Notable Voices and the Week in Review: April 27, 2019
From Around the Web:
Surviving the Week after Easter — Sam Rainer
The joyous whirlwind has stopped, and the grind of ministry begins again. I’m sure the disciples felt something similar after Jesus’ ascension. They were all standing around watching Jesus go into heaven, and the two angels chided them to get back to work. Our work as church leaders does not culminate on Easter Sunday. As you dig back into it, consider a few ways to make this week more rewarding.
Three Worrisome Reasons Why Church Membership Is Falling — Facts & Trends
For 60 years, church membership remained relatively stable in America. Since 1998, however, the percentage who say they are a member of a church, synagogue or mosque has fallen 20 points. The most recent Gallup report identifies three statistical realities that have contributed to the nationwide membership decline.
The Worship Leader and Anxiety — Brent Dyer
I’ve been on a journey. It’s been an interesting trip, over many different paths, changes in direction, and some difficult years. I started leading worship when I was still a teenager, but I certainly wasn’t a worshipper. I was polished, professional, talented, and driven. I was good on stage, planned a well-flowing service, and knew all the right language. But I was empty inside.
How Should Ministry Wives Respond to Criticism? — Diane Nix
Anyone leading a ministry or in a position of leadership in the church will receive criticism. And this includes their wives. In this video, Diane Nix walks through some of the responses that ministry wives can have to criticism of both themselves and their husbands.
This Week at ThomRainer.com:
When a Group Leaves the Church: Five Perspectives
I have walked with hundreds of pastors through these scenarios. It is painful. It is messy. And, though I wish I did not have to say these words, it is often inevitable…READ MORE
9 Encouragements for Pastors Who Want to Quit
Many storms pass quickly.
It’s probably not you.
The vast majority of the congregation supports you.
Remember your call.
Longer-term pastors see better days.
Hurting church members often hurt others.
It’s not better in other churches.
The changing culture frustrates many church members.
God is with you.
Does Co-Pastoring Really Work?
by Thom Rainer and Jonathan Howe | Rainer on Leadership
http://media.blubrry.com/thomrainer/s3.amazonaws.com/rainerpodcast/Rainer-on-Leadership/Episode530.mp3
Six Common Reasons Pastors Lose Their Temper
by Thom Rainer and Jonathan Howe | Rainer on Leadership
http://media.blubrry.com/thomrainer/s3.amazonaws.com/rainerpodcast/Rainer-on-Leadership/Episode531.mp3
Understanding the Four Major Waves of Exiting Members in a Revitalization or Replant
by Thom Rainer and Jonathan Howe | Revitalize & Replant
http://media.blubrry.com/revitalizereplant/s3.amazonaws.com/rainerpodcast/Revitalize-and-Replant/RR-Episode090.mp3
