It’s no news flash that we are living in a significantly polarized environment. And it’s made all the worse thanks to our Echo Chambers. I know of no one who likes them – or who professes to enjoy the fruit they produce. But the fact is, most of us find ourselves tightly locked into one; whether […]
The Switzerland Principle Read More »
For many churches, Fall is the most important season of the year for Small Groups. By the time August ends, groups are launching, new leaders are stepping up, and schedules are filling fast. The question now is: how do we make the most of the momentum that’s already in motion? Celebrate Every “Yes” If you
Strengthening Your Fall Group Launch Read More »
What you’re doing wrong on your website and how to get it right. “What should I do, Russ? Should I get rid of the guy and make sure he never gets in front of the camera again?” “Uh, no. But you’re also asking the wrong question. You’re asking what you should do now, and instead
“You’re Doing it Wrong Joe” Read More »
They had been part of the group for over a year—showing up nearly every week and joining in most of the conversations. But why then did they still feel alone? There can be a lot of conversations. This is why authentic groups matter more than ever. We don’t just need gatherings—we need grace. We don’t
Why Authentic Groups Matter More Than Ever Read More »
Start with Why: The Key to Building a Strong Ministry Team Have you ever felt like your volunteers just don’t get it? People don’t show up on time, they only do their tasks halfway, or they don’t seem to be fully bought in. If so, you’re not alone. One of the biggest challenges in ministry
The Secret to a Healthy Volunteer Team: 3 Questions to Transform Your Approach Read More »
I know that creating change without chaos sounds like an oxymoron. But it doesn’t have to be. There are two things every leader needs to remember when considering when and how to make a significant organizational change, be it in focus, strategy, methods, or staffing that will help keep the chaos at bay. Here they
Change Without Chaos? Read More »
It’s no newsflash that when it comes to following Jesus we face some strong cultural headwinds. But that’s not a new thing. It’s a new thing in America. But not for Jesus followers. For 2,000 years, cultural rejection and even persecution have been the norm, not the exception. That’s not to minimize the challenges and
How To Win When All Seems Lost! Read More »
Church Debt Is Not Always A Bad Thing. Cash is more important than your mother. My mom knows it. And agrees. Begrudgingly. OK, maybe that’s not literally true. But cash on hand is far more important than most ministry leaders realize. That’s why instead of using as much money as possible to advance their ministry,
Cash Is More Important Than Your Mother (and Church Debt Is Not Always A Bad Thing) Read More »
Like many pastors, I was told that I needed to preach memorable sermons. At least that was the emphasis in every preaching course I took and every communications book I’ve ever read. But the longer I’ve been in local church ministry, the more I think that their emphasis on producing highly memorable sermons was misguided.
The All Too Important Difference Between a Guest Speaker and a Pastor Read More »
