Lessons from the Methodist Reformation that Will Transform Any Organization

Everything You Need to KnowAbout Transforming Your OrganizationFix it or die. God calls the Body of Christ to be a team. Any organization is only as effective as its teams. In 1939, the Methodist Church reflected the society of that time and not the Body of Christ, a multiracial team working together for good (Thomas, 1992), which Paul described in 1 Corinthians 12:12-27 and Galatians 3:28. Paul said the church is many people from various backgrounds, races, and nationalities, both male and female. Nevertheless, we must work together. In 1939, the Methodist Church missed this portion of Paul's message; because they did, they created a great dilemma by forming a racial jurisdiction. The Methodist Church did not project a bright future for the Body of Christ, especially for African American members. This book examines the impact and results of the change management process that the Methodist Organization used to dismantle the racially structured jurisdiction called the Central Jurisdiction and extracts the organizational change lessons for today. One of the prime priorities in organizations worldwide is organizational change, yet studies have shown that 70% of planned change processes fail (Kotter, 1996; Hammer & Champy, 2006). This book shows you how to change any organization for the better. About the AuthorDR. DERRICK R. RHODES is a United Methodist Pastor and scholar in the field of ecclesial organizational leadership. He holds degrees from North Carolina Central University, Gammon Theological Seminary at the Interdenominational Theological Center, Drew University Theological School, and Regent University School of Business and Leadership. He is the author of the following books: If You Want God to Help You, If You God to Help You be at Peace, and Living a Successful Life Today.