One of the ObeyGC2 values is that work have local ownership.
This is important in order that the work might have continuity, sustainability, and the capacity for scalability and reproductivity. Local people in every place need to “buy in” if the work is going to continue, grow and expand. Local resources must be maximized and developed. No project is going to prosper in the long term which depends on outside resources, whether it is people, money, or anything else.
This means that local people need to be involved from the beginning of the process. They need to be involved in the research phase, the planning phase, and the execution phase. Not just involved, but leading or at least co-leading. The church, if it exists, needs to be a key player from the beginning. If it doesn’t exist, planting a church should be one of the early goals. Community leaders in general should be involved and consulted (on the non-“spiritual” aspects) whether or not they are Christians.
Titus 1:5
5 The reason I left you in Crete was that you might straighten out what was left unfinished and appoint elders in every town, as I directed you.
Rom 13:1-5
13:1 Everyone must submit himself to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God. 2 Consequently, he who rebels against the authority is rebelling against what God has instituted, and those who do so will bring judgment on themselves. 3 For rulers hold no terror for those who do right, but for those who do wrong. Do you want to be free from fear of the one in authority? Then do what is right and he will commend you. 4 For he is God’s servant to do you good. But if you do wrong, be afraid, for he does not bear the sword for nothing. He is God’s servant, an agent of wrath to bring punishment on the wrongdoer. 5 Therefore, it is necessary to submit to the authorities, not only because of possible punishment but also because of conscience.
Titus 3:1-2
3:1 Remind the people to be subject to rulers and authorities, to be obedient, to be ready to do whatever is good, 2 to slander no one, to be peaceable and considerate, and to show true humility toward all men.
