By Sam S. Rainer III Leadership literature is chock-full of ways in which an average leader can become great. We all believe we’re good. Greatness is just a book, a conference, or a degree away. Indeed, I believe run-of-the-mill leaders can become better with training. A desire to learn, self-awareness, and a solid work ethic […]
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By Sam S. Rainer III The church does not speak enough about mental illness. It’s a significant issue that remains largely silent in most churches. The church can do more. The church should do more. In fact, research reveals that 65% of family members in a household of someone with acute mental illness believe the […]
Read More >How can you equip your congregation to give generously? Here are 7 items to consider. #1: Teach why sacrificial giving is necessary for God’s mission. If what you are giving does not change your lifestyle, then it’s not sacrificial. Not all giving is sacrificial, and that’s not necessarily a bad thing. Leaving a great tip is […]
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On Sunday, I taught our new members class. It was a smaller class than usual, so I had time to converse a little more with those attending. One woman mentioned she had been a Christian for 75 years, almost to the day. The class took a moment to congratulate her.
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Leadership restlessness is something most leaders feel — usually more often than not. It’s the nagging question that keeps you thinking … what’s next? In the case of the church, this question can be corporate, meaning you’re thinking what’s next? for the entire congregation. This question can also be personal, meaning what’s next? for me individually.
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In my sermon preparation, I tend to downplay or ignore the areas of which I am most guilty. It’s easier to skip over the personally convicting passages and focus on the sins of others. Of course, I must push through such temptations. I’m guilty of the sin of envy.
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Through my interactions with other pastors, I have found there are many of us missing three disciplines in preaching. What are they?
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This issue of diversity is not only a demographic reality, it’s a gospel reality. What humanity segregates, God brings back together. Our churches should reflect this demographic change. Indeed, the church should lead with this demographic change.
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I’ve seen these unreasonable expectations in churches with a low view of membership, as well as churches with a high view of membership. I’m guilty of all three.
Read More >Leaders in churches with more than a few hundred people can’t possibly care for each individual. The issue isn’t whether a leader personally invests in each person, but his / her default posture and tone.
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