Committee chairman and decisions
I am concerned with the leadership of our church council when it comes to decision making. I recently had a discussion with our board of education chairman and he stated that while he does serve as the board chairman, all decisions are made through him. He says that if the board has an idea that he personally disagrees with, he has no obligation to share it with the church council. Is this the right way to run a board? Why even have a board? I know some decisions need to be made quickly, but should there be parameters on what decisions are made solely by the chairman?
In one of the courses I teach, we examine the following leadership styles: dictatorial, authoritative, consultative and participative. While there can be instances where a church leader like a pastor needs to exhibit a dictatorial leadership style (for example, in the implementation of biblical doctrine and practice), such a regular leadership style is not compatible with the constitutions and by-laws of our congregations or biblical principles.
The chairman of a committee, like committee members, might have an opinion on a matter, but his opinion does not trump the opinions of others. The constitutions and by-laws of our congregations establish a democratic way of conducting business—often citing the use of Robert’s Rules of Order.
Biblical principles (Proverbs 27:5; Matthew 18:15-17; Ephesians 4:15; 2 Timothy 3:16-17) guide you to speak to that committee chairman about his actions before you speak to others. God grant you strength and wisdom. God bless your congregation with peace and unity.