In this three-part series, I am introducing and explaining the value of a discipleship planning team. Too often churches enlist a key leader, such as a discipleship director, to do all the discipleship work. The work is often too large for one person. In Part 1, I mentioned scaling the…
In this three-part series, I want to introduce and explain the value of a discipleship planning team. Too often churches enlist a key leader, such as a discipleship director, to do all the discipleship work. The work is often too large for one person. In a church of 20 people,…
Are you seeking improvement in the overall health of your church? Do you need help equipping your leaders and members? Leaders, staff and volunteers in the areas of assimilation, church finances, revitalization, security, preschool/children’s ministry, prayer ministry, Sunday school, worship/music, women’s ministry, and youth ministry are all invited to come…
Would you like to increase second time guests? I read new member survey results from some Georgia churches in another denomination. The survey asked the question, “What brought you back to the church for your second visit?” Here were the responses: 44% said it was the warm inviting nature of…
First impressions and care matter in making disciples. If we make negative first impressions (individually or as a church), we may not get a second chance. It is also difficult to disciple people who don’t return or who drop out. What can we do to ensure more positive first impressions?…
Will they find it here? Churches and associations all across Kentucky are excited about “Find It Here.” This effort has involved prayer walking (or driving if you are out in the country), and delivering 1.5 million bags that contain a Gospel tract, information about local Baptist churches, and a special…
Survey: Church, Ministers Not the Friendliest in Town Maybe you have seen the survey…Less than 18 percent of Americans say the church is the friendliest place in town. Whoa! Though the church is ranked second behind “my home,” which 35 percent of Americans listed, Group Publishing – which commissioned this…
What is the temperature in your church? Is it warm, cold, indifferent, just right? Do you need to reset the thermostat? 2 Cor. 13:12 says, “Greet one another warmly in the Lord.” Is their warmth in the greeting ministry of your church? Do people really feel welcomed and loved? Who…
Romans 12:13 says, “Practice hospitality.” Churches need to be places that are hospitable, friendly, loving, and welcoming. They should be places where people smile and one can easily see the love of Jesus. This is Part 3 in this series on making guests feel welcome, but to be honest we…
Every church should have top-notch greeters. I believe greeters should be in place before AND after the service. No doubt the first impression is crucial on a guest’s first visit, but the last impression is important too. That’s why it’s so important to have greeters at the doors and in the…
Two encounters are critical. First, the leader encounters God in His Word and is changed. Second, the leader guides the group to have a life-changing encounter.