In a world that often feels chaotic, the quest for organization is more relevant than ever. But have you ever stopped to consider the organizational skills of Jesus Christ? While He walked this Earth, Jesus wasn’t just a spiritual leader; He was also a master organizer.
From His inner circle of twelve apostles to the broader group of seventy disciples and even the gathering of 120 followers, Jesus exemplified organizational prowess. Let’s delve into the biblical accounts to uncover how Jesus orchestrated His mission and what lessons we can draw from it today.
Jesus and the Twelve Apostles
Jesus didn’t randomly select His closest followers. According to Mark 3:13-19, He went up to a mountainside and called to Him those He wanted, and they came to Him. He appointed twelve that they might be with Him and that He might send them out to preach. This wasn’t a hasty decision; it was a calculated move to form a team that would carry on His work.
Just as Jesus carefully selected His team from diverse backgrounds—ranging from fishermen to tax collectors—so too can you be intentional in choosing a diverse group of individuals who bring different perspectives and strengths to the table.
Whether it’s in a work setting or a personal relationship, consider the strengths and weaknesses of those you invite into your inner circle. Make sure they align with your mission and values, and appreciate the value that diversity can bring to achieving your goals.
Jesus and the Feeding of the 5,000
One of the most telling examples of Jesus’ organizational skills is the feeding of the 5,000. This wasn’t just a miracle; it was a logistical feat. Jesus organized the crowd into groups of fifties and hundreds, making it easier to distribute the food (Mark 6:39-40). He also involved His disciples in the process, asking them to distribute the loaves and fishes after giving thanks (Matthew 14:19).
Before performing the miracle, Jesus assessed the available resources, asking His disciples what they had on hand (Matthew 14:17). After everyone had eaten, He instructed His disciples to gather the leftovers, ensuring nothing was wasted (John 6:12).
The feeding of the 5,000 teaches us the importance of planning and resource management. Before diving into a project or initiative, assess your available resources and strategize how best to utilize them. Don’t forget to involve your team in the process, as Jesus did with His disciples, to ensure a more effective and inclusive approach.
Jesus and the Seventy Disciples
Beyond the twelve apostles, Jesus organized another layer of discipleship. In Luke 10:1-24, He appointed seventy others and sent them two by two ahead of Him to every town and place where He was about to go. He gave them specific instructions, from what to carry to how to bless a house. This wasn’t random; it was a well-thought-out strategy for spreading His message.
Jesus’ delegation to the seventy disciples shows the value of extending your influence and responsibilities beyond your immediate circle. If you’re in a leadership position, consider how you can empower others to carry out tasks and spread your message. Provide clear instructions and expectations, just as Jesus did.
Jesus and the 120 Followers
After Jesus’ ascension, 120 of His followers gathered in an upper room in Jerusalem, as described in Acts 1:15. This group was organized for prayer and decision-making. They even selected Matthias to replace Judas, following a process that involved nominations and casting lots (Acts 1:23-26). This shows that even in His physical absence, the organizational structure Jesus put in place continued to function effectively.
The gathering of the 120 followers in the upper room illustrates the importance of community and collective decision-making. In your own life, don’t underestimate the power of a supportive community, whether it’s in a professional or personal setting. Make decisions collectively when possible, valuing the input of each member.
Jesus and Resource Management
Jesus was not just about spiritual matters; He also had an eye for practicalities. Judas Iscariot, one of the twelve, was given the responsibility of managing the money bag (John 12:6). Though Judas later betrayed Him, the fact that Jesus had someone responsible for finances indicates a level of organization often overlooked.
Jesus’ decision to have Judas manage the money bag underscores the importance of organization in every aspect of life, including financial management. Whether you’re leading a community group, a business, or even managing your household, don’t neglect the practical aspects like finances. Assign roles and responsibilities clearly, and ensure there’s accountability in how resources are managed.
Lessons for Today
Jesus’ organizational skills weren’t just for His time; they are timeless principles we can apply today. Some Christian leaders argue that organizational needs are secondary, advocating for a sole reliance on divine guidance. However, Jesus’ example challenges this notion, showing us that it’s possible to be both spiritually attuned and practically organized.
Whether you’re leading a team, managing a project, or simply trying to bring order to your life, these biblical examples offer a roadmap for effective organization that harmonizes divine reliance with earthly planning.
Conclusion
Jesus Christ was more than a spiritual leader; He was a master organizer who laid down principles that have stood the test of time. As you navigate the complexities of modern life, ask yourself: How can I apply the organizational wisdom of Jesus in my own life today?