The pastor is key to the establishment of productive lay leadership. It is essential that his concepts, attitudes, and commitments be correct. Following are seven guidelines for the pastor wanting to develop the lay leadership in his church.

Commit yourself and your church to an unlimited growth of faith. Christ continually taught His disciples that there is no limit to what one can accomplish with the proper growth of faith. "Everything is possible to one who has faith" (Mark 9:23, NEB).

Recognize prospective leaders. The pastor must be able to recognize and appoint prospective leaders, men who will share in the ministry of finding other receptive people.

Delegate authority. If the pastor expects his lay leadership to develop, he must delegate both ministry and authority.

Teach, train, and qualify. The pastor rarely finds many who are already trained. However, his church is probably attended by several who can be trained to qualify.

Organize. Proper organization provides for a smooth flow of energies. It is a channel allowing useful direction of intents and purposes.

Set definite goals and count. Productive leaders set definite goals. They insure that an accurate reporting system be maintained, and do not shirk accountability.

Motivate. One of the most important responsibilities a pastor has is keeping his lay leadership continually motivated. Their faith needs constant stimulation, and their capacities full realization.

The above is condensed from a chapter in Dr. Hurston's book, Caught in the Web