Happy New Year! That's the greeting going around this weekend. It is a good time to examine who we are in Christ and what He would have us to do with out lives! It has been a LONG time since my last post (on any blog), so my first New Year's Resolution as it relates to "social media" is to post more often on the blogs and sites I maintain.
Not just posts, but posts "with purpose." Some of you understand that term. It is not my desire to fill up my time with useless info. Rather, I want my posts to have some value to the reader. So, whether it be an actual blog, FaceBook, Twitter, LinkedIn, or TRBA's website, it is my prayer you will find information useful that I post in 2012.
As I have thought of what to post in 2012, I have prayed and then examined what I am "hearing" from various sources in denominational life. To that end, I have determined to focus on the purpose of the association, as well as issues related to overall church health. I will be looking a LOT to Transformational Church and Transitional Pastor as I am working with both LifeWay and the Baptist State Convention of North Carolina in those areas. Truthfully, I think there are things we can glean to strengthen the church and impact lostness (our purpose as an association of churches).
In a conversation with a Sunday School director today we began to discuss some information we had obtained during a Josh Hunt conference several years back. In fact, I bought a book by Hunt today that reiterated the idea of "how to double your Sunday School in two years or less."
The gist of the conversation centered on the fact that the classes seemed content with where they were and had not grown in several years. Basically, we talked about the lack of evidence in many area churches (from conversations the two of us have had with other church leaders in neighboring churches from three associations) that churches want to grow.
I think that is perhaps the first thing we need to honestly look at as we begin the new year. Do we have a genuine desire to grow closer to Christ personally and to grow both spiritually and numerically in our churches. Or are we content with where we are. I would invite you to pray and search with me this simple fact over the next couple of days. After the first of the year I will examine the idea of doubling Sunday School attendance in less than two years. I am pretty confident I will address it from the standpoint of IF we REALLY want to see growth.
I have become convinced that we have all the tools we need to advance the kingdom. We have attended conference after conference. In the YEARS we have attended, there has been little kingdom advance and virtually no SUSTAINED evidence of growth in many of our churches. Yet - we have the tools sitting idly beside us as we moan about our lack of advance.
What do we have:
1. The authority of Christ who commanded that we make disciples.
2. His Word.
3. His presence to instruct, lead, guide, empower.
4. Prayer.
5. His promise to hear, answer, empower as we walk in obedience to Him.
Then we have other tools to assist. Among the ones I have emphasized in TRBA are Link2Lead, The Mapping Center, continued training of church leadership, Transformational Church, Transitional Pastor, etc. etc. etc. Over the next few weeks, expect much info to be shared. As it is shared, pray about your participation individually and as a church.
Do you want to see kingdom advance in 2012? If you do, please join me and the other TRBA staff members as we answer the call to prayer by our denominational leaders. Pray with us daily for kingdom advance. Join us on Monday, January 23rd at 7 PM for a corporate time of prayer.
Again, I wish you the best for 2012. I look forward to walking alongside you as we set out together to strengthen His church and impact the lostness of THIS generation!
Showing posts with label Church. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Church. Show all posts
Saturday, December 31, 2011
Friday, May 08, 2009
Bad Economy Challenges Churches but Provides Opportunities
LifeWay Research: Written by David Roach and Staff
NASHVILLE, Tenn., – Protestant churchgoers in America remain generous during difficult economic times, and their churches have increased their ministry to the needy. Despite the country being in an official recession for the past year, giving in 2008 was up an average of 4 percent over 2007 according to a survey of 1,000 Protestant pastors by LifeWay Research.
"While many sectors of the economy have taken a clear step back in the last year, Protestant churches have held their own," said Ed Stetzer, director of LifeWay Research.
Still, more than half of pastors interviewed say that the current economy is negatively impacting their churches, but only 7 percent of Protestant pastors say the economy is "very negatively" impacting their churches. Thirty percent of pastors say the economy has had no impact on their churches.
LifeWay Research surveyed 1,000 Protestant pastors during February 2009. Respondents were asked how the economy is impacting their churches, how giving levels compare to budget, how 2008 offering totals differed from 2007, and what changes have taken place in their churches as a result of the economy.
The average church saw offerings grow by 4 percent in 2008. Growth in offerings of 10percent or more was experienced by 26 percent of churches. In contrast, 12 percent of churches saw their giving decline by 10 percent or more in 2008.
Pastors are almost as likely to report giving ahead of current budget as behind it. The largest group of churches (45 percent) report offerings since the beginning of 2008 have been about what they budgeted.* Twenty-six percent of churches are receiving more than they budgeted and 27 percent are receiving less. Two percent of pastors are not sure. Seventy-one percent of Protestant churches around the country are either meeting or exceeding their budget, according to the survey.
"While the public’s faith in almost every other type of investment has crumbled, faithful givers continue to support churches," noted Scott McConnell, associate director of LifeWay Research. "If current trends continue, the majority of churches will likely meet their budgets this year."
Making adjustments: Because of the financial crunch, 35 percent of churches held salaries for the new year at last year’s levels and 12 percent delayed construction or other large capital expenses that were planned. Still, 31 percent of churches explored starting a new ministry to help people who are disadvantaged and 37percent increased spending from the church budget to help the needy. Churches willing to meet financial needs will almost certainly find increased opportunities to do so, according to the survey. A majority (62 percent) of churches have had more people in the community request financial assistance in the last year than in previous years.
"When times are tough, the church can be at its best – being, doing and telling the good news of the Gospel," Stetzer said. "Though the church has not been hit as hard as many sectors of society, the data is showing some real challenges. Churches are having to be much more cautious with their spending."
Even within congregations, needs increased. Nearly a third (31 percent) of churches have received more requests from within the congregation for financial assistance in the last year than in previous years. Within the last year, 4 in 10 churches have had more people than normal within the congregation lose their jobs.
This last year has also brought changes in how those within congregations approach expenditures. Thirty-five percent of churches have a heightened sense of caution within their congregations about trying new things that cost money. A small number of congregations (11 percent) have seen increased reluctance to attend church functions or church-sponsored events that carry a cost or admission charge.
Among the other effects the economy has had on churches:
- Seven percent delayed hiring that was planned.
- Six percent reduced staff salaries.
- Four percent laid off one or more employees.
- Four percent reduced insurance benefits for staff.
Some pastors have made personal sacrifices to continue ministering in the slumping economy. Twenty-seven percent have paid for ministry items out of their own pockets more often than normal. That figure jumps to 34 percent among pastors whose salaries held at last year’s level and to 55 percent among pastors with reduced salaries. Only five percent have paid fewer ministry expenses out of their own pocket than normal.
In rare cases, ministers have supplemented their incomes to make ends meet. Five percent recently added a non-ministry job for more income. Five percent of pastors have asked their spouses to add a non-ministry job for more income. Three percent of pastors have sought writing or speaking opportunities that provide royalties or honoraria.
Only 1 percent of pastors have seriously considered leaving the ministry for financial reasons during the economic slowdown.
"It’s easy to hunker down with what money you have left," McConnell said. "Yet Jesus Christ told his followers that giving out of your poverty is worth far more than giving out of your surplus. Pastors are living this truth. They are choosing 5-to-1 to give more out of their own pockets, rather than less, to ministry opportunities."
*Pastors were asked to look back to a common starting point in order to compensate for various budget cycles – for this question it was the beginning of 2008
(Please note: TRBA will soon be sharing additional information for our member churches to assist people that have been hurt in this economy. If your church has ways to i is assisting members in your community, please share with us as we are getting an increasing number of calls in our office.)
NASHVILLE, Tenn., – Protestant churchgoers in America remain generous during difficult economic times, and their churches have increased their ministry to the needy. Despite the country being in an official recession for the past year, giving in 2008 was up an average of 4 percent over 2007 according to a survey of 1,000 Protestant pastors by LifeWay Research.
"While many sectors of the economy have taken a clear step back in the last year, Protestant churches have held their own," said Ed Stetzer, director of LifeWay Research.
Still, more than half of pastors interviewed say that the current economy is negatively impacting their churches, but only 7 percent of Protestant pastors say the economy is "very negatively" impacting their churches. Thirty percent of pastors say the economy has had no impact on their churches.
LifeWay Research surveyed 1,000 Protestant pastors during February 2009. Respondents were asked how the economy is impacting their churches, how giving levels compare to budget, how 2008 offering totals differed from 2007, and what changes have taken place in their churches as a result of the economy.
The average church saw offerings grow by 4 percent in 2008. Growth in offerings of 10percent or more was experienced by 26 percent of churches. In contrast, 12 percent of churches saw their giving decline by 10 percent or more in 2008.
Pastors are almost as likely to report giving ahead of current budget as behind it. The largest group of churches (45 percent) report offerings since the beginning of 2008 have been about what they budgeted.* Twenty-six percent of churches are receiving more than they budgeted and 27 percent are receiving less. Two percent of pastors are not sure. Seventy-one percent of Protestant churches around the country are either meeting or exceeding their budget, according to the survey.
"While the public’s faith in almost every other type of investment has crumbled, faithful givers continue to support churches," noted Scott McConnell, associate director of LifeWay Research. "If current trends continue, the majority of churches will likely meet their budgets this year."
Making adjustments: Because of the financial crunch, 35 percent of churches held salaries for the new year at last year’s levels and 12 percent delayed construction or other large capital expenses that were planned. Still, 31 percent of churches explored starting a new ministry to help people who are disadvantaged and 37percent increased spending from the church budget to help the needy. Churches willing to meet financial needs will almost certainly find increased opportunities to do so, according to the survey. A majority (62 percent) of churches have had more people in the community request financial assistance in the last year than in previous years.
"When times are tough, the church can be at its best – being, doing and telling the good news of the Gospel," Stetzer said. "Though the church has not been hit as hard as many sectors of society, the data is showing some real challenges. Churches are having to be much more cautious with their spending."
Even within congregations, needs increased. Nearly a third (31 percent) of churches have received more requests from within the congregation for financial assistance in the last year than in previous years. Within the last year, 4 in 10 churches have had more people than normal within the congregation lose their jobs.
This last year has also brought changes in how those within congregations approach expenditures. Thirty-five percent of churches have a heightened sense of caution within their congregations about trying new things that cost money. A small number of congregations (11 percent) have seen increased reluctance to attend church functions or church-sponsored events that carry a cost or admission charge.
Among the other effects the economy has had on churches:
- Seven percent delayed hiring that was planned.
- Six percent reduced staff salaries.
- Four percent laid off one or more employees.
- Four percent reduced insurance benefits for staff.
Some pastors have made personal sacrifices to continue ministering in the slumping economy. Twenty-seven percent have paid for ministry items out of their own pockets more often than normal. That figure jumps to 34 percent among pastors whose salaries held at last year’s level and to 55 percent among pastors with reduced salaries. Only five percent have paid fewer ministry expenses out of their own pocket than normal.
In rare cases, ministers have supplemented their incomes to make ends meet. Five percent recently added a non-ministry job for more income. Five percent of pastors have asked their spouses to add a non-ministry job for more income. Three percent of pastors have sought writing or speaking opportunities that provide royalties or honoraria.
Only 1 percent of pastors have seriously considered leaving the ministry for financial reasons during the economic slowdown.
"It’s easy to hunker down with what money you have left," McConnell said. "Yet Jesus Christ told his followers that giving out of your poverty is worth far more than giving out of your surplus. Pastors are living this truth. They are choosing 5-to-1 to give more out of their own pockets, rather than less, to ministry opportunities."
*Pastors were asked to look back to a common starting point in order to compensate for various budget cycles – for this question it was the beginning of 2008
(Please note: TRBA will soon be sharing additional information for our member churches to assist people that have been hurt in this economy. If your church has ways to i is assisting members in your community, please share with us as we are getting an increasing number of calls in our office.)
Tuesday, March 24, 2009
CALL FOR REVIVAL AND SPIRITUAL AWAKENING
Over the past several months my heart has been burdened about the LOSTNESS of our communities and the need for revival in the church of North America - the church of TRBA. The theme for the Annie Armstrong Emphasis dealt with the URGENCY that is before us, but I wonder - how urgent is it TO US?
Over the past couple of years my life seems to be overshadowed with meeting after meeting. Few of them relate to the URGENCY before our church as much as they relate to the busy-ness of the church. Unfortunately, much time and energy is spent preserving the status guo and little time and energy is spent in actual ministry to those around us in need; in sharing His message of hope, help, and deliverance to the Lost around us; or in equipping our churches to become engaged in the work God has called us to be to our communities and around the world. Sure, I know we can all become defensive about what we are doing, but I think God is calling us to LOOK THROUGH HIS EYES AND UNDER THE LIGHT OF HIS WORD and what we are doing as HIS church.
This summer the Mission Team went to Niger, West Africa. We commented on the lost-ness of the people and expressed our burden for the people - especially the children. We commented that the culture would never be reached unless and until men stepped up to serve as missionaries in that culture. My heart aches for the people of Niger and I pray daily that God will raise up men and women of faith to proclaim His message to the people in that country.
In one of my presentations after that mission trip, I said "men need to step up to the plate there...." and it dawned on me - how different is Niger from America? DESPITE our freedom to worship, and our opportunities to share openly our faith in Christ, we - people who call ourselves Christ-followers, are not being faithful to the task. Reality - if things do not change in North America, just like the little children of West Africa, 94+% of our little ones will grow up without a personal relationship with Jesus Christ as well.
A couple of weeks back Chris Carroll and I went to New England to set up our missions trip for this summer. I experienced a "spiritual vacuum" among the people.
Last week at our Ministers' Fellowship we discussed the lack of discipleship among those who claim to be Christ-followers. In addition, in last week's e-zine to pastors I sent out a "call to prayer for revival and spiritual awakening," asking our pastors in particular and our churches in general to join me in praying for just that throughout TRBA, our state and nation, and around the world as well. I believe we have a generation to reach and God is holding us accountable.
In four separate conversations LAST week with separate pastors we have discussed that there is a feeling of spiritual oppression in their church fields. We also discussed this a little at the Ministers' Fellowship and stated that we need to recognize that we are in a BATTLE with THE ENEMY. And yes - we emphasized that there is in fact an ENEMY out there and his intent is to destroy our witness and distract us from our work as the Lord's church. Unfortunately, he has been pretty successful in keeping many of us from being engaged in the ministry of His church to a hurting and LOST world.
I could go on and on, but the above statements should be sufficient. There is a NEED before us! There needs to be REVIVAL in the church and a spiritual awakening among the people all around us. And - the revival and renewed commitment to LIVE DAILY for the Living LORD Jesus Christ needs to begin in those of us who have accepted the call to ministry and serve as spiritual leaders in our churches. God has convicted me to do just that.
Check my pastors' blog and/or church member's blog OFTEN for periodic updates. Beginning in April I will be placing information about this call for prayer on the associational website and invite the laity to join us in prayer. It is my hope that you - as pastors and spiritual leaders in your church have already announced this call to our churches and your church is taking steps to be engaged in this effort.
I will also be placing items on the TRBA calendar as I receive responses from you/your church. I haqve been somewhat surprised that I have not received much input from those of us who serve in spiritual leadership positions. I pray that will be changing as I continue to pray about this and lay out plans of action to the member churches and to you as spiritual leaders. To this point, this is the call to prayer:
1. Month of April - pastors, church staffs/leaders, churches cluster for times of prayer - pray for revival in the church. I encourage you to specifically mention this call for prayer from the pulpit and gather your people together to pray for revival in your church and spiritual awakening in your community.
2. April 27th. TRBA Spring Meeting - at the meeting there will be an emphasis on the call for prayer as we gather for a time of worship and celebration in our Spring Meeting. You will be getting additional information in April concerning the meeting. Be MUCH in prayer for Kevin Byers as he prepares to bring the message that God is laying on his heart to deliver to the people that will be in attendance at White Level on April 27th.
3. Thursday, May 7th -- National Day of Prayer Service at TRBA Center (10:00 AM): Again, you will receive more information later about this.
4. Looking for Host Churches/Pastors to host prayer meetings: Actually, I am looking for AT LEAST three(3) churches to host prayer meetings on Thursdays throughout May at 10 AM (or other times as well). There can be several churches hosting times of prayer at the same time. On May 14th I need a Zebulon area church---on May 21st I need a Spring Hope area church. On May 28th I need a Franklinton/Youngsville area church to host (but am praying for numerous places for pastors and laity to gather and pray). In reality, I am hoping that churches will come forward to host times of prayer morning, noon, and night - giving all of our people multiple opportunities to gather in prayer.
After the month of May, I will be inviting you to join me in monthly times of prayer back at the Association. Naturally, I am hoping that other members of your staff and laity from our congregations will also gather for seasns of prayer.
Certainly we can not all be at every place each time, but we can be (and I would add should be) able to host and/or attend several times of prayer for revival in our churches and a spiritual awakening among the people in our area that will allow them to sense the need for a daily walk with the Living Lord.
As Frankie shared in our devotional at the Ministers' Fellowship last week - the word "IF" is used often in God's Word. One place is 2 Chronicles 7: 14 - "If MY People......THEN I will...." We all know the verse. Join me in prayer and EXPECT to experience God as He works in and through His church!!!!!
If you/your church is willing to host a prayer meeting or will establish ongoing times of prayer, please get that information to me ASAP so that I can post it on our website and publicize it. The newsletter and e-zines for to about 1300 people and those 1300 people are in positions to share with others in our churches and in our communities.
Join me in praying for revival in our churches and a spiritual awakening among the people of our communities. Trust God to provide the harvest and expect to experience God in the days ahead.
Over the past couple of years my life seems to be overshadowed with meeting after meeting. Few of them relate to the URGENCY before our church as much as they relate to the busy-ness of the church. Unfortunately, much time and energy is spent preserving the status guo and little time and energy is spent in actual ministry to those around us in need; in sharing His message of hope, help, and deliverance to the Lost around us; or in equipping our churches to become engaged in the work God has called us to be to our communities and around the world. Sure, I know we can all become defensive about what we are doing, but I think God is calling us to LOOK THROUGH HIS EYES AND UNDER THE LIGHT OF HIS WORD and what we are doing as HIS church.
This summer the Mission Team went to Niger, West Africa. We commented on the lost-ness of the people and expressed our burden for the people - especially the children. We commented that the culture would never be reached unless and until men stepped up to serve as missionaries in that culture. My heart aches for the people of Niger and I pray daily that God will raise up men and women of faith to proclaim His message to the people in that country.
In one of my presentations after that mission trip, I said "men need to step up to the plate there...." and it dawned on me - how different is Niger from America? DESPITE our freedom to worship, and our opportunities to share openly our faith in Christ, we - people who call ourselves Christ-followers, are not being faithful to the task. Reality - if things do not change in North America, just like the little children of West Africa, 94+% of our little ones will grow up without a personal relationship with Jesus Christ as well.
A couple of weeks back Chris Carroll and I went to New England to set up our missions trip for this summer. I experienced a "spiritual vacuum" among the people.
Last week at our Ministers' Fellowship we discussed the lack of discipleship among those who claim to be Christ-followers. In addition, in last week's e-zine to pastors I sent out a "call to prayer for revival and spiritual awakening," asking our pastors in particular and our churches in general to join me in praying for just that throughout TRBA, our state and nation, and around the world as well. I believe we have a generation to reach and God is holding us accountable.
In four separate conversations LAST week with separate pastors we have discussed that there is a feeling of spiritual oppression in their church fields. We also discussed this a little at the Ministers' Fellowship and stated that we need to recognize that we are in a BATTLE with THE ENEMY. And yes - we emphasized that there is in fact an ENEMY out there and his intent is to destroy our witness and distract us from our work as the Lord's church. Unfortunately, he has been pretty successful in keeping many of us from being engaged in the ministry of His church to a hurting and LOST world.
I could go on and on, but the above statements should be sufficient. There is a NEED before us! There needs to be REVIVAL in the church and a spiritual awakening among the people all around us. And - the revival and renewed commitment to LIVE DAILY for the Living LORD Jesus Christ needs to begin in those of us who have accepted the call to ministry and serve as spiritual leaders in our churches. God has convicted me to do just that.
Check my pastors' blog and/or church member's blog OFTEN for periodic updates. Beginning in April I will be placing information about this call for prayer on the associational website and invite the laity to join us in prayer. It is my hope that you - as pastors and spiritual leaders in your church have already announced this call to our churches and your church is taking steps to be engaged in this effort.
I will also be placing items on the TRBA calendar as I receive responses from you/your church. I haqve been somewhat surprised that I have not received much input from those of us who serve in spiritual leadership positions. I pray that will be changing as I continue to pray about this and lay out plans of action to the member churches and to you as spiritual leaders. To this point, this is the call to prayer:
1. Month of April - pastors, church staffs/leaders, churches cluster for times of prayer - pray for revival in the church. I encourage you to specifically mention this call for prayer from the pulpit and gather your people together to pray for revival in your church and spiritual awakening in your community.
2. April 27th. TRBA Spring Meeting - at the meeting there will be an emphasis on the call for prayer as we gather for a time of worship and celebration in our Spring Meeting. You will be getting additional information in April concerning the meeting. Be MUCH in prayer for Kevin Byers as he prepares to bring the message that God is laying on his heart to deliver to the people that will be in attendance at White Level on April 27th.
3. Thursday, May 7th -- National Day of Prayer Service at TRBA Center (10:00 AM): Again, you will receive more information later about this.
4. Looking for Host Churches/Pastors to host prayer meetings: Actually, I am looking for AT LEAST three(3) churches to host prayer meetings on Thursdays throughout May at 10 AM (or other times as well). There can be several churches hosting times of prayer at the same time. On May 14th I need a Zebulon area church---on May 21st I need a Spring Hope area church. On May 28th I need a Franklinton/Youngsville area church to host (but am praying for numerous places for pastors and laity to gather and pray). In reality, I am hoping that churches will come forward to host times of prayer morning, noon, and night - giving all of our people multiple opportunities to gather in prayer.
After the month of May, I will be inviting you to join me in monthly times of prayer back at the Association. Naturally, I am hoping that other members of your staff and laity from our congregations will also gather for seasns of prayer.
Certainly we can not all be at every place each time, but we can be (and I would add should be) able to host and/or attend several times of prayer for revival in our churches and a spiritual awakening among the people in our area that will allow them to sense the need for a daily walk with the Living Lord.
As Frankie shared in our devotional at the Ministers' Fellowship last week - the word "IF" is used often in God's Word. One place is 2 Chronicles 7: 14 - "If MY People......THEN I will...." We all know the verse. Join me in prayer and EXPECT to experience God as He works in and through His church!!!!!
If you/your church is willing to host a prayer meeting or will establish ongoing times of prayer, please get that information to me ASAP so that I can post it on our website and publicize it. The newsletter and e-zines for to about 1300 people and those 1300 people are in positions to share with others in our churches and in our communities.
Join me in praying for revival in our churches and a spiritual awakening among the people of our communities. Trust God to provide the harvest and expect to experience God in the days ahead.
Thursday, October 30, 2008
Is Your Church Essential (Will it be here in 2035)?
These guys that can blog daily - or those that blog as an event is happening, I can not see how they can do it. It is difficult for me to find the time. But once in a while, I do have some ideas I would like to share with you - so, then I write. Don't know if anyone reads, but I write.
Currently I am reading "The Essential Church." There was a free download (and I will put a copy on our website so you can download if you like) sent to me, but I actually got it on CD to listen as I drive from place to place. It is a revealing book about the youth of our churches "dropping out" by the age of 22, with many never coming back. I have found myself "taking note" as I visit from church to church and when I am invited to preach, I am attempting to approach things a little differently.
In the book it speaks a lot regarding the fact that 2 of every 3 young people in protestant churches leave the church between the ages of 18 - 22. The top ten reasons for their departure are listed and dealt with in the book. The role of the pastor in creating a climate of inclusiveness and relevance toward youth is dealt with in the book.
Thus far, that is what is piercing my heart. Through my years as a pastor, I was engaged with my youth. There were times that I "switched" with my youth ministers and he would teach the adults and I would teach the youth. I would drive up to their places of retreat for their worship service, etc. But I could not evaluate if I included them in my sermons.
Yes - I made a conscious effort to communicate in a "children's sermon" and shared my topics/scripture in sufficient time that my Youth Minister and Music Minister could use them when they did the children's sermon (we rotated presenting the children's sermon so we could all interact with the children). Sometimes I would even tell them to listen closely in the "adults' sermon" for the answer to a question I would ask them in the children's sermon to get them to listen closely to what I was teaching and would give out a prize to those who could give me the answer as they left the church. But I became concerned - had I made a conscious effort to communicate the Gospel truths to the youth of the church family. Did I find a unique way to so that they could make application in their lives in the days ahead. Were my illustrations relevant to them as they had to deal with the pressures upon their lives each day. I asked a couple and they said that I did. I pray they are telling me the truth and that others feel that way as well.
Certainly, we can not put a separate "sermon" in the 11 AM worship hour for every particular age group. We would have to fake it a little if we did, because we do not have all the life experiences of those in our congregations. Could you image - a children's sermon, perhaps several - one for toddlers, one for K-2, one for 3 - 5; a youth sermon - one for middle school and one for high school; a sermonette for college attendees and those who went to work straight out of high school; something for those who have chosen to remain single and something for those that have married young; parents of small children; parents of older children; empty nesters; singe agains; senior adults, etc. But perhaps we do need to look at "our delivery" and make sure we are not just speaking to one segment of the congregation.
Since reading (listening to) this book (and I am on my third time through, trying to examine the different aspects), I feel as if I am making a more conscious effort to be inclusive of all generations. At Pearce's homecoming, they forgot to announce children's church and though I had begun to preach, as the smaller children left, I tried to communicate with them. I wanted them to know that they were important to me, so I stopped and "talked" with them as they departed the sanctuary. I was also to talk with their parents about them as it related to the topic of my sermon and could refer to those children. It was evident a couple were with their grandparents, so I could have (I did not in that sermon) have included aspects relevant to 3 generations in that one sermon. When I was at Red Bud last Sunday, I took note that the youth were over to my left with the youth minister (probably the old "amen corner") and I made a conscious effort to walk over to that side and look them straight in the face and share illustrations relevant to them in making decisions in and about school, etc.
The point I am trying to make is this - "look" at your congregation. The children and youth in your church family are NOT the church of tomorrow - THEY ARE THE CHURCH OF TODAY. If you and I, as pastors, do not include them in our sermons; present the Good News of Jesus Christ in a relevant manner; relay to them God's expectations of them as Christian youth; engage them in the ministries of our churches; involve them in the worship experience of the church, then there may literally be NO church tomorrow.
Back in the early 90's I read somewhere that by the year 2035 65% of the churches in North America whose doors were open in 1990 would be closed by the year 2035. I remember 2 things about my response to that information: (1) 2035 was a LONG TIME away, and (2) there was NO WAY for that to be true. However, today I have a completely different response: (1) in 2003 NAMB reported that 48 churches a month were closing their doors in North America, (2) that 2035 is almost here and most of the people MY age will be around, (3) 92% of our churches are "plateaued" or declining, and (4) if 2 of of every 3 youth are dropping out of church by age 22. With those things being true, then it should be EXPECTED that unless things change, 65% may be a conservative number!
I encourage you to read "The Essential Church" and allow God to speak to you through their findings and suggestions.
Currently I am reading "The Essential Church." There was a free download (and I will put a copy on our website so you can download if you like) sent to me, but I actually got it on CD to listen as I drive from place to place. It is a revealing book about the youth of our churches "dropping out" by the age of 22, with many never coming back. I have found myself "taking note" as I visit from church to church and when I am invited to preach, I am attempting to approach things a little differently.
In the book it speaks a lot regarding the fact that 2 of every 3 young people in protestant churches leave the church between the ages of 18 - 22. The top ten reasons for their departure are listed and dealt with in the book. The role of the pastor in creating a climate of inclusiveness and relevance toward youth is dealt with in the book.
Thus far, that is what is piercing my heart. Through my years as a pastor, I was engaged with my youth. There were times that I "switched" with my youth ministers and he would teach the adults and I would teach the youth. I would drive up to their places of retreat for their worship service, etc. But I could not evaluate if I included them in my sermons.
Yes - I made a conscious effort to communicate in a "children's sermon" and shared my topics/scripture in sufficient time that my Youth Minister and Music Minister could use them when they did the children's sermon (we rotated presenting the children's sermon so we could all interact with the children). Sometimes I would even tell them to listen closely in the "adults' sermon" for the answer to a question I would ask them in the children's sermon to get them to listen closely to what I was teaching and would give out a prize to those who could give me the answer as they left the church. But I became concerned - had I made a conscious effort to communicate the Gospel truths to the youth of the church family. Did I find a unique way to so that they could make application in their lives in the days ahead. Were my illustrations relevant to them as they had to deal with the pressures upon their lives each day. I asked a couple and they said that I did. I pray they are telling me the truth and that others feel that way as well.
Certainly, we can not put a separate "sermon" in the 11 AM worship hour for every particular age group. We would have to fake it a little if we did, because we do not have all the life experiences of those in our congregations. Could you image - a children's sermon, perhaps several - one for toddlers, one for K-2, one for 3 - 5; a youth sermon - one for middle school and one for high school; a sermonette for college attendees and those who went to work straight out of high school; something for those who have chosen to remain single and something for those that have married young; parents of small children; parents of older children; empty nesters; singe agains; senior adults, etc. But perhaps we do need to look at "our delivery" and make sure we are not just speaking to one segment of the congregation.
Since reading (listening to) this book (and I am on my third time through, trying to examine the different aspects), I feel as if I am making a more conscious effort to be inclusive of all generations. At Pearce's homecoming, they forgot to announce children's church and though I had begun to preach, as the smaller children left, I tried to communicate with them. I wanted them to know that they were important to me, so I stopped and "talked" with them as they departed the sanctuary. I was also to talk with their parents about them as it related to the topic of my sermon and could refer to those children. It was evident a couple were with their grandparents, so I could have (I did not in that sermon) have included aspects relevant to 3 generations in that one sermon. When I was at Red Bud last Sunday, I took note that the youth were over to my left with the youth minister (probably the old "amen corner") and I made a conscious effort to walk over to that side and look them straight in the face and share illustrations relevant to them in making decisions in and about school, etc.
The point I am trying to make is this - "look" at your congregation. The children and youth in your church family are NOT the church of tomorrow - THEY ARE THE CHURCH OF TODAY. If you and I, as pastors, do not include them in our sermons; present the Good News of Jesus Christ in a relevant manner; relay to them God's expectations of them as Christian youth; engage them in the ministries of our churches; involve them in the worship experience of the church, then there may literally be NO church tomorrow.
Back in the early 90's I read somewhere that by the year 2035 65% of the churches in North America whose doors were open in 1990 would be closed by the year 2035. I remember 2 things about my response to that information: (1) 2035 was a LONG TIME away, and (2) there was NO WAY for that to be true. However, today I have a completely different response: (1) in 2003 NAMB reported that 48 churches a month were closing their doors in North America, (2) that 2035 is almost here and most of the people MY age will be around, (3) 92% of our churches are "plateaued" or declining, and (4) if 2 of of every 3 youth are dropping out of church by age 22. With those things being true, then it should be EXPECTED that unless things change, 65% may be a conservative number!
I encourage you to read "The Essential Church" and allow God to speak to you through their findings and suggestions.
Saturday, January 05, 2008
Shepherd The Flock/Demonstrate Love Towards Your People
Today I was privileged to sit on an ordination advisory council for a young man entering the ministry. Among the questions during his examination was a question concerning his view of one who serves as pastor. As he began to describe his feelings, I was impressed with his maturity.
He spoke of "leading his people" to good pastures in the preaching of the Word. Those the Lord has placed in our care need a proper diet to nourish them in their day-to-day.
He spoke of his being an undershepherd -- and a sheep. God had called and equipped him to the tasks of a pastor but he needed to remember the need for him - as a sheep himself - to follow the Good Shepherd.
He also spoke of the need to "protect his sheep" from the wolves and bears of false doctrine and world views that weaken and destroy the flock.
I was glad that I had the opportunity to participate in this council!
Upon my return tonight, I went to a LifeWay E-zine that had published a little section I had written to bi-vocational pastors. In that same edition was a good article by a man named Bobby Bradley entitled "5 Keys For Loving Your Church." The Good Shepherd loves His Flock -- and we are to love our flock as the undersheperd as well.
He states -- "If you want to be a pastor who will be loved and remembered, then love your church as Jesus loved His disciples." Do you love the members of your church as God loves His flock?
When I first came as Associational Missionary here at TRBA, I visited one of our churches. As Linda and I left the service, we were perplexed. We had just left a church that we loved dearly. Our experience had always been that we loved our people and a part of our hearts remained each time God called us to another place of service. But this man did not love his people. His disdain for them was evident. They had little fondness for him as was evident in the comments they made to us. Within a couple of weeks, this man had left the church. I think we MUST love the people and give ourselves as Christ gave Himself for the church.
If you and I, as pastors can imitate to some degree the love of Christ for His church in dealing with the people entrusted to us, then you will be able to fulfill your mission to that congregation. We should not accept a position of service (or keep such a position)where we can not replicate in some measure the love of Christ towards his people who are members of the church or association we serve.
Bradley went on to suggest five ways for letting your people know that you genuinely care for them. I thought I would simply share them with you:
1. Show your love by the way you preach to them. Communicate the love of God to them from the pulpit and let them see that love in you.
2. Tell them you love them. “I love you, Charlene.” “I love you, Steve.” “I love you Susan.” “I love you, Jim.”
3. Communicate your love to them by the way you listen to their problems or the way you show interest when they are sharing with you something that is important to them. Don’t act disinterested or detached.
4. Don’t be “class-conscious.” Care as much for the poor, the elderly, the lonely, and the forgotten as you do for the influential members of your congregation.
5. Don’t be clannish. Don’t spend your time just with one group or clique in the church. If you do this, you will sow discord among the brethren.
These are simple, concise nuggets of wisdom. Most likely all of us SAY we would concur. However, we should daily strive to insure that we display these principles in our actions among and toward our people.
Every opportunity you have, do something or say something that will make them feel loved by you - as well as by God. Make them understand that they are people of worth, especially in the eyes of God and that it is His desire to be in fellowship with them.
As we begin the New Year, it is my prayer that we will make a new and fresh commitment to the Living Lord Jesus Christ to become the men of faith--the pastors---the undershepherds He has celled us to be in His church.
He spoke of "leading his people" to good pastures in the preaching of the Word. Those the Lord has placed in our care need a proper diet to nourish them in their day-to-day.
He spoke of his being an undershepherd -- and a sheep. God had called and equipped him to the tasks of a pastor but he needed to remember the need for him - as a sheep himself - to follow the Good Shepherd.
He also spoke of the need to "protect his sheep" from the wolves and bears of false doctrine and world views that weaken and destroy the flock.
I was glad that I had the opportunity to participate in this council!
Upon my return tonight, I went to a LifeWay E-zine that had published a little section I had written to bi-vocational pastors. In that same edition was a good article by a man named Bobby Bradley entitled "5 Keys For Loving Your Church." The Good Shepherd loves His Flock -- and we are to love our flock as the undersheperd as well.
He states -- "If you want to be a pastor who will be loved and remembered, then love your church as Jesus loved His disciples." Do you love the members of your church as God loves His flock?
When I first came as Associational Missionary here at TRBA, I visited one of our churches. As Linda and I left the service, we were perplexed. We had just left a church that we loved dearly. Our experience had always been that we loved our people and a part of our hearts remained each time God called us to another place of service. But this man did not love his people. His disdain for them was evident. They had little fondness for him as was evident in the comments they made to us. Within a couple of weeks, this man had left the church. I think we MUST love the people and give ourselves as Christ gave Himself for the church.
If you and I, as pastors can imitate to some degree the love of Christ for His church in dealing with the people entrusted to us, then you will be able to fulfill your mission to that congregation. We should not accept a position of service (or keep such a position)where we can not replicate in some measure the love of Christ towards his people who are members of the church or association we serve.
Bradley went on to suggest five ways for letting your people know that you genuinely care for them. I thought I would simply share them with you:
1. Show your love by the way you preach to them. Communicate the love of God to them from the pulpit and let them see that love in you.
2. Tell them you love them. “I love you, Charlene.” “I love you, Steve.” “I love you Susan.” “I love you, Jim.”
3. Communicate your love to them by the way you listen to their problems or the way you show interest when they are sharing with you something that is important to them. Don’t act disinterested or detached.
4. Don’t be “class-conscious.” Care as much for the poor, the elderly, the lonely, and the forgotten as you do for the influential members of your congregation.
5. Don’t be clannish. Don’t spend your time just with one group or clique in the church. If you do this, you will sow discord among the brethren.
These are simple, concise nuggets of wisdom. Most likely all of us SAY we would concur. However, we should daily strive to insure that we display these principles in our actions among and toward our people.
Every opportunity you have, do something or say something that will make them feel loved by you - as well as by God. Make them understand that they are people of worth, especially in the eyes of God and that it is His desire to be in fellowship with them.
As we begin the New Year, it is my prayer that we will make a new and fresh commitment to the Living Lord Jesus Christ to become the men of faith--the pastors---the undershepherds He has celled us to be in His church.
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