“Stop asking lost people to act like Christians.”
We asked pastors of some of the nation’s largest churches to share their thoughts on church growth, discipleship, outreach and faithful ministry.
Steve Stroope, Co-Lead Pastor (with Josh Howerton)
Lake Pointe Church
Rockwall, Texas
Keep heating up the fires of relational evangelism. Keep asking, “Who are you praying for daily? With whom are you intentionally building relationships in order to share the love of Christ? With whom are you sharing your story, and did you bring someone with you today?”
I have come to value trust as an indispensable component of leadership. I wish I had understood the importance of small groups and of a strong elder board made up mostly of lay leaders when I first was getting started.
Stop asking lost people to act like Christians, and be willing to meet needs even if it doesn’t lead to conversions.
Read more candid conversations with Outreach 100 pastors »
Twitter: @StroopeSteve @HowertonJosh
Website: LakePointe.org
Founded: 1979
Denomination: Southern Baptist
Locations: 9
Attendance: 12,377
Fastest-Growing: 84
Largest: 19
