Written by Zach Cochran, vice president of operations for The Gospel Coalition
For many of us, our years preparing for ministry were seasons defined by depleted bank accounts and chronic exhaustion. During my time in seminary, I served as a youth pastor, coached high school basketball (despite not having played since middle school), and worked for a medical equipment repair company owned by one of our church’s elders.
I suspect that man’s decision to hire me was an act of generosity. It certainly wasn’t a strategic business move. But though I didn’t realize it then, God was using my time at that company to prepare me for future ministry. As I got into the weeds of the business’s operations, I learned to use spreadsheets to track finances, inventory, and warranties. Wanting the company to succeed, I started asking questions. I began to identify problems and felt a burgeoning desire to solve them. Eventually, I was trusted to hire staff and lead a team. This job I took simply to provide for my family equipped me with the skills I’d later use as an executive pastor—skills I’ve used throughout my life.
Making disciples is the Great Commission we’ve received from our Lord. Yet, in my experience, a local church’s mission engine often leaks oil when it comes to managing finances, facilities, systems, and people. I wrote recently about why these operational responsibilities matter. Healthy ministry requires healthy organization. I hope you’ll read it and catch this vision.
I’m still thankful for that job at the medical equipment company. It’s there I learned that management and organization aren’t just for secular fields; they’re essential for churches because they serve the mission.
—Zach
PS: Looking for more wisdom on church management and executive leadership? Register now to join me and other executive leaders for TGC’s new eight-session cohort, “Pastoring from the Second Chair: Wisdom for Associate and Executive Pastors.” The cohort begins on March 4.
