The Effective Church Leaders Podcast: Recent Episodes
Kerry and Becky Holton
If you long to be the kind of leader who helps your church thrive, but feel ill-equipped and confused about what to do, The Effective Church Leaders Podcast will help. Each week, hosts, Kerry and Becky Holton, answer your questions and offer practical advice and insights to help you carry out your responsibilities as a church leader. Get better-equipped, lead more effectively, and help your church thrive!
Paul writes that Christians should be devoted to good works in his letter to Titus. But, why? What is the relationship between good works and our salvation? Since we are not saved on the basis of what we do, is there anything for us to do in order to be saved? These are some of the questions up for discussion in this episode.
In this brief episode, Kerry brings out three principles from Titus 3:9-11 that should apply in the church today. What does Paul have to say about people who cause division in the body of Christ? Who were the people Paul may have had in mind who may have been guilty of dividing Christians from one another? Who might be similar unity-destroyers in our churches today? Join Kerry for this last episode in his study of Paul's letter to Titus.
Here, Kerry discusses the two dimensions of the defining moment of conversion from Titus 3:4-7: the "washing of regeneration" and the "renewal of the Holy Spirit."
In this nine-minute foray into Titus 3:4-7, Kerry answers the questions: What is not the basis of our salvation? What did not prompt God to save us? and Why is it important for us to understand salvation by grace? Also, G.C. Brewer and David Lipscomb, gospel preachers of long ago, enter the discussion.
In this brief episode we're taking a first look at Titus 3:4-7 and asking these questions: What is Paul doing in this passage? How does this passage function in his train of thought? What has God done? What is the basis of what he has done? What prompted him to do it? Titus 3:4-7 is a beautiful summary of God's saving deeds!
In this episode, Susanna Kidwell, member of the Connect 3 Ministries’ team, shares a conversation that ensued when two women with evangelism on their minds approached her at a local park. Reflecting on this encounter, she, Becky, and Kerry chat about the effectiveness of "cold call evangelism," friendship evangelism, and what faith communities can do/are doing to reach others with the gospel.
What is the work of a minister? What are the primary roles in which he should be engaged? In this podcast episode, Kerry encourages church leaders and church members to be sensitive to their preacher's busy schedule and to not expect more of him than he can possibly do.
In this podcast, Kerry shares a bizarre dream he had. Is there a lesson to be learned from it and from the recollection of events that occurred over forty-five years ago? You be the judge!
What is the function of Titus 2:11-14? What role does it play in the flow of Paul's letter to Titus? Join Kerry in his discussion of the real basis of Christian living in this beautiful text from the Apostle Paul!
Join Kerry in his discussion of a great passage about Jesus in Paul's letter to Titus. From Titus 2:11-14, he'll answer three questions: Who is Jesus? What did he do? and Why did he do it?
Should a Christian mother work outside the home? In this episode, Kerry and Becky take a look at Paul's admonition to Christian mothers that they be "keepers at home" in Titus 2:4,5. Also, they discuss the occasional nature of the New Testament epistles and John MacArthur's alarming interpretation and application of this text in Titus.
This episode is all about Paul's two references to "sound doctrine" in his letter to Titus and what surprised Kerry in his study of Titus 2:1-10.
Why did Paul instruct Titus to teach moral behavior to the Christians on Crete? In this episode, Kerry is considering the implications of the three purpose clauses in Titus 2:5, 8, and 10 and the relationship between evangelism and morality.
This is a conversation with Steve Brannan, one of the shepherds of the Homewood Church of Christ in Homewood, Alabama. Here are some of the questions Steve answers: What would you say to men who have been asked to consider accepting the role of elder? In your opinion, what are some of the qualities that make for an effective shepherd? What are some of the key lessons you've learned as one of Homewood's shepherds? How do the Homewood elders make decisions? Church members, current church leaders, and future church leaders will appreciate the wisdom Steve shares in this episode!
What is the work of elders in the church today? Are they primarily decision-makers? Or, should their primary work be to counsel and encourage? It's not easy for Christians to come to agreement on the function of elders. What did Paul see as the primary role of elders on the island of Crete, according to Titus 1:9? That's what we want to consider in this 11 1/2 minutes long episode.
In this 13-minute episode, we are taking a look at Paul's description in Titus 1:10-16 of the false teachers on Crete. We are asking how this text should inform our understanding of the identity of false teachers today. Please consider these things with us!
According to the Apostle Paul in Titus 1:5-9, elders are not only teachers. They are also overseers and stewards of God. What does this mean? How does it inform their work? Also, what kind of men should elders be? We'll address these questions in this 8-minute podcast.
Paul explains the purpose of his apostleship in Titus 1:1,2. He writes that it is "in the hope of eternal life." What is the meaning of "eternal life"? Thanks for reflecting on this with Kerry in this 8-minute episode!
Just as God entrusted the Apostle Paul with a sacred trust, so he has done the same with the church today. What is that sacred trust? We're going to Titus 1:3 in this 6-minute episode.
In this 6-minute episode, Kerry is thinking about Paul's self-designation in Titus 1:1 as "a servant of God." Was this Paul's favorite way of identifying himself? How would you like to be known and remembered?
In this episode, Kerry begins to share thoughts from his study of Paul's Letter to Titus. Some of the questions discussed in this 8 1/2-minute episode: What are the major themes of the pastoral epistles, 1 Timothy, Titus, and 2 Timothy? What do Christians need to know about the nature of New Testament letters?
What are some of the obstacles to keeping volunteers in the church? In this episode, the final one in their series on "Volunteerism in the Church," Kerry and Becky discuss the dangers of burnout and entitlement to volunteers and their ministry teams. Also, they briefly discuss what church leaders can do to deal with both.
In the fifth episode in the series, "Volunteerism in the Church," our focus is on one of the obstacles that can lead to volunteers becoming discouraged, feeling a lack of motivation, and even quitting their volunteer role. What can be done to keep other volunteers, unhealthy and difficult-to-get-along-with volunteers, from hurting the ministry team or church? How might church leaders go about firing a volunteer? These and other questions are discussed in this episode.
What volunteer ministry roles does your church need to fill? Who is in charge of recruiting and training your volunteers? What does your church's "onboarding funnel" look like? In this fourth episode in their series, "Volunteerism in the Church," Kerry, Becky, and Susanna discuss five important steps for church leaders to take as they consider a volunteer onboarding process.
Oftentimes, volunteers in the church don’t fully understand what they are supposed to do. Neither do they understand the significance of their assignment. In this third episode in the series, “Volunteerism in the Church,” Kerry, Becky, and Susanna discuss how church leaders can help volunteers understand their role and its significance.
What can church leaders do to remove the fear that some potential volunteers may have when approaching a new role? How can we lower barriers to entry and set expectations from the beginning so that people feel less anxiety about volunteering? And, what is the best way to recruit new volunteers? Answers to these questions and recommendations in this second episode in the series, “Volunteerism in the Church.”
Churches depend on volunteers to fill certain roles in the church’s programs. But, many church leaders are telling us that the number of volunteers in their churches has declined. So, what may done to recruit and keep volunteer servants? In this episode, we begin a series of podcasts on “Volunteerism in the Church.” Step one to encourage more volunteerism? Give people a vision for why they should volunteer. Don’t just tell them they are needed. Tell them why they are needed and how their role contributes to the mission of the church.
In the past two Growing Steady Newsletters, Kerry has written articles on the topic of "Saved by Grace." Today, we are continuing that conversation by covering:
- Why Kerry personally chose to talk about this topic.
- Why is it important for Christians to understand that they are saved by grace and not because of what they do?
- Why does it matter?
- Encouragement for those who are themselves working through this topic.
- Four reasons Christians need to understand the concept of salvation by grace.
If you wish to read/reference the Saved by Grace articles, click here: https://effectivechurchleaders.com/savedbygrace
Has our primary message to our communities and world become what makes our church different from the ones our religious neighbors attend? Does our emphasis need to change? Jesus, our hope and joy, should be our message. Let’s first tell people the story of Jesus. Then we can talk about the church and why we believe and practice what we do. Tune in as Kerry discusses the question: What should be our primary message to the world?
Since we have been looking for a new church home, we have wondered: Will our future church accept us? After all, we may not be like them. We may be different in several ways. That got us to thinking: So, what are the differences we should accept in each other in the Body of Christ? What dissimilarities should we overlook in those who make up our church family? For, in spite of our differences, the scriptures urge us to “accept one another” (Rom. 14:1-6; 15:7).
As many of you know, we’ve been looking for a church home since moving to a different state. We have visited several churches, and in this podcast, we share some of our impressions after visiting a small, rural church and a large urban church.
After developing a relationship with someone who needs the Lord, it's time to share our experience! Can you share your story when called upon? What was your life like before you came to know the Lord? How did you meet him? What is your life like since he became your friend. "Share Your Story" is the sixth and last episode in the series on "individual Outreach."
In episode number 5 in the series, "Individual Outreach," Kerry and Becky talk about the next step in building a friendship with those who may not yet know the Lord, serving them. Listen in for a discussion of the biblical warrant for serving others and practical suggestions for doing so.
This episode is a discussion of step three in a proposed process of what individual followers of Jesus can do to reach out to their unbelieving friends. Tune in for some very practical action steps!
This is the third episode in the series, "Individual Outreach." In this episode Kerry and Becky discuss the need for us to first listen to those whom we are trying to reach for the Lord before we speak. Listening comes before speaking!
In the second episode of their series, "Individual Outreach," the Holtons discuss step one in the Ferguson brothers' book: Five Everyday Ways to Love Your Neighbor and Change the World. This episode is all about beginning with prayer. The encouragement in this podcast is to choose just one person who needs the Lord, and begin praying for that one.
One of the reasons followers of Jesus may not be reaching the lost could be that they don't really know any. That is, they may not have any non-Christian friends. In this episode, Kerry and Becky begin a new series on "Individual Outreach." Episode one in the series is on the need to build relationships with people who don't yet know the Lord.
In this final episode in their series, "Community Outreach," Becky and Kerry discuss first, the legitimacy of churches addressing the felt needs of those in their communities. Then, they discuss several practical suggestions for how churches can serve people with the love of God. "Presence before preaching" is a concept church leaders should consider!
Does your church have a step-by-step plan for following up with guests to your Sunday morning assemblies? In this episode in the series, "Community Outreach," Kerry and Becky offer several tips for how churches may follow up with those who come to the assembly.
If you want your church to reach outsiders, you'll want to go all out for the children. In this episode, Becky and Kerry discuss five recommendations for doing just that. This episode is number four in their series on "Community Outreach."
Is it legitimate and biblical for church leaders to design their Sunday worship assembly with outsiders in mind? Is there a connection between the Sunday assembly and community outreach? Becky and Kerry discuss these questions and nine suggestions for improving the weekend services for the sake of outsiders in this episode, number 3 in their series on "Community Outreach."
In this week's episode, Kerry and Becky offer a few tips and suggestions for churches who wish to use their online and digital presence to reach outsiders.
Perhaps the very first step for churches to take to increase their community outreach is for their church to develop an outward focus. In this episode, Kerry and Becky discuss the need for an outward focus--so many churches seem to have turned inward--and they offer five suggestions for doing so. This is episode #2 in the series, "Community Outreach."
In this first podcast episode of the new year, Kerry and Becky preview the topics they plan to discuss and produce in The Effective Church Leaders Podcast in 2024. Also, they announce the subject matter for first free webinar of the year, scheduled for February 13.
In this final episode in their series, "Vision Casting for Your Church," Kerry and Becky discuss tips for introducing the vision to the church and recommended next steps to take once the vision has been approved.
Once your church's Vision Casting Team has brainstormed ideas regarding what they believe God wants your church to be or do in the next several years, it's time to craft specific, challenging, and measurable vision statements. These vision statements or goals will "flesh out" the church's intermediate-range vision. How to craft those vision statements is the subject of this episode, number six in the series, "Vision Casting for Your Church."
So, your church has selected a Vision Casting Team to craft a 3-5 year vision for your church. What's next? What does that team need to know before they begin the brainstorming process? And, what should the VC Team leader encourage the team to do as they brainstorm ideas to accomplish the church's mission? Join Kerry and Becky in this next episode in the series, "Vision Casting for Your Church."
In this episode, Becky and Kerry discuss the three essential characteristics of effective vision statements/goals for your church.
Once the vision casting team has been selected they need to be clear on the difference between the church's mission and her vision. This is one of the themes in episode #3 in the series, "Vision Casting for Your Church." In addition, Becky and Kerry discuss the importance of the vision casting team seeking God's vision for their church, rather than their own. Spending time in prayer is key to identifying that!
Who should be given the task of discerning a church's vision? How many people should be on a vision casting team? What are some of the characteristics you are looking for in those who will work together on this team? These are some of the questions that are discussed in this second episode in the series, "Vision Casting for Your Church."
In this first episode in their series, "Vision Casting for Your Church," Becky and Kerry discuss the rationale behind vision casting. They define what a vision is, then they provide half a dozen reasons why every church needs to have a clear and compelling set of goals for the future.
In this final episode in their series on how church leaders can help members of their local churches identify and use their God-given gifts, Becky and Kerry discuss several gifts' assessments. They discuss free, online assessments for individuals. They also talk about three assessments for helping ministry teams identify their gifts and how these teams can become healthier and more effective by understanding better each other's gifts.
In this episode in the series, "Finding Your Purpose in the Body of Christ," Becky and Kerry introduce the need for a certain ministry team in every local church. What is that ministry team? For lack of a better term, it's an "HR Department." This ministry team would recruit volunteers, list job openings in the church, publish job descriptions, assess volunteer giftedness, and onboard volunteers to the roles in which God has gifted them to serve.
What can church leaders do to encourage more volunteer engagement in their church? In this sixth episode of the series, "Finding Your Purpose in the Body of Christ," Kerry and Becky discuss five tips for encouraging people to serve and use their God-given gifts.
More churches are reporting that they are finding it difficult to attract and keep volunteers. Volunteerism is on the decline. What can be done to alleviate this problem? In this episode, Kerry and Becky discuss some of the common barriers that prevent followers of Jesus from using their gifts. It's episode number five in their series to help Christians find their place of service in the church.
Every follower of Jesus and every church leader has a calling in the church and should feel a sense of calling! In this podcast, Kerry and Becky discuss some of the New Testament passages on the subject of a calling and raise six questions to help Christians identify their calling. This is episode #4 in the series, "Finding Your Purpose in the Body of Christ."
In this podcast, Kerry and Becky discuss four big ideas about gifts from Ephesians 4 and 1 Peter 4. What are the gifts in Ephesians 4? What is their purpose? What does it mean that we are "stewards" of "our" gifts? These are just a few of the questions discussed in episode 3 in the series, "Finding Your Purpose in the Body of Christ."
Last week the Holtons examined what Paul wrote in 1 Corinthians 12 about giftedness; this week, Kerry and Becky are reviewing Romans 12:3-8. Besides a brief discussion of the seven gifts mentioned in Romans 12, they also talk about the need to know ourselves and our gifts, to accept how God has gifted us, and to use what the Spirit of God has been so generous to give. This is episode #2 in the series, "Finding Your Purpose in the Body of Christ."
A brand, new Circle Group Podcast will be published next week. If you would like to sign up to receive the monthly ECL Circle Group Podcast, go here.
In this episode, Kerry and Becky are beginning a new series entitled, "Finding Your Purpose in the Body of Christ." This week they take a look at 1 Corinthians 12 to find principles that are as relevant today, as they were when Paul first penned them. Some of these principles include these notions: There are varieties of gifts, and each gift is necessary in a healthy church; God distributes the gifts as he wills; and gifts are given and should be used for the common good--for the health and growth of the church.
Church leaders, how much attention are you giving to what happens in your church on Sunday morning? To the worship service? To the children's Bible classes or the children's Bible hour? To guest services? In this episode, Kerry and Becky discuss the importance of the weekend services. They talk about the need to give primary attention to what goes on during the Sunday morning hour, both for the sake of discipleship and outreach. This is episode #4, and the last one, in their series on Church Health.
In this episode, #3 in their series on Church Health, Kerry and Becky discuss a third characteristic of healthy and growing churches: change is expected and is a part of their church's culture. They give a few examples of the kind of change that churches should consider in order to accomplish their mission. Also, they discuss why so many churches and church leaders are resistant to change.
How healthy is your church? In this episode, Kerry and Becky talk about a second characteristic of healthy and growing churches: they prioritize reaching new people. They have an "outsider focus." Many churches seem to be "insider focused," which may partially explain why they are not growing. Tune in to this discussion of some of the statements regarding outreach in the ECL Church Health Assessment Tool.
How healthy is your church? Using their Church Health Assessment as a discussion starter, Kerry and Becky talk about what they see as some of the characteristics of healthy and growing churches. In today's episode, the first in this series, they discuss the importance of mission and vision to church health.
This episode is Part 2 of a series on 2023 church trends. The discussion here is about trends related to churches' online, digital presence, the sermon, the volunteer crisis in many churches, and ministerial burnout.
In this episode Kerry and Becky discuss two of the eight predicted trends itemized in Carey Nieuwhof's blogpost: "Future Church: 8 Church Trends to Watch in 2023." They have to do with the decline of the Boomer generation in church and the openness to spirituality of members of Gen Z.
Who should be on the leadership team of a church? In our experience, the leadership team of most churches is comprised of the elders--and only the elders. New Testament elders are responsible for the spiritual oversight of their church. That's biblical. But, why must they be the ones or the only ones who are responsible for setting the direction and making day-to-day decisions of the church? Why, for example, shouldn't a church's minister or ministers have a seat on that important leadership team? In this episode, Kerry and Becky reflect on the composition of THE leadership team in a church.
In this episode, Kerry and Becky identify five best practices submitted to them by elders across the country.
How may an eldership orient additional elders to their new role? In this episode, Kerry and Becky offer three general suggestions for onboarding new elders. They consider what an eldership may do to build trust, provide key information about church policies, processes, and systems, and introduce new elders to their role and expectations. Also, they discuss the importance of asking each elder to sign a covenant that spells out expectations.
Join Kerry and Becky as they discuss a recommended way to select and appoint elders in the local church. They discuss a 5-step plan, with special focus on who should screen nominees.
Listen in as John Royse, an elder of the church, identifies and discusses exciting opportunities he sees for the church. John talks about the church's mission, missions, children's ministry, and the willingness to adapt to changing times. In this podcast, he challenges us all to look forward to the opportunities that are available.
Is it biblical and advisable for ministers to serve as elders? Are all elders ordained by the Holy Spirit? Who oversees the overseers? Responses to these and other questions from listeners to this podcast are the subject of this episode.
If the scriptures support paying elders, why is this practice so uncommon? How involved should elders be in scheduling and planning church events? In today's episode, Kerry and Becky discuss two questions raised by listeners to the podcast.
This week, we are talking about holding elders accountable in the local church. How is that done? What kind of culture needs to be developed in the church and between elders and ministers that would allow the kind of mutual accountability which blesses the church? Answers to these questions and other beneficial ideas are presented in this week's podcast. Doug Parsons, longtime evangelist, gospel preacher, and church builder, is our guest this week.
Why does there seem to be a shortage of men who are willing to serve as elders? What can be done to encourage more men to serve? How might the church train future elders? These and other questions are addressed in this conversation with Bryan Bost, a longtime evangelist, missionary to Brazil, and elder of the church.
What is the nature of the authority of a church's elders? What are the limits of their authority? What can be done about elders who overstep their authority? What is their work and what kind of men should they be? These and other questions are addressed in this episode in our series on "Elders." Kirk Castleman, longtime gospel preacher and missionary, is our special guest, who offers much wisdom gleaned from personal experience on this seldom-discussed topic.
Kerry and Becky discuss three specific duties of elders in this episode. Elders are to make decisions, teach the word of God, and care for God's children. This episode is #2 in their series on "Elders."
In this first episode in their series on "Elders," Kerry and Becky discuss the overall role of elders who are trying to imitate first century, New Testament elders. That role is to provide spiritual oversight. Of note in this episode is an explanation of the definition of an overseer or episkopos, according to the New Testament. There is also a brief discussion about one of the more specific duties of overseers, that of making decisions.
John Maxwell, the noted author and leadership guru, said: "Everything rises and falls on leadership." This is true in the business world, but it's true for churches, as well. When the church's leadership is strong, the church flourishes. When it is weak, the church falters.
In this brief episode, Becky and Kerry discuss what every church should be about and how they can measure the church's progress in that department. The number of baptisms, the weekly attendance, and contribution are important metrics to measure a church's health. But, is there another metric that is even more significant?
In episode #123, Kerry and Becky discussed the present reality that so many churches are closing their doors. In this episode they offer several suggestions for what church leaders might do to prevent church closures. Your suggestions are welcome, too. To participate in the discussion and give your feedback, go to hello@efectivechurchleaders.com.
Many churches are closing their doors today. According to a recent study of Churches of Christ by Stan Granberg and Tim Woodruff, nine congregations close their doors every month. And the problem is not unique to Churches of Christ. In this episode, Kerry and Becky reflect upon this concerning state of affairs, a concern of so many church leaders today.
The Unstuck Group, a church consultation and coaching group, recently published a survey of 119 churches. This survey highlights certain trends and benchmarks in U.S. churches over the last twelve months. Kerry and Becky discuss some of the interesting statistics from this survey.
What do you expect from your ministers? Do you expect them to visit all the hospitalized and those in nursing homes? Do you expect them to be the church's primary pastoral care givers? If so, if you are expecting them to immerse themselves primarily in pastoral care, you are stunting your church's growth. How so and what can be done to turn things around? Join Becky and Kerry as they address this challenging topic!
What does success in ministry look like? And how do you measure it? Numbers are not always an accurate metric--either of success or failure. In this episode, Kerry and Becky attempt to define success in ministry. And it may not be what most of us think it is.
In this episode, Kerry interviews a 35-year-old preacher and dear friend, Josh Watkins, who suffered a severe heart attack. Listen in as Josh shares how that life-threatening event affected his perspectives toward life, family, and ministry.
In this episode, Kerry and Becky close their brief series on how to read and understand the Bible by discussing two more important rules for Bible study: 1) Look for the plain meaning of the text, and 2) Observe to whom a passage is spoken or written. Finally, they note that accurately interpreting the Bible is not the final step. The purpose of reading the Bible, after all, is not merely to gain Bible knowledge, but to apply it and allow it to transform our lives.
How should we read a book that carries the same weight as the audible voice of God? Kerry and Becky offer two suggestions in this thought-provoking episode.
What baggage do we bring to our reading of God's word that affects how we interpret scripture? How do we determine the meaning of words, sentences, and paragraphs in the Bible? Does the Bible have a "personalized meaning" for each of us? These are some of the questions Becky and Kerry discuss in this episode, which unpacks three important principles for reading and interpreting God's word.
In this episode, Kerry and Becky talk about motivation for studying the scriptures. They discuss three wrong motives and three right motives for studying God's word. Before we develop skills for reading and studying the Bible, we need to work through our motivation for studying this precious book.
In this episode, Kerry asks for his listeners' help to shed light on this question: "Is submitting to someone the same thing as accepting the authority of that person?" This question arose after looking at several passages in 1 Peter that speak of accepting the authority of the government (1 Peter2: 13), masters (2:18), husbands (3:1,5), and elders (5:5). At stake here, is the way Christians look at leadership and authority in the home and the church.
Sunday services can reach new people, people who look to the church to help them solve their problems and answer their deepest questions. In this episode, Becky and Kerry discuss a few suggestions on what churches can do to give attention to the message, guest services, and the children's ministry. This is the seventh and last episode in the series, "Reach New People."
Part Six in this series, "Reach New People," is about how churches can use their church's Facebook page and Facebook Live to connect to outsiders. Kerry and Becky offer several practical tips on how to make the most of social media and the technology of the day. Podcast #113 will be the last in this series and will be about how churches may use their weekend services to reach new people.
What can churches do to reach new people using the digital tools of the age? Kerry and Becky offer three suggestions in this episode for extending a church's reach digitally. As an example, did you know that 74% of the people in this country use Facebook every day? Every day! How can churches use Facebook and other social media platforms for outreach? We think you will appreciate some of the very practical recommendations in this podcast!
Becky and Kerry discuss the need for followers of Jesus to build relationships with those who don't yet know Jesus in this episode. In Part Four of their series on what churches can do to reach new people, they discuss the process by which strangers become neighbors, neighbors become acquaintances, acquaintances become friends, friends become family, and family members becomes missionaries of the gospel of Jesus to their neighborhood or community. While practical suggestions are offered for building friendships with unbelievers, Becky and Kerry also remind that our unbelieving friends must never become "projects."
In Part Three of their series on what churches can do to reach new people, Kerry and Becky discuss the need for churches to identify and love their mission field. We want to reach every one with the gospel of Jesus, but trying to reach "everyone" often results in reaching no one. After identifying specific groups churches may identify as those they want to reach, Kerry and Becky mention a few ways churches can love and serve those they desire to reach.
In this episode, Part Two in their series on what churches can do to reach new people, Kerry and Becky go back to the scriptures and talk about the missionary fervor of the early Christians. Not only were they zealous to share the gospel of Jesus, but they were also a prayerful people. Two things we can do, then, to renew our passion for the lost is to become devoted to prayer--to lean on the power of prayer--and to immerse ourselves once again in biblical passages that speak of our mission to reach all of God's children with the saving message of Jesus.
What can churches do to reach new people? In this episode, Kerry and Becky go to scripture and back to the basics for answers to this question. Could outreach be as simple as loving one another as Jesus has loved us? Could it be as simple as having a dogged resolve to pursue unity in God's church? In this episode, Becky and Kerry argue that doing these things, obeying the plain commands of Jesus, is a pretty good start to reaching those who don't know Jesus!
Why do sincere and capable Bible students disagree on what the Bible teaches? Why don't we all understand the Bible alike? After discussing three possible reasons, Becky and Kerry focus on one of the primary reasons: we all read the Bible in our own cultural context. We have been influenced by our culture to read and understand the Bible in certain ways. The question is not whether we will be influenced by our culture, but whether we will be bound by it!
Many Christians interpret some commands, like 1 Corinthians 11:6 and 1 Timothy 2:9 as situation-specific, while interpreting others, like 1 Corinthians 14:34 and 1 Timothy 2:12 as timeless. There may be good reasons for understanding some of the commands in the epistles as timeless and others as situation-specific. However, this episode encourages Christians to take seriously the situational and occasional nature of the New Testament letters and strive for consistency in biblical interpretation. Furthermore, it encourages Christians to think and to study deeply the biblical documents.
Our custom may be to interpret scripture as timeless and universal. We may tend to read the New Testament letters, for example, as containing specific commands and prohibitions that have direct application for all people in all ages. But should we? Since the letters are occasional or situation-specific documents, written to address specific problems in certain first-century churches, should we treat the specific prohibitions and commands there as directly applying to us? In this episode, Kerry and Becky take a look at 1 Timothy 2:9 and why they believe the prohibition in that text does not apply to women of all time.
In this episode, we discuss the occasional, situational nature of the New Testament letters. What does this mean for Bible students today? What difference does it make for how we apply scripture? Calling all those who want to learn how to better understand and apply the sacred writings to think about and reflect on the content in this episode!
In this episode, Kerry and Becky discuss one of the first and most basic rules of Bible study: Observe to whom a passage is spoken. Before interpreting and applying scripture, we must determine whether a passage was spoken to us or to others. Why is this so important? Because ignoring the distinction that the Bible was not written to us, but for us, can easily lead to the misinterpretation and misapplication of God's word. The aim of this episode is to help church leaders and every Christian to become better Bible students.
What can a church leader who is tired, bored, and maybe even, depressed do to make a fresh start? To renew his or her passion for ministry? Kerry and Becky discuss five suggestions for making a new start in ministry.
What are some of the most common threats to small churches? In this episode, Kerry and Becky identify five hazards that small churches often face and offer a few suggestions on how they can be overcome. Interim Ministry Partners has reported that 91% of all Church of Christ attendees belong to churches of less than 250 members. Further, 55% of Church of Christ congregations have an average attendance of just thirty-four people. So, church leaders will likely discover that this podcast episode is relevant for most churches.
What can church leaders do to cast a vision for their church? In this episode, Kerry and Becky talk about the importance of a vision and some suggested steps for casting a church's desired future. You'll want to hear this podcast as you prepare for a brand, new year!
In part three of our series on the role of elders, Becky and Kerry discuss their work as overseers, or bishops. After briefly mentioning some of the relevant New Testament passages on the subject, they turn to what "exercising the oversight" means in practical terms.
In last week's episode Kerry and Becky discussed the role of elders. In this week's podcast they discuss the elders' role as shepherds. After looking at Psalm 23, Ezekiel 34, Ephesians 4, John 10, and other passages in the Bible, they identify three functions of biblical shepherds. No doubt, to shepherd God's people is a tough assignment! But, it's God's will that someone care for his people, and surely, he will provide the grace, strength, and wisdom that is needed to carry out these important responsibilities.
After a brief glimpse into the backstory of New Testament elders, Kerry and Becky examine the practice of appointing elders for every church in the first century and take a quick look at what those elders did for those churches. Elders who are trying to imitate the elders of the New Testament churches will find this podcast to be informative and thought-provoking. This podcast only highlights their work as elders, not as shepherds or overseers.
Church leaders often track attendance, giving, and baptisms, but what are they doing to track other important metrics of their church's health and growth? In this episode, Kerry and Becky discuss the importance of tracking metrics in five phases of spiritual growth. Also, they offer suggestions on what may be measured in those five phases. For example, they talk about how one might measure engagement with those who may be disinterested in God, the church, and spiritual things. For church leaders the challenges are to know what success and growth looks like in their church, and then, to identify what should and can be measured.
How important is it for church leaders to track or try to measure such things as individual spiritual growth, church health, and church growth? What is the rationale for doing so? In this episode, Becky and Kerry discuss six reasons for tracking church health and growth. Feel free to join the discussion! Your feedback is always appreciated!
Kerry and Becky identify three levels of guest engagement--a church's pre-guest strategy, welcoming first-time guests, and encouraging returning guests to take a step toward community--and "the win" for each level. Then, they identify and discuss a simple strategy for engaging guests to take a next step in their journey toward Christ. Please join the discussion in Part Two of the series, "Helping Guests Engage Beyond the Sunday Assembly."
In this episode, Kerry and Becky discuss three levels for engaging guests to the Sunday assembly. Then, they identify and discuss three barriers to such engagement. What can church leaders do--and what should they not do--to encourage guests to go beyond just sitting in a pew on Sunday? Tune in for Part One of this discussion!
Highly-effective churches have influence in their communities. They are like salt and light, like "a city set on a hill." In this episode, Kerry and Becky discuss three strategies used by best-practice churches to "pastor their local community." This is Part 4 in their series, "Best Practices of Highly-Effective Churches."
"It's not enough to belong to the church; church members must be encouraged to embrace the values of Christ." The question for church leaders is: How can that be done? What some of the most effect churches do to create ownership is the topic of this episode, number three in the series, "Best Practices of Highly-Effective Churches." Here, Kerry and Becky discuss three strategies church leaders can use to create ownership among congregants of a discipleship agenda.
Becky and Kerry discuss a second best practice of effective churches in this episode, a best practice that was identified by the REVEAL survey of over 1,000 churches. It is: embed the Bible in everything. They share three strategies for making the Bible a defining characteristic of your church culture.
Here are three strategies for overcoming inertia and getting people moving. This is episode number one in the four-part series, "Best Practices of Effective Churches."
What is "the restoration principle"? Is the restoration principle valid? In this final episode in the "Summer Shorts" series, Kerry answers these questions and defends the notion of going back to the Bible for a norm or standard for the church today. He encourages church leaders and Christians to reproduce vital elements of the Christian religion of the first century in our day. To return to the pure and simple religion of Jesus Christ! Listen in and give your feedback!
In the early years of the Restoration Movement in America, Alexander Campbell and other leaders pled for nonsectarian Christianity, for followers of Jesus to be "Christians only." Not only does scripture speak against division, but also for Christian unity. Undenominational, nonsectarian Christianity is still a goal worth pursuing! Join the discussion as Becky talks about the need to go back to the scriptures, and lay aside human names, creeds, and philosophies. This is episode #5 in the "Summer Shorts" series.
In episode #4 in the "Summer Shorts" series, Becky talks about Barton W. Stone's commitment to holy living and to the disciple's separation from worldly values. Our desire to restore some of the elements of the New Testament church in our day should also mean that we should not overlook the restoration of the way Jesus wants his followers to live.
Is your church a place where people feel safe and free to ask their questions and express their doubts? Does your church welcome open dialogue and robust debate regarding what the Bible teaches? In this podcast, Kerry recalls some of the writings of Alexander Campbell from his 1830 Millennial Harbinger which support the practice of promoting open dialogue, allowing people to hear all sides of an issue, and judging for themselves what they believe the Bible teaches. This is episode #3 in the "Summer Shorts" series.
One of the slogans of the nineteenth century American Restoration Movement was "No creed but the Bible." With this clarion call, leaders were urging Christians to look to the Bible alone as their religious authority, and to resist the tendency of religious systems to bind their human opinions and preferences on others. Is there a need for us to hear this word today? Listen in and join the discussion! This is episode #2 in the "Summer Shorts" series.
In this podcast, Kerry introduces us to James O'Kelly, Rice Haggard, and events in the late 1700s that led to the beginning of the American Restoration Movement. What we can learn about religious authority from some of the great pioneers of the faith is the subject of this episode.
What might what some sociologists are calling "the great resignation" affect churches? If more people are looking for meaning in their lives, and if they choose to look to the church for purpose and meaning, what can church leaders and churches do to welcome them? In this episode, Kerry and Becky discuss eight suggestions for making the Sunday worship assembly more guest-friendly.
In Part 2 of Kerry's interview of this small group ministry consultant, Cameron talks about some of the pitfalls to look out for in a small group ministry. Also, he offers some closing thoughts on what church leaders need to know before beginning such a ministry. LIke Part 1 of this series, this episode is full of practical advice and time-tested recommendations that church leaders will surely appreciate!
In this episode, Cameron John, a consultant for small group ministries in churches, discusses the rationale for starting a small groups' program in your church. He also offers practical recommendations for effective small groups. This is Part 1 of Kerry's interview with Cameron.
We want to be an influence for good. We want to make a positive impression for the gospel and the Lord. But, sometimes, our words and attitudes get in the way. Our words may offend and alienate, and that's the last thing we want our words to do! In this episode, Becky and Kerry discuss some of the mistakes Christians make when talking with their religious friends and neighbors.
This is Part 3 in the series, "4 Ways to Improve the Post-Pandemic Church." In this episode Kerry and Becky suggest that effective church leaders and churches post-pandemic will focus on loving and embracing others, rather than judging them and that they will be gospel-driven, rather than ideologically-driven. We would love to hear what you think about these recommendations. Join the conversation!
Now that the pandemic is waning and church doors are re-opening, bringing people back is the primary concern of many church leaders. That's legitimate. After all, the scriptures speak of the importance of the assembly. In this episode, however, Kerry and Becky discuss the need to move people forward in their walk with God and some of the steps church leaders can take to do so. This is Part 2 in their series, "4 Ways to Improve the Post-Pandemic Church."
In this episode Kerry and Becky begin a three-part series: "4 Ways to Improve the Post-Pandemic Church." Many of the ideas in this episode came from a Carey Nieuwhof blog post entitled, "The Coming Church Split." After discussing the notion that believers should pursue truth wherever or from whomever they find it, Becky and Kerry talk about one way church leaders can improve the post-pandemic church: by deciding once and for all to become a fully hybrid church.
John Royse, elder for The Hills Church in Fort Worth, TX shares a potpourri of insights and suggestions regarding the way elders can organize themselves, how they may relate to ministers, the 2-seat model of member engagement, advice for smaller churches, encouraging people to use their God-given gifts, elder visibility, vision-casting, and more. This is Part 2 in Kerry's conversation with John.
How should elders organize themselves to do the work of the Lord in a local church? There is no direct reference in the Bible to how they should be organized. In this episode of the podcast, John Royse, one of the shepherds of The Hills Church in North Richland Hills, Texas, describes the unique model their elders use to organize themselves and some of the benefits of this model.
What is the first step church and ministry leaders should take for the health of their church or ministry? In this episode, Kerry and Becky discuss the all-important step of conducting a reality check. Then, they identify three steps church leaders may take to conduct that self-assessment.
Are you worried your people won't come back to church once the doors reopen? Are you wondering if your church should continue streaming your worship service when you return to in-person worship? In this episode, Kerry and Becky continue their conversation regarding what church leaders can do if people don't "come back to church." Then, they address the question: Should churches continue to embrace a digital ministry after returning to in-person worship? Join the conversation!
Some studies indicate that as many as 20-30% of a church's members will not return to in-person worship services once the pandemic has run its course. What should church leaders do if church members don't come back? How should they respond? Kerry and Becky discuss a few suggestions in this episode.
What can be done when a church is stuck, and changes need to be made? How may church leaders begin--where do they start--to make the necessary changes that will help them make forward progress? The first step is to create urgency for change. But how is that done? In this episode, Kerry and Becky discuss two ways to pave the way for change: by communicating a positive vision of the opportunities that will be realized by making necessary changes and by communicating a negative picture of the hazards that may result by refusing to make the necessary changes.
Since it is true that our resources, time, and energies are limited, we should admit the reality that there are only so many things we can do well. How does this apply to your church? Are there ministries, programs, and activities in your church that need to be pruned? In this episode, Kerry and Becky discuss the first step in the pruning process: staying in touch with reality! It is acknowledging that pruning is a necessary, natural, and beneficial part of everyday life.
Do any of the ministries or programs in your church need to be pruned? Why prune ministries at all? What is the value in pruning programs and ministries? In this episode, Kerry and Becky apply the gardening principle of pruning to the ministries and programs of a church. They discuss the distinction between "hurt" and "harm," doing something that may only hurt temporarily but does not harm the church. After encouraging church leaders to answer two important questions before beginning the process of pruning, they introduce the first step in the pruning process.
Whether during a pandemic or otherwise, conscientious church leaders understand their responsibility to keep watch over the souls in their charge (Hebrews 13:17). But how is that staggering responsibility accomplished? What can church leaders do to stay connected with the members of their church and keep them from "falling through the cracks"? Several church leaders were surveyed and asked to explain what they were doing to stay in touch with their members. Five recommendations to help church leaders stay in contact with church members came from the responses to that survey.
When should a minister consider a move? In this episode, Kerry and Becky discuss scenarios in which it might be advisable, even necessary, for a minister to relocate. When might it be best for the minister and his or her family to consider a move? When might it be best for the church and the kingdom of God for the minister to move? Join us for this discussion!
There are times when ministers and their families consider moving from one church to another. Sometimes, a move may be recommended. But, when might it not be a good time to move? In this episode Kerry and Becky discuss four scenarios in which it may not be a good time to leave a particular ministry for another. Feel free to join the discussion!
In this episode, Kerry and Becky answer a couple of questions they received in response to recent podcasts, questions related to the independence of church leaders: What does it mean that ministers need some degree of independence from their elders or other church leaders? Should the fear of backlash from the church affect the decisions church leaders make? Interesting and relevant questions! Join the discussion!
Is longevity in ministry always a good thing for the church? What do you do if a minister who is hurting a church won't leave? What do you do if the leaders of the church won't deal with a a minister who, by most accounts, should leave? Who should hold ministers accountable, why church leaders should hold them accountable, and how ministers should be held accountable are some of the topics discussed in this episode.
Why should minsters plan to stay where they have been called to serve? Why should they not look to move from a certain field of service too quickly? And why should church leaders plan to keep ministers in their churches for the long haul? Join Kerry and Becky as they discuss some of the advantages of longevity in ministry.
What is one of the primary works of ministry? How important is diligent Bible study for ministers? Who must lead the church (besides Jesus)? Can ministers be too bonded to the elders of their congregation? Join Kerry and Becky as they discuss four more foundational principles of effective ministry.
What is your motivation for ministry? Are you a hard worker? Do you see yourself as a servant? Do you love people? These are some of the questions Kerry and Becky urge church leaders and every follower of Christ to ask in this episode as they discuss some of the key, foundational principles of effective ministry.
Do you feel a sense of calling from God on your life? Like the Apostle Paul and so many of the prophets of the Old Testament, do you feel God has tapped you on the shoulder and given you a job to do? Church leaders need to feel a sense of calling, at the very least, in order to endure suffering, hardship, and persecution. But, how might one confirm a calling? In this episode, Kerry and Becky identify seven questions that one might ask to confirm a call.
Due to the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, 2020 was a difficult and challenging year for God's people. But, with a new year before us, there are reasons for hope. In this episode, Kerry and Becky discuss five reasons church leaders can be hopeful in 2021.
Why keep a daily appointment with God? What are the basic components of a daily quiet time with him? How can a person start such a practice? These and other questions regarding a daily meetup with God are discussed in this episode.
How does one cope with suicide loss? What may church leaders do or say to help those who are suffering from suicide loss? What may be said or done that does not help? Toni Webb, who lost her son to suicide, shares her experiences, advice, and suggestions for those who have suffered suicide loss and for church leaders who aim to help those who have suffered the loss of a loved one to suicide.
What is "moving the needle" and what is not "moving the needle" in our church family? What are we doing that is moving us in the direction we desire to go? What programs or events need to be modified or discontinued because they are not "moving the needle"? These are some of the questions church leaders ask who feel they are accountable to their church's goals and strategies. Join Kerry and Becky as they discuss four suggestions for church leaders who are concerned about "moving the needle" in their churches.
What is the difference between a church's mission and vision? What are the church programs that might be called her "core growth engines"? In this episode, Kerry and Becky answer questions that often surface in their Effective Church Leaders Workshops.
In this episode, Kerry and Becky discuss the need for church leaders to engage two groups of people. They discuss two types of engagement strategies: strategies that engage insiders to grow in Christ and strategies that engage outsiders to encourage them to become followers of Jesus.
Sociologists and therapists speak of "closed family systems," and unfortunately a church can become a "closed system." What are some of the characteristics of closed systems and how may those characteristics show up in a church? The sad fact is that church leaders may unknowingly be promoting attitudes that keep their church closed to outsiders and that keep those inside the church from growing to maturity in Christ.
Kerry and Becky get down to the nitty-gritty in this episode as they offer recommendations for what should compose a church's online, digital strategy. After researching several church websites, they identified several best practices of churches that are trying to reach out to their communities and reach people where they are--online! If you are interested in trying to reach those who may as yet not be interested in your church or in building a relationship with Jesus, check out this conversation and consider these recommendations.
Churches that want to reach new people for Jesus need to meet those people where they are. And where are they? Online! So what steps can churches take to build a digital strategy for reaching those who are outside the faith and outside the church. Kerry and Becky discuss five steps--from clarifying engagement goals with those who may be disinterested to creating a dashboard to measure the progress of the church's digital strategy. Join us for this important discussion on how to reach those who are not participating in the church's Sunday worship assemblies.
Every conscientious follower of Christ wants to see others become disciples of Jesus. But what can churches do to reach those who are outside the church or those who may be unbelievers? In this episode, Kerry and Becky discuss three things churches can do to reach God's lost children. Join the discussion!
What are some of the warning signs that church ministries may be going rogue? What are some of the dangers of rogue ministries? How might church leaders prevent the growth of rogue ministries in their churches? Join Kerry and Becky as they discuss these questions!
In Part 2 of "How to Improve Your Church's Online, Digital Presence," Josh Watkins, minister for the Okolona Church of Christ in Louisville, Kentucky, advises church leaders on how they can beef up their church's online presence. He recommends specific equipment that church leaders may purchase, discusses struggles that church leaders face regarding technology, and offers helpful and positive suggestions to those who may be concerned that their church may never return to "business as usual." He challenges church leaders to use this as a time to refocus and ask, "What is God's purpose for us? What is the church really about?"
What basic steps can church leaders take to begin their church's online presence? What can churches do to improve their online worship assemblies? Why should church leaders concern themselves with what their church does online? Learn what one church and their leaders are doing and how they are addressing these and other questions in Kerry's conversation with Josh Watkins, minister of the Okolona Church of Christ in Louisville, Kentucky.
In this episode, Bryce identifies some features of live streams he has seen that are noteworthy and recommendable. He also mentions what he sees as some of the mistakes and miscues churches commit in their live streams. From checking camera angles to a willingness to adapt sermon plans that may be more relevant to ways in which church leaders may consider the needs of both outsiders and insiders, Bryce offers several suggestions for how churches can improve their live stream assemblies in order to make and grow more followers of Jesus. This is Part 2 of Kerry's interview with Bryce.
How important is it for a church to have an online, digital presence in addition to what goes on at the church building? Should church leaders continue to offer live stream worship after they resume in-person assemblies? What makes for a quality live stream worship experience? In this episode, Bryce Kidwell offers what he has learned from his extensive experience to discuss these and other questions regarding a church's live stream worship assemblies. This is Part 1 of Bryce's and Kerry's conversation.
What challenges have churches faced during the pandemic? How can they and church leaders make the most of this difficult time? What changes might they consider? In this episode, Kerry talks with Patrick Odum, longtime minister of the Northwest Church of Christ in Chicago. They discuss some of the challenges churches have faced, what the future might look like for churches post-pandemic, and suggestions for church leaders regarding what they can do now in response to it.
Make it easy for people to give electronically. Empower leaders with purchasing guidelines. Don't let big givers dictate your church's vision and strategy. Becky and Kerry discuss these and other suggestions regarding how to handle the church's money in Part 3 of their series, "The Church and Money."
Should churches allow contributors to earmark their gifts to support their pet projects or special interests? What about the advisability of various fundraising programs in the church? Should church leaders construct a "faith budget" or one that is more "realistic"? Kerry and Becky address these questions in the second podcast in their series on "The Church and Money."
With this episode, Kerry and Becky begin a three-part discussion of the Church and Finances. In this episode they discuss six suggestions for how to talk about money in the church, from seeing giving as a spiritual topic and not neglecting to talk about this subject to saying "Thank you" for the faithfulness people show when they give.
In the final episode in their series, "How to Help Your Church Get Off Dead Center," Becky and Kerry discuss the importance of keeping the church's goals before the people, tracking the church's progress, and celebrating victories.
Kerry and Becky discuss Steps 6 and 7 in their series, "How to Help Your Church Get Off Dead Center." They are: Choose 3-5 core strategies for accomplishing your 5-year vision and identify the role that each ministry and each person plays in reaching the church's 12-month goals.
Do you know where you believe God is calling your church in the next five years? Do you have a vision for where you want the church to go five years from now? And have you identified shorter-term, twelve-months goals that will help you achieve your five-year vision? Join Kerry and Becky as they discuss vision-casting and goal-setting for your church in episode number three in their series, "How to Help Your Church Get Off Dead Center."
Do you know what spiritual maturity looks like and how to encourage movement from spiritual infancy to adulthood? In this second episode in their series, "How to Help Your Church Get Off Dead Center," Kerry and Becky discuss the importance of determining what a follower of Jesus looks like and then identifying a step-by-step path that helps people become devoted followers of Christ.
What can church leaders do who feel that their church is not making any real progress? That it's just stuck. In this episode, Kerry and Becky suggest that step one to getting unstuck is identifying the mission of the church. Where there is clarity about the mission and alignment behind the mission, progress can follow.
In this final episode in their series, Opportunities Created by the Pandemic, Becky and Kerry discuss the opportunity of professional church staff to equip the church for ministry. Ideally, church leaders do not hire staff to do ministry for us. Rather, they hire staff to equip us to do ministry. This ancient proverb has application in the church: "Give a man a fish, and you feed him for a day. Teach a man to fish, and you feed him for a lifetime."
The COVID-19 pandemic has kept Christians from meeting in person with one another. As a result, many may feel isolated and alone. But we are hard-wired for community. So, what can church leaders do to encourage the building of relationships where "church" really happens? What systems can they put in place to help people connect with one another? This is episode #6 in the series, Opportunities Created by the Pandemic.
In this episode, Becky and Kerry consider the opportunity that churches have to focus on their local community. Perhaps it's time for church leaders to earmark more of the church's funds to help those in their local community that they are trying to reach. This is the fifth episode in their series, Opportunities Created by the Pandemic.
In this fourth installment in their series, Opportunities Created by the Pandemic, Kerry and Becky suggest that this may be an ideal time for church leaders and churches to simplify their ministry strategy. This may be, for example, the right time to move from a program-centered strategy to a path-centered one. To focus on a singular path to spiritual maturity, rather than offering multiple programs that don't really "move the needle."
COVID-19 presents an opportunity for church leaders to go back to the basics. To identify once again what is the church's mission, vision, and strategy. In fact, the pandemic may force churches to return to the basics and answer fundamental questions anew, such as "Where are we going?" and "How will we get there?" as the threat of the decline of church contributions looms.
In this episode Becky and Kerry discuss one of the opportunities for churches that has been created by the coronavirus pandemic: the opportunity to give greater attention to the church's online presence. What is the value in churches continuing to stream their worship services after the pandemic is over? What other online resources can churches take advantage of during this crisis? These and other questions are discussed in The Effective Church Leaders Podcast, Episode #28.
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The coronavirus pandemic has surely affected the church in many ways. How should church leaders respond to it? In this episode Kerry and Becky discuss how and what church leaders can communicate to their church during such a crisis. It's the first in a series devoted to an exploration of how church leaders can respond to the present pandemic.
In this episode, Kerry interviews Bill Stone, a successful businessman, to get his take on what recommendations he might make to church leaders. Their conversation has to do with business principles that may be applied to churches to help them thrive. His advice to church leaders is that they give attention to vision, expectations, results and accountability. This is Part 2 of this conversation.
In this episode, Kerry interviews Bill Stone, a successful businessman, to get his take on what recommendations he might make to church leaders. Their conversation has to do with business principles that may be applied to churches to help them thrive. His advice to church leaders is that they give attention to vision, expectations, and results. This is Part 1 of this conversation.
What is the value of better communication from church leaders to the church? What should be communicated and why? What can church leaders do to improve their communication to the church? These are a few of the questions Becky and Kerry discuss in this episode.
In Part 2 in their series, How to Welcome Guests to the Sunday Assembly, Becky and Kerry discuss the practice of asking guests to complete a visitor's card and asking them to stand or be recognized in some way. Also, they talk about the value of guests texting their presence in the assembly and ways in which churches can show appreciation for their visit.
How should churches welcome first-time guests to their weekend assemblies? What qualities do church leaders need to look for in those who serve as greeters? How important is it for church leaders to create a compelling and remarkable assembly? Becky and Kerry discuss these and other questions in Part 1 of their series: "How to Welcome Guests to the Sunday Assembly."
What content should and should not be included on a church's website? Bryce and Susanna Kidwell discuss this question and give recommendations for how to get started on building an effective website in Part 2 in their series, "Do's and Don'ts for Church Websites."
Why is a church's website so important? What content should and should not be included on that website? In this episode, Kerry discusses these questions and others with Bryce and Susanna Kidwell, who have done much research on the subject. Consider their suggestions and recommendations in Part 1 of the series, "Do's and Don'ts for Church Websites."
In this episode, Kerry and Becky answer questions that were submitted by listeners regarding their series, How to Attract More Guests to Your Sunday Morning Assembly.
Do you know whom you are trying to reach? Do you have an intentional strategy to engage guests before they ever visit your church? In Episode #5 in their series, How to Attract More Guests to Your Sunday Morning Assembly, Kerry and Becky discuss the need to develop a pre-guest, marketing strategy for your church and offer a few suggestions on how to get started.
According to Scripture, Jesus "went about doing good" (Acts 10:36-38). Shouldn't his church be doing the same? In this episode, Kerry and Becky discuss ways in which local churches can serve their communities. Who can doubt that a church that is known for being for their community might bring more people to their doors, people who are searching for more in their lives which they believe the church just might be able to offer!
In the third episode in their series, How to Attract More Guests to Your Sunday Morning Assembly, Kerry and Becky discuss a simple method to grow the Sunday Morning assembly: invite your unchurched friends to church. But, how many of us have unchurched friends? And how can we develop relationships with the unchurched?
In this episode in their series, How to Attract More Guests to Your Sunday Morning Assembly, Kerry and Becky discuss the need to create a compelling Sunday morning service. Why should church leaders consider how to make the Sunday morning time together as good as it can be? And what does a compelling service look like in practical terms? Join us for some practical suggestions on what we can do to improve the quality of the Sunday morning assembly.
One of the questions that church leaders ask is: What can we do to attract more guests to our Sunday morning assembly? That's an important question for churches who want to arrest their decline and accomplish their mission! In this episode, the first in a series on Attracting Guests, Kerry and Becky discuss two, fundamental questions: Why should churches care about attracting more guests to their Sunday assembly? What is the purpose of the Sunday assembly?
Mid-December to mid-January can be one of the most important times on the church calendar. It's a time for the church to look back on how God has blessed them in the last twelve months and to look ahead to a new year. In this episode, Kerry and Becky offer suggestions on what church leaders can do to inspire their church during this time and to make the most of this once-a-year opportunity.
How should church leaders respond to moral failure? In the fourth and final episode in their podcast series on Moral Failure in Church Leaders, Becky and Kerry discuss how church leaders should respond when allegations of moral failure are found to be true.
What should church leaders do if allegations are made against a ministry staff member? How should they respond? In Part Three of their series on Moral Failure in Church Leaders, Becky and Kerry offer suggestions on developing a response protocol when sexual allegations are raised.
In Part Two of their series on Moral Failure in Church Leaders, Becky and Kerry offer suggestions on what church leaders may do to prevent this kind of failure from occurring. They discuss potential warning signs of moral failure, reasons even long-term ministers may fall, and questions that church leaders may ask themselves to see if they are in danger of falling.
Undoubtedly, moral failure is a real and prevalent problem among church leaders today. What is moral failure? What is the scope of the problem? What are some common characteristics shared by those who, tragically, experience it? This is Part One in a four-part series dealing with moral failure in the church.
Should preachers and ministers participate in a counseling ministry? According to a 2018 Thom Rainer poll, many say, "No." A majority of ministers polled listed counseling as their least favorite activity of ministry. Why? In this episode, Becky and Kerry discuss the potential downside of a minister's involvement in the counseling of church members.
Many in our churches face specific, and sometimes complex problems. How may church leaders assist these people with the special care they need? In this episode, Becky and Kerry discuss the differences and similarities between pastoral counseling and professional counseling and the value of professional therapy in the church's toolbox.
Do you find yourself spending the bulk of your time on the urgent, but having no time for the important? Here are a few tips for church leaders who struggle to allocate time for their most important tasks, the tasks for which only they are responsible.
How may church leaders and leadership teams reach decisions? Often, they look for consensus, but there are other ways. In this episode, Kerry and Becky discuss seven ways to make a decision and the disadvantages and advantages of each.
Once church leaders have identified why they exist and where they are going, the next crucial question is: How will we get there? This episode is all about how to construct a plan, or long-term strategy for accomplishing the vision.
Should church leaders give attention to planning for the future? Is it legitimate for those who believe they are God-directed to think about what they intend to do in the years to come? If there is value in setting goals and painting a picture of a desired future, isn't planning essential? Join us for a discussion of the legitimacy of planning for the future.
Welcome to The Effective Church Leaders Podcast where we offer practical advice and insights to help you get better equipped, lead more effectively, and help your church thrive! In this introductory podcast Kerry and Becky explain why they are beginning this podcast, what they have to offer, and who will benefit from listening.
Once church leaders determine why they and the church exists, the next question to address is, "Where are we going?" We all need a picture of what God wants us to do or be in the years to come. But, what are the steps church leaders need to take to identify a three- or five-year vision? Join us for this episode as we discuss the "why" and the "how" of vision-casting!
Why do we exist? It's a critical question, not only for individuals, but for churches and church leadership teams, as well! In this episode we discuss tips to help church leaders identify the core purpose of their church and of their leadership teams. What is your reason for being? This is square one for helping your church thrive. Don't miss it!