When pastors and church planters set out to establish churches, their intentions may be noble—driven by a desire to serve, to shepherd, to see communities transformed by the gospel. Yet even with the best motives, they often, without realizing it, begin to center the ministry around themselves. Their gifts become the standard for excellence. Their leadership style becomes the default model. Their vision becomes the guiding compass. This change might occur slowly or even silently, but it has far-reaching effects. The church becomes weak when its health depends on one person’s presence, charisma, or wisdom. Christ’s body was never intended to revolve on a single person’s character or viewpoint. We…