EDITORIAL
Transformation | Derwin Gray
Church leaders, marinate on this: Culture is not what we say; it’s what we do. Culture is the embodied daily behaviors of individuals within an organization that empower the staff not just to survive but to thrive. A thriving staff culture leads to a thriving congregation.
At Transformation Church, we believe the behaviors that shape culture aren’t just good for the organization, they also transform the individuals within it to becoming “good” (Rom. 8:29). When church staffs collectively embrace a Christ-centered culture, it enhances the spiritual formation also. I’m going to use Transformation Church and the culture that we are continuously trying to build as a template for you to cultivate the healthy staff culture you desire.
Healthy staff cultures begin with a compelling, Christ-exalting vision. Our vision at Transformation Church is rooted in the very heart of Jesus. We exist to be a multiethnic, multigenerational, mission-shaped community that loves God completely (Upward), ourselves correctly (Inward), and our neighbors compassionately (Outward). This vision isn’t aspirational; it’s transformational. It’s a call to live out the gospel in real, tangible ways in the Holy Spirit’s power. This call is for the staff to model for the congregation. But here’s the reality: A compelling vision without the right culture is like a seed planted in barren soil. Without cultural behaviors that align with the vision, the seed will never take root, grow or bear fruit.
C.U.L.T.U.R.E.: The Foundation of Transformation
I created the acronym C.U.L.T.U.R.E. to clearly define seven behaviors that create a flourishing church staff culture:
1. Clear is Kind.
As Brené Brown reminds us, clarity is a form of kindness. Unclear communication breeds confusion and frustration. But when we communicate with clarity, we reflect God’s order and peace. Clarity builds trust and ensures that everyone is aligned.
2. Unconditional Love
Love isn’t optional—it’s essential. In the Holy Spirit’s power, we called to love one another sacrificially, as Christ loved us. Love means prioritizing relationships, offering grace, and committing to the flourishing of others (John 13:34).
3. Look to Build Each Other Up.
In a world that often tears people down, the church is called to be different. As Paul writes in Ephesians 4:11–16, we are to equip and encourage one another to grow into maturity in Christ. A culture of encouragement creates a healthy environment.
4. Truthful
We are committed to speaking the truth in love (Eph 4:15). This means being honest with ourselves and each other, even when it’s difficult. Truth builds trust, and trust is the bedrock of any healthy culture. The devil deals in the currency of lies (John 8:44). God’s people are truth-seekers and truth-tellers.
5. Uncommon Accountability
Accountability isn’t about control—it’s about integrity. Proverbs 10:9 remind us that those who walk in integrity walk securely. A church staff can be a community of integrity. Our gifting should always be chasing our integrity, not the other way around.
6. Resolve Conflict
Conflict is inevitable, but how we handle it defines our culture. Jesus gives us a clear blueprint for resolving conflict in Matthew 18:15–17. At Transformation Church, we want to face conflict head-on with compassion, humility and a commitment to reconciliation.
7. Excellence
Excellence honors God and inspires people. Whether we’re preaching a sermon, leading a meeting or serving the community, in the Spirit’s power we partner with Jesus to give the Father our best. Excellence, not perfection, is an act of worship. Colossians 3:23–24 reminds us that our work is ultimately for the Lord, not for human recognition.
The Kingdom Impact of Culture
Why does this matter? Because culture is the soil in which the gospel takes root. A healthy, Christ-centered culture empowers individuals to grow in their faith, equips leaders to serve with integrity, and enables the church to fulfill its mission.
Weak or toxic cultures breed division, mediocrity and stagnation. But when we commit to cultivating a healthy culture we unleash the power of the gospel to transform lives, families and communities.
A Commitment to Christlike Culture
Church leaders, the question isn’t whether your organization has a culture, it’s whether your culture reflects Christ. At Transformation Church we’ve made a covenant to embody, protect and multiply the culture of Jesus within our team. A healthy culture attracts the right people.
So, here’s my challenge to you: What kind of culture are you cultivating? Are your behaviors aligned with your vision? Are you creating an environment where people can thrive?
Together let’s build cultures that reflect the heart of Jesus, because when we do we won’t just lead organizations, we’ll lead movements that bring the kingdom of God to earth.