Healthy churches need healthy teams. That is true of staff teams, councils, ministry teams, and just about every other group of people trying to serve Jesus together. Over the next several weeks, I want to …
Living in the Shadow of Idealization
EDITOR’S NOTE: Last week, I wrote about the leadership lessons I learned in the Rockies. One of the people I learn from there is Dr. Ron Nydam, a former professor and current mentor of mine. …
Leadership Lessons: It’s All About The Climb
The busy fall season is suddenly upon us, but I hope you were able to take some time away for quiet reflection during the slower summer months. I always take a study leave retreat in …
What to do when resources diminish
One of the challenges created by the Coronavirus is the loss of anticipated income for ministry and mission. A recent survey conducted by Vibrant Congregations and the Center for Church Renewal discovered that three quarters …
How to increase you ministry impact
During Covid-19 renewal leaders are attempting to increase ministry impact for every Kingdom investment being made. During these times, as in all times, a helpful guiding principle is “the sharper the focus the greater the …
Addressing sporadic attendance in church
Most churches are struggling with sporadic attendance. Recent studies suggest the majority of self-identified church goers attend Sunday worship once every 4-5 weeks. The downsides of uneven attendance are many. For example, consistent instruction is …
Why Church?
I had a conversation after church on Sunday with a close friend and one of our most faithful attendees. We were talking about his spiritual growth over the past few years, which has been significant. …
The Change Your Church May Be Avoiding
Many churches know something needs to change. They can feel it. Attendance patterns have shifted. Volunteers are harder to find. Outreach feels more difficult. Younger generations seem less connected. The surrounding culture has changed. The …
Programs Are Not The Same As Discipleship
As church leaders, we long for people to grow in Christ. We want children to know Jesus. We want adults to mature in faith. We want leaders to lead like Jesus. We want worship, small groups, …
Is Your Church Strong Inside but Stuck Outside?
“What’s happening in churches?” That is a question I often hear from pastors, elders, and renewal leaders. Over the past few years, I have had the gift of surveying and talking with church leaders about …