Transformational Church
A Transformational Church is what every pastor, and I hope every Christian, wants to be part of—a church that changes lives and communities. What a joy that is!
The thing that really struck me was how important the basics are—a focus on evangelism and prayer. That seems self-evident, yet I find it is easy to look for something easier, a magic bullet if you will, that will lead to transformation.
I’ve talked to many pastors of Transformational Churches; almost all of them have said they have to put great effort into keeping their churches focused outward. Without constant attention, the focus quickly shifts elsewhere. Especially if you aren’t gifted in evangelism or don’t have a deep passion for it, it’s hard to maintain that focus. But without it, we quickly lose impact.
The emphasis on prayer is what struck me the hardest. I am constantly reading books on leadership, management, etc., and prayer isn’t usually mentioned. It is the easiest thing in the world to begin to depend on the latest technique or insight—which really means depending on our own strengths and abilities.
Transformational Churches emphasize prayer; in other words, they are consciously depending on God. The importance of that seems obvious, yet it often doesn’t happen. I find it is a constant struggle for me—it’s the easiest thing in the world to find something else to do.
So what struck you? What is your next step?
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