equip the Church

In the bustling world of Christian publishing, it’s easy to get caught up in the competitive mindset. We often find ourselves striving to outdo others, seeking recognition and success for our own endeavors. Yet, as a Kenyan proverb wisely puts it, “If you want to go fast, go alone, but if you want to go far, go together.”

This quote, though seemingly cliché, holds profound truth, especially in the context of Christian ministry. We must acknowledge the temptation to prioritize our own interests and achievements over collaboration with others who may think differently or even challenge our perspectives.

The pervasive idol of “me and mine” can infiltrate not only our personal ambitions but also our organizational cultures. We may hesitate to work alongside others, fearing that it will diminish our reputation or sideline our ministry’s success. The fear of appearing weak or unnecessary often prevents us from embracing the power of collective effort.

But as Christian publishers, we are called to embody a different mindset—one rooted in the values of God’s kingdom rather than the world’s standards. Our mission is not to elevate our own names or organizations but to faithfully steward the opportunities and resources entrusted to us for the glory of God.

Scripture reminds us of the fleeting nature of life and the importance of making our minutes count for something significant. We are called to redeem the time, to be trustworthy stewards of God’s grace, and to labor not in vain but for the Lord’s purposes.

In his book The Infinite Game, author Simon Sinek contrasts finite and infinite mindsets in business, highlighting the danger of approaching our work with short-term thinking and a focus on beating our competitors. While finite games demand immediate victories, infinite games like Christian publishing require a long-term perspective, cooperation, and a commitment to staying in the game rather than winning.

As we navigate the infinite game of Christian publishing, we must remember that our ultimate goal is not personal acclaim or organizational greatness but the proclamation of God’s wisdom through His Church. We are called to serve the Church, contributing our unique gifts and perspectives to the larger canvas of redemptive history.

Just as Robert Mondavi envisioned a thriving wine region in Napa Valley beyond the boundaries of his own vineyard, we must aspire to cultivate ecosystems of collaboration and mutual success in our ministry contexts. Rather than viewing others as competitors, we should see them as allies in advancing the cause of Christ.

However, we must also guard against the pitfalls of pride, greed, mistrust, and vengeance that threaten to derail our collaborative efforts. Our allegiance should extend beyond the logos on our business cards to our identity as brothers and sisters in Christ, united in our eternal pursuit of glorifying God and enjoying Him forever.

In conclusion, let us heed the wisdom of the Kenyan pastor’s words and embrace collaboration as the path to lasting impact in Christian publishing. By working together, we can go farther than we ever could alone, magnifying the manifold wisdom of God for the sake of His kingdom.