This post developed after talking with a young pastor overwhelmed with the responsibility he’s been given. It was his first church out of seminary. His church expects a lot from him – leading the church, preaching great messages, visiting the sick (and the well), managing a budget, and seeing the baptistry consistently in use –…
Worship Multitracks for Church Plants
Recently my wife and I started off on a new adventure. We are planting a church. This is my 3rd church plant and this was the first time I didn’t have musicians for the new church. Before I could always lead worship myself if I had to. However as I have gotten older, my skills…
10 Mistakes Novice Preachers Make
Over the years I’ve coached dozens of novice preachers. It usually takes years of development and practice to become a really good preacher. Along the way, there are numerous mistakes to overcome. The following is a list of the top ten mistakes that, in my observation, are the most common. If you’re struggling with any…
Jesus is Not a Private Savior
Jesus is not a private savior because sin is not a private problem. Sin is a communal problem, so we need a communal solution. Because salvation isn’t done in secret. Salvation is a public event, drawing the attention of those still held captive so that they too can call on Jesus. Because when our story…
8 Reasons to Lead Your Church Through the “I Still Believe” Free Sermon Kit
Use this free sermon kit to be ready for one of the biggest movie debuts of 2020. On March 13 the movie “I Still Believe,” the real-life story of chart-topping singer Jeremy Camp is coming to theaters. The film, made by the creators of the movie “I Can Only Imagine,” is a powerful reminder that in the midst of…
Do You Use the Two Important Questions Leaders Always Ask?
I've learned by experience there are two important questions every leader needs to ask. Recently, I’ve sat in several meetings or talked with different leaders, and the same situation has been repeating itself. Imagine this scenario. A team or church feels like they need to hire someone or add someone to the team, so they…