When I was the reach Director for the Oregon Conference, I ran the numbers for measuring growth that we had. Unfortunately, all they had ever kept track of was number of baptisms. I realize that isn’t the best measurement, but it is a measurement still. So, I did an analysis of the numbers that I… Read More »
Doing vs. Designing
As a leader, our primary task is not to be the chief “doer,” but rather to be the “designer” for the doers. This is hard for most people to grasp. We were trained to be the doers. In seminary, I was trained to give Bible studies, to preach, to make decisions, to lead youth… Read More »
The Goal isn’t Wet People, but Disciples of Jesus
Evangelism is great, but the goal isn’t to get people baptized. The goal, rather, is to bring new people into the process of full devotion to Christ and His cause. Once people are baptized because they’ve accepted the gospel message, can we turn them into definitely devoted disciples? The church must have a discipleship plan.… Read More »
No One’s Even Here Now! Really?
I remember when a friend of mine stated matter-of-factly one day, “Well, no one’s even here from our evangelistic series in _____.” I knew otherwise and I said, “Sure there are, what about Ron, Jim, Mary?” “Really, They were part of that group?” He reacted. I went on and listed about 10 more names and… Read More »
Adventist Churches Grow Differently
I’ve read the articles. I’ve read the books. I’ve seen what other churches do. Yet, I was surprised when it wasn’t working for us. If we build it, they don’t come…. Much of the non-Adventist mentality on church growth is built around inviting people to come on Sunday mornings – come back to church, come… Read More »
The Power of Momentum
Momentum is a strange thing. If you have it, you are almost unstoppable as a leader. If you don’t have it, there’s almost nothing you can do to get it off the ground. Momentum can make or break you. Getting the power of momentum to work for you is huge. Getting it started is a… Read More »
