Xpyria

Customized Discipleship

2012-01-12T22:38:00.004-05:00

Over the years, businesses intentionally embraced the masses and got larger and larger. In this pursuit, mass production and mass marketing led to a large and ultimately massive market. Customers that were initially attracted by the lower prices from these mass production techniques eventually lamented the sameness and the lack of uniqueness that was all too apparent in the companies’ products and services.

Henry Ford once said, “A customer can have a car painted any color that he wants as long as it is black”.

Some progressive leaders of these large companies discovered a new concept called “Mass Customization” whereby customers could still take advantage of the availability, low cost and high quality associated with mass production but at the same time could receive a product or service that was customized to the individual and specific needs of the consumer.

Recently, churches have gotten big—really big. Just a few years ago, we used to marvel at megachurches. We now have dozens of gigachurches, churches that serve tens of thousands of people each week.

These churches regardless of their size have one particular thing, one particular offering or service that needs to be very customized. That product or service is discipleship.

Very large churches do a great job in providing spectacular worship; they offer amazing programs and have built remarkable buildings. These are all mass produced offerings. Their worship attracts thousands; many of their programs require hundreds of employees and utilize thousands of volunteers. However, in order for these very large churches to turn out great disciples they also have to learn or acquire the art of Mass Customization of Discipleship.

Embraced small groups

For example, as churches have grown, in order to maintain intimacy and fellowship they have embraced small groups. Small groups are a great way for many people to grow in Christ, discover what it means to become accountable, to understand sacrifice, humility and community. Individuals and couples find their way into a specific small group that fits and meets their particular needs.

Not everyone is ready however for a small group. Many people on the path of becoming disciples need to heal, regroup, recover or possibly relearn some of the basics. Many churches have found opportunities to offer them medium size and larger group gatherings including divorce support groups, alcohol and drug rehabilitation groups.

Sunday school still offered

I’m very happy as well to see that all the success experienced in years past through adult Sunday school programs hasn’t been discarded. Many of our largest churches are offering new Saturday, Sunday and weekday classes. These class offerings range from some basic classes in the faith to more advanced classes in evangelism, stewardship, marriage and child development. All have been customized to meet the particular needs of individuals.

Here in South Florida as well as in many parts of the country, a large percentage of our visitors and new members have a Catholic background. In order for many of these individuals to grow as disciples, they want to understand some of the historical and cultural similarities and differences. Churches that offer these classes have designed a customized approach to a smaller but specific group with distinct and individual needs.

Mass Customization of Discipleship isn’t simply offering more but offering that which specifically meets the need of certain individuals, couples and groups. People are attracted to large churches because of the quality of worship, their excellent programing and ample facilities. As these churches continue to grow they need to find ways to minister and customize growth opportunities for various individuals, couples and groups.

Mass Customization of Discipleship maintains some of the advantages of economies-of-scale while creating opportunities for large churches to provide unique and distinctive ways for people from various backgrounds to grow, to learn and to become exactly who Christ wants them to be.

Reprint from Church Executive December 2011

62.8 Million Can't Be Wrong

2011-12-31T15:27:00.000-05:00

If you are leading a volunteer workforce, you are in good company. The US Department of Labor reported that this past year (ending September 2011) that there were 62.8 million people that were actively volunteering in some organization. These people came from all walks of life, all economic classes, some college, some not, all races, both genders, young and old.

On average they spent about 52 hours in the past year volunteering, about one hour a week.

While you may not remember all these numbers, remember the "one hour a week".

Studies have shown that in about an hour, the average volunteer can be fully trained to perform the job for which they are assigned. The church jobs that volunteers fill range from some simple jobs like handing out the weekly bulletin or folding chairs to more complex tasks like supervising a nursery or leading worship.

What is unfortunate is that all too often, we don't give these volunteers the one hour of training that they need. This is unfortunate because the church is one big volunteer-run organization. Since the day of Pentecost, the vast majority of the leaders in the Church have been volunteers. Volunteers provide the invitation, the hospitality, the teaching, the training, the development and also the governance of most churches.

When training is inadequate, volunteers don't get the opportunity to fully understand the importance of their role. Without proper training they can't lead and without leadership the mission suffers.

Fortunately the best people to do the training is volunteers. We just need to give them the opportunity and let them know it is a priority; let them find the one-hour to train. Let them lead.....62.8 million can't be wrong.

Why God?

2011-12-17T11:30:00.000-05:00

We all wantto ask the question, “Why God?” when we find trials, tribulations andsuffering. The Bible makes it clearhowever that when (not if) we are in difficult situations we are not to think thatGod may be unfaithful or uncaring but we are to look to Him for guidance andstrength. Jesus was a man of sufferingyet His circumstances never dictated neither His attitude nor His mission.Peter the Apostle, who also knew suffering said we are to follow the example ofJesus:

“For God called you to do good,even if it means suffering, just as Christ sufferedfor you.He is your example, and you must follow in his steps: He never sinned, nor everdeceived anyone. He did not retaliate when he was insulted, nor threatenrevenge when he suffered. He left his case in the hands of God, who alwaysjudges fairly. He personally carried our sins in his body on the cross so thatwe can be dead to sin and live for what is right. By his wounds you are healed.Once you were like sheep who wandered away. But now you have turned to yourShepherd, the Guardian of your souls.” (1 Peter 2:21-25)

All toooften, our theology is bad. We believe somehow that only good things happen toGodly people and that bad things happen only to the ungodly. Neither experiencenor the Bible provides any support for that supposition. The New Testament records instances wherepeople that were poor or blind or crippled were thought to be cursed by God.Jesus didn’t agree with their theology and brought relief and sight andhealing.

OswaldChambers, the missionary and author of “My Utmost for His Highest” wrote aboutthis. He said, “Faith by its very naturemust be tested and tried. And the real trial of faith is not that we find itdifficult to trust God, but that God’s character must be proven as trustworthyin our own minds.

We oftenhear about the “time in the desert” but none of us like that journey. At thesame time, our faith is constantly being worked out and often we willexperience times of testing and trial. Trials often come independent of discipline that the Lord brings. The Bible tells us that “Lord disciplines those he loves” (Hebrews 12:6) and I love thevery next verse where we are told to accept “hardshipas discipline.”

The writerof Hebrews doesn’t say that the hardship we are going through is actually theLord’s discipline but our response is to be the same. We run to Jesus, we humble ourselves andsubmit to His will for our lives. At thesame time we rejoice as the Apostle James said, “For you know that when yourfaith is tested, your endurance has a chance to grow. So let it grow, forwhen your endurance is fully developed, you will be perfect and complete,needing nothing. (James 1:3-4)

Likely the person most associated with suffering and trials in the Bible was Job. Job lost everything yet he didn't sin against God. In Chapter 19:25 Job comments, "I know that my Redeemer lives and in the end He will stand upon the earth".

Be Effective; Efficiency is over-rated

2011-12-15T10:25:00.002-05:00

Our primary objective should always be to be effective. Take a look at the dictionary definition of what it means to be effective: To be adequate to accomplish the purpose; producing the intended and expected result; producing a deep or vivid impression; prepared and available for service.

This definition looks like exactly what we are to be about in ministry. All too often we strive for efficiency at the expense of being effective. In ministry, and particularly in our large churches, too much of an emphasis on efficiency can take something that is to be very personal and very hands-on and make it very impersonal and distant.

The church is told to "make disciples". Jesus demonstrated that one of the ways to be effective in developing disciples was to actually spend three years with just twelve of them. Jesus and his disciples were together in the desert, on the mountains, in boats during the storm and through some difficult times.

Often there may be short cuts we can embrace but typically while we may be convinced we are being efficient, we aren't necessarily effective. I lived in Mexico for almost three years and I learned that particularly in Latin America, developing relationships takes time. It takes time and effective leadership that allows us to transfer skills and a passion for people. To effectively train and disciple others we need to provide feedback, offer suggestions and demonstrate support.

If our objective in ministry is to train and develop others that are to become effective in ministry then we are following the Biblical mandate. Christ gave us (who are called to lead in ministry) "to equip His people people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up" (Eph 4:12)

Now that's being effective!

The 90/10 Solution

2011-11-30T07:16:00.009-05:00

I always smile when I hear someone that claims they are giving it 150 percent.

I certainly understand why they are making the claim, they are trying to communicate clearly that they are extending every effort to accomplish a task.

Most of us understand that 150 percent is arguably impossible. One of the things I teach as well is that 100 percent is also not a good objective when it comes to church processes, procedures and systems. A more reasonable objective is to achieve 90 percent of what is desired as the additional effort to achieve it all requires a huge expenditure of resources, both capital (money) as well as time that can be better used on other endeavors. In fact studies have shown that often 90 percent of the desired result can be accomplished with as little as 10 percent of the effort: A 90/10 solution.

Let’s assume that you are leading a church that is looking into a computer system that has capabilities that include children check-in, small groups, membership, giving and volunteer tracking. Being a good leader you assemble the heads of various ministries, announce to them that you are going to be purchasing and/or developing a new system that handles the handful of tasks you have already identified and invite them to become a member of the selection and implementation team.

After a few meetings, the newly assembled team now has some very specific requirements that includes all of the above plus: historical giving information, archived membership information, a social-media interface that provides both Twitter and Facebook updates, a project management system, the ability to track an unlimited number of designated funds, the ability to record prayer requests, track class registration, import and display family and individual photos and another twenty or so desirable attributes.

If the team was actually insistent about achieving all of their objectives including a desire for the resulting system to be so flexible that anything forgotten can be easily added on in the future, they would find that the cost of implementing the 100 percent solution would be extremely expensive. However, if they selected a solution that would hit the ground running and provide 90 percent of all of the desired attributes, the costs would be about 10 percent of the 100 percent solution.

It is actually pretty simple to understand that the first 90 percent of almost any project can be accomplished or implemented with about 10 percent of the effort. This applies not only to church computer systems but also decisions that we make on a daily basis. A chef may take a trip to his favorite market possibly in a different city to select exactly the right cut for a dinner party while those of us with more modest expectations can stop at the local grocery store and find something already cut, packaged and priced at a much lower cost.

This 90/10 approach also applies to church construction, video and audio equipment, furnishings and publications. It is much better stewardship of resources to understand that being able to provide a 90 percent solution is not only much more economical but also allows other projects, ideas and ministry wishes to be considered and funded.

Give 100 percent to those things that are clearly directed by the Lord. Do 100 percent discipleship, encourage 100 percent unity, and develop 100 percent parents. Do more ministry by embracing a 90/10 solution for those things that are desired but not needed.

Reprint from Church Executive Magazine http://churchexecutive.com/archives/the-9010-solution September 2011

C-O-E-X-I-S-T?

2011-11-21T12:33:00.004-05:00

"Can't we all just get along" (quote by Rodney King) seems to be the sentiment that comes from the c-o-e-x-i-s-t symbols, bumper stickers and signs that are becoming common today regarding different world religions.

The answer to that question is likely 'yes' and 'no'.

Yes, in our multi-cultural, pluralist society, we should all get along when it comes to respecting the laws, providing equal access and living peacefully with each other. However, if coexisting and getting-along is something more than agreeing to be lawful or peaceful, when tolerance becomes something that requires a person to change their own personal beliefs and practices, then the adherents of coexist are actually encouraging intolerance.

This C-O-E-X-I-S-T symbol is very telling if people truly understand the religious that are represented. These symbols, arranged in a clever way to spell 'coexist' represent Islam, Buddhism, Science, Judaism, Paganism, Wicca and Christianity.

First of all, I love it that science is finally represented as a religion. For years people that have come to the conclusion that this universe, all of creation and all life on this planet are the obvious result of the Divine, have been discredited by the religion of science. We know science must be a religion for it takes much more faith to believe in cosmological chance and coincidence than to believe in a Creator.

My issue with C-O-E-X-I-S-T isn't as much with science as it is with other religions that clearly worship another god. This became very important to me recently, which I'll explain.

In the Qur'an, Allah is never described as 'father' and true Muslims wouldn't refer to Allah as their father. The Qur'an says that Allah has no son, there is no Holy Spirit and that 72 virgins are awaiting the righteous.

Wicca is a pagan religion that worships the Horned God and the Triple Goddess. While there are many different sects and beliefs, they are altogether the antithesis of our Christian culture. Paganism may not be Satanism but it is still earth-centered. Christianity is Kingdom-centered as we are 'aliens and strangers in this world' (1 Peter 2:11).

Buddhism and Hinduism are groupings of eastern religion that have much in common with each other but little in common with the teachings of Jesus. Both embrace reincarnation or transmigration. On the other hand, Christianity and Judaism embrace the unique creation of man, molded in the image of God.

None of these other religions can appreciate the Biblical understanding of our sin nature, our need for a Savior nor our access to a heavenly Father.

As I mentioned, recently I had to address this issue of coexist. I was invited to participate in an interfaith prayer service. I love to be able to pray at a public gathering and love the unity of the Body of Christ but had to decline this invitation. The prayer service included not only Christians but also a Rabbi. I have no issues with Rabbis and since Jesus was also considered a Rabbi and Rabbis worship the same God, I can pray with a Rabbi.

However, I declined to participate in this particular interfaith prayer service as an Imam would also be praying and reading from the Qu'ran. I didn't see anyone listed that would be reading from the Bible (likely an oversight) but I knew that an Imam couldn't possibly be offering a prayer to the same God that the Christians and Jews acknowledge.

My mission as a Christ-follower is to bring clarity and not confusion. My participation would have left the wrong impression on some people that were in attendance. Light cannot coexist with darkness; we cannot serve two masters. Paul tells us in Ephesians 5:11, "Have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness, but rather expose them."

Coexist...absolutely. Pray for them to come to the knowledge of the way, the truth and the light......daily!

Committees don't work

2011-11-19T08:19:00.003-05:00

It doesn't surprise me at all that the 'Super-Committee' that was suposed to be coming up with a way to shave $1.5 billion from the national deficit is going to fail. This bi-partisan Congressional committee was doomed from the start.

Committees usually fail.

It has been said that a "Camel is a horse, designed by committee".

All too often, leaders that are undecided, faced with a difficult task and usually unwilling to make a decision will choose to delegate the decision making to committee. Committees, by definition, require a group. They are subordinate to the governing body or leader that appointed them and because the decisions, recommendations and findings are the responsibility of the group and not any individual, personal accountability is avoided.

Many are familiar with the phrase "Death by Committee". In order to avoid major problems in decision making here are three short pieces of advice:

1) Avoid forming, serving on and embracing committees. If deliberation and investigation is necessary, make it the responsibility of one person who can assemble a team to carry the load.

2) Don't confuse collaboration with the need for a committee. Teams often collaborate and all good leaders are collaborative. Collaboration adds value.

3) Make the hard decisions and own them. Difficult decisions are unpopular but that is when true leaders step forward to move organizations and movements forward.

Outside the Box

2011-10-26T18:14:00.004-04:00

Thinking outside the box has gone full circle. From introduction, to use, and abuse....it's now looked at again as likely a requirement for success.

Maybe twenty years or so it was thought that a person that was able to 'think outside the box' was able to approach problems in unique, new and very innovative ways. The phrase 'outside the box' ultimately became a cliche. Every business, school, church and organization was trying to think outside the box. Taco Bell even encouraged us to 'think outside the bun'.

I didn't know what the big deal was. I had the well-earned reputation of 'LIVING outside the box but visiting it occasionally'.

However, just like all good ideas, the opportunity for re-use is worth the effort. Today, our churches and ministries are finding very creative ways to reinvent the way they minister. When you consider that the move to nondenominational churches started over thirty years ago and that Mega-Churches have been around about the same amount of time, and that 'Purpose Driven' was first published in 1995, it's likely that it may be time to sense or create a new movement.

Start with the end in mind. What is it that is limiting your success in reaching people, of fulfilling your piece of the Great Commission? Have you considering truly changing the methods while keeping the message? If you are thinking that 'Church' is your box, start thinking 'Kingdom' and perhaps you'll find new creative ways to fulfill your calling.

Why Ask Why?

2011-10-13T15:25:00.007-04:00

I've learned the hard way that it's better to ask sometimes even embarrassing questions than to have less than a full understanding of a situation.

There is an old story that is worth repeating. There was a young girl that was watching her mom prepare a large ham for Easter and saw her mom cut the end off of the ham before putting it in the roasting pan. She asked her mom why she cut off the end and the mom answered, "That the way my mother always made it". Grandma soon visited and the young girl decided to ask grandma why she cut the end off the ham before she baked it and grandma said, "that's the only way it would fit into the pan".

Perhaps you have found that asking, "why?" is really the key in unlocking many secrets and wisdom that otherwise would go unfound.

In the Book of Proverbs, there is a lot of advice about asking questions, about getting good counsel before making decisions. It's likely that Proverbs 12:15 sums it up in saying, "Fools think they are doing right, but the wise listen to advice."

Questions are great ways to find out about people, to get instruction, to find out what people really are thinking and to correct misconceptions we have about many things.

There was a time when I had to rely on asking questions in managing and leading others. When I first arrived in Mexico in 1997 I barely knew the language, the laws and the customs. I had to ask lots of questions in order to be helpful and encouraging. It taught me to continually ask questions as a way of leading others and leading myself as well.

Why ask 'why'? Ask 'why' if you are interested in being wise, particularly if you are interested in people and always when you want to be helpful.

The Game of Life

2011-09-25T09:34:00.003-04:00

I have grandkids now that give me a great excuse to play board games again.

Have you looked at the Game of Life lately?

I'm talking about the board game. It's been updated and for a game that originally came out in 1860, its popularity is pretty amazing. You get married, have kids, get a job and hopefully end up in "Millionaire Acres".

Kind of like what most people think of the real game of life. In any game, there are rules (these tell us how to play) and an objective (how we win). In the Milton Bradley version you take turns, do what the card tells you to do and ultimately end up at the destination.

In the real game of life, the Creator has told us what the rules are. Jesus summarized them as just two: Love God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength and with all your mind. The second is to love your neighbor as yourself.

Just two rules! Two rules that are pretty simple to remember but not so simple to follow.

However, the objective is not 'Millionaire Acres' but eternal life with our heavenly father. The key to this objective and the entire principle of the game of life however is not the destination but how we play.

By loving God first, with all of our heart, soul, mind and strength, we find and serve in the many opportunities to love our neighbor. The Bible says very clearly that the destination has already been provided in Christ. It's by accepting His love for us that was demonstrated by His sacrifice on Calvary, we enter into eternal life.

Now that’s a game that is worth playing!

Content or Complacent?

2011-09-23T21:59:00.006-04:00

The conversation this morning at our men's group was about the headlines of today's newspapers that highlighted Economic Woes, Debt Crisis in Europe, US Debt Crisis. I made a passing comment that I refuse to worry about these global issues. Not worrying is just the beginning, I practice the art of being content. I love my job and my church, my wife and I have a great relationship. These are just a few of the reasons for my contentment.

Later, I was challenged that perhaps I am too complacent. I was challenged that maybe I should be discontent with the status quo and become a part of the solution, both politically as well as socially. I certainly see some value in being a part of the solution. However, the pastor in me had to state that the scriptures clearly say that as believers, we are to be content. Solomon said in Ecclesiastes that "it is better to be content with what little you have. Otherwise, you will always be struggling for more, and that is like chasing the wind." Also the Apostle Paul said to the Phillipians that he "learned the secret of being content when he had much as well as when he had very little."

Still, I wondered about this idea of being too complacent.

I think the key difference between the two adjectives, content and complacent is the God factor.

Let's look at the definitions of the two words. To be content is to be satisfied with what is or has; not wanting or striving more for anything else. To be complacent is to be pleased, especially with oneself or one's merits, often without awareness of some potential danger or defect. (reference: Dictionary.com)

To know God is to know we mortals are defective, we are broken. We have a sin nature and constantly struggle with self. We also know that it is not our merits that matter, it is all about God. Particularly, it is the completed work of Christ that sets us free and gives us contentment. When we understand, embrace and model this attitude we reflect Godliness.

It is the God factor that gives us Godliness.

And we know that Godliness with contentment is great gain (2 Timothy 6:6)

Those who can do.....TEACH!

2011-08-31T20:13:00.004-04:00

You have likely heard the saying, "Those who can't, teach".

I've never liked that saying. As an occasional teacher at various levels, church, corporate, profit, nonprofit and educational, including undergraduate and graduate, I thought it was not true regarding my colleagues and hopefully not true of me as well.

Over the years, I've become even more certain that the opposite is actually true. For those that consider themselves leaders, people that influence and provide encouragement, guidance and inspiration, it is imperative to understand that you need to be able to teach.

Everyone can discover their teachable point of view. This teachable point of view is how leaders develop leaders. It is often said that the true test of leadership is how well life goes on when you are no longer the one that is leading.

Personally, I've had mixed results. There have been times when I felt that even a relatively short amount of time that I've had to develop leaders actually left a lasting imprint. Things including people, processes and organizations were forever (at least for the foreseeable future) changed. I was able to look back at my short tenure and smile, knowing that I had not only led but taught and developed other leaders that were able to carry on.

Other times, I had no sooner moved on to a new assignment, a new town or a new organization and everything that I thought I had accomplished returned to the state it was before I ever engaged. It's sad but true and sometime disheartening but very few can claim a perfect record.

I've learned from those times however. I don't necessarily have to think of them as mistakes as much as they were lessons learned. When I have the opportunity I develop a stronger and more determined resolve to not only 'do' but 'teach' others so that they have the opportunity to learn from my experiences both good and bad.

I want to be one that not only can do....but also teach.

Three Minutes of Stewardship

2011-08-24T10:01:00.006-04:00

A little bit of intentionality goes a long way.

Most churches are very intentional. The worship set is typically planned out days if not weeks ahead of the service. The sermon is prepared, often practiced and reviewed. The message is so intentional that it is often a part of a sermon series that has been carefully planned and coordinated into a cohesive teaching season. Even the announcements have been planned to maximize important upcoming events. The bulletin, sermon notes and other weekend preparations are all very intentional.

And then comes the offering.

Typically, the offering is three minutes of random musings, some thoughtful prayer offered at the end of the announcements and the ushers come forward.

The offering can actually be a very powerful and rewarding time for all when it is carefully planned and intentionally delivered. With the right amount in intentionality the time for the offering can become, Three minutes of Stewardship.

It’s often mentioned that Jesus spoke more about money and giving than heaven and hell combined. This is true; for example, 11 of his 39 parables talk about money in some manner.

Throughout the New Testament, there are a number of principles that are related to stewardship. Just to name a few there is the principle of “storing up your treasure in heaven” (Matthew 6:20), “being trustworthy with worldly wealth” (Luke 16:11), “more blessed to give than receive” (Acts 20:35).

Taking the three minutes spent setting up the offering and intentionally teaching one of these reoccurring stewardship principles can transform a local church. Instead of treating the offering as the transition between the announcements and the sermon, three-minutes-of-stewardship introduces one of the most important components of personal worship, teaches biblical principles that cut to the heart of who is Lord of all, and trains new disciples how to not trust in uncertain riches but to trust in the Living God (1 Timothy 6:17).

Over a short period of time, the three-minutes-of-stewardship becomes a powerful weekly reminder that giving is not about meeting the financial needs of the church but a simple and consistent method to keep our hearts aligned with God.

Teaching stewardship for three minutes doesn’t seem like a long time and it isn’t. It is however, plenty of time to introduce one important Biblical principle. Over a number of weeks, the most applicable verses on stewardship can be shared.

In just three months, the three minutes add up to more than an entire 30-minute sermon on how we become true disciples when we understand the manner in which God wants us to honor him with our entire life, including our uncertain riches.

Reprint from Church Executive, June 2011

The Great Wealth Transfer

2011-08-20T14:35:00.006-04:00

I was recently talking with a good friend who served as a pastor for a number of years and is now working with various Christian organizations and churches on planned giving, estate planning and capital campaigns.

One of the facts that he shared with me is something that is hard to fully understand. Many estate planning experts point to a study by Boston College that estimated that more than $40 trillion will be transferred from one generation to the next generation in the coming years.

Considering that charities including churches in the United States receive just over $300 billion annually from all sources, being able to participate in some of the planned-giving piece of that transfer would be a game changer.

There are a number of organizations, both for-profit as well as not-for-profit, who provide estate planning seminars and advice. In the church however we have one great advantage and that is that we can offer those that have the opportunity to give or participate in planned-giving a Kingdom perspective.

The early church certainly had a Kingdom perspective. In the Book of Acts, we see the beginnings of the church. After Pentecost, the gospel of the Kingdom was spoken by the Apostles with much boldness. Then in Chapter 4:32-37 of Acts we read about Barnabas, originally called Joseph:

"Now the large group of those who believed were of one heart and mind, and no one said that any of his possessions was his own, but instead they held everything in common. And the apostles were giving testimony with great power to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus, and great grace was on all of them. For there was not a needy person among them, because all those who owned lands or houses sold them, brought the proceeds of the things that were sold, and laid them at the apostles' feet. This was then distributed for each person's basic needs.

Joseph, a Levite and a Cypriot by birth, the one the apostles called Barnabas, which is translated Son of Encouragement, sold a field he owned, brought the money, and laid it at the apostles' feet.

This is the first time we hear of Barnabas, he went on to be one of the great leaders of the early church. Barnabas was a partner on many of Paul’s missionary journeys and is called an Apostle later in the same book of Acts.

Barnabas sold a field he owned and gave the money to the Apostles. He took a non-liquid asset, a piece of real-estate that may not have been producing income, and turned it into a tangible gift for the ministry.

Gifts to ministry may or may have a tax benefit but they always provide a benefit to the Kingdom. In addition, we can clearly say that gifts given to the church, given to the various para-church nonprofit organizations are all given “unto the Lord”.

Just one example of the Kingdom connection in giving is in the story of the Widows mite; the story of the women that gave two small copper coins. If you recall the widow’s mite, Jesus commended the widow for giving “all that she had”, which Jesus said was more than anyone else had given, though their gifts were more substantial. Jesus commended the woman while at the same time, and as recorded in just the previous chapter of Mark, He severely criticized the temple moneychangers telling them they had turned the Temple into a “den of robbers”.

Keeping a Kingdom focus enabled a man called Joseph, also called Barnabas, the son of Encouragement, to transfer a non-liquid asset, part of his estate, into a gift for the advancement of gospel. Keeping a Kingdom focus not only benefited the early church but took a man named Joseph, also called Barnabas, the son of encouragement and enabled him to become an Apostle of the Lamb.

Belle Glade 2011

2011-07-21T11:11:00.011-04:00

This past week, about 450 students and 100 volunteers have been living in Belle Glade, making an impact on the community. In addition, another 100 or more volunteers have been making sandwiches, preparing over 1700 meals daily. It's a big effort but the need is big as well.

These middle and high school students will spend a week of their summer vacation in Belle Glade making a positive impact on the community. Students will participate in projects to beautify the city and will participate in other community service projects. There will be a sports camp and Vacation Bible School for the kids in the community.

One of the great developments in the past few years is the partnership with the City of Belle Glade and the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Department. These government agencies along with local area churches help rally the community support. This year, we are anticipating that we will be distributing school supplies on our last day to over 700 students. During the week, our VBS program will be reaching 100-135 students. Students are helping to clean up our new Ministry Center, a 18,000 sq. ft. open building in the middle of the city. Cleaning out old tiles, pieces of wall board and hundreds of bags of debris will make room for ministry to the community in the near future.

Watch the video: http://vimeo.com/26707956

The Belle Glade Ministry project is a joint project of Christ Fellowship's Life Mission Department, our Student Ministries and our Children's Ministry that had the opportunity to do some advance work in the community with the 4th and 5th grade students and have been collecting school supplies for the community. Our youth leaders and pastors put on a 're-cap' every night, I've included one from Day Three (above).

I had the opportunity today to talk with Belle Glade Commissioner William Greer who has a great heart for the community. He was born in Belle Glade, served over 20 years in the Marines and is now back to make a difference in the town that his dad once served as Mayor.

Partnerships with the local community will help the Church succeed where others have failed. Please pray for our students and for the difference they will make in the community of Belle Glade. These students will have the opportunity to impact our world with the love and message of Jesus Christ - everyone. everyday. everywhere.

The Rule, not the Exception

2011-07-20T16:30:00.008-04:00

Many of you have heard the story of the Rich Young Ruler. The story is found in three of the four Gospels. (Mark 10:17-25; Luke 18:18-25; Matt 19:16-24). I believe if it is told once it’s important, if it is told three times, it’s critical that we pay attention to the story.

Here is how it goes. We’ll use the story out of Mark 10:

The Rich Young Ruler

As He (Jesus) was setting out on a journey, a man ran up, knelt down before Him, and asked Him, "Good Teacher, what must I do to inherit eternal life?"

"Why do you call Me good?" Jesus asked him. "No one is good but One-God.

You know the commandments: Do not murder; do not commit adultery; do not steal; do not bear false witness; do not defraud; honor your father and mother."

He said to Him, "Teacher, I have kept all these from my youth."

Then, looking at him, Jesus loved him and said to him, "You lack one thing: Go, sell all you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow Me." But he was stunned at this demand, and he went away grieving, because he had many possessions.

Jesus looked around and said to His disciples, "How hard it is for those who have wealth to enter the kingdom of God!" But the disciples were astonished at His words. Again Jesus said to them, "Children, how hard it is to enter the kingdom of God! It is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich person to enter the kingdom of God."

So they were even more astonished, saying to one another, "Then who can be saved?"

Looking at them, Jesus said, "With men it is impossible, but not with God, because all things are possible with God."

Some will say that Jesus says this because the man was very unique and that he was looking to the law, trying to earn his salvation. Some will say that the idea of the man being told to give up everything he had to follow Jesus was the exception, not the rule.

I doubt that is the main reason for this passage. I believe, these verses are not about the exception but the rule. Let’s look again at the passage and find FIVE RULES that Jesus emphasizes

LIVE A MORAL LIFE – Jesus said, “You know the commandments: Do not commit adultery; do not murder; do not steal; do not bear false witness; honor your father and mother." It is the moral code that provides the guidelines for ourselves, our families and our society. This has been the foundation of the Jewish and Christian communities; these are those guidelines that have been given to us by our Creator.

These moral guidelines are also the bedrock of this nation. John Adams said, “Our Constitution was made only for a moral and religious people. It is wholly inadequate to the government of any other.”
JESUS LOVES US! We are His creation. He loves us unconditionally. At this time every good religious Jew was trying to earn salvation by works. Jesus points out this very clearly with Nicodemus. You need to be born again, a new work via the Holy Spirit.
FORESAKE ALL ELSE: giving to the poor, giving up everything to follow Jesus, having treasure in heaven is the rule….Jesus mentions these often:

"If anyone comes to me and does not hate his father and mother, his wife and children, his brothers and sisters -- yes, even his own life -- he cannot be my disciple. And anyone who does not carry his cross and follow me cannot be my disciple" (Luke 14:26-27).

"In the same way, any of you who does not give up everything he has cannot be my disciple." (Luke 14:33)

"The kingdom of heaven is like treasure hidden in a field. When a man found it, he hid it again, and then in his joy went and sold all he had and bought that field. Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a merchant looking for fine pearls. When he found one of great value, he went away and sold everything he had and bought it" (Matthew 13:44-46).

"For whoever wants to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for me will save it" (Luke 9:24).

"Whoever tries to keep his life will lose it, and whoever loses his life will preserve it" (Luke 17:33)
Jesus say’s FOLLOW ME: This is not an empty challenge but the opportunity for a great reward. Jesus had said it earlier to some fisherman: “As Jesus was walking beside the Sea of Galilee, he saw two brothers, Simon called Peter and his brother Andrew. They were casting a net into the lake, for they were fishermen. “Come, follow me," Jesus said, "and I will send you out to fish for people." At once they left their nets and followed him. Going on from there, he saw two other brothers, James son of Zebedee and his brother John. They were in a boat with their father Zebedee, preparing their nets. Jesus called them, and immediately they left the boat and their father and followed him. (Matthew 4:18-22)
Finally…ALL THINGS ARE POSSIBLE WITH GOD. Jesus was challenged by His disciples.Jesus had made the comparison of a camel going through the eye of a needle to a rich man entering the Kingdom of God, and the disciples wanted to know then who could be saved? Jesus assures them however that with God, all things are possible. Jesus would soon be entering Jerusalem to pay a price that He didn’t owe, to pay a debt that we couldn’t pay. All things are possible with God.

The Great Recovery

2011-07-14T09:36:00.008-04:00

I was recently invited to a seminar on the 21st with Dave Ramsey called, “The Great Recovery”. He and a number of church leaders are calling people to embrace Biblical Principles regarding debt, spending, and consumption.

I’m not sure exactly what the seminar will propose but I can assume it won’t be political. We have tried political solutions to problems for years but politics is not the answer, God is the answer.

We certainly need God in our finances. If you are like most Americans, home equity was the source of most of your net worth. As home prices have shrunk the equity Americans have in their homes to nearly the lowest percentage since World War II.

According to the Federal Reserve, average home equity plunged from more than 61 percent at the start of 2001 to 38 percent in the January-March quarter of 2011. For years, Americans have put their hope in a financial plan that said to borrow money, leverage a small down payment and reap a huge windfall on rising home prices.

Over 4.5 million foreclosures have dashed that dream. Millions are looking for a better way.

The better way is and will continue to be the Biblical principles that many of us have advocated, even if we haven’t been really good at following our own advice.

In the news each morning is the continued debate regarding the US Debt limit and the antics by our elected officials. What is interesting to me is that by looking at spending and debt, our elected officials and the news media are ignoring the most important side – Revenue.

We are still living in a very blessed country. Revenue to the US Government continues to increase. The graph above illustrates that total Government revenue has increased in the US geometrically in the past forty years growing from less than $900 billion to over $6 Billion. This increase in revenues couldn’t keep up with the insatiable appetite to spend which resulted in our $14 trillion debt.

God has a better plan.

If you are interested in hearing more about the Great Recovery seminar coming up in a few weeks, here is the link http://www.thegreatrecovery.com/

Tithe Redux

2011-06-25T12:09:00.001-04:00

What is Tithe Redux?

Well, ‘Redux’ [ri-duhks] is an adjective. It’s taken from the Latin word from the Latin ‘reducere’ that means to bring back, reconsider, or restored. It’s used in literature and film titles. ‘Acocalypse Now Redux’ was directed by Francis Ford Coppola in 2001 and was a reconsideration of his original 1979 movie.

So ‘Tithe Redux’ would be to reconsider the tithe, or bring it back. The practice of ‘tithing’, of giving the first 10% of a person’s or household income is a Biblical principle. The word ‘tithe’ is an Old English term that is used in the Bible to represent a one-tenth part. While it has been talked about for many years and in many churches, both the concept and the word are not used in the true Biblical principle.

People often use the word ‘tithe’ when they refer to giving money to the church, regardless of the amount or percentage of the gift. For example, someone may say, “I’m tithing but not giving anywhere near 10%”. While we may understand what the person is saying, this is not the concept of the tithe.

A person attending a Christian church should be under no obligation to give any particular amount or percentage to any church or charity. Many however understand that as a spiritual principle, the practice of giving regularly, cheerfully, sacrificially and proportionally honors God and aligns their hearts with a very important spiritual principle. (1 Corinthians 8; 2 Corinthians 8-9)Giving a ‘tithe’, or the first tenth of income is one form of proportional giving.

Putting God first place in our lives is extremely important to practice if we are to grow as a Christian. Its also important to be able to trust in God for our financial well-being, particularly if we happen to reside in a wonderfully economical advantageous country and have incomes that exceed over 90% of the people in the world. Jesus understood that handling money was important a well; it’s why He spoke more about the stewardship of resources (i.e. money) more than any other topic.

One legitimate reason to not talk about the Tithe is if you believe it was done away with in the Old Testament. I don’t believe it has been done away, seems like Jesus affirmed it at least once in the New Testament (Matthew 23:23) that should be enough for us.

I certainly understand that many people think that talking about the Tithe is uncomfortable for some. Yes, it likely is but we don’t avoid uncomfortable topics. I also understand that many preachers have misused the concept of the tithe, trying to guilt people into giving to their local church. However, we don’t stop doing the right thing because others abuse their privilege.

I believe the principle of the Tithe is similar to the principle of the Sabbath. We no longer adhere to a Saturday Sabbath, don’t feel required to walk rather than drive one day out of seven and certainly don’t condemn people that have to work on any particular day. However we continue to encourage people to understand the spiritual principle of Sabbath. Honor God by finding a time for rest. There are lots of smiling faces when we talk about people needing rest in church.

The tithe is similar. Honor God with your first and your best. Contribute generously to your local church. Give regularly, sacrificially, proportionally and cheerfully. Be a good steward of everything that God has entrusted to your care.

10% is a good place to start.

Selling the Sizzle

2011-06-12T19:13:00.005-04:00

After a number of years on the finance side of a Fortune 100 company, I was offered the opportunity to get involved in sales.

Sales…now that seems a lot more fun than crunching numbers.

In sales, you learn how to be approachable, how to identify the benefits and the value of the product or service you represent. In sales, you learn that at any given time, there are a number of other products and services that are competing for the attention of your potential clients. The objective in sales is making sure that you make the best of every opportunity to clearly identify the unique value proposition that your product or service offers. The really good sales approach is what the legendary “greatest salesman in the world”, Elmer Wheeler, called, “Selling the Sizzle”.

Churches could learn a lot from Elmer Wheeler. He defined ‘sizzle’ as the biggest selling point, the main reason why people would want to buy.

What is it that churches all too often try to sell? What occupies the best vantage point in the church lobby, the biggest announcement that is made on the stage? If you’ve been in more than a few churches you know that all too often, churches do a horrible job of selling the sizzle.

The Church is the personification of the Body of Christ. The Church has the unique opportunity to offer the hope of forgiveness, reconciliation and restoration. No other organization can offer what the Church has to offer. The Church is not as some have proposed, some get-rich-quick or heavenly multi level marketing opportunity. The true sizzle that an Elmer Wheeler would want the Church to identify and utilize in reaching the greatest number of people is life change.

New life in Jesus Christ is the compelling opportunity for young and old, rich and poor, single, separated, divorced and married. It is the most unique value proposition that any organization could possibly offer to anyone.

“Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come.” —2 Corinthians 5:17

The objective for those of us that in the Church is to make the best of every opportunity to clearly identify the life changing proposition that only we, as the personification of the body of Christ, have to offer.

Sell the Sizzle!

Church Confidential

2011-05-30T21:00:00.004-04:00

It’s not unusual for someone to come to me and say, “Pastor, can I share something with you in confidence?”

My response usually surprises them: “Depends on what you tell me.”

Often, church leaders are unsure of how to handle sensitive information that is received within the church body. It’s important to make a distinction between that which should remain completely private and that which requires action and some further disclosure.

The Bible actually has a lot to say about what we would understand as someone coming to another person in confidence and disclosing a personal or moral issue. As Christians we are instructed that we are to confess to one another (Matthew 6:14; James 5:16). Questions immediately surface however, when it comes to confidentiality that may be expected. While we are often asked to “keep this confidential” there are many times we cannot promise that when we hear certain information, it won’t require a follow-up or other appropriate type of action.

For example:

1) Information disclosed about abuse, molestation, theft and vandalism typically obligates the receiver to further disclose the information to appropriate leaders who often have an obligation to disclose the same information to others including often the civil authority.

2) Moral failures, addictions and even mental disorders often require that the person receiving the information take some action. While the person may be requesting confidentiality, the sharing of the information indicates that help is needed and a resolution is desired.

The Bible also speaks about gossip and it is often gossip that is brought to us in confidence. Gossips and busybodies are to be avoided (1 Timothy 5:13). Gossip breaks up friendships (Proverbs 16:28). The word often translated as gossip is the Greek word for a whisperer, a secret slanderer, or a detractor.

However, while gossip is to be ignored, factual information that threatens the integrity of the Body of Christ is a different matter and should not be ignored. These matters involving the spiritual health of the church, the protection of the sheep from wolves and the restoration of the individual take precedence over a request for confidentiality and secrecy.

The leadership of the church has a responsibility to restore a person that is caughtin a sin (Gal 6:1). However, just like a request for confidentiality, restoration is secondary to protecting the rest of the church. Protection is often accomplished through appropriate church discipline.

Pastors, and by extension other church leaders, have the responsibility for discipline within the church. Anything that compromises the integrity of the church or ultimately harms other church members or causes dissension needs to be dealt with by the church leaders from the biblical aspect of church discipline.

In Matthew 18:15-18, Jesus gives us a four-step approach to dealing with these confidential and sensitive matters in the church. The first step is to confront the individual alone. Steps two through four escalate the discipline, particularly for the non-repentant.

“If a fellow believer hurts you, go and tell him-work it out between the two of you. If he listens, you’ve made a friend. If he won’t listen, take one or two others along so that the presence of witnesses will keep things honest, and try again. If he still won’t listen, tell the church. If he won’t listen to the church, you’ll have to start over from scratch, confront him with the need for repentance, and offer again God’s forgiving love. (Matt 18:15-18)

As believers and members of the Body of Christ, we are all under authority. Local church authority is a great place to start when dealing with an issue as described above. The first response should always be to encourage the offender to submit to the appropriate authority. If the person is hesitant, the church leader should let the person know that any consideration of confidentiality was presumptuous and cannot be honored because of the nature of the issue

Reprint from Church Executive, April 2011

And on the Seventh Day.......

2011-05-24T13:09:00.000-04:00

My wife and I recently returned from a brief 5-day trip to Mackinac Island, situated on the Straits of Mackinac and between the upper and lower peninsula of Michigan.

While it's difficult to admit, it was one of the first vacations I have taken in a while. It seems like there is always something going on, something urgent at the office to attend to and it's all too easy to ignore the need to rest and relax.

I don't know whether you call it a "moment" or an "Epiphany" or something else but God definitely seemed to be taking me to task about this idea of rest and relaxation.

Just a week before, one of my board members also chided me for my lack of attention to this concept of an extended rest that we so often ignore in this busy fast-paced world.

It just so happens that the trip also was an opportunity to catch up with some good friends that we hadn't seen in a number of years. We used to spend lots of time with them. Good neighbors, friends from church, adopted families and parents of children our children's age. When we were together again, even if briefly, it seemed like the time spent apart was not as great as the bonds that were drawing us together.

My wife (the smart one in our relationship) reminded me that it was the time that was invested in each other that likely was the reason we became such good friends. Time that is still available to invest in people both family and friends if we want to continue to have special friends.

Mackinac Island may not be the place for everyone: Just a small island with a tiny town, there are no cars, only bikes and horses. Cell phone service is lousy and 90% of the land is state-owned and consists of mainly trees and trails and beautiful views of Lake Huron and Lake Michigan. And other than the Grand Hotel of "Somewhere in Time" movie fame, most of the hotels are only fair.

At the same time, it was a great place to rest, relax and reacquaint ourselves with that inner need to take some time off. I need to do it more often. Maybe even every week, maybe every seventh day.

I think I read that somewhere.

Three lessons on what matters

2011-05-01T12:54:00.003-04:00

There are a few lessons that I've learned along the way about things that matter. Since my training is in finance and economics, it's no surprise that my lessons are quantitative rather than qualitative.

I thought I'd pass them along however:

1) Things that matter are measured.

If it's important, we find a way to measure it. While some things are relatively easy to measure (i.e. number of people, revenue, how long something takes), other things are more difficult. If something is difficult to measure that doesn't mean we don't measure it. For example, an employee's performance is a difficult measurement, but most HR professionals encourage an annual evaluation that is based on some standard assessment.

2) What you measure tells people what matters.

The lesson here is that people are watching. If you are a race car driver and never bother to measure how long it takes you to do the quarter mile people will think you are not very serious about racing. In an organization, if getting things done matter, measure what gets done and how long it takes. People will take notice.

3) There are a very limited number of measurements that can truly matter.

This is what I call the 'scoreboard' approach. In a football game, there are all kinds of things that are measured including time of possession, number of yards penalized, passer ratings, offensive yards, etc. The only thing that really matters however is the score. One team walks away a winner, the other goes home the loser. The thing that truly matters is the score.

Love May Win But Bell Strikes Out

2011-04-28T18:27:00.004-04:00

Rob Bell’s Book, Love Wins is not a theological treatise on heaven and hell but an emotional appeal to those post-modern and post-Christian types that see the traditional church as the problem rather than the solution.

This is unfortunate as Bell asks a lot of questions and casts much doubt on traditional orthodoxy but never provides a true replacement. There are already all too many that are distrustful of Christianity and skeptical of scripture. After reading the book, none of these people would have been helped by Bell.

Is reading the book just time wasted? If it were only a waste a time I wouldn’t bother to write this review.

Reading his book is something that I knew I would do and it took me a little less than two hours to get through the 198 pages of Rob Bell speak.

Bell starts off harsh and attacks your sensibility by provocatively asking questions such as if we believe that children that die before the ‘age of accountability’ go to heaven, then wouldn’t prematurely terminating a child’s life anytime before they reach this age be a “loving thing to do” guaranteeing that the child would end up in heaven? He also mentions Romans 10 where Paul says, “how can they hear without someone preaching to them” and then Bell goes on to describe this false straw-man argument of a hypothetical missionary that gets a flat-tire and can’t do his part in delivering the truth of the gospel. What then? He obviously expects us to gasp in the horror of the injustice.

Many of Bell's questions will make us cringe. We cringe in some ways because we recognize the paradox and know how confusing the reality of the entirety of scripture can sometimes be for all of us. Bell however never embraces the paradox of the gospel, the paradox that two seemingly contradictory statements can both still be true. He instead throws these hundreds of questions out that can only dissuade and discourage a more serious consideration of the truth of the Gospel.

The answer for Rob Bell regarding Heaven is not that dissimilar to what we may assume. Heaven, for Bell, is much more wonderful than we talk about and begins now and not at some time in the future. I would agree with his ‘better-than’ view of heaven however I would say that it is eternal life that begins now and the new heaven and the new earth are pretty well described in Revelation 21 and 22.

Bell’s description of Hell is more of what it isn’t than what it is. He rejects any conventional and orthodox view of hell particularly with regard to it being an eternal state. He bristles at the concept of ‘never-ending punishment’ and says that given enough time “everybody will turn to God and find themselves in the joy and peace of God’s presence”. He however offers no answers to where, how long or to what end this intermediate Hell exists.

Often Bell is intellectually dishonest. He offered up the esteemed Gandhi in the first chapter as an example of someone many would assume to be worthy of heaven. Bell's audience is expected to agree as there is always a 'someone' that lived a good enough life that would be an exception to the "only through Christ" reality of the gospel. However, Bell avoids any mention of Hitler who was responsible for tens of millions of deaths. What about Idi Amin or your local serial killer? Does anyone truly deserve hell? According to Bell, everyone eventually ends up in heaven.

Bell claims that ‘never-ending punishment’ does not give God glory. However, neither does a cheap, universal grace that is also described by Bell.

Bell’s arguments against the more traditional views of eternity and hell are spurious. Early in the book he claims that he is not alone in his less-than-traditional view and states that since the first century, there have been a number that insist that “hell is not forever”.

Yes, there have been people like Origin, Clement of Alexandria and others that argued for what we now know as ‘universalism’. What is interesting is that Rob Bell names these early theologians as part of the proof of his discourse. Historical evidence abounds however that the early church renounced these theologians and some of the creeds that we have today have a statement of belief in both heaven and hell as a result of this very controversy. These creeds have been pretty much considered orthodoxy within the church for about 1900 years.

Interestingly, while Bell doesn’t describe his version of hell, he embraces what many would recognize as the Catholic’s view of purgatory. He describes a second chance for people that die; God providing “endless opportunities in an endless amount of time” for people to say yes to God.

Kevin DeYoung, the pastor of a growing church in Grand Rapids, Michigan, home of Rob Bell closes his excellent and much more developed review of Love Wins with these comments that are worth noting:

“If Love Wins is wrong…. then what damage has been done to the souls of men and women? Bad theology hurts real people. Is Love Wins true? Open a Bible, pray to God, listen to the faithful Christians of the past 2000 years, and answer the question for yourself.”

Your Website is Irrelevant

2011-04-18T17:55:00.004-04:00

You may be the last group in America that finally has a website or you may have been an early adopter and were one of the first in America to have a URL with your organization's name.

Regardless of how long you’ve been at it, you are likely to now have a website that is completely irrelevant. Irrelevant from a marketing perspective (few, if any, are attracted to your organization because of your website), irrelevant from a source of relevant information, and irrelevant to your members in seeking timely information on activities, class offerings and messages.

Increasingly, shoppers and visitors have learned to find out honest, authentic information from peers and friends online rather than visiting an organization's website. At the same time, social media is highly effective in reaching a local community and the best organizations have found the way to integrate social media with their existing websites and information channels.

As a source of information, unfortunately most websites are still pretty static. The information about the doctrines, beliefs, organizational and governance structure are not only completely boring for visitors but also typically so non-compelling and un-welcoming that most organizations would be better served not posting the information at all.

More up-to-date information is easily archived on places like YouTube, Vimeo and Google Video and referenced from the website. Video archives of teachings and audio podcasts are best located on places like iTunes where people can subscribe for free and easily search for the topics that they are looking for at the time.

Customers, partners and attendees that are web-savvy that are the most likely to use the organization's website, can also be savvy enough to embrace Twitter and Facebook. While many have correctly identified the hazards of these social networking phenomena, there is still a lot of baby there that shouldn’t be thrown out with the bathwater. Having attendees naturally connect online and share information and ask for prayer and support is a recent innovation that unfortunately most of us have not been able to figure out how to fully embrace. One of the simple ways to embrace tools like Facebook and Twitter is to have 'share button' icons on your website that allows visitors to immediately share and comment via their social media sites.

You website doesn’t need to be irrelevant and it can still be a very useful tool. Organizations just need to continue to go where the people are. We understand that intuitively when it comes to buying property...it’s all about location-location-location. Follow the same thought process when it comes to your online presence and source of information for both visitors and guests as well as regular attendees.

Know the Why

2011-04-11T16:13:00.004-04:00

I’ve recently returned from a church conference and I was so happy that there wasn’t a lot of ‘what’ being demonstrated.

You’ve likely been to a ‘what’ conference. These conferences tell you this is ‘what’ worship is like, this is ‘what’ student ministries offers, this is ‘what’ your church website should look like.

‘What’ isn’t all bad since knowing the ‘what’ is important as it allows us to offer something that ministers to people. The world is full of people needing a ‘what’.

However, I loved hearing about the ‘how’. Successful churches and ministries that do ministry well understand that the ‘how’ is just as important as the ‘what’. ‘How’ helps the people and churches that are doing ministry replicate themselves. They can teach, demonstrate and use themselves as an example. The ‘how’ also allows for systems and processes to be developed to measure and make the ministry both efficient as well as effective. Knowing ‘how’ helps a church replicate ‘what’ they do to a larger and growing audience.

Ultimately, great leaders and great churches not only get the ‘what’ and the ‘how’ but they also understand the ‘why’. The ‘why’ is even more important. Answering the question ‘why’ gives context, permanence and visualization to that which is being accomplished.

If we know ‘why’ we also know the ultimate direction or vision of the ministry or activity. If we know ‘why’ we are using particular methods or using specific language, we have the opportunity to have a greater impact as when we teach, we are constantly casting vision rather than just giving instruction.

If knowing ‘what’ allows us to minister one-to-one; and knowing ‘how’ helps us replicate ourselves and our ministry through systems and processes, then knowing ‘why’ has the opportunity to build a movement.

Prepare for the Impossible

2011-04-04T16:49:00.003-04:00

To prepare for the impossible may seem like an unlikely assignment. However, I believe that as church leaders it is exactly the assignment that Christ has given to us.
All too often, many of our churches resemble the church of Laodicea in the Book of Revelation. We may think, “I am rich; I have acquired wealth and do not need a thing (Rev. 3:14).” While we may not ever say something like that out loud (knowing the context), we often wait until conditions are just right before breaking new ground, reaching into the community with the love and hope of Jesus, or hiring staff that would equip and empower others to do the work of ministry.
The needs around us are overwhelming. There are hundreds of thousands that are hurting. Our communities are full of people that need to know Jesus and our families, even within our churches are falling apart.
We have been called by God to make a difference. We are the sent ones—a people appointed by God to fulfill the Great Commission. We are the ones that are responsible to “Go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit … (Matt 28:19-20).”
We have neither the luxury nor the time to wait until we are fully resourced, have plenty of money in the bank and have all contingencies identified and planned. People are in desperate need and we are to be the salt and light to this generation.
In preparing for the impossible and allowing God to confirm the timing and provide the necessary resources I believe we need to follow three simple steps.
We need to embrace our need. As pastors and teachers we need both human and financial capital. We need people to come alongside us and help us in ministry. We may need other churches and ministries that we can partner with to be more effective in mobilizing resources. Preparing for the impossible would involve identifying and praying for the capital needed and selecting and training up those that will be equipped and even employed in ministry to meet the needs.
We need to recognize our calling. We are the ones that are to take this message of hope, peace and salvation to the world.
We need to affirm our anointing. The Apostle John tells us that we have an anointing from God (1 John 2:20). We know the need, we know the truth, and we also know the source. Later, in the same letter, John says, “As for you, the anointing you received from him remains in you, and you do not need anyone to teach you.”
Preparing for the impossible is necessary if we are going to move out of our comfort zone within our churches and get back into the communities. Out of our need, God provides. I have found he is never late but will also never get ahead of us.
Ken Behr
Reprint from ChurchExecutive March 2011

Charlie Sheen's Religion

2011-03-09T18:01:00.004-05:00

Hedonism (hēd'n-ĭz'əm) n.

The Religion that identifies one's self as "God" and has sacraments that honor the pursuit of or devotion to pleasure, especially to the pleasures of the senses. The pure or ultimate religious expression would be full exaltation of self, believing that societal rules, norms, virtues, or values are not applicable to one's self.

Hedonism may also be described as:

The Philosophy that believes that only what is pleasant or has pleasant consequences is intrinsically good. The ultimate objective would be to experience pure intoxicating pleasure.

The Psychology that holds that behavior is motivated by the desire for pleasure and the avoidance of accountability to anyone or anything else.

[from the Greek hēdonē, pleasure + -ISM.]

Synonyms: carnality, debauchery, sensuality

Rich Enough?

2011-02-28T07:17:00.007-05:00

There is an interesting story of the rich, young ruler that came to Jesus.

You likely know the story: A rich man comes to Jesus looking for affirmation of his faith. We all like affirmation and this certain man had much for which he would be proud for he said that he kept the commandments, he didn't murder or commit adultery. He said he wasn't a liar or defrauded anyone and he honored his father and mother (Mark 10:19-20).

Jesus had the opportunity at that time to remind him that adultery included lust and that murder including being angry with others which would have popped his balloon. Instead the Bible says that Jesus looked at him and loved him. Jesus did offer him something that was quite rare, he offered him the opportunity to become one of his disciples. "One thing you lack, He said. "Go, sell everything you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me."

There were very few that Jesus offered this opportunity. We know them all as Apostles.

The man went away however sad because of his unwillingness to part with his riches.

Perhaps he thought he wasn't rich enough.

That's the problem with earthly as opposed to heavenly riches. With the former, you can never be rich enough. The latter gives us the assurance and the affirmation that the rich man was looking for from Jesus. Jesus tells us that His assurance will come with these words, "Well done, good and faithful servant". (Matt 25:23)

Measure twice, cut once

2011-02-21T15:09:00.005-05:00

I was never a very good carpenter. I didn’t have enough practice to be able to successfully cut a piece of wood to size. I was pretty good at following a pattern or a template, but typically the piece of wood was either too short or too long. Too-long slows you down, too-short wastes wood.

My father always had good advice for me. The advice was in carpentry, “Measure twice, cut once.

In the church, we need to follow the same advice. Actually, we need to just measure more. Developing some simple metrics for a church and watching some key indicators can tell you a lot. Church metrics are like business metrics. They provide key data for leaders for analysis and to monitor the organizations performance. All too often, church leaders are called to try to make a decision without some information that would really help them make better judgment calls.

What kinds of metrics are needed? Often churches keep track of attendance, giving, baptisms and perhaps even guests. If the church has a number of employees, some performance metrics are often used, perhaps an annual performance appraisal.

Metrics are never to be considered in the absolute, but always with regard to trends. For example, one weekend’s attendance doesn’t tell us anything, however, knowing that weekend attendance has been growing by 10 percent the past few years and has recently flattened out gives us much more information.

One of the questions I get from our church leaders is about the accuracy of the metrics. They are usually surprised when I tell them that absolute accuracy is not as important as consistency and timeliness. The key is constantly monitoring trends.

Attendance for example can vary from church to church. Some churches count just adults in a worship service, others count adults and children. I recommend that churches count everyone including volunteers, those parking cars and everyone on the stage. All of these methods can be fine metrics. As long as the count is being made the same way each week (and each service), church leadership has a tool to use that allows them to have information quicker, make adjustments when necessary and celebrate as appropriate.

Reprint from ChurchExecutive January 2011

Things the Church could learn from Disney

2011-02-06T09:41:00.006-05:00

My wife and I just returned from Disney World. It was a great trip as we have three in our family with birthday's the beginning of February. Celebrating a child's birthday at Disney is magical.

As we drove home, we had the time to think about how well Disney handles crowds, how welcomed we felt when we arrived and how pleasant the experience was, regardless of the crowd, weather or line.

The church could learn a lot from Disney. Here is the brief list we compiled:

1) As people enter the church lot and find a place to park, why not have an area and an entrance dedicated to parents with children that will need to be checked in? Parents with children have some unique needs and special consideration. If we tailor the experience to them, it will be better than if we had to have them find their way through the crowds.

2) Speaking of parking, while many churches have gotten larger and parking more expansive, only a few churches with large parking lots have shuttles and golf carts to transport people in from the outer regions. I'm not going to recommend we name the lots "Goofy" and "Mickey" but "Matthew, Mark Luke and John" could be interesting location names.

3) Rarely is the church as crowded any Sunday as Disney is on an off-day. However, we could learn a lot about crowd management from Disney for our Easter and Christmas services. Moving people from the lobby to the auditorium in a queue or at least with smiling people pointing the direction may be a little too "Disneyesque" but likely would work. Also, filling the seats from the front to the back and blocking off areas that are not needed only makes sense, which is likely why we resist it so much in the church.

4) Disney didn't build a park or a ride to be able to accomodate 100% of the people that may want to experience it. They expect that the park or ride will be utilized over and over, and that people would be somewhat indifferent if they got a chance to ride it now or 30 minutes from now.

While many churches have decided to offer multiple services so that they better utilize (i.e. be better stewards of) the resources they have, many churches continue to have expensive and over-sized auditoriums. Many churches unfortunately have entire buildings that are utilized no more than a few hours on Sunday and perhaps a Wednesday evening.

5) Disney ensures that every greeter, every attendant, every security officer, every retail employee wear name tags. I found out that 'Monique' was from my home town because her home town was also printed on her name tag. Disney calls all of their employees "cast members" and all are trained to be knowledgable, courteous and helpful. If people don't know the names of the cast members that work at Disney, it has little downside. However Disney believes names are important in creating community.

Conversely, how many people attend church on a weekly basis with virtual strangers? They see many of the same people weekly and may smile politely but have no name to go with the face. The opportunity to use name tags is an important start with those that we call ushers, greeters and volunteers. Wearing name tags can apply as well however to literally everyone that attends on a regular basis. If we want to be a community, it likely starts with a name.

Leading Others to Lead

2011-01-17T19:35:00.001-05:00

One of the greatest responsibilities of leadership is in developing other leaders.

Developing leaders is actually part of the discipleship process. In the church, we are called to make disciples, not members. To be a disciple of Jesus is actually to be a “life-long learner.” As leaders we need to present very clearly the Gospel of the kingdom and the teachings of Jesus, and we show by example how to become more like him by including how to lead others as well.

If we think of our new believers, congregants and volunteers as believers (or merely students) of Christianity rather than disciples, we may miss the larger opportunity and fail in our responsibility in leading them to lead. After all, a disciple is one that not only learns and believes, but also does.

Developing leaders is critical in leadership as it is critical in the growth of the church. Many studies have shown that once churches start to become “fully-staffed” they no longer passionately solicit their members and volunteers to assume key leadership positions. New believers and members either fail to grow further as leaders, or find other churches or ministries where their desires and passions are released and appreciated.

Many church growth advocates encourage healthy volunteer-leader to staffing levels. This encourages churches to maintain strong ‘high-capacity volunteer leaders to staff’ ratios or paid staff to adult attendees ratios. As with most ratios, the absolute ratio is not the determining factor of “health,” but the trend is key.

Leaders encourage new believers to grow in their faith by volunteering their time and efforts, and also by learning to lead the various ministry activities. We coach, mentor, encourage and celebrate these efforts as a key component in an individual’s personal discipleship journey. This journey is key in the numerical and spiritual growth of the local church.

by Ken Behr
Reprint from ChurchExecutive October 2010

Working the holiday

2010-12-24T14:46:00.003-05:00

Yesterday we had three ‘Eve-of Christmas Eve’ Services. Today we’ll have seven more. All will be well attended; at a few we’ll be holding our breath to make sure everyone fits in the parking lots and our overflow rooms.

I love working and serving here on Christmas Eve. A few years ago I think I finally understood. I have the opportunity to serve in the most important institution ever; I play a part that is likely the most challenging and the same time rewarding of my entire adult life.

For those that know me, they will likely not understand as I’ve had some very challenging and rewarding job assignments in the past. However, for those that know me well, they will likely share my view that if Christ is truly Lord, and came just as the Bible teaches, then nothing else could be more important.

Just this past year, our Pastor read Ephesians 1:23. A verse that I’ve read before and appreciated but this time it was from the Message Bible and states: “The church, you see, is not peripheral to the world; the world is peripheral to the church. The church is Christ’s body, in which he speaks and acts, by which he fills everything with his presence.”

I love the local church. Christ is the hope of the world and the local church is the body of Christ, the physical representation of His Kingdom until He comes in glory.

Merry Christmas!

Holiday Different

2010-12-01T11:05:00.003-05:00

"The story of Christ's birth is a story of promise, hope, and a revolutionary love."

This is the beginning line of the "Advent Conspiracy", a website and a movement that has been advocating a different type of Christmas holiday the past two years.

Pastors and churches are being challenged to do Christmas different. To get back to the true meaning of Christmas. Christmas is all about God's grace. If you are looking for a good Christmas verse, here's one:

“For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. 17 For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him.John 3:16–17 (NIV)

If we understand Christmas we understand the truth behind the teaching of Jesus that it is better to give than to receive.

Santa is likely a good cultural addition as long as we don't confuse Santa with Christ. The real gift at Christmas is the Christ-child. When our children were young, my wife and I decided to tell them the truth behind Santa. It was a great opportunity to celebrate a good man, a 4th. Century bishop who had a reputation for giving. While the fact that our children knew the truth horrified and shocked some of our friends, we felt our children were better off.

Our challenge continues to this day with our grandchildren. We want them to grow up knowing the story of Christ's birth. We will smile when they open their presents at Christmas and enjoy their toys as only children can. We will also encourage them as they grow to keep the story of promise, hope and revolutionary love close to their hearts.

Three things to remember if you are in ministry

2010-11-24T11:19:00.000-05:00

Like many, I've attended more than a few "how to" seminars. I've been an active participant in seminars on everything from how to stay organized, how to do public speaking, motivate employees, run a successful fundraising campaign and open up a satellite church.

All of these seminars have one thing in common in their ability to list the top five or ten things that are necessary. I've always laughed when I thought of complying a 'list' of priorities when the very definition of a priority means that it needs to before or 'prior'. A list seems of ten or more seems to contradict the idea that anything is actually the priority or the most important.

I have however likely discovered three things to remember if you are in ministry. If you keep these things 'front and center', you'll have better days and restful nights. The three things are actually quite simple:

The organization you are a part of has been around over 2,000 years and Jesus said "the gates of hell will not prevail against it". You can help or hurt the mission but the mission is bigger than anyone of us.
Your most important tool in your tool bag is Prayer. It accomplishes more than everything else. Give it a try.
We win. Read the end of the book....Revelation 21:3 "Behold, the tabernacle of God is with men, and he will dwell with them, and they shall be his people, and God himself shall be with them, and be their God."

What are you doing here?

2010-11-12T09:21:00.005-05:00

Have you ever felt alone? Have you ever felt that the weight of the world is on your shoulders and that your very future seems hopeless?

That time comes all too often for many. It’s often irrational as well since rarely do the things that we fear the most actually come to pass.

God asked that question, “What are you doing here?” to Elijah (1 Kings 10:9). He actually asked that exact question, “What are you doing here, Elijah” twice. When God asks us a question, it is for our benefit, for our self-examination as He already is fully aware of the answer. God doesn’t ask questions to learn anything.

Elijah was an amazing man of God. He commanded the clouds to dry up and bring no rain for three years and it didn’t rain. Her raised the son of the widow of Zerepath from the dead. He defeated the 450 prophets of the evil King Ahab and the false god Baal on Mount Carmel, and called down fire from heaven. Elijah then outran Ahab’s chariot all the way to Jezreel (about 28 miles…. quite a marathon!)

God however asks Elijah this particular question, “What are you doing here, Elijah?” because Elijah had then succumbed to doubt, fear and his own personal anxieties. While God had demonstrated amazing miracles at his hand and constantly provided for him, Elijah now feared for his own life.

Sometimes God needs to ask us the same question. Not because he desires to know the answer but He wants us to examine exactly in Whom our trust resides.

Elijah is often criticized for running for his life after seeing so many victories but I think many of us can relate. We often need to be reminded exactly what we are doing here and in Whom we trust.

Changing God’s Way

2010-11-01T21:08:00.000-04:00

I received a pre-release copy of a new book today, authored by a good friend of mine. A few years ago, this new author, Dennis, was actually one of my interns. We've remained good friends and I've always enjoyed his friendship and his heart for God.

We spent literally dozens of hours together each month looking at scripture and talking about how the church is to reach and preach and teach. We also talked often about how the local church has been changing and trying to find new methods while perserving truth.

The fact that this 180 page “soon-to-be-released” book and the accompanying 75 page workbook was authored by someone that was my intern made me take notice. It reminded me of the verses in the book of Hebrews regarding how we are to remain teachable and also should in fact become teachers.

We have much to say about this, but it is hard to make it clear to you because you no longer try to understand. In fact, though by this time you ought to be teachers, you need someone to teach you the elementary truths of God’s word all over again. You need milk, not solid food! Anyone who lives on milk, being still an infant, is not acquainted with the teaching about righteousness. (Hebrews 5:11-13)

Maturity is something that needs to be taught. Without a Godly influence our maturity process is nothing more than aging. The process of maturing as a Christian is called discipleship. While there are many great programs and books out there (like my friend’s first edition), true discipleship requires a disciple-er.

Given a little time, we are to be both a learner and a teacher. Whom are you disciple-ing?

Keeping it Simple

2010-10-18T11:07:00.003-04:00

Some of the best leaders I’ve ever worked with were the best because they kept it simple. Not simple as in “easy-to-accomplish,” but simple in philosophy and in intention.

All too often leadership theory becomes a difficult combination of strange words, unusual or forced principles and too many unnecessary steps. It reminds me of when my wife and I were newly married. We were learning how to not only be husband and wife but then in just a few years, also mom and dad to two little children. Some of the parenting books we read at the time caused us to almost give up hope. The books told us that there was a lot of stuff that we weren’t supposed to do, words that we were warned not to use and particular activities that were to be introduced at very specific ages. It was tempting to throw up our hands and surrender. Ultimately we thought it best to get rid of the books and just use some common sense.

Common sense worked the best, particularly with a little help from the Book of Proverbs.

Leadership is really very much the same. It’s really more about some very simple and very easy to understand values that we as leaders embrace, and then model and ultimately teach. Sir Winston Churchill, one of the greatest leaders of all time, and leading England at the time when the entire world needed him the most, said, “All the great things are simple, and many can be expressed in a single word: freedom, justice, honor, duty, mercy, hope.”

Leadership is all about leading people. Management on the other hand is about managing tasks and not about people. People are much more likely to be motivated to follow time-tested principles and values that have a lasting impact for the greater good. Great leaders have always understood that people are much more likely to embrace the principles and values that help them become a part of that which is greater than themselves.

Jesus in many ways had a leadership style that also embraced that which was simple but that which was also great and transformational at the same time. Joy, peace, truth and love were common themes for Jesus. All of these are one syllable words that have great impact. To his followers, Jesus gave values to embrace and simple instructions to obey. Those that listened to Jesus became his disciples and ultimately changed the world. When we as leaders embrace his principles and his values, we ultimately walk where Jesus walked and can then lead others to follow as well.

by Ken Behr

Reprint from ChurchExecutive.com August 2010

Healthy Boundaries

2010-10-14T12:24:00.007-04:00

1 The words of Nehemiah son of Hacaliah: During the month of Chislev in the twentieth year, when I was in the fortress city of Susa, 2 Hanani, one of my brothers, arrived with men from Judah, and I questioned them about Jerusalem and the Jewish remnant that had survived the exile. 3 They said to me, "The remnant in the province, who survived the exile, are in great trouble and disgrace. Jerusalem's wall has been broken down, and its gates have been burned down." 4 When I heard these words, I sat down and wept. I mourned for a number of days, fasting and praying before the God of heaven. (Nehemiah 1:1-4)

If Nehemiah had a word for us today it would be, "You need to build some walls to keep danger away"

Notice that Nehemiah “heard these words an wept”. What are the things in your life that you have seen that have made you weep? Do you come from or have you been impacted by someone in your family that have broken homes because of adultery or abuse? Do you recognize the pain in children when their mom and dad no longer love each other. Do you know how that makes them feel? Do you know that over 60% of all married people at some time during their marriage are unfaithful to their marriage vows? Do you know what it is like to have to deal with drunkenness, a DUI or the strange behavior that accompanies someone that is drinking too much?

Proverbs 25:28 tells us "a man who lacks self-control is like a city whose walls are broken down." Without self-control, passion, lust, peer-pressure and our pride will be our downfall.

Don’t be seduced! We live in a society that has discarded the persuasion that some choices are always right and some choices are always wrong. Black and white has given way to many shades of gray! I have learned that I can’t walk so close to the fire that you won’t be burned. The Bible says that it’s impossible to live that close to Sodom and not be affected. The King James uses the word, “vexed” (2 Peter 2:7). We all need healthy boundaries; we need to know where we can tread safely and where it was better not to venture.

So what are “healthy boundaries”? What does it mean to set up personal boundaries?

A boundary is an invisible protective fence around our personal God-given space.

A boundary is something we are supposed to have. It is not “keeping people out” so that we don’t ever interact with others. It is a space or a distance that gives you protection from being controlled by the influence of others, but through which you can have healthy relationships.

Boundaries are lines that we have determined before hand that we will not cross. Boundaries are personal but are to be fixed and not flexible. For example, boundaries tell us there is danger beyond a certain point. I don't want to put myself into a position where I can jeopardize my life, my testimony, or my family.

Heathy personal boundaries help us to not fall into a weakened or defenseless position where we can be easily be compromised.

The Right Kind of Church

2010-10-01T17:05:00.000-04:00

What makes a church “right”? In other words, what is the quality or the character of a church that is really doing it right or according to how we think Jesus would want His church to be?

That question has a lot of right answers but I’d like to focus on just one possibility. That one possibility comes directly from Paul’s letter to the Romans where he says, "Be kindly affectionate to one another with brotherly love, in honor giving preference to one another.” (Romans 12:10 NKJV)

Don’t you just love it when you find a church where people really love each other? I’m not talking about being friendly or casual but truly ‘kindly affectionate’.

Being kind is a virtue that is too often lacking in the world today. While it really is a virtue, many think of being ‘kind’ as sometimes being ‘weak’ or being ‘simple’. One of the hallmarks of really having kind is displaying kindness even when it’s difficult, such as when kindness is combined with the need for forgiveness and patience. Paul tells the Ephesians, “be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, just as God in Christ forgave you." (Eph 4:32 NKJV); and he tells the Colossians, "therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, put on tender mercies, kindness, humility, meekness, long-suffering.” (Col. 3:12 NKJV)

It’s relatively easy to put out signs at church that say, “welcome”, but true kindness combined with affection goes further. Kindly affection extends our welcome to everyone in the community regardless of their background, race, ethnicity and gender. Kindly affection welcomes sinners as well as saints. Kindly affection allows us to honor each other in the church and most importantly gives each other room for God to finish the work that we often feel is already perfected in ourselves.

I love that kind of church!

Leading Teams

2010-09-13T16:23:00.009-04:00

I love it that football is back. There is something about both NCAA and NFL football that makes the Fall especially worthwhile. Monday night football, Hank Williams Jr. singing "Are You Ready For Some Football" and two hour pre-game shows are a part of the weekly experience. At this time of the year there are lots of great memories that flash through my mind like little Kodak pictures including my son and I watching and talking football together.

Football, football teams, sports and teams in general are great analogies to describe life. Everyone has likely heard that "There is no 'I' in 'TEAM", which is true and not without meaning.

Here are two quick lessons I have learned from football, football teams, sports and teams in general. They are very applicable to the local church but also to other cooperative endeavors:

All teams need a leader

This is true whether the team is small or large. While its nice to see cooperative leadership, democratic principles and egalitarian opportunities, teams still need a leader. Leaders help set the vision and the direction. Leaders also make sure that objectives are clearly stated and that everyone stays on task. Team leaders are also the ones that make the adjustments when needed, and as needed, so that energy is not wasted and time critical functions are performed. Teams that lack leaders, or just as importantly lack good leaders, are bound to be more focused on process rather than results, tasks rather than talent, and inputs rather than outputs.
Every team member needs a job; all jobs need an owner.

There is a saying that is often true regarding getting things done: "If no one really owns it, no one will do it". I'm a big fan of making sure that people are operating in their "sweet spot", the exact place where God has given them specific talents and ability. However, I'm even a bigger fan of accomplishing the mission. Just as football games are about blocking and tackling (the most basic assignments) leaders need to make sure that all of the necessary tasks and assignments are owned by someone, regardless of how unimportant or seemingly menial.

Most often, the team (insert your company, department, church or group here) that has only average or mediocre talent and resources but has superior leadership and good task ownership will succeed while others will fail. While teams succeed where individuals fail, it is the individuals that ultimately make teams successful.

Truly Pursuing Excellence?

2010-09-02T11:44:00.000-04:00

Not everyone really understands what it means to pursue excellence. Some believe that excellence has something to do with how much money is being spent or how great a facility looks or even how many people are impacted. None of these measurements are adequate for excellence. A common definition of excellence that may work is “The state, quality, or condition of excelling; superiority”.

I’ve been fortunate to work with some great leaders and in some great organizations. These have included some for profit, non-profit and churches and all have had the desire to excel. Many similar organizations around the country have embraced a passion for excellence as one of their core values, one of their uniquely identifiable characteristics. They too have a desire to excel.

The problem with “excellence” is that it’s often difficult to define or quantify. For example, an excellent children’s ministry will include some elements that most people will agree are necessary in order to be considered excellent. However, many other elements become pretty subjective. One person’s opinion on style, curriculum, facility set-up, signage, branding, or hospitality may differ greatly from another’s. It’s all really subjective. It’s kind of like modern art: one persons completed masterpiece may be too gosh, gaudy or glitzy for another.

These subjective measurements are the wrong ways to look at excellence. Excellence is something that is to be a personal pursuit. Organizations, like churches, can only pursue excellence when individuals are fully committed to the worthy pursuit of excellence as well.

In 1 Corinthians 10:31, the Apostle Paul encourages us, “Therefore, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God.” (NKJ). We work, we minister and we pursue excellence because we are glorifying God as we excel in our individual ministries. Similarly, in Colossians 3:23 Paul says, “And whatever you do, do it heartily, as to the Lord.” (NKJ)

We can excel, we can do all for the glory of God, we can work as unto the Lord regardless of the quantity or quality of the resources we have been given. It’s excelling in the use of all of the resources that we have been given that brings excellence in our individual and collective ministry. One church or organization may have a lot more resources, but excellence is never about quantity but about quality.

For some, excellence becomes a matter of dollars and cents. Its one of the few objective measurements we use but it becomes a poor barometer of whether what we are doing is actually bringing glory to the Lord.

Using dollars invested in ministry is an unfortunate measurement of excellence on a number of levels. First, while excellence is a great objective, throwing money at a ministry doesn’t necessarily ensure quality of content, program or result. In addition, ministry is ultimately about people and people value true relationships and personal care more than fancy programs, impressive buildings or over-the-top presentations.

While I’ve encouraged ministries to embrace excellence and use all of their available resources for the glory of God. As an antidote to thinking of excellence as something measured by money, I’ve asked ministries to re-embrace the values of stewardship, entrepreneurship and integrity. There is something to be said and very fulfilling about leveraging very limited resources for great Kingdom impact.

Confidence and Leadership

2010-09-01T09:19:00.000-04:00

I just had the chance to read “The Confidence Factor” by Tom Mullins. Tom does a great job of using his insight as both a former winning football coach as well as the successful founding Pastor of Christ Fellowship in Palm Beach Gardens in Florida to weave together inspiring stories of people that had the confidence to lead and be successful. Tom also gives us very practical lessons on building confidence.

I’ve really never lacked confidence; which for me has been both a blessing as well as a curse. Being confident certainly is an enabler in leadership and in management. It propels us to find creative ways to solve people and logistical issues and it also helps us to keep striving when challenges arise.

For me, there have been times when I’ve been a little over-confident. Looking back, every instance of over-confidence not only led to less than satisfactory results but always had one common element. The common element was that that I was leaning and relying completely on my own abilities and talents and not fully trusting in God.

Successful churches require confident leaders. Confident leaders are similar to travel guides that make sure we see all the right sites, fitness instructors that improve our ability to exercise and firm up our flabby bodies, and wise professors that challenge us to learn not only the correct answers but also how to reason and use rationale to formulate answers to future and yet unknown questions. These leaders all have the experience in their unique area and also the confidence that they can communicate well what they already know.

One way for us to have confidence is to constantly build on our life lessons and to know that if we let Him, God is also willing to build us up and help us lead with confidence. The Apostle Paul said it well, “Being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 1:6)

by Ken Behr
Reprint from ChurchExecutive July 2010

Yes, You Belong Here!

2010-08-10T17:15:00.008-04:00

Have you ever had the opportunity to join a ministry or a church and realized immediately that it is just a great fit? You immediately identify with the mission, you connect with the people and enthusiastically embrace their passions.

There is a reason for this I believe and it's not about your background, your education or experience but it's all about Christ.

In Ephesians 2:10, the Apostle Paul says, "For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand that we should walk in them."

This is a great verse as the word "workmanship" is a cool word. The specific Greek word is used only twice by Paul, here and in Romans 1:20. It is the word "poiema”, which is where we get the word “Poem” in English. Strong’s says that the actual meaning of this word is “To make a thing out of something." Like a modern day psalmist would take a few common words and make something new, perhaps a powerful song to use in worship.

Paul could have used a different Greek word. The other word for this creative act that is used many more times by Paul in the NT is the Greek word, “ktizo”. And get this….this word, according to Strong's is “to make a thing out of nothing." Like when God created Adam or God created the universe.

You however are God’s workmanship; you were made by God for the work you do. God however, didn’t start with nothing, he started with you! Your talents, ambitions, personality, quirky behaviors, successes and failures. It all goes in to the pot, gets stirred up by God and out comes your ministry.

If you are in ministry, you are here in the Kingdom of God for a purpose. A purpose that he planned for you to walk, a work that you uniquely would do with Him. God comes alongside us, takes all of our natural talents and even the nasty stuff as well and creates a new work, His workmanship. Together we belong; we have work to do that God has planned for us. It’s Kingdom work.

Sacrifice: Key to Servant Leadership

2010-08-06T14:29:00.005-04:00

If you have been around church long enough, you've heard about servant leadership. The originator was none other than Jesus Christ. He was the one that was a born leader and the way that He led was through serving.

Jesus led twelve, very ordinary but very chosen men. He showed them what it was like to lead and to serve. One time, "Sitting down, Jesus called the Twelve and said, "If anyone wants to be first, he must be the very last, and the servant of all." (Mark 9:35)

While many have talked about servant leadership and I've taught the concept myself, only recently have I started to few truly understand the real meaning. I have come to believe that the key to servant leadership can be summed up in just one word, "sacrifice".

Leadership is not about agendas, timelines, projects or meetings. Leadership is entirely about people.

Servant leadership therefore is all about serving people with the key being the willingness on the part of the leader to fully sacrifice himself or herself for the benefit of those that he or she is leading.

Our jobs may be nine to five but a servant leader is always available, always in tune and aware of the needs and the welfare of those that he or she is serving. Just as Jesus joyfully set aside His own deity, His divine rights and privileges in order to fulfill the mission, we too have a mission and need to set aside our own rights and privileges in order to serve others and lead them to where they must go.

As a result, there are few that can really be called servant-leaders. This is understandable as our passions, our priorities and our purposes vary. There are seasons of life when we are called in many different directions. During these times, we may put on our leadership "hat" and do a great job of leading and helping people achieve both their goals and the goals of the organization. However, the servant leader doesn't take the leadership hat off. Servant leaders are constantly leading because they are constantly serving. It's a good work!

“Being confident of this very thing, that He who has begun a good work in you will complete it until the day of Jesus Christ…” Philippians 1:6"

Leading by Listening

2010-08-01T17:11:00.000-04:00

One of the lost arts in leadership is the simple art of listening. It has been said that we have two ears but only one mouth so we can hear twice as much as we say. Unfortunately, I was one of those individuals that had this insatiable need to fill in the silence in many meeting with my own words and my own thoughts.

In the business world, management style started changing dramatically more than 30 years ago. Some of the best business schools were encouraging a proven concept known as MBO or “Management-by-Objectives.” The key of this management practice was management sitting down with each employee and actually listening to them. The theory was that if both the team leader and the team members agreed on objectives, the resources and the goals, there would be enough buy-in from everyone to get the task accomplished.

Management and leadership styles in the churches have improved but in many ways continue to lag far behind what some of the best secular organizations have embraced. All too often, our church leaders feel that they need to be the ones that communicate in order to lead and that means that silence actually makes them feel rather insecure.

Cultural differences

I’ve spent some time in other cultures and this isn’t necessarily true globally. I’ve noticed that often the senior Japanese executives, for example, are mostly silent. Nodding their ascent from time to time these Japanese leaders allow others to speak while they merely listen.

However, in the U.S., our senior managers are the talkative ones. This is unfortunate as often what we as leaders need to be saying are not so much declarative sentences but simple questions. Questions like, “how can I help?” “How are you doing on the project?” “Do you have the resources you need to accomplish your objective?” and “How is the rest of the team responding to your needs?”

While we understand in the church that we need to work as a team, all too often the most verbal of our team members are the team leaders. This often defeats the very objectives of the team which are shared responsibility, commitment, cooperation and accountability.

Becoming helpful

If we can check ourselves and allow others to speak or better yet, when speaking ask clarifying questions, others will tell you how, as a leader, you can become the most helpful. With enough practice we can regain the lost art of listening and become better leaders.

In the Bible, we are advised to listen to one another. James, the Lord’s brother emphasizes that listening is at least twice as good as talking when he says that we are to be “quick to listen and slow to speak.” (James 1:19). Jesus also comments on our ability to listen. In Luke 10, we have the story of Martha and Mary. Luke says that “Martha was distracted by all the preparations that had to be made” but that Mary sat at the Lord’s feet listening to what he had to say.

by Ken Behr
Reprint from ChurchExecutive July 2010

Leading with Integrity

2010-07-30T10:47:00.006-04:00

Leadership requires integrity.

I just re-ordered a copy of the "21 Irrefutable Laws of Leadership" by John Maxwell. My copy was very well-read, with some underlines and yellow highlighting. After a few years, I gave it to a good friend.

Most of us want to be good leaders and I remember that this book had some great pointers on becoming more effective, about developing trust and earning influence. I need to be reminded from time to time about how to be a better leader.

The one lesson however that I’ve learned well is that if you want to lead others, you have to lead with integrity.

John Maxwell said that leadership is about influence, “nothing more, nothing less”. Many learn the hard way that in order to have influence you have to have the leadership character, quality and integrity that allows others to see that you are worthy of their trust. If they see integrity in your steps and you have a passion to lead, they will follow.

Integrity is critically important in the church, as leaders need to fully identify with the global mission of the Kingdom of God. We are to be motivated by the two instructions given by Jesus: The Great Commission, "All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. (Matthew 28:19-20); and The Great Commandment, "'Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.' This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: 'Love your neighbor as yourself."(Matthew 22:38&39)

If you notice in Jesus words, our ministry is not about our own personal gain or our own agenda. When our church leaders truly focus on these very simple instructions, we avoid a lot of the ethical and character flaws that make so many leaders stumble.

Truth or Consequences

2010-07-20T17:47:00.004-04:00

Recently, I was reading through some of those prophetical books in the bible and came across some of the pending judgements of God that was prophesied by the prophets.

For example, the prophet Habakkuk (written about 700 BC) wrote about coming judgement. The judgement was coming on people and nations because greedy people had made themselves wealthy by extortion. Habakkuk said that judgement was coming because of the violent and because of those that had used wine and drugs to exploit others. Judgement was also coming because most had looked to other gods rather than the one true God to give guidance.

As a result, there were consequences; God was going to use the ruthless Babylonians to come, kill, conquer and destroy the people.

My first thought was "Wow, I'm glad God didn't call me to be a prophet like Habakkuk". My second thought however was a quick check on my own behavior and lifestyle as I certainly don't want to be included in the judgment of the wicked.

However, I think there is another more important message here. God has given us His truth and if we don't embrace His truth we are going to have to suffer the consequences.

I know that isn't a very popular message in the church today. It wasn't in Habakkuk's time either. Nevertheless, "truth or consequences" needs to be a part of our understanding of reaching the unconverted, teaching the converted, raising our children and establishing the legacy of the Kingdom of God.

Living the Reality

2010-07-04T19:35:00.004-04:00

Reality shows are the rage today. From American Idol and Dancing with the Stars to Orange County Choppers and Real Housewives of Atlanta/New York/ New Jersey and a city near you, it seems like we are consumed with reality.

Or are we?

Often true reality is not necessarily that which is easily portrayed by wanna-be actors and those seeking their 30 seconds of fame. The Bible tells us that what is unseen is eternal but that which can be seen, can be touched, or easily portrayed on TV is actually quite temporary and subject to change (2 Cor 4:18).

What is the true reality that is unseen and actually eternal? Well, in the final book in the Bible, in the last two chapters of that book, (Chapter 21 & 22), we have a picture of what is referred to as the “new heaven and the new earth”. This is the eternal dwelling place of all of those who have put their trust in God. This is the real heaven that studies show 80% of all Americans believe in but don't really know about as they likely have never read these two chapters.

That is unfortunate because if we read about this reality, our eternal dwelling place called heaven, we find that heaven is a real place. In this real heaven God dwells with man, takes away all of our suffering, out tears and fears. There is no longer any pain or death. This is the reality of the kingdom of God on earth.

This is the place where Jesus reigns. Jesus, the “Bright and Morning Star”, the “Root and Branch of David”, “Jesus the Christ” born of a virgin, the savior of the world and accessible to everyone that would call on his name, repent of their sin and embrace Him as Lord and Savior.

When we fully understand the reality of the kingdom of God, when we truly understand the promises of God and the reality of the plan, the place and the purpose that we have in God, then the Kingdom of God becomes a reality in our life.

The more we understand the reality of the Kingdom of God, the more the Kingdom of God becomes a reality in our lives today.

Live it!

Push/Pull Management

2010-06-14T07:44:00.003-04:00

If I push and you pull, we have movement, things get done. If we both push, or both pull, we often create an immovable object. Church ministries should not be immovable objects.

However as soon as a local church hires staff they are bound to start having some issues with management. Management done well will enable the church to function properly; management done poorly will cripple the mission.

While there are many ways that pastors can be poor managers there are two keys to all successful management practices in the local church. The first is equity between authority and responsibility, and the second is servant leadership.

Authority and responsibility

When responsibility and authority are blurred, what needs to be accomplished may be clear but the “who” is uncertain. Responsibility indicates an obligation to perform or oversee a particular function but doesn’t necessarily transfer authority or power to accomplish the function. Authority is usually defined as the legitimate right to make decisions. The person with the authority has the most influence in accomplishing the objective.

Equity between authority and responsibility is accomplished when the appropriate influence or authority is delegated along with responsibility. Managers and employees including church employees will feel frustrated and handicapped if they don’t have the proper equity between the responsibility that they have been given, and the authority to carry it out.

When they get pushed, they have no pull and no authority to accomplish the task at hand. When they are granted too much authority, they often will pull too much of the rest of the organization out of balance. This balance is constantly in flux and the communication going up and down needs to be clear, constant and unambiguous.

Servant leadership

Secondly, at the heart of management within the church is servant leadership. Jesus exemplified servant leadership continually in ministry, from washing his disciples’ feet to dying for our sin. Jesus told us, “Whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, and whoever wants to be first among you must be your slave; just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life—a ransom for many.” (Matt. 20:26-27)

Servant leadership also balances the sometimes overbearing authority of a powerful board or Senior Pastor. Yes, boards and pastors also need to understand that they may have the authority, but authority must have equity with the responsibilities within the organization. Understanding that serving and honoring others before ourselves, helps keep that balance in check.

by Ken Behr

Reprint from ChurchExecutive May 2010

People vs. Ministry Focused

2010-06-10T09:49:00.003-04:00

Men's ministry, women's ministry, children's ministry, sport's ministry, creative arts ministry.... it seems like there are a never-ending smörgasbord of separate ministries, functions, opportunities and activities to pick from at your local church.

We can certainly understand why there are lots of options. People typically like options and will shop or attend organizations that offer options. Our supermarkets today offer many more options than the grocery stores of my youth. In the same way, our churches offer many more options today than they ever have in the past.

I'm all for having options. I also believe that the local church is the local and unique expression of the Body of Christ. The church was instituted to be a help to all people. It exists and is entirely about building up people, introducing them to Jesus Christ and helping them grow and develop into fully devoted followers. If we look to our local churches as the Body of Christ we are likely to see it as a gathering of people...some needy, some needed. When our focus is on the people, our churches thrive.

When we become too "ministry" focused, we have a tendency to think primarily of the activities, programs, events, budgets, structure and buildings. While many of these are likely necessary, they are best thought of as the means and not the ends; the structure and not the substance. It is in Christ that we have our being, not in ministry. Our purpose is focused on people.."so that they might seek God, and perhaps they might reach out and find, though He is not far from each one of us. For in Him we live and move and have our being"(Acts 17:27-28).

Low hurdle = Small change

2010-06-04T22:08:00.006-04:00

I think our churches often set the “bar too low”. If you aren’t’ familiar with that term, the idea is that when you set the bar too low, even if you accomplish the task, there is so little challenge presented that very little change actually takes place even when you are successful.

Our churches today have created lots of opportunities for people to improve themselves. Often these are what would be considered “self-improvement” opportunities. This is not something that is a characteristic solely of the mega-church as many if not most of our churches today have opportunities for “getting out of debt” or “using your spiritual gifts” or “becoming a better parent/spouse/leader” etc.

While these opportunities are likely welcome and popular (hence the reason they are offered), they do make it seem like becoming a Christian is about “small change” or become a better person little by little. Some of the self-improvement opportunities may be fine but we need to challenge people to become what God really desires...something like: to love justice, to do mercy and to walk humbly with God (Micah 6:8)

The bible doesn't talk about incremental changes but radical transformation. In Romans 12:2, Paul writes, ‘Do not be conformed to this age, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, so that you may discern what is the good, pleasing, and perfect will of God.

Jesus never expected small change….Jesus was into full commitment and radical transformation.

Make a Unique Contribution

2010-05-25T11:22:00.011-04:00

I have had the opportunity this week to talk, have coffee and chat with three people that were all in 'job search' mode. These were all Christian men, each one with a strongly profound faith, whohave found themselves in transition for a number of reasons.

None of the reasons for their job loss were apparently related to unsatisfactory work performance. Nevertheless, all of these men now have a unique opportunity to not only find a job that provides for their family, but also experience a momentary pause in their busy life

These men weren't planning on putting their lives on hold. They had plans for vacations, were looking forward to their "life as normal" and one had a baby on the way. Family finances always take a hit and they are concerned but are trying to not be worried. They know that even with Federal-State Unemployment Compensation and a little savings in the bank there are always financial and emotional challenges during times when people are between jobs.

The thing that was remarkable to me and very apparent as I was talking with them was how much all of them are just as interested in finding exactly the right place and position for them and walking with God in this process as they are in finding a job.

They all knew that God is most interested in the unique contribution that we can make during this very brief time we have on earth. Jobs can come and go but with each job comes an opportunity to serve, to grow and to become the person that God wants us to become. God is at work in our lives, particularly when we let Him.

Whether it is a ministry calling or an opportunity to serve a company that provides great products and services, we all need to pause from time to time and thank God for the opportunity to find and make a unique contribution.

King Solomon, the wisest of all the earthly kings once wrote, “Whatever your hands find to do, do with all your srength” (Ecc. 9:10)

iPod, iPhone … iChurch?

2010-05-19T06:32:00.002-04:00

I admit it; I’m hooked on some of the new instant message technology. I’m never more than a few thumb-clicks away from sending a message to all my friends on my ever-present Blackberry.

Technology has certainly been embraced by church-goers for ages. Just a generation or so ago, the advent of radio and television created opportunities to reach new people and create new pulpits for both the gifted preacher and the not-so-gifted.

Social networking, including instant-messaging, Facebook and Twitter(“texts, posts and tweets”), make it even easier to be in touch with not only our friends and the people in church but send a “shout out” to just about anyone that wants to listen. As with any new technology, there are new ethical challenges that accompany its embrace.

Our words are powerful

Our words are powerful forces and while we may be reminded that Scripture says that “death and life are in the power of the tongue” (Proverbs 18:21), all too often people that are tweeting and posting forget that their texts, posts and tweets will have similar consequences.

Recently, there was the first recorded occurrence of “text rage” actually leading to the severe beating of a 15-year old Florida student after a brief flurry of text messages earlier in the day with her attacker. We don’t have to look to police reports however to see the impact of inappropriate texts, posts and tweets within the church.

Social networking is an instant way to communicate with hundreds and even thousands of people but an inappropriate comment, word or accusation, once delivered cannot be retrieved. The harm is already done. I know of an unfortunate situation that involved a young pastor who posted just too much personal information on his MySpace profile. Anything posted on these social networking sites is never private and is really never restricted to the few friends that have been granted permission. Quite often, the most outrageous and damaging information, videos and messages are forwarded and reposted and can never be recovered.

Creating healthy boundaries

All of us really need to rethink the issue of privacy and formulate some healthy boundaries when it comes to our texts, messages and tweets. Individuals need to remember that comments that you may have had in private are not to be made public and all texts, messages and tweets have to be considered public. Christians should not be “flaming” or participating in rude spamming, trash-talking and arguing on the social networking sites.

Churches and other ministries should also be especially careful about the release of confidential information and the casual misuse of copyrighted material which seems to be all too common today. Churches should also consider whether unedited “comments” are allowed by anyone replying to posts or if some supervision is required.

Social media is a creative and inexpensive tool that can be used but is very easily abused.

By Ken Behr

reprint from ChurchExecutive.com April 2010

Multiplying is Not Necessarily Growth

2010-05-07T14:26:00.005-04:00

Small Groups, LifeGroups, GrowthGroups, or whatever they may be called in your local church are "in".

More and more churches are finding that encouraging people to naturally connect outside of the church building during the week and "do life together" is good.

It's good because small groups are very Biblical, and are great ways for people to become more like Christ, to get to know people, to grow in your faith and exercise your gifts.

There is a time however in the life of every small group that the members dread. That's when it is suggested that perhaps it's time for the group to multiply. "Multiply" is a nice way of saying that the group needs to split into two groups.

Multiplying groups, while likely an objective of the Pastor, isn’t always an objective of a group.

Groups enjoy the fellowship of the small community and it is in community that they derive their strength and are nurtured and become interdependent. It’s not easy therefore for the group to be completely selfless and willing to divide and multiply. However, there are ways that churches have accomplished this and still encouraged strong fellowships to emerge.

One of the devices that can be helpful is to have regular “seasons” for small groups. For example, encouraging small group formation on an annual basis (for example, every September) leads to many new groups being formed and an easy process for previous groups to be reformulated.

Another process that has worked in the past is that when groups reach a size that it becomes too difficult to stay united and meet together (i.e. in excess of twenty or thirty people). It may be better to spin off two or three smaller groups but allow them to remain within the large “mother” group. Often these spin-off-groups continue to maintain an affinity and connection with each other, and even meet all together on an infrequent basis which can be healthy and encouraging for all of the spin-off-group members.

Reinventing the Church --- Please!

2010-04-30T21:32:00.004-04:00

If you read the USA Today this week, you may have seen the headline, Survey: 72% of Millennials more spiritual than religious. The USA Today was quick to report the bad news for churches and referenced the extensive research recently completed by LifeWay here in Nashville. The LifeWay study will be included in a new book entitled, “The Millennials: Connecting to America’s Largest Generation" by LifeWay president, Dr. Thom Rainer and his son Jess.

Millennials are those born between 1980 and 1991 and include our two children, now adults.

I’ve recently spoken with the fine people at LifeWay regarding this research and there is promise as well as a warning in these results. For one thing, this Millennial is actually more spiritual than expected. The survey found for example that while the Millennials hold diverse beliefs, about 60% say that their religious faith is very important in their lives today. Further even a greater percentage agreed that Christian churches are still relevant in America today.

65% however reported that they never or rarely ever attend church, despite the fact that the same percentage, 65% identified themselves as Christians.

The challenge here for those of us that are leading churches is to understand that we need to continually re-invent the church. "The most dangerous trends in the church are the trends we don’t see." (Quote from D.A. Carson to the Acts29 Network, September 2008). Many churches are reinventing themselves and finding ways to reach out to all generations and particularly to the lost. They are introducing dynamic worship and culturally relevant teachings, all the while continuing or re-committing to Biblical authenticity.

Most other churches however are in complete denial. Their typically shrinking congregations are wondering why fewer and fewer people are attracted to their services. Their attendance has been in decline for year or at best is failing to keep up with the population growth of the community. Visitors in many of these churches are becoming rarer than family night in today’s busy society.

This Millennial generation is now coming of age. They are having children and becoming like previous generations responsible and serious adults. They have a spiritual leaning that is God given (2 Cor 5:14) We constantly need to reinvent the church to attract those that are longing for truth in a world that is becoming more and more indifferent.

A Bimmer (BMW) or a Bummer

2010-04-26T12:24:00.008-04:00

First off, here are some definitions: (source MotorTrend)

"Bimmer" - proper and accepted slang for BMW cars. Most people don't know this.
"Beamer/Beemer" - incorrect term for BMW cars; reserved and accepted slang for BMW motorcycles. You will hear this term used incorrectly by many people.
"Bummer" - when you have to push your BMW

This morning, I saw one of my neighbors pushing his 2002 BMW into a parking space. It’s a nice vehicle, a 540i that looks like it’s really in good shape and has held up well for its age. It was obviously recently waxed and the windows and chrome wheels were sparkling.

But he was pushing it into the parking space because it stalled as he was coming around the corner and it wouldn’t start.

Bummer!

My mind immediately starting thinking about the contrast between how nice the vehicle looked vs. how poorly the vehicle was performing. This is not a commentary on BMW’s or their reliability; rather it’s a great opportunity to apply the same contrast on our own lives.

Often, we look pretty good on the outside. We may have the ability to appear to be in good shape, recently cleaned up and even our eyes may be sparkling. On the inside however, we are stalled.

The Bible has a lot to say about what is on the inside vs. what is on the outside. In Psalms 51 the Psalmist declares,

“Create in me a clean heart, O God; and renew a right spirit within me”.

Just like an old BMW, it’s relatively easy for us to try to project something outwardly but without the right thing going on inside, our outward life is ultimately just a bummer.

Are You Useful or Useless?

2010-04-18T09:45:00.002-04:00

I have a few items in my bottom drawer that are utterly useless to me. Things like a perfectly good power cord specifically designed for a particular power supply that no longer functions, a number of software CD's for operating versions that I don't use, a heating element for a coffee cup that has been lost.

In time, these items will be discarded and thrown into the trash. I'm not a sentimental person so it will be relatively easy for me to dispose of useless items.

I'm reminded however that my life is also be useful. I don't ever want to be something that no longer has purpose or worth. The Apostle Paul, writing to Timothy, asked that Mark would be sent to him in Rome as Mark was "useful" to him (2 Tim 4:11). This word "useful" is a Greek word that is also translated "profitable". Paul uses a play on the same word when he writes about another person that is useful to him.

Onesimus was a run-away slave. The Greek word "Onesis" means "profitable" and "serviceable" (ref Strongs G3682) and Paul let's all of us know that while Onesimus was once utterly useless and even rebellious, Paul found that he could be useful in ministry.

If you want to be useful, you may need to find your Paul. If you have lost your usefulness, find a way to minister to others and become profitable once again in the Kingdom. The question we need to ask is, "Are we useful or useless?"

Looking for Mr./Ms. Right?

2010-04-15T16:20:00.004-04:00

So do you think that maybe there is a soul mate out there for you?

You know, the one person that will make you complete. If you find him or her, you’ll be able to play “Bless the Broken Road” at your wedding and know that there was one person that every sign post pointed to and that everything was all part of grand plan to bring the two of you together.

That may be a very romantic and sentimental thought but I was asked recently if it is Biblical. In other words, does the Bible say that there is a perfect person out there for you, what some would say is a “soul mate”?

Great question and here is my direct and somewhat thoughtful answer.

“God is more interested in you being the right person than you finding the right person.”

If that went by you so fast you didn’t catch it, let me repeat: “God is much more interested and intent on you becoming the right person, including the right person in a relationship and ultimately a marriage, than you finding that person that will ring every bell, or make you happy in every way."

The instructions in the Bible regarding relationships and marriage are pretty simple. Among these instructions are the principles of honor and respect. These principles start when a couple starts dating. The bible never tells us that we are to get all of our happiness from another person or in sexual gratification, before or after marriage.

The Bible says that happiness actually comes from contentment. God’s love for us is never-ending and unfailing. God is the one that provides for us, give us purpose and ultimately gives you your spouse, your mate and the person that completes you (note, that is to be one person, don't read it as three).

Here’s another way to answer the question, "Is there one special person out there to be your soul mate?"

Long before we were born, God knew us. He loved us so much that He sent Christ to die for us so that we may have eternal life with Him. In His love He has provided all things for us (Phil 4:19). These things included ultimately the family we are born into and the person that we marry.

If we are willing to allow God to lead, we then follow in the footsteps as He directs. Trusting in God, keeping yourself pure and dedicated to what God wants for your life will lead you to that soul mate. Here is what the Psalmist declares:

“How can those who are young keep their way pure?
By living according to your word.” Psalm 119: 9-10 (TNIV)

Peace Through Strength

2010-04-09T16:31:00.007-04:00

Recently there has been some talk about a change in the nuclear posture of the United States and many are questioning if we are departing from our "Peace through Strength" military doctrine.

Many attribute this doctrine to President Ronald Reagan who definitely considered it to be central in both his military as well as foreign policy. Others attribute the doctrine all the way back to the Romans who had a phrase, “Si vis Pacem, para bellum (if you want peace, prepare for war).

While the Romans likely understood the concept, God has a slightly different prospective.

The prophet Isaiah, writing during the time of King Hezekiah and during a time of great military and political strength in Israel, wrote the following warning, "Woe to those who go down to Egypt for help and who depend on horses! They trust in the number of chariots and in the great strength of charioteers. They do not look to the Holy One of Israel and they do not seek the Lord’s help. (Isaiah 31:1)

The Apostle Paul told that when we are weak, we are strong because the insults, hardships, persecutions, and troubles of this world make us dependent on God which is the source of true strength. Rather than becoming weaker, we become stronger.

So while for countries and with regard to military strength there may be “Peace through Strength”, for us personally we actually can have “Peace through Weakness”. Paul tells the Corinthians about a particular weakness that he had. Paul said that three times he appealed to the Lord. “But He (the Lord) said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for power is perfected in weakness.” Therefore, I will most gladly boast all the more about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may reside in me. (2 Corinthians 12:10)

The Culture Trap - Part 3

2010-03-22T10:22:00.005-04:00

The culture of a church is so pervasive that the leader that undertakes any new direction that doesn't fully take into consideration the culture is likely to get caught in the culture trap. Changing the culture of the local church requires two important elements.

The first element is the necessity of the leadership of the church to define and introduce new appropriate language. Since words tend to lose their original meaning over time new words are needed to convey new ways of doing ministry.

Secondly, the leaders need to paint the vision of what it would like to have a local church where needs are being met, lives are changed, hearts are expanded and the great commission is being fulfilled. They need to use the new language along with the behaviors, activities and events that support the new vision. Examples of success in any area are celebrated, re-emphasizing and clarifying the vision utilizing the new language.

Leaders that learn to lead the church and lead the cultural change will likely avoid the culture trap.

The Culture Trap - Part 2

2010-03-17T09:47:00.004-04:00

The culture trap occurs when the general church culture reluctantly concurs with a new direction or desired outcome but every remaining value, assumption, activity and verbal clue indicates that the people are generally not on-board.

For example, the pastor may express a heart for the broken, the damaged and the lost and articulate a strong desire for the church to become more welcoming, to become more evangelistic and more inclusive.

These desires, even if presented well with good Biblical examples may be ether embraced or rebuffed by the local culture.

Changing the culture requires two important elements.

The first is that the leadership of the church must define and introduce new appropriate language. Words tend to lose their original meaning over time and a new language often needs to be introduced to convey a more appropriate or contemporary meaning.

Over the years, the word “stewardship” has lost its original meaning and today typically is associated with capital campaigns or the annual sermon series on giving in the local church. In the same way, the word “Worship” has lost much of its inclusion of prayer, exaltation and private veneration and is now typically defined by the 30 minute music segment that precedes the sermon.

New words are needed to convey new ways of doing ministry which is why we hear words like “missional”, “mentor”, “growth groups”, and “catalysts” in many of our growing churches.

What is the second necessary element to avoid the Culture Trap? Read part three of the Culture Trap, Monday, March 22.

Culture Trap - Part 1

2010-03-16T12:28:00.003-04:00

Many people believe that culture is relatively permanent and rarely changes. While that is not true and culture actually is constantly changing, the culture of an organization is a very powerful force to be reckoned. The leader that doesn’t take into consideration the culture of the organization and even underestimates the strength of the culture does so at great peril.

Church culture is likewise powerful. While the force of culture may be unintentional and involuntary, it still influences all individuals and activities. People don’t necessarily talk about culture nor be able to articulate its nuances but nevertheless, the culture of a church will set rules of behavior for the types of activities that are to be embraced or avoided.

How do we avoid this trap? Read Part Two of the Culture Trap, Thursday the 18th.

Church Warning

2010-03-12T18:20:00.007-05:00

Does the church down the street need a warning sign?

Seriously, if you have been involved in churches long enough you likely have heard of some churches that should definitely come with a warning. The warning I would use for some of these churches is, "Danger, prolonged exposure to this church can be damaging to your emotional and spiritual health".

Unfortunately, all too often, there is ample evidence of abuse, neglect and usually an overdose of doctrine. In almost all of these cases, it's completely avoidable. Too many people love the doctrine, drama and emotion and are all too happy to interject their personal agenda into what is actually a very simple formula. The church is the Body of Christ and we are to reach out with the love of Jesus and care for people as Christ would in love. The scriptures tell us that love is to be forgiving, patient and kind, it's not to be rude or selfish or self-serving.

However, it's likely that because this formula is so simple and there are so few instructions in the Bible on how to "do" church that people interject more rules and regulations. These are likely man-made, not profitable at all and some are just stupid and abusive. Rules and regulations do not make people more spiritual, and conformance to a narrow walk doesn't mean that one is on the correct path.

While some traditions are fine, many traditions preempt that which is actually spiritually beneficial. The Apostle Paul fought against the rigid regulations that easily crept into the 1st century church. He wrote to the early church, "Be careful that no one takes you captive through philosophy and empty deceit based on human tradition, based on the elemental forces of the world, and not based on Christ" (Col 2:8)

Churches shouldn't need warning signs. Churches should just have welcome signs.

Cragging with Ken

2010-03-03T11:50:00.008-05:00

Cragging is defined as climbing or ascending from one level to another, without mountaineering equipment. While Cragging is rock climbing, it is usually shorter climbs with less gear (no ropes, carabiners, harnesses or hardware).

Cragging in the world of spiritual disciplines is also ascending from one level to another. It’s the process of growing in Christ, understanding who we are, where we need to go and acquiring the necessary spiritual tools to become more like Christ.

“Cragging with Ken” is a six-week , or better described as a six-session defined outcome program with three essential steps: Identifying where we are; Equipping and preparing for the next ascent; and, Seeking out the next ascent, or crag in our journey or climb.

Those wanting to go “Cragging with Ken” will meet Tuesdays starting Tuesday March 9th at 6:00 PM at Panera, Glenbrook. Other meeting times on Tuesday may be available as well. Call or email to inquire.

Let us know if you are interested in the journey. Email me at Kenneth.behr@gmail.com

Commitment to the Cause

2010-02-23T13:53:00.003-05:00

My background is in business and industry. As a result, I’ve been also a student of leadership and how a manager may be able to motivate and encourage the workforce in order to gain commitment to an organization.

Now as a pastor, I continue to be a student of leadership but more importantly, my task and continuing challenge is to help people understand and commit to the Cause of Christ. While the process and some of the methods are similar, the cause is not, as our passion and focus is on Jesus Christ and the Kingdom of God.

Pastor Craig recently reminded us of the “Three levels of Commitment” for those that are church-goers. Possibly many of the people here at LifeChurch.tv, or one of the other churches in one of the suburbs of Nashville, Tennessee can relate to their position in one of these three levels of commitment.

Craig said that those in the first level of commitment "believe in the gospel enough to benefit from it." They're happy to be involved in the church when it’s convenient for them. They may have children that like the kids’ area and they attend because they like the music and some of the people.

The second level includes the people that “believe in the gospel of Jesus Christ enough to contribute to a point that is comfortable." These are church goers who will contribute a modest of amount of money and may volunteer but only around their schedules and nothing sacrificial. As long as church doesn’t interfere in their lifestyle, you can count on them.

Ultimately, the third level of commitment is for those who "believe in the gospel enough to sacrifice their lives for it." They understand that the local church is literally the hope of the world as it provides the good news of the gospel, the opportunity for life change and access to God through Jesus Christ.

If you are ready for level three, you can say with me and the countless others that have come before us that “our lives are not our own, we belong to Jesus.” Through us, God can do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us (Eph. 3:20).

Can This Marriage Be Saved?

2010-02-09T13:25:00.010-05:00

That title was a frequent and popular article in the monthly Ladies Home Journal. I’m not even a casual reader of that magazine but the title question is a good one for all of our marriages: “Can this marriage be saved?”

This week, through Valentine’s Day, is National Marriage Week. The over-riding theme of the week is strengthening both existing marriages and reversing the decline in marriage among adults. The reversal is necessary as research has shown that while 78% of adults were married in 1970, only 57% were married in 2008. As a result, 40% of all children in America are now born out of wedlock.

The bottom-line is that marriage works on a number of fronts. According to The Case for Marriage: Why Married People Are Happier, Healthier And Better Off Financially by Linda Waite and Maggie Gallagher, (Doubleday, 2000) the statistics are heavy in favor of marriage.

Research has shown that marriage leads to a longer and healthier life. Both married men and women are less likely than singles to suffer from long-term chronic illness or disabilities. On average, married men live significantly longer than single men (although the old line is that it really isn’t “longer” it just “seems longer”).

The biggest statistical difference is actually with regard to personal or family wealth. Married couples in their 50’s and 60’s have an average net worth of just over $132,000 while those single or divorced had less than $35,000. Considering two people vs. one that improvement from being married is 88%.

At retirement, the difference is even greater with married couples entering into retirement years with a net worth of $410,000 vs. $167,000 for never married and $154,000 for those that have been divorced.

Ultimately however, it’s really the children that have the most to lose if we fail to save marriages. Children growing up in a single parent home are more likely to live in poverty as studies have shown that 57% percent of the children in single parent families live below the poverty line vs. only 6.3% of children in two-parent families, most of which are married. These children also have trouble with school, tend to get in trouble more often, have higher risk of health problems and are at greater risk of suffering emotional, physical or sexual abuse.

Marriage works and your marriage can work as well. If you are looking for help in your marriage, see you local pastor and check out the many resources available for a marriage based on biblical principles that will last forever.

//
Sources: "Single Parent Families" http://family.jrank.org/pages/1574/Single-Parent-Families-Demographic-Trends.html;Single-Parent Families - The Well-being Of Children Raised In Single-parent Homes

Read more: Single-Parent Families - The Well-being Of Children Raised In Single-parent Homes http://social.jrank.org/pages/580/Single-Parent-Families-Well-Being-Children-Raised-in-Single-Parent-Homes.html#ixzz0f46gAIKv

Holy Fear

2010-01-28T12:42:00.007-05:00

If God is all-loving, why does the Bible say that we are to fear him? Unfortunately, the typical answer is that the fear that is referred to in the bible is something akin to “respect”. That response is not only incorrect but harmful as it limits what actually should be a very healthy and natural response when both sinner and saint are confronted with the awesome and powerful God of the universe.

Even worse is to equate the God that needs to be feared as an “Old Testament” God as if we now have a different God or as if the New Testament is all about love but no fear. If so, we have to deal with a number of verses in the New Testament that deal with the same subject:

· Honor everyone. Love the brotherhood. Fear God. Honor the King. (1Peter 2:17)

· Don’t fear those who kill the body but are not able to kill the soul; rather, fear Him who is able to destroy both soul and body in hell. (Matt 10:28)

· But I will show you the One to fear: Fear Him who has authority to throw people into hell after death. Yes, I say to you, this is the One to fear! (Luke 12:5)

· He spoke with a loud voice: “Fear God and give Him glory, because the hour of His judgment has come. Worship the Maker of heaven and earth, the sea and springs of water.” (Rev. 14:7)

So what exactly does it mean that we are to “Fear the Lord?” The Fear of the Lord is a Holy Fear that for the believer is essential in living a life that is holy and pleasing to God. The fear of God that is taught in the New Testament is that which caused the early church to grow (Acts 2:43&47 and fear came upon every soul... And the Lord added to the church daily such as should be saved.)

For the unbeliever, the fear of the Lord is a powerful force that will often lead to true repentance. The fear of judgment, the consequences of sin both here on earth as well as for eternity has lead to an appropriate response which is to repent and turn to God and salvation.

For the believer, a healthy fear of God protects us from many unholy influences and temptations. This healthy fear is a dread of offending a holy and all-powerful God in whom we have entrusted our lives. It is not a fear of condemnation as the Bible clearly tells us, "There is therefore now no condemnation to those who are in Christ Jesus" (Romans 8:1), but of disappointment and ultimately an understanding that God’s mercy protects us from many but not all of the consequences of our sins.

For the believer, our God deserves both our worship and our fellowship. In order to have fellowship with a Holy God we need both the sanctifying work of Jesus Christ as well as our obedience.

The sacrifice has already been paid. It’s now time to resist temptation and sin and submit our bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God.

Romans 12:1 Therefore, I urge you, brothers, in view of God's mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God--this is your spiritual act of worship.

Creating Margin

2010-01-10T15:03:00.010-05:00

If you want to have a life, you need some margin. For too many of us, our life has been so jammed with things, both good and bad, that we have absolutely no margin and as a result no life.

I just came back from a short 3-day vacation with the family. Because it was short we spent literally every minute with each other. The first night we went out to eat and I was amazed that there were families, that looked somewhat like ours, except instead of talking with each other, they were all on their iPhones and Blackberrys and clicking away at the keys.

Perhaps they had something important to say or something really special to share like, "@ a table and ready 2Eat".

People define margin a number of ways. For me, when I think of margin, I think of those slide puzzles that have either numbers or maybe a picture. The objective is to rearrange all the pieces so that it makes sense. The catch is that in order to play the game, one of the pieces has to be missing. It creates room or margin for the other pieces to move around.

To me, margin is that which is required in order for all the other pieces of my life to work. I need margin in my day to be able to get from one place to another or one appointment to another without running like a maniac. I need margin in my finances so that at the end of the month, I have some money left over for possible emergencies. I need margin in my week so that I get an opportunity to spend time with my family and friends.

What piece do you need to take out of your life in order to create some margin and get a life? It's not about priorities, it's actually about saying, "no" to some good things as well. Financial margin happens when we make a decision to not buy something in order to have a little left over for emergencies. Margin in your daily schedule appears when you say "no" to the additional invitation or meeting or activity.

Create a little margin and take back your life.