Notable Voices: October 22, 2016
5 Business Books for Pastors — Eric Geiger
If a pastor can more easily describe a marketing guru’s social media philosophy than clearly articulate the story of the Bible, I am concerned for the health of his soul and church. At the same time, the Lord does teach us through common grace, and leadership/business books contain observations of how people are organized and led.
8 Reasons Why Pastors Should Not Leave Their Church for the Same Reasons Members Do — Josh Buice
Let’s face it, there are some good and necessary reasons to leave a church. If the church is preaching heresy or condoning worldliness, it might be time to part fellowship. However, before packing your bags and moving on, you might want to consider some of the really bad reasons people choose to leave their church. Don’t follow their example.
6 Things Church Leaders Need to Know About Small Churches — Karl Vaters
Ninety percent of the churches on earth are under 200 people. Eighty percent are under 100. There may be no segment of the church that is more normative. But they may also be the most misunderstood.
4 Times Spurgeon Was Almost Assassinated — Christian George
Spurgeon was almost stabbed with a knife, killed by cholera, bludgeoned with a stick, crushed by a boulder, hung from the neck, and blown up by a bomb. It is a remarkable testament to the providence of God that Spurgeon outlived his life expectancy by seventeen years (he was only promised forty years of life when he was born on June 19, 1834).
Autopsy of a Financially Deceased Church — Art Rainer
I have seen many churches in financial distress. It is a sad situation to witness. They are worried how they will pay their staff. They are worried how they will pay their bills. The ability to do ministry has dwindled. And they are not sure how they got to this place.
How Ministry Transitions Affect the Pastor’s Wife: 5 Questions to Answer — Kathy Litton
From transitioning ministry opportunities, to transitioning ministry styles, to church revitalization, the pastor’s wife often feels like the driftwood caught in a roiling tide. While her pastor husband may discuss things with her, any changes of ministry direction are usually beyond her control. The results, however, may directly affect her in negative ways. I encourage any pastor who God is leading to lead in a transitional situation to consider these ways in which your wife may be affected.
