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EP 209 – NAVIGATING THE ELECTION SEASON

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EP 209 - NAVIGATING THE ELECTION SEASON
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Hold on Bootcampers! This EP is gonna be….well, we hope it will be helpful. If you survey Pastors you’ll discover that one of the greatest stress they have is during the Election season. People are passionate, opinionated and the election season is one of the most stressful we all endure. How can a pastor lead well during this tense time? The guys offer some suggestions. Sit back, listen in and hopefully you’ll be encouraged.

Prioritize Unity, Not Uniformity:

  • Unity within the body of Christ is paramount, but it’s important to recognize that unity does not require uniformity. Each member of your congregation comes with a unique set of experiences, perspectives, and political beliefs. Rather than attempting to enforce conformity, seek to build bridges of understanding and respect among your members. Encourage open dialogue that fosters empathy and compassion, even when opinions diverge.

Embrace Wisdom in Timing:

  • Timing is crucial when implementing major changes within your church. During an election season, when emotions run high and divisions are more pronounced, it’s wise to exercise caution. Avoid introducing significant alterations that could further disrupt the congregation’s harmony. Instead, focus on nurturing the spiritual growth and unity of your church members.

Leveraging Social Media for Good:

  • The prevalence of social media exacerbates political extremes and can fuel division. Pastors can help by providing guidance on responsible social media use. Encourage your congregation to use these platforms as tools for positive engagement, education, and spreading messages of love and unity, rather than contributing to polarization.

Equipping the Flock:

  • Educating your congregation about the role of government from a Christian worldview is crucial. Refer to resources like Trevin Wax’s “Multi-directional Leader” to offer guidance on navigating the complexities of politics while remaining grounded in faith. Teach your flock to pray for government leaders and emphasize the sovereignty of God in all political matters.

Discerning Voters:

  • Guide your church members in becoming discerning voters. Encourage them to look beyond personalities and parties to scrutinize platforms and policies. Stress the importance of aligning their political choices with their Christian values and ethics. Remind them that our ultimate hope rests in Christ, not in any human leader or political outcome.

Conclusion:

Election seasons can be turbulent times, but they also present opportunities for growth, unity, and spiritual maturity within your congregation. As pastors, our role is to provide guidance, encouragement, and a safe space for dialogue. By prioritizing unity, exercising wisdom in timing, leveraging social media responsibly, and equipping our flock to be discerning voters, we can lead our churches through this season with grace and confidence. Remember, our ultimate hope is not in the outcome of any election but in the unchanging love and sovereignty of Christ.

Related: How to Pastor People and their Social Media

 

Bootcampers, get some help with your web presence and marketing by contacting our great sponsor, One Eighty Digital, they have the know how to help you connect with your community.

 

 

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EP 208 – ECONOMIC STREAMS FOR CHURCHES

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EP 208 - ECONOMIC STREAMS FOR CHURCHES
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Hey there Bootcampers. In this EP of the Bootcamp Jimbo and Bob take time to visit with President and founder of Three One Three, Brennon Mobley.  They talk about the time Bob almost died on a float trip, how he got stolen from Jimbo and the Replant team and why Churches might explore building community space and develop economic steams for their ministry.

Check out the vision and mission and pastoral testimonies about how ThreeOneThree.co/church engages with local congregations.

Get the partner you need for your web presence in order to connect with your community. Our great sponsor, One Eighty Digital can provide the help and expertise you need.

 

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EP 207 – WEIGHING BIG DECISIONS

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EP 207 - WEIGHING BIG DECISIONS
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Greetings Bootcampers! In this episode our guys talk about the process of weighing out big decisions. Bob shares a personal update and Jimbo talks about the upcoming battle of the Boot.  The annual bet is on once again-who will be wearing the other’s team colors?

Here are some of the highlights of this week’s EP.

When you are weighing big decisions here’s a helpful process:

  • Pray
    • Scripture Support (James 1:5 CSB): “Now if any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God—who gives to all generously and ungrudgingly—and it will be given to him.”
  • Spend Time in the Word
    • Has God Given Us an Example?
      • Scripture Support (Psalm 119:105 CSB): “Your word is a lamp for my feet and a light on my path.”
    • Did Scripture Speak to This Specifically?
    • Are There Commands to Obey, Are There Warnings to Heed?
      • Scripture Support (2 Timothy 3:16-17 CSB): “All Scripture is inspired by God and is profitable for teaching, for rebuking, for correcting, for training in righteousness, so that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work.”
  • Give Yourself Time
    • Scripture Support (Proverbs 14:29 CSB): “A patient person shows great understanding, but a quick-tempered one promotes foolishness.”
    • Scripture Support (Ecclesiastes 3:1 CSB): “There is an occasion for everything, and a time for every activity under heaven.”
  • Walk Around the Issue – See It from a Variety of Points
    • Those Who Are Making the Decision
    • Those Who Will Be Impacted by the Decision
    • Immediately
    • In the Future
  • Seek Wise Counsel
    • Scripture Support (Proverbs 11:14 CSB): “Without guidance, a people will fall, but with many counselors there is deliverance.”
    • Scripture Support (Proverbs 19:20 CSB): “Listen to advice and accept discipline, and you will be wise later in life.”
  • Let All of This Marinate
    • Scripture Support (Psalm 46:10 CSB): “Stop your fighting, and know that I am God, exalted among the nations, exalted on the earth.”
    • Scripture Support (Isaiah 30:15 CSB): “For the Lord God, the Holy One of Israel, has said: ‘You will be delivered by returning and resting; your strength will lie in quiet confidence. But you are not willing.'”
  • Decide
    • Scripture Support (Proverbs 3:5-6 CSB): “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not rely on your own understanding; in all your ways know him, and he will make your paths straight.”
    • Scripture Support (Proverbs 16:9 CSB): “A person’s heart plans his way, but the Lord determines his steps.”

Don’t let the decisions of trying to figure out your web presence weigh you down. Get with our sponsor, One Eighty Digital. They’ve got the know how, the skill and can develop a great plan for your congregation to connect with your community.

 

Mentioned in the Show Notes

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EP 206 – RECRUITING VOLUNTEERS

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EP 206 - RECRUITING VOLUNTEERS
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Hey there Bootcampers, we’re glad you joined us today. Jimbo and Bob spend some time laughing and then get down to the important discussion of recruiting volunteers. Neither Jimbo or Bob have ever heard the leaders of a normative sized church say; “We just have too many volunteers.”

What do you do if you’re struggling to get the help you need? Sit back, listen in and maybe even take a few notes and see if it helps your church in discovering, developing an deploying the volunteers you need.

  • Start with Why When people understand the “why,” they grasp the broader context and purpose, which ignites their passion and commitment.
  • Conveying Purpose: When you clarify the “why,” you answer questions about the importance of the task at hand. What’s the point? Why does it matter? By addressing these questions, you provide a compelling reason for volunteers to get involved. The “why” becomes the driving force behind their participation.
  • Inspiring Ownership: The “why” empowers volunteers to take ownership of their roles. When individuals comprehend the impact of their contributions, they are more likely to be invested and proactive in fulfilling their responsibilities.
  • Building a Community: Sharing the “why” fosters a sense of community and camaraderie among volunteers. They understand that they’re part of something greater than themselves, forging stronger connections and fostering a shared sense of purpose.

Invest in Volunteers volunteers are not merely free labor; they are the lifeblood of church revitalization. Acknowledging this truth and recognizing the different motivations of volunteers compared to paid staff is crucial.

  • Resource Investment: Just as you invest in staff, allocate resources for volunteers’ growth. Provide opportunities for them to expand their skills and knowledge through books, workshops, conferences, and training programs. A well-equipped volunteer is an empowered one.
  • Time and Support: Good volunteers require your time and support. Don’t delegate and forget. Regularly check in, offer guidance, and be available to address their concerns. Building relationships with volunteers fosters loyalty and a sense of value.
  • Celebration and Recognition: Celebrate volunteers’ achievements, both big and small. Publicly acknowledge their efforts during services, gatherings, or through social media. When their dedication is acknowledged, volunteers feel appreciated and motivated to continue contributing.

Praising and Celebrating Volunteers

Amid the busyness of ministry, taking the time to celebrate your volunteers is not a luxury but a necessity.

  • Public Praise: Recognize volunteers’ contributions publicly, whether during services, meetings, or newsletters. Highlight their achievements and express gratitude for their dedication. This not only validates their efforts but also encourages others to get involved.
  • Individual Recognition: Get to know your volunteers on a personal level. Understand their strengths, interests, and passions. By aligning their roles with their skills and passions, you show that you value their uniqueness.
  • Milestones and Faithfulness: Celebrate moments of faithfulness and commitment. When volunteers reach milestones, commemorate their journey. These celebrations reinforce the sense of purpose and encourage others to persist in their service.

What have you learned about volunteers in your church? We’d love to hear from you and share your successes.  Drop us a line, send us a voicemail, share a comment.

Get the help you need for your church’s social media and web presence. Contact the great folks over at One Eighty Digital

 

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EP 205 – Renewal and Partnership with Hispanic Churches

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EP 205 - Renewal and Partnership with Hispanic Churches
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Hey there, Bootcampers! Say hello again to David Quiroa! He’s joining us today to shed light on the unique challenges that Spanish-speaking churches are facing. Church renewal might be a buzzword, but it’s still finding its footing in the Hispanic community. From declining youth engagement to a lack of awareness about revitalization, David spills the beans on what’s happening. Psst, have you checked out his Spanish podcast Revive It’s making waves across countries!

Revive Podcast

When Cultures Collide: Navigating Multi-Ethnic Partnerships
Let’s talk about multi-ethnic partnerships—especially in Spanish-speaking churches. David breaks down the intricate dynamics of churches sharing facilities and bridging cultures. Trust us, it’s not as straightforward as it seems. We’re diving into the nitty-gritty of these partnerships and understanding how respect and unity play a monumental role.

Dreaming of a Multicultural Ministry Future
The future is bright, Bootcampers! We’re asking David about his vision for ministry in our beautifully diverse world. Brace yourselves for some inspiring thoughts. David envisions a Church that’s a true reflection of the vibrant diversity we’ll experience in heaven. With communities becoming melting pots of cultures, the Church needs to step up its game. David’s got the golden advice on making everyone feel welcome and cherished.

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EP 204 – HOW NOT TO HAVE BORING BUSINESS MEETINGS

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EP 204 - HOW NOT TO HAVE BORING BUSINESS MEETINGS
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Welcome back bootcampers, we hope your summer is finishing up well. Today we approach an important but perhaps boring topic-the Church Business Meeting.  Yes, friends it’s true many hate, yea even loathe the monthly or quarterly business meetings.  Here are some practical suggestions to enliven this important meeting of the gathered church.

  • Encourage Testimonies that are tied to decision making and budgeting (camps, live change, baptism stories etc.)
  • Spend time intentionally praying for the congregation, mission and the effort to proclaim the gospel in your neighborhood and around the world.
  • Spend time highlighting “one” ministry a little longer, allowing them to unpack their work and mission.
  • Celebrate a ministry leader or key volunteer.
  • Conclude the meeting with a shared meal (a good one!)

Here are some of the EPs referenced in the introduction.

EP 8: How to handle a Bad Business meeting w/Evan Skelton

EP 92: Robert’s Rules of Order w/Craig Culbreth

EP 146: Formal and Informal Permission

 

Bootcampers we want to recommend our fantastic sponsor for all your communication needs; branding, web, social media, they have you covered. Get with One Eighty Digital today and let them know you are a Bootcamp listener.

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EP 203 – HOSPITALITY IN A REPLANT

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EP 203 - HOSPITALITY IN A REPLANT
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Hey Bootcampers, welcome to this side of history as the Bootcamp bros make history as the longest running (as far as they know) Replant Podcast. Today the guys spend time talking about hospitality and guest experience in the normative size Replant church.  Here are some of the highlights.

  • Emphasize genuine hospitality
  • Don’t assume people know where to go
  • Work hard at making your service welcoming
  • Create a follow up process and enlist a team to assist you in welcoming guests

How are you helping to welcome others to your Church?  Drop us a line and let us know.

Is your online presence welcoming to the community?  Our awesome sponsors at One Eighty Digital can walk you thru setting up an online presence that is effective and consistent with who you are.  Contact them today and let them know you are a Bootcamp listener.

 

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EP 202 – MINDFULNESS, NEGATIVITY AND REPLANTING

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EP 202 - MINDFULNESS, NEGATIVITY AND REPLANTING
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Greetings Bootcampers,  we hope you are staying cool, hydrated and ready for a next episode. This time the guys take up the subject of dispensing with negative thoughts. We get it, there are a lot of things that can go wrong as you are leading church renewal. And one of the most difficult aspects of leadership is keeping a positive outlook.

Let’s ground this in scripture:  3 For though we walk in the flesh, we are not waging war according to the flesh. 4 For the weapons of our warfare are not of the flesh but have divine power to destroy strongholds. 5 We destroy arguments and every lofty opinion raised against the knowledge of God, and take every thought captive to obey Christ, 6 being ready to punish every disobedience, when your obedience is complete.  1 Corinthians 10:3-6

Mindfulness is a research-based practice that involves both dedicated meditation time and present-moment awareness in everyday life. It’s been shown to be helpful for reducing stress, calming anxiety, and improving overall mental and physical wellness.

However, most modern mindfulness research comes from a secular point of view. So our faith in Christ can both enrich and deepen our use of mindfulness. Also, learning to live mindfully will give us more peace, joy, and gratitude in our walk with God.[1]

Here are some suggestions from the guys for keeping your mind centered on God and healthy:

12 I appeal to you therefore, brothers,[a] by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship.[b] 2 Do not be conformed to this world,[c] but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.[d] 

  1. Regularly present yourself before the Lord – living sacrifice (devotional time, meditation time)
  2. Perform a spiritual audit – “do not be conformed to this world.”
    • What are my concerns, worries, anxieties?
    • What is driving me right now?
    • What is underneath my frustration?
  1. Apply the scripture to the things that God reveals.
  • Pride
  • Worry
  • Bitterness
  • Doubt
  1. Test your attitudes and actions by the truth of God’s word

 

[1] https://www.calminggrace.com/christian-mindfulness-exercises/

Recommended Resource: The Other Half of Church by Jim Wilder

Fun Link: Poor Pitiful Me by Linda Rondstadt

Well Bootcampers, we love our sponsor, One Eighty Digital. We recommend you connect with them to get the inside scoop about revamping your website, digital branding and online presence. Tell them you are a Bootcamper.

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EP 201 -BRAIN FOG AND MINDFULLNESS

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EP 201 -BRAIN FOG AND MINDFULLNESS
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Welcome back Bootcampers! We hope you are doing well.  Every single one of us has on occasion dealt with the challenge of “brain fog” and struggled to do even the most simple of tasks.  Why? Pastoring is a 24/7 job and we never are fully disconnected from the weight of ministry.  Brain drain and fatigue are real, you have to be proactive and get rest.

In a recent survey Pastor’s said:

A study conducted by Soul Shepherding, a Christian leadership training ministry, found the following:

  • 75% of pastors report feeling extreme stress;
  • 90% work an average of 55-75 hours per week.
  • 90% feel fatigued each week
  • 70% struggle with depression.
  • 80% say their ministry has negatively impacted their marriage and family
  • 85% have never had the opportunity to take extended time off.[1]

What can a pastor do when they are just totally exhausted?  The guys break down some practical realities and then offer some solutions.  If you’re tired, worn out and struggling to do the next thing, give this EP a listen.

Truths

  • We love to work-get stuff done and it feeds us (ego, drive, sense of accomplishment)
  • We love to feel needed.
  • Ministry is exhausting-it is never finished
  • We were not made to work and work and work (God mandated a day of rest, for reflection and renewal)

 Application

  • Set a sane work schedule
  • Focus your work according to your wiring.
    • Creative
    • Admin
    • People
    • Meditation/Evaluation
  • Delegate and elevate – you cannot and are not supposed to do it all
  • Establish a daily quitting time (of course respond to emergencies)
  • Fellowship with Jesus (prayer, devotion, meditation)

 

[1] https://www.christianity.com/wiki/church/what-should-pastors-do-when-worn-out-and-weary.html

 

Don’t let your lack of inspiration or knowledge keep you from getting a handle on your church web presence. Get with our great sponsor, One Eighty Digital. They have the know how and expertise to get you up and running. Let them know you are a Bootcamp listener.

 

 

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EP 200 THE BOOTCAMP LOOKS BACK AND FORWARD

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EP 200 THE BOOTCAMP LOOKS BACK AND FORWARD
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Well Bootcampers we made it!  This is the 200th Episode! We had the opportunity to turn over the mic to one of our Replanter friends, Evan Skelton. He asked some great questions about our podcast, what we’ve learned and where things are heading in the future. We also get to hear from some of the friends of the Podcast along the way.  This EP is a bit longer than usual, but there’s some real gold in the conversation and comments.

We’re grateful for your listening ear, thanks for giving us the opportunity encourage you in your work of renewal at the local church.

A special thanks to our great sponsor who makes this all possible, One Eighty Digital. Let them know you are a bootcamp listener and get their help with your website, branding and social media needs.

Stay tuned, EP 201 is on the way.

 

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