Mutual accountability

Theology of Governance

Accountability is a key foundation of good governance. It means that we report, explain and are answerable for the decisions made, actions taken and subsequent consequences.

It is essentially about accepting responsibility for what we decide and what we do – both individually and collectively.

Mutual accountability is a relational element that means we give ‘an account’ of ourselves and our work in a reciprocal way to one another. We hold each other accountable. When it works well, trust is built and people flourish.

Mutual accountability is at the heart of a culture of service for one another. It flows from a belief in the mutual interdependence and free self-sacrificial love of God as Father, Son and Spirit. It is demonstrated by the example of Jesus’ own service from which we derive our understanding of ministry (service) within The Salvation Army. We are to live in relational humility with each other, having the ‘same mind-set as Christ Jesus … by taking the very nature of a servant.’ (Philippians 2:5, 8) and we should speak the truth in love to each other. (Ephesians 4:15)6 The concept of ‘servant leader’ is forged with some challenges within a quasi-military movement with a hierarchical structure, but it can be facilitated through robust, intentional mutual accountability.

Each of us will give an account of ourselves to God (Romans 14:10-12) and we are also inextricably linked to other Christians, as we are all part of the one body. (1 Corinthians 12: 12-27) What happens to one part of the body, will affect the other parts. We are to hold one another to account (Matthew 18:15-17) and work for the good of all.

Our mutual accountability spans across many areas, such as family, leaders, followers, church (corps), community, government and our care of the environment. However, we should hold ourselves accountable, even when others do not require it of us.