Opening Message:<o:p></o:p>

Our Faith Is the Most Important Item We Offer <o:p></o:p>

This statement is “a must�?to know and yield to, before you can venture into the arena of “authentic church growth.�?You have to know whom you are and what you are in order to do what you are called to do. In other words, you are saved by faith because of what Christ has done, then, you are able to communicate that to others around you. All that we are, and have to offer, is faith. It is faith that will build the church and will be the catalyst to attract others to it.  Faith is the prototypical aspect of growing a church God’s way.  <o:p></o:p>

            God’s Word tells us in the book of John the incredible wonder and power of the Incarnation. God Himself became one of us. The Creator of the universe, who transcends space, time, all that ever was, is, and will be, loved us enough to give up His throne and position to become human. No mere illustration could ever come close to explaining this truth. Even saying that the President of the United States would give up his position to become a toilet scrubber at a bus station would never, ever come close, yet God did exactly that. God sought entrance into the lives of mankind for His wonder: “The Word became flesh…�?lt;o:p></o:p>

            To illustrate this point, a group of elderly people came together in a rest home, each one disillusioned, angry and bitter from a life of hash trials and tribulations. They each said God has no idea what they went through. One Man who was particularly angry with God suggested they hold a mock trial and put God on trial for all the unfairness that they went through in life! The rest of them agree to this, and one by one they each listed their grievances against the Almighty God. First was a man who was a holocaust survivor from a Nazi concentration camp. He suffered mercilessly for no reason. He was angry and cried out in anguish and said, God you do not know what I have been through! The second was another man who worked so hard with honesty and virtue all of his life only to be ridiculed and disrespected. The third was a women who worked so hard too all of her life to raise her children and give them all that she could only to have her beloved children become selfish and lock her away and do not even visit her. Then another man came in who saw all of the commotion and jumped in with his grievance. He said that he was in politics; he worked hard and was honest and rose in power only to be kicked out of office and desecrated by malevolent political rivals who planted false incriminating information about him to the press. Finally there was a former pastor who served his parish all of his adult life only to see his flock gossip and slander one another and treat his earnest Biblical counseling and messages with contempt. Then their was silence as the pastor realized what all that the others have said and he knew that is exactly what Christ did for me. Then he turned to the others in tears and said to them, that is what Christ did for you. <o:p></o:p>

Our Lord seeks us to be His “change agents,�?the presenters of the wonder of His message, His Gospel. The people of the church are the front lines that wage not just the battle, but also the marketing of the message. How we engage in this endeavor will be the biggest testimony for the message of faith. This is where “the rubber meets the road.�?The local church is the display case that presents the marvelous wonder of Christ’s love through faith. If the display case is dirty, the Wonder is hard to see. If the case is broken, or if there are other things occupying the Wonder’s space, the Wonder becomes cloaked and the viewer’s perspective becomes skewed. The message is the eternal truths of our Lord, the reality of life, and the purpose of existence. The Wonder is Christ Himself desiring to live and work in our church and us! The Wonder is the Christ who suffered mercilessly, who went through false accusations, sufferings and rejection, not because He was forced too, but because He chose too on our behalf. <o:p></o:p>

            How do the people of the church, the visitors and the neighborhood, see your case (church)? How are you displaying the wonder of His message? How does God see His wonder in you? Is there stagnation, a case (church) that is filthy, where junk, such as pride and political agendas, sit in the place of the Wonder, and where the people cannot see the message, so the message does not go out? On the other hand, is the case (church) clean and crisp, a display that lifts up, honors, and cherishes His most precious wonder? The message must be lit with vibrant and growing awe because of who He is. The Wonder is a living message that must be displayed and used in a living and vibrant body. It sees Christ as who He is, and then responds in gratitude and passion.  <o:p></o:p>

·        Spend a significant amount of time in prayer. (For prayer ideas and plans see our Prayer channel!) 

Session 1. Displaying the Wonder of Faith <o:p></o:p>

1.      How have you been transformed by His wonder (such as grace, faith, Holy Spirit)?<o:p></o:p>

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2.      Is your faith the most important item that you share?<o:p></o:p>

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3.      Do you know how to lead yourself and others to bring the church deeper in the heart of God to worship and glorify Him?<o:p></o:p>

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We need to be willing to discover what weaknesses are within us, keeping us from being in and responding to His glory. <o:p></o:p>

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4.      How do you offer your faith? <o:p></o:p>

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The people of the world need the wonder of the message. They have to see it displayed, working, and real before they can accept it. How your church engages in this display will determine its faith and its expectance of the faith. It must be real and authentic; Christ has to be formed in you, and growing  with passion, conviction, and wonder. <o:p></o:p>

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5.      Does your church model the message that it teaches? Do you live the walk and not just talk the talk? Do you practice what you preach? <o:p></o:p>

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Concern for the people in your midst will usually determine your love for the Lord. Because we love Him, we desire to serve Him. Our service does not earn us our salvation; it is a response to what He did for us, and the rewards to come in eternity.  <o:p></o:p>

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6.      What burns within you and your church? What is your desire?<o:p></o:p>

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7.      Does concern burn in your heart for the people in your church and neighborhood?<o:p></o:p>

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8.      Why? If not, what is in the way? <o:p></o:p>

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9.      Read Matthew 16:26. How does this apply to your church and its collective desires?<o:p></o:p>

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10. Read Luke 5: 4-11. Do you fish? Do you try to fish without casting a line? <o:p></o:p>

We may have the desire to model the Wonder of Christ, but doing is more than just desiring. We have to realize that God loves us so much He would have gone to the cross for just one of us. Should we not have a mere fraction of that love flowing from us to those around us? Should we not have just a small fraction of that love for His “other�?people? <o:p></o:p>

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11. Read Luke 13: 3-9. What needs to be dug around or out of you and your church?<o:p></o:p>

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12. Read Luke 14: 11-31. Whom do you invite?<o:p></o:p>

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A church cannot, must not, seek a limited “target.�?This is unbiblical! We can emphasize age groups and seasons of life such as youth, older singles, etc., but we must never exclude people, saying we are not targeting them. (I once consulted a “Dutch�?church that would only target other Dutch people, and refused to honor Scripture and the call of our Lord. That church was dead.) When we exclude the people we do not like, we are excluding our Lord! We do the same when we focus on a specific target and exclude those not in the target. You can focus on targets such as Gen X, but when the neighbors start attending and they are older, of a different ethnicity, or of a different social economic status, you cannot, must not, swish them away like a stray cat. <o:p></o:p>

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13. Read Luke 14: 15-23. Do you set up the banquet tables, only to forget to send out the invitations? <o:p></o:p>

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Numbers are not the focus of the church; trust and obedience is. However, numbers are important because people are important. Our passion to grow our church must not depend on the increased numbers we may receive, but rather on the love, care, and discipleship of the people He brings us. <o:p></o:p>

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14. Read Luke 15: 8-10. Do you look for the coin?<o:p></o:p>

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Sometimes we will not find the coin. Finding is the goal, but the purpose is to obey the One who sends us. Our seeking and looking are what matter. We are responsible for the effort, but not for the results. We are called to be creative, compassionate, and courageous to the people God brings us. We need to be creative and innovative with Evangelism. However, it is not enough to just do it; we have to know why. We need to be our best for His glory, to be the best display and model of His character as we can be. It is not enough to pass out tracts and invite people to crusades; we have to pour out our hearts to His glory. We have to literally seek out the hurt, the lonely, and the lost to find ways to care for them. We need to have the acceptance of the people we do not consider a part of us to become a part of our family. Evangelism does not always bear fruit, so, sometimes we give up and say it is too time consuming and expensive. Nevertheless, take careful note of this; it is our call to evangelize even if there are no results. It is His call to present Christ, not to achieve results. Remember Jeremiah was perhaps the most unsuccessful person in the Bible, yet one of the most obedient! Would he last more than six months on staff at your church? <o:p></o:p>

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15. Read Matthew 9:36-38. Is your church willing to step up to the plate to be the laborers?<o:p></o:p>

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16.  Read Matthew 10:14. We need to know that we are not responsible for the results; we are just responsible to obey and to do!<o:p></o:p>

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17. Read Matthew 13: 3-9. Do you sow? Do you reap? If so, how? How can this be improved? <o:p></o:p>

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In the church growth world, numbers are everything. However, in Scripture, numbers are not everything. Our obedience and willingness to serve, and our reaching out are the important things. We are never to focus on the quantity over the quality. We are not to reach out merely for the sake of gathering and storing more sheep. We are to reach out to grow and mature more sheep, to love, care, and teach those sheep. <o:p></o:p>

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18. Read Matthew 18: 11-14. Do you ‘ditch�?your sheep?<o:p></o:p>

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It is God’s Will that our churches be alive and vibrant. When the church refuses to honor its call and becomes stagnate, it slaps the Lord who loves it. The local church must have the passion, vitality, and excitement to be the displayers of the Wonder. We are not to ditch the sheep! We are not to be a tree that does not bring forth fruit. We are not to proclaim our Lord without responding to Him. We are not to forget to be harvesters and reapers. We need to look for the coin, set the banquet table, and invite the guests. We are to dig out the rot that is in the way in our lives. We are to be fishers and casters for His wonder. We are to have a heart and a desire that burns to serve Him. Our hearts and desires must burn for the lost; what grieves Christ should also grieve us. We are to be transformed by His wonder so that our faith is the most important thing we share. Then we can do it with love and passion because we are walking the walk, and living the faith. <o:p></o:p>

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19. Read Acts 4:1-20<o:p></o:p>

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Remember we are empowered by the Holy Spirit. Through Him we can be all that we are called to be! <o:p></o:p>

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If you desire revival to take place in your church: <o:p></o:p>

a.      What would it look like?<o:p></o:p>

b.      What must you do?<o:p></o:p>

c.      What must happen first?<o:p></o:p>

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How much time must be spent in prayer? <o:p></o:p>

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Session 2. Determine the Needs of the Church <o:p></o:p>

This is where you do an honest assessment of what is needed in your church, whether it is spiritual growth, programs, facility improvements, leadership training, discipleship, or teaching�?  <o:p></o:p>

1.      What is the principle purpose and reason for your church to exist?<o:p></o:p>

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2.      What are the needs in the church? Try to list 20. Include such things as discipleship training, fourth grade Sunday School class, etc.<o:p></o:p>

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3.      Now rate the importance of each of those needs, keeping in mind Biblical priorities over personal ones! <o:p></o:p>

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4.      What are the demographics of your congregation, such as age, education, social and cultural makeup, etc.?<o:p></o:p>

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5.      Now take a careful look at the various ministries of your church, even if they are not yet started. Ask what the needs are for each one. You can use our list below or simplify it into four categories: <o:p></o:p>

1. Worship Services, including teaching and prayer <o:p></o:p>

2. Fellowship and Pastoral Care <o:p></o:p>

3. Discipleship and Sunday School classes <o:p></o:p>

4. Evangelism and Missions. <o:p></o:p>

Here is a list of most of the main ministries. Add your needs as God directs.<o:p></o:p>

1. Prayer<o:p></o:p>
2. Doctrine<o:p></o:p>
3. Worship<o:p></o:p>
4. Teaching<o:p></o:p>
5. Discipleship<o:p></o:p>
6. Bible studies<o:p></o:p>
7. Leadership training<o:p></o:p>
8. Fellowship<o:p></o:p>
9. Missions<o:p></o:p>
10. Community relationships<o:p></o:p>
11. Staff encouragement and development <o:p></o:p>
12. Outreach<o:p></o:p>
13. Youth Ministry<o:p></o:p>
14. Children’s ministries <o:p></o:p>
15. Singles<o:p></o:p>
16. Married couples<o:p></o:p>
17. Elderly ministry<o:p></o:p>
18. Sports<o:p></o:p>
19. Internet <o:p></o:p>
20. Administration<o:p></o:p>

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6.      What programs are already in place? Which ones are needed? Which ones are strong? Which ones are weak? <o:p></o:p>

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7.      What are the top five programs? Do not neglect the others if they are real and Biblical!<o:p></o:p>

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8.      If these ideas were implemented, how would the church look, and how would it be benefited?<o:p></o:p>

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9.      What would happen if these ideas were not implemented? <o:p></o:p>

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10. Brainstorm how you can meet the needs! Determine the type of programs that can meet those needs.<o:p></o:p>

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How much time was spent in prayer? <o:p></o:p>

Session 3. Determining Needs Of the Community Around the Church <o:p></o:p>

1.      Determine the demographic makeup of your neighborhood (age, education, social and cultural makeup), and what you need to do to reach them. Are you in a city, countryside�?<o:p></o:p>

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2.      What do you think God placed your church in this neighborhood to do? (Most church growth people say to move your church to your people, but this is not Biblical, unless there are compelling reasons. The church is to be where God called it to be, to reach the people in its vicinity. If the neighborhood has changed and people are commuting, then plant another church to reach them before you move out. Ideally, it is better to stay and minister. Most church moves have been a disaster to the neighborhood from which they moved, because rarely does another successful church move in!)<o:p></o:p>

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3.      Why would people in your neighborhood seek to be involved in your church? <o:p></o:p>

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4.      When you came to the church, how did you feel? What needs where met for you? Would you come as a visitor, and become involved if you were not already a part of this church? Why, or why not? <o:p></o:p>

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5.      What are the needs in your community? Try to list 20, including daycare, loneliness, etc.<o:p></o:p>

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6.      Rate the importance of each of those needs, keeping in mind Biblical priorities over personal ones!<o:p></o:p>

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7.      If these ideas were implemented, how would the church look, and how would it be benefited?<o:p></o:p>

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8.      What would happen if these ideas were not implemented?<o:p></o:p>

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9.      Brainstorm what needs are evident and how you can meet them! Determine the type of programs that can meet those needs.<o:p></o:p>

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10. How can your leadership and church direct others in order to bring them deeper in the heart of God to worship and glorify Him?<o:p></o:p>

How much time was spent in prayer? 

<o:p>Session 4. Determining the Purpose of Your Church</o:p>

We have explored some of the basics of what God is calling the church to do. Now we need to study the Scriptures and immerse ourselves in prayer to determine the purpose of our church, what our point is in being and existing. This will clarify what we do, why we do it, who we are in Christ, and His call for us. <o:p></o:p>

The purpose of the church is God’s purpose, not personal whims, or desires! That purpose will be revealed solely through Scripture and prayer. The core of your purpose will be what Christ has called all churches to as found in the Great Commandment and the Great Commission in Matt 22:36-40; 28: 19-20! These two imperatives contain our relationship to God and one other, what ministry is, that evangelism is a priority; incorporating and discipleing the people God brings us. In addition, look for other Scriptural precepts for your call. <o:p></o:p>

Your purpose will be the unique way, your identity, and style, in which you proceed. This will convey the passion of the Gospel and the love for the people in your distinctive “style.�?Objectify the point and direction of your ministry through understanding God’s call, challenging yourself, and being creative with a Purpose Statement. This can be a simple slogan from Scripture, an acronym, a set of priorities, or an all-encompassing action plan. Try to keep it short and to the point. You need to know and be able to communicate this clearly to the congregation.  <o:p></o:p>

1.      What is the principle purpose and reason for your church to exist?<o:p></o:p>

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2.      Ask yourself, each leader, and each member this question: “What do you see as the purpose of this church?�?Take into account the last three steps! “Why do we exist, and why are we needed?�?Spend a significant amount of time seeking input from each person, and praying. (You may use our survey forms or ask people individually). <o:p></o:p>

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3.      Does the average person in your church understand the purpose for which your church exists?<o:p></o:p>

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4.      Does your congregation understand the general purpose of the church in light of God‘s call?<o:p></o:p>

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5.      While serving on staff of two churches that have been faithfully serving the Lord for generations, I saw one church celebrate its hundredth anniversary, and the other 125 years of existence. How will your church be remembered 100 years from now?<o:p></o:p>

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6.      What makes your church unique?<o:p></o:p>

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7.      What makes your church attract or not attract visitors?<o:p></o:p>

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8.      Why should the congregation be active in the life of your church? <o:p></o:p>

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9.      Why should the community come and become members of your church?<o:p></o:p>

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10. What programs do you have or have you had that have been successful, that people in the church and neighborhood liked? <o:p></o:p>

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11. Do people in your church want others from the neighborhood to come in and be a part of their family? <o:p></o:p>

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12. If not, what growth and teaching needs to take place to prepare them? <o:p></o:p>

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13. Read the following passages and see which one(s) applies to your niche, style, and purpose. Which Scripture could be your Position Statement? You can go over them all at once and list some basic observations, and then one by one carefully, through prayer, seek the one that best fits you, or that God has given you. Also, consider other passages that God gives you. <o:p></o:p>

1. Matthew 16:18<o:p></o:p>
2. Matthew 28:19<o:p></o:p>
3. Mark 12:29-31 <o:p></o:p>
4. Acts 1:8<o:p></o:p>
5. Acts 2:42-47<o:p></o:p>
6. 2 Corinthians 4:3-4<o:p></o:p>
7. Galatians 2<o:p></o:p>
8. Ephesians 2:1-9<o:p></o:p>
9. Ephesians 4:11-16 <o:p></o:p>
10. Philippians 3<o:p></o:p>
11. Colossians 3:12-16<o:p></o:p>
12. Colossians 4:5-6<o:p></o:p>
13. Hebrews 10:24-25<o:p></o:p>
14. 1 Peter 2:1-5; 9-12<o:p></o:p>

What others can you list?<o:p></o:p>

14. Now, consider your response to the previous questions together with what you learned from the Scriptures. What do you think our Lord wants your position statement to say? What is He revealing to you? <o:p></o:p>

1. Write a simple paragraph with a key sentence containing what God is saying to describe your church. <o:p></o:p>
2. What do you consider success? What does God consider success? <o:p></o:p>

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15. Take a careful look at the various ministries of your church, even if they are not engaged. Ask what is distinctive and unique about them. Include:<o:p></o:p>

a.      Prayer<o:p></o:p>

b.      Doctrine<o:p></o:p>

c.      Worship<o:p></o:p>

d.      Teaching<o:p></o:p>

e.      Discipleship<o:p></o:p>

f.        Fellowship<o:p></o:p>

g.      Missions<o:p></o:p>

h.      Community relationships<o:p></o:p>

i.        Staff<o:p></o:p>

j.         Outreach<o:p></o:p>

k.      Youth Ministry<o:p></o:p>

l.         Children’s Ministry<o:p></o:p>

m.    Singles<o:p></o:p>

n.      Married couples<o:p></o:p>

o.      Elderly ministry<o:p></o:p>

p.      Sports<o:p></o:p>

q.      Internet <o:p></o:p>

r.        Administration<o:p></o:p>

Which ones are strong programs? Which ones are weak?  <o:p></o:p>

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16. Fine-tune your Purpose Statement. Make sure that it is Biblical and has your style, philosophy, and unique family personality. Keep it simple so people can remember it. <o:p></o:p>

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17. Can you list a series of statements or write a summery paragraph? <o:p></o:p>

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18. Expand your statement into a Mission Statement, which contains your purpose statement with added detail and specifics. Keep it to one page if possible. For larger churches, more pages may be needed.<o:p></o:p>

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19. Remember worship! You must know how to lead the church deeper in the heart of God to worship and glorify Him! <o:p></o:p>

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Remember to pray a lot. You are creating a philosophy of ministry that will be a template for how and why you do ministry. This will keep the focus on the main thing, and hone your energies to the target needs. This focuses the energies of the church to what God has called them to do, so that they do not find other things to occupy them, such as the diseases that corrupt and destroy. <o:p></o:p>

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How much time was spent in prayer? <o:p></o:p>

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Session 5 How to Develop and Cast your Vision  <o:p></o:p>

A vision is the comprehensive statement that tells the leaders of the organization what direction they should move, and what they should accomplish so they can motivate the people under them. The church should be and strive toward a preferred future, not just to a dream! 

<o:p>People often ask if the vision comes first or if the purpose of the church is determined and the vision honed from it. Both can, and should be done. With the above precepts in mind, can you say in a sentence or two to what God is calling you, or at least the direction He has for you? If so, great! That may be your vision. If not, great too, because then you have to take your blank idea or your fined tuned idea though this process to see if it is just and true. Take those thoughts and go through the process to hone and confirm or to change and rethink until you are certain you are going in the right God-directed path! As leaders, you must be firmly convinced before you can sell it to others! <o:p></o:p></o:p>

The Vision takes the purpose and mission of the church and refines it to a simple statement that acts as a guide or slogan for your church. During the Reformation, there were several key phrases that were, and still are Visions such as �?/SPAN>Grace Alone,�?“Scriptures Alone,�?“Christ Alone,�?and “Glory to God Alone.�? Churches today need more than just a word or two. Those words of the Reformation did not stand by themselves; they hooked together as an <o:p></o:p>

            all-encompassing phrase that captured the richer, fuller meaning they represented. Then they galvanized and motivated the people in the proper direction for the church to go. Vision gives the motivation and the momentum for the equipping ministry of the church. Vision is essential, not because of its captivating aspects, but for what those aspects do, which is to motivate and direct. Then people can be headed in the right direction for God’s glory and purpose. Why is this is necessary and essential? Because, if you are planning to lead a church, you must know the direction in which you are going!

Ideas in writing your Vision:  <o:p></o:p>

·        Read Nehemiah 1:11; 2:1-18; 4:1-8; 6:15-16! Notice how Nehemiah’s Vision begins, develops, includes, and then how it involves others for clarification and confirmation! How does Nehemiah’s Vision compare with yours? What do you need to work on? <o:p></o:p>

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·        Make sure you have a good grasp on the precepts and principles of Scripture. <o:p></o:p>

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·        A Vision cannot be written from your will, but only from His! The Vision must be God’s!<o:p></o:p>

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·        Remember sin, and our sinful nature and that Salvation is solely by what Christ did on the cross! <o:p></o:p>

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·        The Vision needs to be simple, yet concise, and fewer than 100 words, so it can be remembered and followed!<o:p></o:p>

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·        Vision propels us to move where God is taking us.  <o:p></o:p>

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·        Do your homework. Observe, diagnose, ask good questions, know your church, and know where God wants you through studying His Word. This is an exhausting process! Your Vision needs to be well researched, thought through, and prayed about. You may not be able to finish it at a retreat; it may take months! <o:p></o:p>

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·        Vision is a realization of and a reaction to the working of God! <o:p></o:p>

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·        Vision requires us to stretch, learn, and change, and even more stretch by the church to learn new skills and to do things out of their comfort zone.<o:p></o:p>

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·        Vision requires you to be a risk taker and have more faith!  You may receive criticism from other well meaning Christians, leaders, and denominational officials. Listen and educate them on the Biblical precepts and your process. <o:p></o:p>

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·        Do not just copy your Vision from another church. You, the leaders, and then the church must go through the honing process. The Vision must fit your church and neighbourhood. This makes every Vision unique in character, even though the words and principles may be similar.<o:p></o:p>

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·        Churches that are being planted or are stagnant and need revitalizing must have a new Vision to take them to a new season.<o:p></o:p>

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·        One of the top 10 healthy and influential churches in the world, that sends more missionaries (over 200, not including short term and part timers) than most denominations, has this simple Vision: �?/I>We are followers of Jesus Christ, ministers together, empowered by the Holy Spirit and guided by God's Word.�?/SPAN> And their value statement is, “We are committed to honoring God through worship and personal lifestyle, caring for one another, equipping one another for ministry and communicating God's love to the world.�?/I> This church (Lake Avenue Church, Pasadena, Ca) has over 6,000 members and 35 pastors following this simple decree! Remember simplicity; do not make your Vision or purpose so complicated that people cannot follow it even though it may be great stuff!   <o:p></o:p>

Casting that Vision: <o:p></o:p>

·        Casting means to empowering your congregation to accept it, live it, and serve in it! <o:p></o:p>

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·        Preach on the passage of the Vision with power and conviction; have people give testimonies in the service on what their program or neighbourhood could look like. At the same time, do not let the Vision consume your church. Keep the focus on the care and love for the people. <o:p></o:p>

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·        For a Vision to work, it has to be “owned�?by the congregation. This is accomplished by educating them on God’s call through Scripture, your process, prayer, patience, and encouragement. Have your leaders in on the process as much as possible so they can do the field work/grass roots influencing and modelling of it, and positively present it in person, in classes, and in the services. <o:p></o:p>

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·        Having as many people as possible contribute to the Vision process will enable the congregation in conceiving and shaping the vision. Even though it may come solely from the pastor, people need to feel it is theirs too! The input of others will help you focus, and consider the various options and needs! <o:p></o:p>

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·        Make sure you write it out short, clear, and in vivid language so someone who has never seen it will understand it. Have people outside your church look it over for clarity. If a stranger who does not know you or your church can understand and run with it, you may have a winner! <o:p></o:p>

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Troubleshooting (when people resist or do not like the plans)  <o:p></o:p>

·        What are the factors that are in your church that can inhibit the Vision? Are there power plays, political agendas, the old guard, popularity of the previous pastor/ leader, poor Biblical knowledge�? How can you solve these issues? <o:p></o:p>

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·        What church traditions and programs should you maintain? Which should you get rid of? How will you go about it without upset? Remember, listing of and educating about the call and Biblical precepts will be your biggest ally, accompanied by prayer! <o:p></o:p>

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·        The fear of change and the unknown can be very powerful. People will fight to hold on, and fight to let go. <o:p></o:p>

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·        Did you inspire and motivate others to follow you?<o:p></o:p>

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·        Build coalitions but not sides! <o:p></o:p>

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·        Apathy and complacency will be your biggest foes! <o:p></o:p>

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·        Make sure people feel they are a part of the process! A vision cannot just pop out of a pastor’s office on Monday and be active on Sunday! <o:p></o:p>

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·        Are you and the leaders perceived as modelling the Vision for others? You have to walk the walk, not just talk the talk! <o:p></o:p>

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·        A lot of churches have done their Vision process incorrectly, or poorly, or have it on their wall but not on their hands and feet. You may have members who came from those churches. They, too, need to be reassured! <o:p></o:p>

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·        Settle any ongoing conflicts quickly and completely. New changes will only temporarily halt the strife, and if not taken care of, it will rise up again! <o:p></o:p>

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·        How did you challenge the system? Did you ask the right questions without causing additional unneeded conflict? If not, you need to go to people and apologize for not listening all the way, then listen and be able to answer feedback positively. <o:p></o:p>

·        Do not over sell it. Allow people to process the new Vision or any change you may make! Allow them to see what you see; the big picture is of a better future and church! Spend the time in listening, building relationships, and trust, especially if the pastor or the leadership is new! Reassure them, it is not as bad as it seems; we can be better! <o:p></o:p>

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·        Do not overwork your leadership or cause your people to “burn out.�?Take your time, and do not rush through change. What can be rushed through in six months will not be as impacting as a process spanning over two years! Each congregation is different. Some can handle, and even desire fast change, but most will not! <o:p></o:p>

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·        Prayer, and the atmosphere that goes with it, are the key to balancing problems and mindsets. Build you methods and strategies with Spiritual power! Teach your leaders, and then your congregation what it means to have extraordinary prayer, how to do it, and how to live it! <o:p></o:p>

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·        Did you take time to encourage, recognize, reward, and celebrate your leaders and congregation?<o:p></o:p>

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How God Tends To Lead Today: <o:p></o:p>

1.      God leads through the precepts and principles of His Word! (Psalm 119, emphasis on vs. 66 & 105). Precepts are statements that are imperatives, such as commands, (Mark 12:28-31) and passages that are clearly His Will (Gal. 5).  Principles are general concepts in context such as character that requires us to make a determination. Think through how to apply them through prayer, wisdom, decrement, growth, and maturity (Sermon on the Mount). <o:p></o:p>

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2.      God leads us through the power and prompting of the Holy Spirit. This will never countermand the Bible! Through our walk with Christ by His Word, prayer, devotions, disciplines, and the teaching of others, we will receive prompting to move us in a certain direction (Psalm 32:8; Philippians 2:12-14). <o:p></o:p>

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3.      God leads us through wise counsel of others. This too will never countermand Scripture, or the Spirit’s leading. It will test us to make sure we hear the Spirit correctly, and are on the right tract (Proverbs 15:22; 27:9; 1 Timothy 5). We are to pray and think through issues, considering all options in making a decision. Make sure the people to whom you are listening are walking in His way (Chronicles 25:16; Psalm 1:1)! <o:p></o:p>

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            When we achieve following all three of these, we need to take a step of faith (Hebrews 11:6). As if we are at a nexus, or fork in the road, we have to choose a path and then go. To follow God, we have to know Him intimately, believe in Him, trust in Him, and then react and do what He says within the character of Christ. Remember, faith is belief, trust, and action synergistically combined. Faith requires us to react. Unsure? God also leads us by giving us peace about our decision. If you do not feel right about it, it is probably the wrong decision or direction (Colossians 3:15). (See our articles on God’s Will)<o:p></o:p>

Begin Writing Your Complete Purpose Statement! <o:p></o:p>

            Your Purpose Statement, sometimes called a Mission Statement will encompass all of the precepts we talked about, arranged in a logical and systematic order. Remember, God is the One who guides us, and this Purpose Statement is the mechanism of communication to convey His call to you and the rest of the church. There is no right or wrong way to do this; you can tailor it to suit your situation. It can even be written as a story. Just make sure you are leading by God’s direction! <o:p></o:p>

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Suggestions: <o:p></o:p>

·        Remember the shorter and more to the point it is, the better people will remember and follow it!<o:p></o:p>

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·        Start on the top of the page with your Vision of no more than 100 words. <o:p></o:p>

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·        Then move to the Mission, which can be a sentence slogan that summarizes the Vision.<o:p></o:p>

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·        Write out the Purpose by bullet points or as a story, however you feel you can communicate it best. This is the main text, so try to keep it all on one to three pages. <o:p></o:p>

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·        Now write out your Core Values. These are the essential beliefs you have. It is not your doctrinal statement, but the essence of your theology as values and virtue. Why does your church exist? Who are you, and what do you do? This can be a few words, or a page of bullet points. <o:p></o:p>

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·        Now write out your Goals, and put them in a time line. “We hope by God’s grace to accomplish…�?Make sure the goals are clear and quantifiable statements of how the Vision and Purpose will be accomplished.<o:p></o:p>

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·        Now you may consider adding a Distinctive. This would be a statement or bullet points that say why you are different, and why people would want to come to your church. How is your church different from others in the community? Do not put down the other churches by making yours sound better. We are all the Body of Christ!<o:p></o:p>

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·        All these statements are your expressions of your call, and reason to be and do in your church family and community. They are to define you and guide you to God’s Will and plan! <o:p></o:p>

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·        Once you have written these things down, pray over and approve them. Make sure you have consensus in the boardroom. If not, you have more work to do. Once it is approved, make a copy available to everyone. Enthusiastically go over it in an all-church meeting, and be prepared to answer any questions and/or objections positively. Be open to criticism, as many people will not like change. Be prepared to make small baby steps if there is a lot of opposition. It is best to already have gone to key older people in your church, the previous movers and shakers, and get them behind you. If not, you will have a lot of problems!  <o:p></o:p>

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·        Then on a separate sheet of paper write out your strategies. These are the hands and feet to the Vision. What will be the resources, programs, obstructions, objectives, and costs to accomplish your vision and goals? What will be your expected results? Remember God’s timing! <o:p></o:p>

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·        Have a plan to evaluate and adjust your Purpose Statement. As you begin, you will find things you may not have thought of, and you will need to fine-tune it. <o:p></o:p>

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·        Consider how you will maintain the Vision and its “momentum�?/SPAN> over the longer term? (By following the suggestions from How to lead and Manage the Church)<o:p></o:p>

Session 6. Going From Purpose to Practice  <o:p></o:p>

Scriptures to Consider and Pray Over: Matt. 25: 31-40; 28:18-20; Acts 2:42-47; Col. 3:12-17; 1 Pet. 2:5-10

This step clarifies the steps taken to this point, and suggests strategies on how they can be implemented. Pastors and Elders can do this once a year to make sure you are still on the right track.<o:p></o:p>

There is a difference between what we desire, which are our “felt needs,�?and what God calls us to, which are the “ministry needs.�?“Felt needs�?tend to be what we need personally, such as daycare, or youth ministry. However, “felt needs�?can deteriorate into just focusing on us, and not on the Lord. An example might be doing youth ministry in a certain unchanging way, unconcerned of where the real youth needs are, just doing it as you are told to or the only way you know how. Another example would be that needs could become selfish and petty (see Online Bible Study 36, Romans 14: 13-23)<o:p></o:p>

Keep the Biblical principals in mind and never replace what we think we need over what He calls us to do! In order to put application to what God is calling the church is to strategize our needs as revealed after prayer and searching the  Scriptures. Spend at least an hour in prayer with the leadership and pastors of the church, and then consider the following:   <o:p></o:p>

1.      Review what you did in the previous steps. What do you think are the greatest ministry priorities “needs�?for your church?<o:p></o:p>

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2.      What are the strengths and weakness evident in your church?<o:p></o:p>

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3.      Make a list of at least a dozen strengths and weaknesses; place them according to priority, from the most important to the least. <o:p></o:p>

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4.      Ask, why do you believe the reasons of what you have listed is important?<o:p></o:p>

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5.      If the needs were met, what would be the benefit and outcome?<o:p></o:p>

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6.      There are your anticipated desires; that is what you expect. However, what would happen if the outcomes were not what you expected? Are you prepared to trust in the Lord for His results, whether or not they meet your expectations? <o:p></o:p>

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7.      If you do not meet those needs, how will the church and the community respond? How would Christ respond if He were in the room with you? Oh, by the way, HE IS!<o:p></o:p>

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8.      What decisions need to be made about programs that need to be encouraged, fixed, or started to implement those needs?<o:p></o:p>

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9.      When can the decisions be made? <o:p></o:p>

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10. Do you have programs that are not needed, or need to be revamped?<o:p></o:p>

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11. Do you have programs that can be reworked to meet those needs? <o:p></o:p>

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Consider that for some programs, you may need help, especially if you are a church of fewer than 100, as 90% are! Do not bite off more than you can chew! Baby steps can be more effective than jumping into something you may not be able to pull off! Consider cooperating with another church for community programs, and even in youth ministry if you do not have the people and resources to do it alone. We are all part of the Body of Christ!<o:p></o:p>

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12. When can the programs be developed? Keep in mind if you have ones that are working, it is not necessary to fix what is not broken. However, most of the time there is room for improvement!<o:p></o:p>

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Set up a timetable; what you will do this month, next month, up to a year, and so forth. For your next leadership meeting, make out a five-year plan. Be flexible and willing to make changes to your changes. Also, make sure you are listening to everyone! <o:p></o:p>

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13. What is in the way of implementing those decisions and needs?<o:p></o:p>

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14. What could be done to remove those hindrances?<o:p></o:p>

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15. Can you now set up a specific timetable and action plan? <o:p></o:p>

16. How much time has been spent in prayer? If not at least one-third of your planning time, you need to start over. Prayer is the key to God’s door, and a necessary habit for the leaders! <o:p></o:p>

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Now, look at what you wrote for the demographics of your church and neighborhood. Does your church reflect its neighborhood? Do your people live in the neighborhood? Do they commute to the church? Is yours a community church in a suburb, where people in the neighborhood also attend? Is yours a church in the inner city where the attendees drive to from the suburbs? Are the people who live next to your church able to attended without shame, and do the members welcome them with love and care? Alternatively, is yours an exclusive club in your exclusive area? <o:p></o:p>

There must be the desire not only to reach out, but also to welcome people into the family. If you do not want them in your family, do not reach out to them.  If you have that philosophy (hey, it is a free county here in the US; do what you want), please take down the sign that says “church�?and replace it with “club.�?Most people in the neighborhood will know that anyway, it just keeps the new people from wasting their time, being embarrassed, and getting a false impression of our Lord. <o:p></o:p>

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17. Ask what are the ministry distinctions, such as single mothers, widows, owners of businesses, students, etc.<o:p></o:p>

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18. Compare the two lists. Are they similar, different, a combination? <o:p></o:p>

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19. What do they have in common, and how are they different, such as interests, activities, occupation, etc?<o:p></o:p>

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20. In what areas of the church do the people need to work to be more accommodating and accepting? <o:p></o:p>

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21. How can you tailor the needs to be inclusive to both lists, to both groups of people?<o:p></o:p>

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Consult with people from those groups to determine, for example, the needs for single mothers. Ask several of them and research it so you will make the best decisions. Do not automatically assume anything; check it out! Lots of churches jump into programs and find out there was no need for them, when they could have focused on a much more needed area. People then get their feelings and hopes hurt and lose the enthusiasm to do what they should have done in the first place. Ask yourselves; do we need a daycare or just a mother daughter night out fellowship, or daily meals on wheels, or Sunday brunch after church? <o:p></o:p>

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22. What are the programs that can meet the needs of both groups? This will result in more interaction so that family building can develop.<o:p></o:p>

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23. What are the programs you currently have, and how can they be improved?<o:p></o:p>

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24. What are the strengths and weakness of these programs?<o:p></o:p>

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25. What new areas need to be developed?<o:p></o:p>

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26. What must happen to develop programs for specific community needs? <o:p></o:p>

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27. What are the spiritual development needs for both of the groups? <o:p></o:p>

1. Where are they spiritually, in their journey to maturity in the faith? <o:p></o:p>

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2. What level of maturity can they grow to be?<o:p></o:p>

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3. What can you do to help them along the path of spiritual maturity in the areas of teaching and discipleship? <o:p></o:p>

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Evaluate your existing programs. How do they meet the people, bring them into the family, and help them grow in maturity and faith?

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28. What programs do you now have that can benefit the neighborhood?<o:p></o:p>

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29. What can be done to improve them?<o:p></o:p>

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30. How do you measure success? Numbers are generally used as a prime indicator. Moreover, most of the time, numbers tell a lot. There are times and situations that numbers do not reflect, such as maturity of the people attending, their desire to grow and reach out, or the temperament of the community. Be discerning. Do not just look at numbers. Look at the passion and love of the leaders, their faithfulness and ability to teach and coordinate, and the situation (1 Cor. 2:9). <o:p></o:p>

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31. Do you have programs that are stale, that are not meeting needs and are ineffective? If so, how do you look at non-success? What do you need to do to improve them? Should they be continued, replaced, upgraded?<o:p></o:p>

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You have been finding the types of people in your church and community, their needs, both spiritual and felt, and how you can tailor your church personality and programs to meet them. You cannot focus on the “felt needs�?and ignore the spiritual “real�?needs, or visa versa. The church is called to disciple first, and to take care of the sheep!<o:p></o:p>

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How much time was spent in prayer?

© 1986, 1988, 1998, completely revised 2002 Richard J. Krejcir Into Thy Word Ministries www.intothyword.com

Richard Joseph Krejcir is the Director of ‘Into Thy Word Ministries, ’a discipling ministry. He is the author of the book, Into Thy Word and is also a pastor, teacher, speaker and a graduate of Fuller Theological Seminary in Pasadena California. He has amounted over 20 years of pastoral ministry experience, mostly in youth ministry, including serving as a church growth consultant.