Role-sending is the process by which the expectations of one or more persons are transmitted to a focal person or persons in order to elicit a particular set of behaviors. This article discusses role-sending in the church, especially the sending of roles from the pastor to the congregation. The need to be perfect (as a Christian) is a case in point of a sent role. Such an emphasis, however, is a contradiction to authentic spirituality. By complying with the expectations of perfection, church members become susceptible to fear, hypocrisy and legalism. It is argued that sent roles in the church should lead to wholeness, healthiness, and grearer freedom. This occurs when people come to terms with their imperfection and function responsibly within God's unconditional acceptance.
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