I recently received an e-mail from a church growth "expert." He was selling his latest CD series, "Six Reasons People Leave Your Church". Frankly, I was surprised that he could only come up with six. Having been a preacher for more than three decades, I could have come up with six hundred excuses I have been given for members leaving the congregation. However, the first thing you learn in the ministry is that most people never tell you the real reason.
This is not to say that they are actually lying. Some have convinced themselves that they are doing something principled when in fact they are really running away from themselves. They believe that they are in control of their lives, rather than God.
You see, many believers have been misled into thinking of a church as they would their favorite restaurant. They want convenience. They want a menu that satisfies their pallet. They want it all at a comfortable price. To achieve this, they will seek to control the church through whatever influence they have.
The flaw in their logic is this underlying assumption of them being in control. As you have heard me say many times, God is in control. Everything that happens, He either allows or causes to happen. This is true both in your life and in the church. You see, God is working not only to grow the church, but also the disciples in that church. Growing as a disciple is a difficult and often painful process. Some would rather leave than learn the lessons God is trying to teach them.
Ironically, when they leave and join another congregation, they soon become dissatisfied again. The reason being, the problem was with themselves, not the church. They will continue the cycle until God finally breaks through this false assumption that they have about themselves. Until then they will wander from congregation to congregation, or worse, just stop going to church completely.
This is not true of every person who leaves a church. There are principled reasons for leaving such as immoral, unethical, or unscriptural practices of conduct within the congregation. If one has done all they can Biblically to correct the problem, they have no choice but to seek fellowship elsewhere.
In some cases, individuals are led by God to another congregation in order to advance the Kingdom. They leave as friends and with the blessings of the church. Many times, it is only for a season of time and then they return to continue serving God with us.
Finally, the door of the church is always open. No one has ever been banned from the church in the ten years I have served as the evangelist of Crossroads. Anyone who has left is always welcome to return. However, they must return committed to supporting the vision and mission of Crossroads. Otherwise they would be just as unhappy as when they left.
Wednesday, November 3, 2010
Thursday, October 21, 2010
Saying goodbye
This past Sunday, we said our good-byes to the Thatcher family. Nancy and the children will be here for a little while longer as they wait on the sale of their home. Scott begins work this next week. Keep him in your prayers, as he is there in Minnesota starting a new job without his family.
While it is difficult to see such good people like them leave our congregation, we know that God is in control of everything. I am sure that God has great plans for Scott and Nancy in whatever church He places them. They have been such a tremendous blessing to us, and to myself especially.
Scott is a man of great character and solid integrity. When I think about his contribution to Crossroads and to my ministry here, I am reminded of a story from the book of Exodus, the seventeenth chapter. Moses was growing tired as he held up his staff which provided the means for the Israelites to overcome the Amalekites. When his arms dropped, the Israelites started to lose the battle. Aaron and Hur stepped in and held up Moses’ arms so that victory was given to God’s people that day.
I feel that Scott Thatcher, along with Dave Nordhielm, did this for me during a very difficult time here at Crossroads. Scott was a consistent source of strength and encouragement, both as an elder and as a friend. There are not many men who would stand up for what is right when the pressure is on. He did and our congregation is the better for it.
His wife, Nancy, has also been a blessing as well. She possesses a spirit of grace and wisdom that has lifted me more times than I can remember. When I would be feeling discouraged, Nancy would come along with a smile and a simple word of encouragement about how she was touched by my preaching. It made me realize that God works in ways that I often do not see.
Finally, we all need to remember that it is God who builds the church and He “has arranged the parts in the body, every one of them, just as He wanted them to be” (1 Corinthians 12:18). Just as He has a plan in moving the Thatchers, He has one for those whom He will move into our community and our congregation. Let us not forget that there are really no “good-byes” in Christ. We are friends and family forever!
While it is difficult to see such good people like them leave our congregation, we know that God is in control of everything. I am sure that God has great plans for Scott and Nancy in whatever church He places them. They have been such a tremendous blessing to us, and to myself especially.
Scott is a man of great character and solid integrity. When I think about his contribution to Crossroads and to my ministry here, I am reminded of a story from the book of Exodus, the seventeenth chapter. Moses was growing tired as he held up his staff which provided the means for the Israelites to overcome the Amalekites. When his arms dropped, the Israelites started to lose the battle. Aaron and Hur stepped in and held up Moses’ arms so that victory was given to God’s people that day.
I feel that Scott Thatcher, along with Dave Nordhielm, did this for me during a very difficult time here at Crossroads. Scott was a consistent source of strength and encouragement, both as an elder and as a friend. There are not many men who would stand up for what is right when the pressure is on. He did and our congregation is the better for it.
His wife, Nancy, has also been a blessing as well. She possesses a spirit of grace and wisdom that has lifted me more times than I can remember. When I would be feeling discouraged, Nancy would come along with a smile and a simple word of encouragement about how she was touched by my preaching. It made me realize that God works in ways that I often do not see.
Finally, we all need to remember that it is God who builds the church and He “has arranged the parts in the body, every one of them, just as He wanted them to be” (1 Corinthians 12:18). Just as He has a plan in moving the Thatchers, He has one for those whom He will move into our community and our congregation. Let us not forget that there are really no “good-byes” in Christ. We are friends and family forever!
Tuesday, September 28, 2010
The Great Communion, again
On Sunday October 3rd, we will be gathering at Harrison High school auditorium to worship with three other churches in our community. This combined service was started last year and was such a tremendous experience we decided to make it an annual event. Elmwood Church of Christ, First Christian Church of Lafayette, and West Lafayette Christian Church will be there, and want our congregation to be well represented as well.
The value of such a service is the realization that the Body of Christ extends beyond our four walls. It is exciting to see individuals from different congregations recognize each other from work or school or even their own neighborhood and realize they are fellow believers. Sometimes relationships are renewed with past members and friends. It is a great time of worship and fellowship you will not want to miss.
See You There!
Mike
The value of such a service is the realization that the Body of Christ extends beyond our four walls. It is exciting to see individuals from different congregations recognize each other from work or school or even their own neighborhood and realize they are fellow believers. Sometimes relationships are renewed with past members and friends. It is a great time of worship and fellowship you will not want to miss.
See You There!
Mike
Thursday, September 9, 2010
Change is coming!
When Tyler Brooks was hired to serve as both our worship and student minister, we knew, at that time, that it was a temporary situation. We had discussed with Tyler that at some point in the future, he would be transitioned into either ministry full-time. While Tyler has done a good job of sustaining the ministries, having a divided focus has limited his ability to expand either of them successfully. Through discussions with Tyler, he has decided that his passion lies with student ministry.
Therefore, the management team has decided that beginning on January 1st, 2011, Dawn Nance will be serving as our minister of worship arts on a part-time basis. Tyler Brooks will be focusing full-time on serving the needs of ALL of our school students as student minister. MaryAnne Duff, who has been serving as our children’s ministry coordinator, will be our new coordinator for preschool ministries. We are convinced that these changes will position us to continue to grow as a congregation.
In order to minimize the financial impact on our budget, Dawn will not receive a salary but assistance with educational and ministry-related expenses. This is a win-win for both Dawn and the church. She is able to gain advanced training and education in the field of worship ministry, while we benefit from both her heart for worship and improved skills. Those of you who know Dawn personally are well aware of her passion for serving God through worship ministry and her desire to make this her vocation in the future.
To facilitate a smooth transition in January, you will be seeing more of Dawn and less of Tyler on the platform leading worship over the next few months. While Dawn is gradually taking over responsibilities in worship ministry, Tyler will be getting more involved with “Kidmo” (children’s worship) and the rest of children’s ministry. Hopefully, by January, everyone will be comfortable in their new roles and responsibilities.
With two people both serving in ministries that they are passionate about, I can see only good things happening as God continues to bless Crossroads.
Therefore, the management team has decided that beginning on January 1st, 2011, Dawn Nance will be serving as our minister of worship arts on a part-time basis. Tyler Brooks will be focusing full-time on serving the needs of ALL of our school students as student minister. MaryAnne Duff, who has been serving as our children’s ministry coordinator, will be our new coordinator for preschool ministries. We are convinced that these changes will position us to continue to grow as a congregation.
In order to minimize the financial impact on our budget, Dawn will not receive a salary but assistance with educational and ministry-related expenses. This is a win-win for both Dawn and the church. She is able to gain advanced training and education in the field of worship ministry, while we benefit from both her heart for worship and improved skills. Those of you who know Dawn personally are well aware of her passion for serving God through worship ministry and her desire to make this her vocation in the future.
To facilitate a smooth transition in January, you will be seeing more of Dawn and less of Tyler on the platform leading worship over the next few months. While Dawn is gradually taking over responsibilities in worship ministry, Tyler will be getting more involved with “Kidmo” (children’s worship) and the rest of children’s ministry. Hopefully, by January, everyone will be comfortable in their new roles and responsibilities.
With two people both serving in ministries that they are passionate about, I can see only good things happening as God continues to bless Crossroads.
Saturday, July 24, 2010
Where have all the Elders gone?
This past Sunday, the men of the congregation had another meeting in regards to the future leadership of Crossroads. As most of you know, we have been operating for the last six (6) months with a management team. Under their leadership, we have done very well as a congregation. We continue to grow in number. Our finances are very stable, and we are currently on track to make our budget for the first time in a decade. These men have done well serving in this capacity.
The topic of discussion, however, was our need to return to being led by a Biblical eldership. With the economic upheaval and our constantly transitioning community, maintaining a willing, qualified body of elders has been difficult. Combine that with leading a growing congregation in these challenging times, and you have even more difficulty finding willing men desiring the position of overseer.
I attended a seminar at the North American Christian Convention called, “Leading Beyond Today”. It was given by Dr. Don Wilson, from Phoenix, Arizona. He said so many great things, but one item that stuck with me was the need for great leadership in the church. He made the point that churches struggle because they have the wrong leaders. He said the means you use to choose your elders is extremely important. If you use politics to pick them, he said, they will be political elders, not leaders.
There is no question that Crossroads needs to have a strong eldership if we are to grow as a congregation. We are committed to having Scriptural elders, but not at the expense of having good leaders as well. We are praying not only for godly men who desire to serve God in this way, but men with a teachable heart and a commitment to the vision and mission of Crossroads. Please join us in prayer for God to speak to those whom He is leading to become a part of those who will lead us.
See You Sunday,
Mike
The topic of discussion, however, was our need to return to being led by a Biblical eldership. With the economic upheaval and our constantly transitioning community, maintaining a willing, qualified body of elders has been difficult. Combine that with leading a growing congregation in these challenging times, and you have even more difficulty finding willing men desiring the position of overseer.
I attended a seminar at the North American Christian Convention called, “Leading Beyond Today”. It was given by Dr. Don Wilson, from Phoenix, Arizona. He said so many great things, but one item that stuck with me was the need for great leadership in the church. He made the point that churches struggle because they have the wrong leaders. He said the means you use to choose your elders is extremely important. If you use politics to pick them, he said, they will be political elders, not leaders.
There is no question that Crossroads needs to have a strong eldership if we are to grow as a congregation. We are committed to having Scriptural elders, but not at the expense of having good leaders as well. We are praying not only for godly men who desire to serve God in this way, but men with a teachable heart and a commitment to the vision and mission of Crossroads. Please join us in prayer for God to speak to those whom He is leading to become a part of those who will lead us.
See You Sunday,
Mike
Monday, July 19, 2010
Mission Trips
This week I want to share some thoughts about the recent mission trip, and some changes that will be taking place in regards to the trip. This was not my first mission trip. I have been to Haiti and China. Each trip is unique and provides a different perspective.
This was our congregation’s second trip to Show Low, Arizona. Last year, Tyler and Torie led our group. Both years, we have partnered with the Francesville Christian Church to provide a week of church camp for reservation children. They are great folks and a wonderful group to work with. Our hope for the future is to be able to make this an annual event in our church calendar. We want to make this opportunity available for anyone who desires to go.
This year, MaryAnne and I led our group of ten (10) on the trip. I must confess to a little concern over the fact that we were the oldest and the rest of the group was young adults and teens. My concerns were dispelled however as soon as we hit the ground in Arizona. Every member of the team worked very hard, and I did not hear one word of complaining. They proved themselves to be willing servants in every respect.
This was needed because there was a last minute problem with the Francesville team. Due to a death, the minister and several members of their group had to cancel. However, everyone on both teams stepped up, took up the slack, and got the job done. I could not have been prouder of our young people. To see them work with the Native American children and touch them with the love of God was truly amazing.
While there are many benefits to participating in such trips, there are a few downsides as well. Every year we have done a mission trip, there has always been a struggle to raise enough support for those going on the trip. Our current policy has been that each individual had to pay for half the cost of the trip themselves, and the rest would be covered by fund-raising. While the congregation has been very generous in their support, we have had difficulty in covering the cost of the trip.
After discussing the problem with the staff and the management team, we have decided to change the way we finance the mission trip. There is total agreement that each person needs to continue to pay for half of the cost of the trip. This insures that the people going have some “skin in the game” and take the trip seriously. Rather than invest time and resources in having fund-raising events, we have decided to establish a separate, dedicated fund within our church finances to which individuals can give over and above their regular tithes and offerings to the church. The funds given will be used to reduce the cost of the trip, up to 50%, but no more than that. The fund will continue from year to year, and hopefully carry enough of a balance to keep the trip affordable for those who desire to go.
For example, the trip to Show Low costs approximately $700 per person. If ten (10) people sign up, the fund would pay $3,500 or $350 for each person (50%). If there is not enough in the fund to pay that much, then the fund would cover whatever amount it took. Regardless of the amount in the fund, it would never pay more than half the cost of the trip.
We will keep you informed through the bulletin on how much is currently in the fund, and once a year, we will do a special Sunday emphasis on the mission trip where we will encourage you to give. We firmly believe this is a better way to support the trip without spending time on bake sales and such that may be distracting from our mission as a congregation. Our hope is that you will support this fund. You can simply designate in the memo on your check or on your offering envelope, “Mission Trip Fund”.
God bless,
Mike
This was our congregation’s second trip to Show Low, Arizona. Last year, Tyler and Torie led our group. Both years, we have partnered with the Francesville Christian Church to provide a week of church camp for reservation children. They are great folks and a wonderful group to work with. Our hope for the future is to be able to make this an annual event in our church calendar. We want to make this opportunity available for anyone who desires to go.
This year, MaryAnne and I led our group of ten (10) on the trip. I must confess to a little concern over the fact that we were the oldest and the rest of the group was young adults and teens. My concerns were dispelled however as soon as we hit the ground in Arizona. Every member of the team worked very hard, and I did not hear one word of complaining. They proved themselves to be willing servants in every respect.
This was needed because there was a last minute problem with the Francesville team. Due to a death, the minister and several members of their group had to cancel. However, everyone on both teams stepped up, took up the slack, and got the job done. I could not have been prouder of our young people. To see them work with the Native American children and touch them with the love of God was truly amazing.
While there are many benefits to participating in such trips, there are a few downsides as well. Every year we have done a mission trip, there has always been a struggle to raise enough support for those going on the trip. Our current policy has been that each individual had to pay for half the cost of the trip themselves, and the rest would be covered by fund-raising. While the congregation has been very generous in their support, we have had difficulty in covering the cost of the trip.
After discussing the problem with the staff and the management team, we have decided to change the way we finance the mission trip. There is total agreement that each person needs to continue to pay for half of the cost of the trip. This insures that the people going have some “skin in the game” and take the trip seriously. Rather than invest time and resources in having fund-raising events, we have decided to establish a separate, dedicated fund within our church finances to which individuals can give over and above their regular tithes and offerings to the church. The funds given will be used to reduce the cost of the trip, up to 50%, but no more than that. The fund will continue from year to year, and hopefully carry enough of a balance to keep the trip affordable for those who desire to go.
For example, the trip to Show Low costs approximately $700 per person. If ten (10) people sign up, the fund would pay $3,500 or $350 for each person (50%). If there is not enough in the fund to pay that much, then the fund would cover whatever amount it took. Regardless of the amount in the fund, it would never pay more than half the cost of the trip.
We will keep you informed through the bulletin on how much is currently in the fund, and once a year, we will do a special Sunday emphasis on the mission trip where we will encourage you to give. We firmly believe this is a better way to support the trip without spending time on bake sales and such that may be distracting from our mission as a congregation. Our hope is that you will support this fund. You can simply designate in the memo on your check or on your offering envelope, “Mission Trip Fund”.
God bless,
Mike
Monday, April 26, 2010
Speaking of Core Values
First, let me apologize for my lack of blogging lately. I have been really busy. However, I need to become more disciplined in doing this every week. I think the conversations can be helpful in working through our own thoughts and ideas.
Recently, I have been working with the ministry coordinators on developing a new set of core values for the church. It is not that our current core values are bad, but I don’t feel they are truly reflective of where we are today.
The struggle comes when you attempt to put into words the values we share as a congregation. Not only that, but then you need to prioritize the values as well. Some might question the need for having these defined, but repeatedly I find that many of the discussions that members have are over core values. This is because core values answer the question, “Why do we do what we do?” In his book Church Unique, Will Mancini defines core values as “convictions that guide decision-making and reveal the strengths of the church.”
During the Sunday school hour, I gave my class a list of some of those values I have been working through in my own thinking. I want to share them with you and see what you think.
We believe in:
• The sovereign control of our Lord God
• The absolute authority of the Word of God
• The supreme value of every individual soul
• The infinite grace of our Savior, Jesus Christ
• The transforming power of the Holy Spirit
So tell me what you think of them and why you think that. Which of these values should be placed first above all the others? Remember, while these are based on Scriptures, they are not really intended to be doctrinal statements.
Recently, I have been working with the ministry coordinators on developing a new set of core values for the church. It is not that our current core values are bad, but I don’t feel they are truly reflective of where we are today.
The struggle comes when you attempt to put into words the values we share as a congregation. Not only that, but then you need to prioritize the values as well. Some might question the need for having these defined, but repeatedly I find that many of the discussions that members have are over core values. This is because core values answer the question, “Why do we do what we do?” In his book Church Unique, Will Mancini defines core values as “convictions that guide decision-making and reveal the strengths of the church.”
During the Sunday school hour, I gave my class a list of some of those values I have been working through in my own thinking. I want to share them with you and see what you think.
We believe in:
• The sovereign control of our Lord God
• The absolute authority of the Word of God
• The supreme value of every individual soul
• The infinite grace of our Savior, Jesus Christ
• The transforming power of the Holy Spirit
So tell me what you think of them and why you think that. Which of these values should be placed first above all the others? Remember, while these are based on Scriptures, they are not really intended to be doctrinal statements.
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