In his book The Pastor’s Justification Jared Wilson rightly makes the case that pastors need to lead the way. Lead the way in what? Here’s some examples he gives: A pastor must go first. In groups where transparency is expected, a pastor goes first. In the humility of service, a pastor goes first. In the…
Bill Hybels has a really powerful word on the relationship between pastor/shepherd and the sheep and explains how we must not lead with a domineering spirit. Throughout my entire ministry, one thing has almost always been true: If I communicate the right mission at the right time of the year in the right way and…
Bill Hybels in his book Axiom has some very insightful and wise thoughts regarding the seasons organizations go through. For my context, the organization is the church. Here’s his breakdown: Season of growth. In this season everything is going well, attendance is spiking, giving is on the rise and the future looks bright. Season of consolidation.…
Here’s some sobering observations (from Dave Kraft in his book Mistakes Leaders Make) on Saul’s life. Insecurity leads to motivation by fear of failure Circumstances, not God’s desires, control Saul’s choices Rationalization, not repentance, follows his sin He loves the favor and respect of his son, Jonathan He loses favor with God He assumes the problem…
Dave Kraft in his book Mistakes Leaders Make gives 10 things pastors should strongly avoid. Allowing ministry to replace Jesus Allowing comparing to replace contentment Allowing pride to replace humility Allowing pleasing people to replace pleasing God Allowing busyness to replace visioning Allowing financial frugality to replace fearless faith Allowing artificial harmony to replace difficult conflict…
The Do’s DO try to be with the family as soon as you receive word about the family member’s death. DO offer to help the family gather information in preparation for the funeral arrangements. DO mobilize the church family to join you in caring for the needs of the family. DO gently offer suggestions that…
This piece was written by Dr. Lawless and posted on Dr. Rainer’s website, which day-in-day-out is probably the most helpful, practical blog on leadership out there. Here’s what Dr. Lawless says regarding how to recognize arrogance: 10 Ways to Recognize Our Arrogance May 27, 2014 By Chuck Lawless I’m writing this post for me as much as…
06.12.2014 Wise leaders are often repulsed by the idea of a ministry or organizational silo. A silo is, by definition, “a system or department that is isolated from others.” Silos can cause ministries or organizations to move in a plethora of disparate directions. Thus, a silo sucks funding from the overall mission, causes confusion as…
Okay, so the picture is not that flattering but what follows are some truths I wanted to share with you….that hopefully are encouraging! When Jesus called Philip and Nathanael in John 1:43-51 he states in verse 47, “…Behold, an Israelite, indeed in whom there is no deceit.” When I think of Norman (who serves at…
Jethro was Moses’ father-in-law. We read in Exodus 18 that when Jethro observed Moses’ daily responsibilities of providing judgment for the people he said, What you are doing is not good. You and the people with you will certainly wear yourselves out, for the thing is too heavy for you. You are not able to…
Theology Along the Way 