If your church doesn't have clear expectations for members, for participants and/or for leaders, your church is missing out on boosting its faithfulness and fruitfulness.

1. Clarifying expectations helps get everyone on the same page. People bring different expectations with them to church (and just about every other context as well). Part of what differentiates an intentional disciplemaking church from a church on autopilot is how clear and integrated every aspect of community life is with the mission of forming world-changing disciples. John Wesley started a movement marked by his clear expectations for individuals, leaders and groups.

2. Clarifying expectations is required for creating a positive accountability culture. Without clear expectations, holding one another mutually accountable for creating a vibrant community isn't possible. Here's an example of leadership expectations from the Harvest Church that includes questions for each expectation. By regularly checking in on leaders with these questions that are linked to expectations, alignment and positive accountability become a part of shared life.

3. Clarifying expectations enables healthy transparency. It is much easier to check in with someone if you have already agreed on shared expectations but it won't be helpful unless you have built enough of a relationship with him/her so that your check-in feels like an act of love and caring instead of a performance review. Some of the best job descriptions are set up so that the person doing the job is clear about their key areas of responsibility while being given freedom to set goals that are motivating and relevant. Click here for an example of a job description that can be used for performance review.


4. Clarifying expectations can make it easier for people to find their place and grow in ministry. Many times we focus on filling committee slots instead of focusing on helping people hear and respond to God's call. What if you expected people who come into your church's orbit to use their talents and gifts as a part of the Body of Christ?

Does your church have clear expectations for members? For those in leadership? If so, we'd love to see examples of how you are making those known and supporting them being lived out. If not, what is your next step to begin clarifying expectations?