Making the Main Things, the Main Things – Object Focused Ministry
In our journey to make the main things the main things, we now turn to a foundational concept that has shaped Boys’ Brigade ministry from the very beginning: an object-focused approach.
More than a statement, The Object of The Boys’ Brigade is a compass—guiding our decisions, shaping our programs, and reminding us why we serve. It’s easy to get caught up in the tools and traditions of BB, but without a clear focus on the Object, our ministry risks becoming busy rather than purposeful.
Object Focused Ministry
This second Ministry Priority—Object Focused Ministry—calls us back to intentionality. It urges every leader to align their efforts with the timeless mission of advancing Christ’s Kingdom among boys.
Last time, we explored Priority #1: A Movement of Worshippers, where we affirmed that the Lord must remain our first, ongoing, and final focus in all we do. With that foundation laid, we now turn to Priority #2.
With this foundation set, we turn to the second of these Ministry Priorities – Object Focused Ministry:
“Where there is no vision, the people perish.”
Proverbs 29:18a (KJV)
Sir William Alexander Smith didn’t just start a club—he launched a movement for boys aged 12 and up who had disengaged from Sunday School, church, and ultimately, God. To guide that movement, he crafted an Object that still stirs hearts today.
Every night, until he died, that William Smith turned up to 1st Glasgow, he was wanted to:
- advance Christ’s Kingdom amongst the Boys
- promote habits of Obedience, Reverence, Discipline (added later) and Self-Respect
- develop “true Christian men”
And he called every BB leader to pursue the same.
We often recite what’s in our Object, but how often do we reflect on what’s missing? The Object doesn’t mention Company nights, uniforms, drill, award schemes, camps, outdoor adventure, physical activity, structures, or even the Queen’s/King’s Badge. These tools serve a purpose, but they don’t define the mission.
A Call to be Purposeful
An object-focused mindset helps us lead with purpose, not just tradition. We align every badge, camp, and conversation with our mission. We shape boys into young men of character and faith—not by accident, but by design.
This priority keeps us grounded in what truly matters. It offers a filter for decisions and a compass for direction. Creativity and innovation are welcomed, but must be anchored in clarity. We must regularly ask: “Is what we’re doing helping to advance Christ’s Kingdom among boys?” If not, we must realign—or release it.
Reflection Question:
Do I align my leadership decisions and program choices with the BB Object, or have I become more focused on the tools than the mission?
JASON KNIGHT
President, The Boys’ Brigade Queensland