LIFEsync

10 Reasons why churches stall

Here is an article I recently read that provoked my heart to repentance.  It is my prayer that the church community I am blessed to lead would "blow up every paradigm" of Gospel mission and harvest!  Please read with a prayerful heart.  

Here are the highlights...

1. The church forgets who we are and what we are for … When we forget that we are the community of disciples for declaring God’s greatness and making disciples, mission quickly becomes just one among many activities rather than the defining vision of who we are as a community.

2. The majority of believers are no longer thrilled with the Lord and what he is doing in their lives. When questions like ‘What is God doing with you at the moment?’ cease to be common currency, it is a sure sign of creeping spiritual mediocrity.

3. … In my view, the single biggest cause of stalled churches in the UK is the belief that material comfort can be normative for Christians. It is the opposite of radical commitment to Christ.

4. When [Christians]  see church as one among many leisure activities, usually low down the priority list. They are unlikely to see the Christian community as God’s great hope for the world and unlikely to put commitment above self-interest.

5. … Where people take no personal responsibility for their own spiritual growth a stalled church becomes more likely.

6. … When preaching, teaching and Bible study become ends in themselves rather than means to an end, something is badly wrong.

7. A church becomes afraid to ask radical questions … The danger is that people start to equate serving the church with living out the gospel. Few churches regularly evaluate every aspect of church life against their core vision.

8. Confusing Christian activities with discipleship …

9. Not understanding how to release and encourage everyone in the church to use their spiritual gifts for the building up of the church … There are two types of DNA in churches. One type of church says ‘we exist to have our personal spiritual needs met’, the other ‘we exist to impact our locality and the world with the gospel of the grace of God in Christ’. The first type is a stalled church.

10. … No church was stalled at the point that it was founded. At the beginning all churches were adventures in faith and daring risk for God. No one actively decided for comfort over risk, but at some point the mindset shifted from uncomfortable faith and daring passion for the Lord to comfortable mediocrity … The mantra of the maintenance mindset is ‘if it ain’t broke don’t fix it’. But just like buying shoes for growing children, if structures don’t take account of future growth then fellowships end up stunted and deformed.

Marcus leads Living Leadership and the author Finding Joy   and Meltdown  .

Seven Leadership Questions Teams Should Be Asking

I encourage every ALC Ministry Team and Leader to ask the hard questions!  Let's impact the world in 2010!  

#1 – What do we need to stop doing?

Leadership teams are often obsessed with new things they need to do…but what about things that need to STOP being done?

• Is there ANYTHING in your church that you are having to manufacture energy for?
• Is there anything that you attend ONLY because you are on staff…and not because you are genuinely excited about it?
• Why do you do the things you do…because you’ve always done them, or because you know beyond the shadow of a doubt that Jesus has commanded you to do them?

#2 – What bothers us about our church?

Look at your own church.  (Unfortunately people are REALLY awesome and saying what bothers them about other churches…only because looking at their own church would force them to handle their own dysfunctional leadership issues!)

What bothers you?  Seriously…what about your own church drives you up the wall?  THAT is where changing the world begins…if we can’t handle business at home then how in the world would we ever believe that God would trust us with greater things?

(By the way…if the thing that bothers you about your church is, “these people just don’t get it” and you’ve been there for over three years…then that problem isn’t THEIR problem…it’s YOURS because they are following YOUR leadership!)

#3 – What bothers us about our community?

What is the biggest need in the community where your church is?  Where can the biggest difference than can be made?  What bothers/burdens you about your city?  God didn’t place us where we are so we can just pray about it…He has called us to take action.

#4 – What bothers us about the world?

God has called us to reach the world for Him…so, as a church…what BOTHERS you the most about what is happening in the world?  Is it human trafficking?  Is it AIDS?  Is it poverty?  Is it a lack of food and clothes in other nations?  Is it people needing access to clean water?  Is it kids with no parents?  What is it that BURDENS you…find out as a church and the DIVE IN to meeting a need that absolutely STIRS your SOUL to action.

#5 – How can we do things better?

One of the biggest pitfalls of a church is when they believe they have discovered the best way of doing something…thus causing them to switch into cruise control.

#6 – Who do we need to be talking to?

Churches should learn from one another.  I’ve said it before…our job should be to complete one another, not compete with one another.  Saying that…who are the churches you need to learn from?  (I didn’t say imitate…I said learn from!)  By the way…learning from other churches doens’t happen by chance/accident…it must be an intentional effort.

#7 – What’s next?

When a church becomes content with the way things are…it’s over!!!  Leaders should NEVER apologize for getting in a room and asking “what if” questions in regards to vision.

-adapted from Perry Noble's Leadership Lesson

The Pastoral Team working hard to to minister more effectively @ ALC!

ALC Investors and Lifers,

The Pastoral Team is always looking for better ways to minister to the wonderful Investors and Lifers at ALC. We are excited to launch a "Pastor On-Call" initiative that will provide you efficient emergency and after-hours access to our Pastoral Staff. The "On Call" Pastor will be ready to respond to your need in the best way possible.

If you have an emergency, please call (214) 663-1979. For your convenience, we have also provided the number on the Voice Messaging System when you dial the main church line at (972) 424-4846. Please add these numbers to your address book.

As our church family continues to grow, it is our desire to explore creative ways to show the compassion and care in our hearts. We love you and your family!

Have a wonderful Holiday season!

Jeff Hennigan
Senior Pastor

Colossal Spiritual Climate Shift @ ALC!

Today, I have been reflecting about the recent amazing ALC Worship Experiences.  Our inspirational DREAM statement concludes with our vision to experience the "manifest presence of God" at every gathering.  It has been apparent that the Spirit of God has been available to His people in an authentic way.

This past weekend, we were blessed with record attendance and powerful baptism experiences.  I will never forget the beautiful public confession that one of our baptismal candidates had written to precede her baptism.  In fact, we are thinking about asking every future candidate to write a short public confession to be read preceding baptism.  That would be absolutely powerful...don't you think? 

This past Sunday was truly historic!  From the opening worship song to the closing prayer, we experienced God in fresh ways.  Pastor Anthony Mangun challenged us to consecrate our homes.  I have received heart-warming reports about the special time of communion that our ALC Lifer's have had with their families this week.  I strongly encourage each of you to connect your home to what God is doing in the church by leading your family in a time of consecration and communion.  (You can pick up communion supplies at the Information Center at ALC)  I believe we are experiencing a colossal shift in the spiritual climate of our church family.  I am confident that this weekend's events will lead us even closer to our divine destiny!  I'd love to see you and your family at our Prayer Gathering on Saturday (@noon) and on Sunday for Worship.  Bishop T.F. Tenney will be our guest speaker.

I'm living and loving His DREAM!

The Weight On My Shoulders

Erma Bombeck wrote:  "Then God molded long legs and broad shoulders. The angel nearby said "Do You realize You just made a father without a lap? How will he pull a child close to him without the kid falling between his legs?" God smiled, "A mother needs a lap. A father needs strong shoulders to pull a sled, balance a boy on a bicycle or hold a sleepy head on the way home from the circus."  

My father has always had strong shoulders.  Recently I was visiting my hometown, the "Ground Zero" of his battle with cancer.  When I pulled into the driveway, I was greeted by my Queen Mother and led into the war zone where my father was engaged in the fight.  As I turned the corner, my attention was drawn to the man in the corner of the ring.  For just a moment, I could almost hear the bell ring and hear the announcer say..."And now in this corner, David Hennigan, ready...fight!" Upon reaching his side, I knelt down and gave my Dad, a hug.  

I wasn't prepared for that moment in my heart.  It wasn't something I had ever considered in the realm of possibility.  What is going on?  My Dad's shoulders are not supposed to change!  An enormous tide of emotions overwhelmed me.  That moment only lasted a few seconds, but it felt like an eternity.  My hero, my strength, my mentor, my friend, my Dad's shoulders were noticeably weakened by the heavy burden he has carried for years.  During this battle against cancer, I am often asked about my Dad.  When asked how my father is doing, my immediate response now is..."weaker frame, stronger heart!"  

For years, my father's broad shoulders have carried me, Mom, Miquell, Eva, Gibson, a great church, and anything else he could get his big hands around.  There is a "legacy" on his shoulders and in that moment...I sensed it's weight.  I felt my shoulders grow.  Something happened in my spirit that is beyond explanation.  

I don't know too many people who could give cancer the fight that my parents are giving. The discipline, valor, and courage that my parents are displaying is truly inspiring. Every hour of the day seems filled with another treatment, organic meal, IV session, or nutraceutical concoction.  It is a mind-numbing regimen.  I have watched my mother and father handle it all with confidence and class.  I give honor to my Parents!  

Today, I took a moment to look out the rear and side-view mirrors of my life. Where have I come from?  Where am I going?  How am I doing on the journey? There are a few facts... I am a 36 year old, husband, father, son, and Pastor.  I often feel the "weight" that each role adds to my shoulders.  Many days I wonder if I can carry the load.  Miquell, Eva, and Gib must find strength and resolve in my spirit.  My wife needs a shoulder to lean on and my kids need a shoulder to hold tight when other things seem fleeting.  

The church I Pastor is filled with amazing people.  God has blown our minds the last few years.  There is a paradox of being a "Pastor" that is often overwhelming. The moment you find yourself thinking..."were on track", "everything is coming together", "that family is rock-solid", "God just sent us help"... and then life happens, the people that you worked tirelessly to show the love of Christ to just walks away from the church (Yes, I know its not personal, but it still feels personal!), and within weeks you can experience an array of emotions that can leave even the most prayerful Pastor discouraged.  There are just times when the "weight" seems overwhelming.  However, I am feeling my shoulders getting stronger.  

Dad - I'm certain there is no one any stronger in the world than you.  We can win this fight!

Mom - You're strength is a showcase for the God you faithfully serve.

Miquell - I think I have my Dad's shoulders.  You can lean on me!

Eva - I'll carry you on one side.

Gib - I'll carry you on the other.

ALC - God put us all together to reach this city.  Let's stand shoulder to shoulder!

Scott Wesley Brown wrote a song many years ago that has been on my mind lately.  I hope you hear these lyrics speak to weight you are carrying also…

There is no problem too big

God cannot solve

There is no mountain too tall

He cannot move

There is no storm too dark

God cannot calm

There is no sorrow too deep 

He cannot soothe

If He carried the weight of the world upon His shoulders

I know, my brother that He will carry you

If He carried the weight of the world upon His shoulders

I know, my sister that He will carry you

God is molding strong shoulders on me.  The weight is often heavy but we trust God through it all. My earthly Father is strongest man I have ever known.  If my Dad's shoulders are that strong, I can only imagine how strong my Heavenly Father's shoulders must be.  I pray that you feel the weight that is on your shoulders being shifted from you to your Father.  I must confess...the shoulders seem stronger and the burden seems lighter.  

Should I go to church today?

I recently read this comment over at Church Marketing Sucks and wanted to share with my blogging friends.  I'd love to hear your feedback.  

It's time to get back to the basics.

I don't know any non-Christian who wakes up and thinks, "Gee, I should go to church today." Churches need to find ways to make people think that very thought--whether it's through billboards or outreach events or the incredible example of their members (or all three and more--my point, don't get hung up on the method). If churches aren't getting people to think that, then what are they doing?

Unfortunately, too many churches have settled for the status quo, the steady stream of Christians who do wake up thinking they should go to church, and for some churches that's good enough. Those churches are social clubs, and useless. Sadly, many Christians are that way too.

TrackBack URL for this entry:
http://www.churchmarketingsucks.com/cgi-bin/mt/mt-tb.cgi/1178 

Choosing to cheat changed my life!

We are giving away copies of this book to every man who walks through our doors on Sunday.  It is our "investment" into the lives of the men who have trusted us to adventure with them on this great adventure with God.  

I read this book several years ago and it impacted everything in my life as a young husband and father.   I have a vision to see the men who call ALC "home" become great fathers, husbands, and leaders.  

If you are planning to be in a Worship Experience on Sunday at ALC, please get your copy!  Let's have a great Father's Day!  I look forward to the message I am preparing to speak!  

Gonna get my preach on.

Jeff

Sunday Reflections, Summer Camp, and other musings

I've got a buffet of bright ideas on my brain, so here go the list...

Sunday Reflections

• We kicked off the "Summer Blockbuster Series". I preached about "Pirates of Life!"
• The Worship Band was "on" today! It was personally satisfying to see the team lead worship from the deck of a ship.  That was one of my life goals!
• I figured out how to slip a Pirates of the Carribean movie clip into a message!
• We had a great crowd in spite of the fact that summer has officially begun. Two services is WORK, but it is so rewarding.  It's like a "good hurt!" :)
• I think I remember saying..."For some of you, no church in the world would be good enough. For others, "all hell" could not drive you away from this church" 
• Did I mention that I had minor surgery this week and that the meds have affected my mind and speech.  So do I get a FREE PASS on things I said in church today? Ha. Ha. 
• I asked "lust of the flesh, lust of the eyes, and the pride of life" to walk the gangplank and get off our life boat! 
• God reminded me all over again that this is all a "GOD THING"!  I'm just tagging along for the ride!   
• BIG THANKS to every ALC Lifer that shows up every week.  (I think I also mentioned today that people who showed up for church today "wanted to" and people who didn't show up..."didn't want to"! Your life has been changed by that comment, admit it.  

Summer Camp 

• Parents, if you haven't signed your student up for Summer Youth Camp,  DO IT…seriously!
  
• I know it’s $285…IT’S WORTH IT!  Please don't be frustrated with your kids spiritual condition if you aren't willing to make an investment in them.  Seriously, think about what you are doing - you aren't really thinking about throwing down large amounts of cash on secular and materialistic desires and NOT invest in their eternity. Are you?
  
• We are making HUGE financial investments in our kids and students right now with Plat It Forward.  They are WORTH IT! 
• If you feel led to sponsor a student to attend camp, please do it! 
• If you are a student, or you know a student that wants to go - I want you to go!  Please email Jason Biggs NOW!  Don't let finances be the reason you can't go.  We'll help!  It's that important to me! 
• Camp dates are July 9-13th.  

 Other Musings

• Having the worship team sing from the deck of a pirate ship is not one of my life goals (just in case you were confused from my earlier comment. Ha. Ha.)
• Having a horse ranch IS one of my life goals - going on an African Safari and scuba diving the Great Barrier Reef are on my list of life goals. 
• Please pray for my father, David Hennigan, this week.  I am currently planning to go and visit him toward the end of the week. 
  
• Pray for our Spirit Baptism Experience!  If you know of someone who has never received the Gift of the Holy Spirit and spoke "tongues as the Spirit gives the utterance", please let us know.   
• I am looking forward to preaching "Master and Commander" on Father's Day.  This is the "man message"! 

How To Handle 5 Common Church Growth Barriers

I recently read this article and thought it was a good one to pass along to my blog friends, so check it out...

The Christian Post has a great article by Nelson Searcy of The Journey Church(New York City, NY) on how to deal with five common church growth barriers. Here is a list of the five barriers with a quick summary of Searcy’s thoughts on each.

1. Space
   >> When a room reaches 70% of its seating capacity, it’s full.
   >> Most churches face growth barriers when attendance reaches 65, 125, 250, 500, and 1,000.
   >> It is better to grow to 300 or 400 before starting a second service.
2. Self-Development
   >> If the church leaders have stopped maturing spiritually and progressing personally, the congregation is not far behind.
   >> Warning signs include stale sermons, the congregation’s passion waning, and the halt of staff and church growth.
3. Sharing
   >> Churches stop growing when they become inwardly (instead of outwardly) focused.
   >> Healthy churches should have a 5:100 ratio of first-time guests.
4. Weekly Worship Service
   >> To keep your service strong, always try to look like a church twice your size.
5. Staff
   >> Hiring staff is a faith issue.

For more on each area, read the full article from The Christian Post.

How is your paradigm doing?

Recently a friend shared something with me that her friend shared with her. It is reprinted here with permission from the author. I thought is was too "thought provoking" not to share with you. Enjoy.

As humans, we seek consistency, patterns, and expected positive outcomes from repeated actions. The results we see are satisfactory and usually applauded as a success by those we respect and admire. The process we have developed to achieve the results we deem satisfactory become a part of “how we do things”. In time, we migrate to operating in a prescriptive “box” gradually the process is no longer “how we do things”, but rather begins to define, “who we are”. Mentally, spiritually, and physically we move into a comfort zone. We develop a paradigm with strong emotional ties. This evolves over time, often years, we create a paradigm with expected and clearly understood outcomes. A tradition is born. In a church setting, the successful execution of the tradition, often without realization, becomes the desired outcome rather than being culturally relevant and connecting with the unchurched, under churched, and the core assembly. Our traditions are sometimes not understood, valued, or desired by those who we wish would accept or somehow “understand” they need our traditions. We may have a vague sense something is not working or misaligned but we haven’t grappled with why or we simply are comfortable.

When someone challenges our paradigm we perceive this to be an affront to who we are rather that the process. The tendency is for our response to be emotional rather than scriptural or logical. The change does not feel right. Traditions become encased in sentimentality and nostalgia. Our emotional entanglement is predicated upon previous experiences with positive outcomes. We cease to notice when the positive outcomes migrated to a tradition and then ultimately we are in a “brain stare” or paradigm. In turn, these traditions become an iconic part of how we have defined our selves or we think others view us. To change or evolve our tradition does involve emotions. Remember, the process became, at some point, a part of how we cognitively and spiritually define ourselves. The change does not feel right. Because it does not feel right, we struggle with adaptation. This is why you see individuals struggle with an issue or process that may be clear in its simplicity or next step evolution because they confuse the emotional with spiritual. To shift a paradigm or to move as the scripture says, “Into the deep” may involve a painful recalibration of method, motive, and a renewed view of the cross.

Phillip Sharp