly.
On a personal note, Andy Stanley’s ministry has been formative for me in a couple of ways. His help on vision is one area, as well as the focus on keeping things simple at NPCC. Janeen and I were able to visit there several years ago to observe the children’s/family ministry in action. NPCC is definitely living it out.
I’d also recommend highly Andy’s books, particularly 7 Practices of Effective Ministry and Communicating for a Change.
