In 2001, Jim Collins released the book 'Good To Great'. A research team analysed companies that excelled over a long period of time. Their research was aimed at discerning principles that other companies could learn from. It is a fascinating read.

But what was even more interesting is that one of the most significant groups to buy the book were churches and those engaged in the social sectors. Accordingly, Jim Collins released a supplement (aptly sub-titled: 'Why Business Thinking is Not the Answer') to convert their findings into something of a hypothesis that may be helpful for people like us.

Being a “hedgehog”

It is from here that 'Hedgehog Concept' comes.

What is the Hedgehog Concept?

Basically it is being very clear about how to produce the best long term results, and then exercising extreme discipline to stay relentlessly focussed on whatever it is that you have identified. The Hedgehog is slow and steady, focussing more on the long term goal than short term distractions - hence the name of the concept.

In a church setting (or any other social sector type organisation), Collins suggests the Hedgehog Concept would be determined by considering three factors:
1. What you are deeply passionate about.
2. What you can be the best in the world at.
3. What drives your resource engine.

I've been toying around with the idea that the welcoming and integration of new people could be our church's Hedgehog Concept.

Some have argued with me about this. 'Surely it must be Bible teaching.'

You'll be pleased to know that I agree that few things are more important than teaching the Bible, but in this analysis that is more like a core value or critical method. '

Others have said 'are you discounting prayer?' To be clear we need more prayer, not less. But at the same time we can't confuse ends and means.

The welcoming and integration of new people is a prime candidate to be the 'Hedgehog Concept' (well for my church - I have not thought about your context) because it fits in with each of the three factors above. We are deeply passionate about welcoming new people, as Jesus has welcomed us (or at least we ought to be). We can be very very good at it (by definition we all can't be the best in the world at it!). And that it drives our resource engine is not to be underestimated - more people serving and giving means you can in turn reach even more people.

The implications are huge. My highest priority ought to be the welcoming and integrating of new people, or at least to this I strive.

But let's back up: is the best Hedgehog Concept for churches the welcoming and integrating of new people? Or should it be something else?