The Joys of a Multi-Author Blog

Before I begin to give what the title suggests, one clarification must be given. This post should not be interpreted as a slam on single-author blogs or be read as if there is a sense of superiority seeking to seep through these words. After all, almost all of my favorite blogs are written by one person, and I marvel at their creativity and productivity. And the best of these, if you really think about it, have a multi-author quality to them anyway as they link to other sites, interact with fellow bloggers, or invite guest columnists.  Like a single rose or a bouquet, both types of blogs can have their own beauty. 

Here, then, are seven joys I experience as part of being on this blog with others. 

Standing together.  Though each of the writers here is his own man or woman, with a unique personality and approach to ministry and life, on the big, confessional matters we stand shoulder-to-shoulder.  It is strengthening to share the same convictions with brothers and sisters in the Lord as we address the various issues of the day. 

Relieving the pressure. I realized long ago that my well, unlike others who are more disciplined and creative, could not fill up fast enough to be a daily blogger. Last year we finally reached the goal of having daily weekday posts after some time of assembling a team and organizing the schedule well enough to able to do so.   Knowing others have responsibilities for certain days of the week causes me to relax and enjoy the writing process when it is my turn. 

Enjoying mutual edification. How edifying it is to read posts from others on the blog who are partners in gospel ministry and be challenged or encouraged by what they write.  The edification also works out very practically at times. We give each other editing powers, so one brother can go to another's post and slip in the missing punctuation mark or correct the misspelled word he sees! 

Providing behind-the-scenes counsel. A number of times one of us will go to one or two others and seek advice on the wording, the theology, or the spirit of a potential post.  Yes, we have nixed a few, but generally offer a few suggestions. Receiving counsel in this way encourages growth in humility and wisdom. 

Rejoicing in others' success. When one of the other GenRef Gents receives a strong response on his post or I hear of someone sharing how insightful a female author’s article was, I have found that typical, sinful jealousy has turned more and more into truly thanking the Lord for the gifts of my brothers and sisters. Like being on a basketball team, blogging with others helps me think more corporately than individually. 

Encouraging creativity. When working on a project with others, the different perspectives each person brings can stir up everyone's creative juices. I have found myself thinking about life, relationships, ministry, and writing in fresh ways because of what I read and discuss with these partners.  

Maintaining the proper spirit. As stated on numerous occasions on this blog, we are seeking to be gentle in our spirit and pastoral in our theology while being wide-ranging in our focus.  Having others on the blog who share that desire helps keep us oriented in that direction. 

Behold, how good and pleasant it is when brothers dwell in unity! (Ps. 133:1).