Do we have a hindering bias toward new believers? After extensive interview research, I came to that conclusion. The fact is many think new believers are second-string benchwarmers not ready for the big game. Compounding this unspoken sentiment, I found that leaders tended to view the gospel unilaterally. In other words, they envisioned the gospel […]
Continue readingThe Sign of the Yellow Lights?
I am driving down Murrieta Hot Springs road, leaving a Church Planters forum, where I just heard a man talk about how God leads our lives. I am deep in thought over the three signs he spoke of: (1) Where has God dragged you kicking and screaming, (2) Desire, and (3), a Revelation. I am talking […]
Continue readingMeasuring The Mission
I consult with pastors and churches needing help in the mission area. I am amazed that many of them have solid mission statements. In other words, the vision is spot on. They so clearly want to make new disciples that they have put it in writing. Many also have ministry structures in place. Though there […]
Continue readingThe Love of Christians?
In concert with a ministry team, I conduct numerous classes. In one of our new believer’s Basic Training sessions, the course assignment asked the group to show love to someone inside and outside the church that week and then report back. In anticipation, I was excited to hear what occurred. I just knew God would […]
Continue readingPastoral Skills Needed: Mind-Bending!
Leadership takes on all sorts of dimensions. One skill that needs more attention is taking warped congregational thinking and reworking it for good. The average Christian thinks too much of themselves. We are a bunch of sick gluttons of spiritual goods. God looks down lovingly appalled at how truly self-centered we can be. Pastors are […]
Continue readingFind Your Voice
Did you watch the Oscar winning movie, The Kings Speech? This true-to-life script about King George the 6th exposed how harrowing a stuttering problem could be. The storyline builds as a tutor (played by Geoffrey Rush) digs into his psyche to unleash his voice. It is hard for us to imagine being royalty without the […]
Continue readingMoney for Mexico
Several months back my boys and I ventured south of the border for a home building trip with our Sandals church family. Being late in raising support, we had to cough up a few dimes to get down there. Reflecting back on what occurred, I cannot imagine a more worthy expense. Here’s why… Upon arriving […]
Continue readingOde to Christopher
An ode is a lyrical poem. Sometimes it takes something bad to birth those sentiments. A young man I had only briefly journeyed with impulsively took his life. He had attended church that very morning. Getting the word via text I replied, “I m crushed!” Pastor Andrew: “Me 2.” I knew him from a new […]
Continue readingFear Not Your Dreams
Dreams are a lot like love. Both make you vulnerable. Dreams take you out on a limb. Once you extend yourself—who knows what will happen? You either leap to a higher branch, or fall to your demise! Anyone clinging to a branch faces crazy thoughts: You fool! You’re a failure. You will always fall short. […]
Continue readingFrom the Mouths of Babes!
The following reflection comes from someone just three months in the faith: Lord, I have done so many things to hurt others and myself. I have lived in the worldly ways for so long that this journey in following you is strange to me. The more I practice the right way to live the more […]
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