Last Thursday, over at the Preacher's Pen, my friend and brother-in-Christ, Chris Gallagher posted a list of 6 Reason I Do Not Attend Your Congregation. Take a moment to read his thoughts (of course, you should wait until after you finish reading what I have to say <grin>). I found his thoughts extremely timely, especially … Continue reading What to Look for in a Church
church growth
The Life Stage of an Idea
On this day in 1917 Arthur C. Clarke entered the world like all of mankind as a new born baby. If he were still living Sir Clarke would be celebrating his 94 birthday. You may know Clarke for his novel, 2001: A Space Odyssey. You may also know he was an early theorist on the … Continue reading The Life Stage of an Idea
Showing Friendliness
Rob and Lanetta would not consider themselves great neighbors, but they felt they were friendly. One morning they discussed how they could improve and concluded that they should make a better effort at being friendly. Later that month Lanetta noticed a moving van at the house across the street. Having baked a couple of loaves … Continue reading Showing Friendliness
Why Some Churches Grow
A quick survey of the book of Acts in the Bible and you quickly realize that the early church grew. No they increased, make that multiplied. Last night after looking at the early chapters and the growth of the church in Acts 2:41, 47; Acts 4:4; Acts 5:14; Acts 6:1, 7; and Acts 8:4 we … Continue reading Why Some Churches Grow
The Way Up
Paul tells his readers in 1 Corinthians 14:12 and again in Ephesians 4:12, among other places, the importance of building up the Church. The following are ten groups in the church and how they can help build her up. 1. Lukewarm members can FIRE UP. 2. Critics can SWEETEN UP. 3. Sleepers can WAKE UP. … Continue reading The Way Up
Tempted?!?
Temptation is a fact of life! There, I said it. The statement is true. We each face opportunities to do what is wrong, and many times we have the desire to see it through. Temptation! Even things that are for good purposes can become a snare toward evil. For instance, the desires that God placed … Continue reading Tempted?!?
God’s Person
David knows the end of his life and reign are near. Bucking the convention of the Ancient Near East, he skips over a few of his sons and chooses Solomon to be his heir to the throne in Jerusalem. After a speech to Israel, David's attention turns to Solomon. "And you, Solomon my son, know … Continue reading God’s Person
Growth Formula
There are a number of reasons why I love the church family that assembles in Parrish. These reasons include, but are not limited to: 1) a great family atmosphere, 2) really good singing, 3) we are very friendly, 4) we seem to possess a willingness to help others, 5) we love the Lord. I will … Continue reading Growth Formula
How to Help Your Church Family Grow
Where you worship is probably similar to Parrish, where we attend and where I preach. We are a good group of people. We are active in our faith and are decent folk. But like you, we can be better. I put some thought to this idea of congregational self-improvement and I have a few suggestions … Continue reading How to Help Your Church Family Grow
Top Ten Ideas to Help Destroy the Local Church
The home office is feeling quite sarcastic this morning and provides us the following top ten list: Top Ten Ideas to Help Destroy the Local Church. 10. Be irregular or at least habitually tardy in attendance at Bible Classes, worship, and other activities.9. Talk critically about church leaders in public, around other members, and to … Continue reading Top Ten Ideas to Help Destroy the Local Church
Driving Thought 