Introduction

Community involvement in decision-making is a principle that finds its roots in the biblical narrative, where collective discernment and shared responsibility are often highlighted. The Bible provides numerous examples of how communities, under the guidance of God, participated in making decisions that affected their collective lives. This entry explores the biblical basis for community involvement in decision-making, emphasizing the importance of unity, wisdom, and divine guidance.

Old Testament Examples

In the Old Testament, the concept of community involvement is evident in the governance and decision-making processes of the Israelites. One of the earliest examples is found in the book of Exodus, where Moses, overwhelmed by the burden of leadership, is advised by his father-in-law Jethro to appoint capable men to help judge the people. Exodus 18:21 states, "Furthermore, select capable men from among the people—God-fearing, trustworthy men who hate dishonest gain. Appoint them over the people as leaders of thousands, hundreds, fifties, and tens."

The appointment of leaders from among the people illustrates the importance of shared responsibility and the involvement of the community in governance. This model of leadership not only distributed the workload but also ensured that decisions were made with the input and consent of the community.

Another significant example is found in the book of Joshua, where the Israelites are called to renew their covenant with God. Joshua 24:1 records, "Then Joshua assembled all the tribes of Israel at Shechem. He summoned the elders, leaders, judges, and officials of Israel, and they presented themselves before God." Here, the gathering of the entire community to affirm their commitment to God underscores the collective nature of decision-making in matters of faith and obedience.

New Testament Principles

In the New Testament, the early church provides a model for community involvement in decision-making. The book of Acts records several instances where the early Christians gathered to make important decisions. One notable example is the selection of Matthias to replace Judas Iscariot as an apostle. Acts 1:15-26 describes how the disciples, numbering about 120, prayed and cast lots to determine God's will, demonstrating a communal approach to decision-making.

The Jerusalem Council, as described in Acts 15, is another key example. Faced with the question of whether Gentile converts should be required to follow Jewish law, the apostles and elders gathered to discuss the matter. Acts 15:6 states, "So the apostles and elders met to look into this matter." The decision reached was communicated to the broader church, reflecting a process that involved discussion, debate, and consensus.

Biblical Principles for Community Involvement

Several biblical principles underpin the concept of community involvement in decision-making:

1. Unity and Harmony: The Bible emphasizes the importance of unity within the community. Psalm 133:1 declares, "How good and pleasant it is when brothers live together in harmony!" Decisions made in unity reflect the collective wisdom and discernment of the community.

2. Wisdom and Counsel: Proverbs 11:14 states, "For lack of guidance, a nation falls, but with many counselors comes deliverance." Seeking counsel and involving the community in decision-making ensures that diverse perspectives are considered, leading to more informed and balanced outcomes.

3. Prayer and Divine Guidance: The early church's reliance on prayer in decision-making, as seen in Acts 1:24 , "And they prayed, 'Lord, You know everyone's heart. Show us which of these two You have chosen,'" highlights the necessity of seeking God's guidance in communal decisions.

4. Accountability and Responsibility: Community involvement fosters accountability, as decisions are made transparently and with the input of those affected. This principle is evident in the shared leadership model established by Moses in Exodus 18.

Conclusion

The biblical narrative provides a rich tapestry of examples and principles that underscore the importance of community involvement in decision-making. From the governance of ancient Israel to the practices of the early church, the Bible advocates for a collective approach that values unity, wisdom, and divine guidance.