I posted this on another thread and today I had to repent about something.
Quote:
I read half of the book about Saddleback church and how the mega churches came into existence while on the plane coming back from Cancun. I agree with many of his methods. The unchurched are unchurched because...they do not like the dogma of the organized denominations. The names of churches that are affirming and uplifting that do not identify others by posting denomination are a signal that they are not the traditional shame, blame, hell, fire, and judgement churches that are traditional to many denominations.
The reason we have small churches, i.e., the 35-400 approx members is because this is about the limit of one man's capability to control and manage the members. The mark of a good leader is one who can delegate and allow others to function in areas they have a passion for. Many of our churches cannot give up this control to others and only allow their family to govern or be productive. The John Maxwell series brings out the different leadership styles and who can sit under such styles.
I thought it [the book] a bit enlightening when it brought Norman Vincent Peale into the equation with the integration of psychological principles with church growing methodology. Of course I have never been a small church girl. I feel that if a church is small and not growing then it is stagnant and not doing what it was called to do...evangelize the world.
If soul winning is not happening then it is because the methods being utilized are out-dated or non-productive. Of course, the conservative brethern would just justify their small churches with straight is the gate and narrow the way...and keep right on alienating people to the grace of God wherewith we have liberty. They keep every dot and tittle of the law but have no growth or success.
I stand behind a positive message and enjoy listening to the good news that Joel Olsteen offers rather than the guilt, condemnation, and judgement many of our churches promote. There is enough guilt, bad things happening in the world that the gospel/good news should bring peace and comfort.
Rick Warren hit on a concept that many Apostolic churches fail to realize; If you utilize people in the areas they have a passion for they will not only retain their numbers but they will grow without measure.
Blessings, Rhoni
|
There is something to be said about preaching about hell fire...Today we had an awesome service and the Bishop Simison from AWCF preached. The convicting power of God was on the whole congregation and there was not a dry eye in the place. He recounted how he struggled with whether or not to preach about the rich man and Lazarus and how we need to repent and be ready to meet God and not go to hell. He preached hell, fire, and memory and how this day would be forever etched in someone's mind if they did not repent and get their life in order to meet God.
I prayed with a young girl who travailed in prayer for her mother. I just know the Lord heard and will answer her prayer. People repented, received the Holy Ghost, were healed, and restored. Everyone left changed. I left changed.
God is good all the time.
Blessings, Rhoni
Rhoni Repents
:sshhh
Linear Mode
