EP 192 – Ministry Maxims pt 1 of 3
Hey bootcampers! In this episode, we’re talking about shifting our mindset from focusing on the wrong scorecard to focusing on missional engagement during the summer. We know it can be discouraging to feel like you’re not measuring up, but we’re here to encourage you to focus on what’s really important.
We also introduce a topic for future episodes that expands this mindset beyond just the summer and shifts our thinking about scorecards and how we approach ministry, especially with minimal resources and people. We know this is common among the majority of our listening audience, so we want to provide helpful insights for you all.
Did you know that the average size of churches in the Southern Baptist Convention is around 70 people? That’s right, we’re all in this together! And despite the challenges of the pandemic, there has been a recent rise in worship attendance, baptisms, and giving. We know many pastors are experiencing pandemic fatigue and trying to evaluate how to lead differently in the current circumstances, so we’re here to offer some practical advice.
We discuss the impact of the pandemic on pastors and the decline in pastoral satisfaction. But fear not, we introduce a talk by Bob Bickford called Ministry Maxims and scorecards, which focuses on leadership principles that can be applied in any setting regardless of church size or resources. We encourage pastors to use the slower pace of summer to make shifts in their leadership style that will have a lasting impact on the upcoming season of ministry.
We also talk about the importance of discerning and adapting to the current situation instead of doubling down or diving deep into discouragement. We suggest creating a stop doing list and delegating tasks that do not align with your calling or mission. And we provide three ways to develop discernment: immersing oneself in God’s word, reflecting on the ways of men, the world, and the church, and exercising good decision-making by dialoguing with key leaders.
Lastly, we discuss the challenges of leading paradigmatic change in a church and how it’s important to shift the culture towards a biblical mission and vision driven by the Word of God. We know it can be a difficult process, but by asking questions and evaluating the mission behind what you’re doing, you can make sure that your ministry is effective and in line with God’s will.
Thanks for tuning in, and we’ll catch you next time!