What's Killing The Church? (Part 3)

What's Killing The Church? (Part 3)

(5) You think culture is the enemy.

Our culture has changed dynamically in the past 25 years. It is very frustrating to see all the things that have happened in the world and it has changed the attitude about and toward the church. Yet, if all you ever are is angry at the culture around us, how are you going to reach people in that culture?Christians who consistently expect non-Christians to act like Christians need to rethink their approach. If you treat your unchurched neighbor like an enemy, why would he ever want to be your friend or come to your church? The House of God should be open to all people regardless of their race, background, or lifestyle. You don't have condone their sin, but you need to love them as Jesus loved sinners as well.

(6) You’re afraid to risk status-quo for what might be.

You have X amount of people, paying the bills, and very little controversy. Why do something to upset the apple cart? So, if you’ve had any amount of success recently, you’re going to be hesitant to risk what is for what could be. The greatest enemy of your future success is your current success. When you’re perpetually afraid to risk status-quo for the sake of what God might do, you might as well put up the surrender flag. Some churches and people will never want to change, but you have to be willing to do what God wants you to do and step out in faith. Believe me, He won't let you be stupid, but will give you direction and an understanding of His will.

(7) You get stuck in between opinions.

If your decision making is rooted in complex bureaucracy or congregational approval for every major change, it makes decision making difficult and courageous change is almost impossible. I am not talking about an ultimate power trip, but a pastor should have the ability to lead with the directives of God. Some members will always rain on your parade, because the church is the only place they feel they can be in total control. New congregants want to be involved in the decision making progress, but they also want a strong leader who is capable of make a sound decision based on faith and facts. Leadership is not a position of abuse, but a position of authority ordained and honored by the Word of God. Without good leadership a church is as good as dead.

(8) You talk more than you do.

Most church leaders and members love to think and to debate issues. In our day and time power seems to be the one component people seek the most. I'm not talking about the power of God, but personal power and authority. They love to hear themselves talk and say everything that everybody wants to hear. Yet, effective leaders do more than talk-They act!

Most church leaders overthink and underact; but, if they acted on even a few more of their good ideas, they could possible be twice as effective in a very short timeframe.