As I write this article, I’m in a time of reflection. I’ve been thinking about how I deal with difficult situations as a 59-year-old pastor compared to how I dealt with things as a 20-year-old rookie preacher. I’m not suggesting that my story is everybody’s story, but here are some things I’ve learned that help … Continued
Even in the midst of pandemic, we church leaders have to continue providing pastoral care for our sheep. Here are some reflections on this task in these unusual days: 1. The telephone has become a greater tool of ministry. Actually calling someone and talking to someone has become a much more significant approach to ministering … Continued
Ive previously written these posts about pastor search teams: 6 Reasons Pastor Search Teams Dont Always Work and 14 Mistakes Search Committees Make. Today, I want to answer a question many students have asked me: What questions should you ask a pastor search team if you were their candidate? I have many other questions beyond these, but here are some Id ask:
Most of us change places of ministry during our career. I realize, of course, that making changes now during COVID may seem unwise, but below are 13 mistakes I’ve seen leaders make in this process of “courting” a new ministry. 1. Seeking God only when looking for a new position. If you spend time with … Continued
I don't claim to be a great preacher, but I love to study and proclaim the Word. Below are some preaching improvement practicessome that may be surprisingI do that I hope help me with preaching and teaching. 1. Regularly exercise. A preacher who is not taking care of himself likely wont have the energy he needs to […]
Recently, I wrote an article about why some pastors will likely resign when the “normal” returns after COVID. Here, I want to look at the other side of this story—pastors who may have been discouraged prior to COVID but are now finding new zeal in their pastorate. Here are some reasons they’re finding renewed hope: … Continued
Eight reasons churches have a hard time with evangelism.
It seems to me that many churches operate more in their own ability than they do in Gods power. The evidence, particularly of North American churches, is that were not making much difference in reaching nonbelievers and driving back the darkness. Here are some reasons churches operate in their own power: 1. We dont always […]
I believe more and more churches are working harder at what most churches call “discipleship” (which I define here as leading believers to obey everything Jesus commanded), but many churches still struggle with this task. Perhaps one of these reasons will help you to understand where/how your own church might work to improve your discipleship … Continued
Many believers who want to continue to grow in Christ are looking forward to gathering face-to-face with others again. But in fact, I disciple more men outside of Wake Forest, North Carolina, (where I live and teach) than I do in Wake Forest. Here are some of my reflections about those experiences. 1. Many of … Continued
