A Transparency Test for Christian Leaders

Are you involved in a discipleship ministry where you mentor Christians who are newer in their faith? Perhaps you lead a Bible study, or teach an adult Sunday School class. Or maybe you meet one-on-one with a friend who has recently become a Christian. Maybe you're even a "professional" Christian such as a pastor.

In any of the above mentioned relationships, at times Christian leaders feel pressured to demonstrate perfection in every aspect of their lives including spiritual, family relationships, and even basic things such as the cleanliness level of their homes.

Thankfully, transparency in Christian circles is becoming more common. However, many Christians still struggle. How are you doing in the area of transparency with those you are leading?

Take this short quiz to determine the level of transparency you demonstrate with the person you are discipling (let's call her Carol).

You glance out the window and see Carol pulling into your driveway. You were not expecting her. Your house is a mess. You:

a. Open the door with a smile and invite her in.

b. Whine, "I wish you would call first before coming over."

c. Pull the shades and pretend you're not home.

When Carol tells you about a problem in her marriage, you:

a. Tell her how you and your spouse overcame a similar problem.

b. Mumble, "Well, marriage takes a lot of work," and change the subject.

c. Say, "I'm so sorry, but I just can't relate-Sugarbear and I never argue."

You've been teaching Carol about the importance of quiet times with the Lord, but this week you didn't have even one. You:

a. Admit it.

b. Blame it on Carol for taking up so much of your time.

c. Pull out some notes from last year's quiet time and pretend they are fresh.

Carol calls you at 2 a.m., jolting you out of a deep sleep. When she asks if she woke you, you:

a. Say, "Well, yes, but what can I do for you?"

b. Hang up on her.

c. Say, "No, of course not! I was up praying."

Carol would say you are:

a. Happily human.

b. Totally flaky.

c. Super spiritual.

Scoring: If you answered four or more questions with:

a. Way to go! You're presenting a balanced view of yourself to the person you're discipling.

b. You may need to read up on what the discipling relationship is all about.

c. You may be suffering from TDS (Transparency Deficiency Syndrome). Loosen up and let your disciple see the real you.