“Volunteer” is a Dirty Word
By Bill Easum The words we use denote who we are and how we view the world. Change some of the words you use and you’re on the way to changing the system. That’s why I hate the word “volunteer.” To me the word has come to mean “I’ll give you what I want to […]
Apprenticing Future Leaders
When it comes to discipleship, those of us called to do ministry in the Western Hemisphere are encumbered with what I call a “content fetish.” We have been consumed with focusing on content as if we could teach discipleship. All we need to do is get our people into a classroom, teach them how to be […]
Use as Directed
“Use as directed” – Three little words found on the label of the bottle containing your doctor’s prescription. If we are wise, we will use the contents of that container “as directed.” Why wouldn’t you do the same with the contents of your church growth consultant’s directive? Especially when your consultant carries the credibility and credentials […]
Kick Start Growth
The majority of churches in North America have been experiencing over a decade of decline or plateau. Often, common sense prevails and church leaders will endeavor to put church growth plans into place that will grow their church on a slow, and yet consistent, basis. The fact is, though, churches rarely grow slowly and consistently. […]
Cleaning Toilets
We went out to connect with retail shops by offering to clean their toilets. We simply walked into these places with our cleaning kits in hand and said, “Hi, we’re here to clean your toilets – for free – to show you a bit of God’s kindness.” Pretty much everyone gave us a funny look. […]
When God Moves Into the Neighborhood
Imagine. A church of small groups that meet in homes, based on geography rather than affinity, whose purpose is to not only share life together around the Scriptures but also to transform the neighborhood or section of the city from which the small group is gathered by living out what it means to be a […]