The Biotic Principle of Interdependence

In my last article, I introduced the six biotic principles as articulated by Christian Schwarz in his book Natural Church Development.  These six biotic principles help us with our ministry thought process.  As I stated in the previous article, the eight quality characteristics tell us what a healthy church does; the six biotic principles tell how a healthy church thinks.

The first of the biotic principles we will consider is interdependence.  According to Schwarz, “The biotic principle of interdependence states that the way the individual parts are integrated into a whole system is more important than the parts themselves.”   This principle informs us that the eight quality characteristics are mutually dependent upon each other.  One cannot positively or negatively affect one of the eight characteristics without affecting the others.  For example, working on the quality of gift-oriented ministry will impact your structures making it necessary to build in opportunities for these gifts to operate.  New leaders must be empowered to accommodate the new structures. 

People serving according to their giftedness tend to be happier and get along better with others thus loving relationships are increased.  Individuals serving according to their gifts serve out of love and joy rather than obligation; therefore, their passionate spirituality increases. Worship becomes more significant when people serve according to their gifts which in turn enhances their sense of connection with God.  When people serve according to their gifts, the natural result is greater outreach.  More small groups will be needed to accommodate the new believers resulting in the need for more leaders, and the cycle of health and growth continues.

As one can see in the above examples, it is essential that we consider the principle of interdependence as we plan our activities and programs.  There is no doubt that each area of the church has an impact upon the others. When considering changes and/or additions, we must evaluate how this plan or program will affect the other areas of the church and what will be needed to make the transitional changes a positive experience for all.