3. Let us end all publicity stunts that seem desperate to gain any and all media attention, particularly those that trivialize the reputation of Jesus.
Further, let us stop shameless acts of self-promotion, as if our churches were our personal marketing or public relations firm for books, conferences, and messages.
4. Let us be above reproach financially, which at the minimum means annual outside audits that are made available to any and all we serve.
Let us gratefully accept salaries that reflect the “double” honor of our role but avoid the grasping greed of the world or living lifestyles of the “rich and famous” that would shame the cause of Christ if made public.
5. Let us submit ourselves to proper leadership accountability.
Yes, we are to be freed to lead, but there is nothing in biblical leadership that legitimizes a style that is either autocratic or dictatorial.
6. Let us refrain from seeing every criticism of our leadership as a personal attack, thus leading us to demonize every detractor.
Sometimes, our critics are being dissentious and divisive and should be confronted. Sometimes, we are just plain wrong and deserve admonishment.
7. Let us remember that our church’s health and success has very little to do with raw numerical increase, number of sites/buildings, or annual giving.
We are more than a corporation.
8. Let us stop comparing and competing with other large churches through lists and rankings.
The goal is not to be largest or fastest growing. Such lists do not affirm any church’s worth or character, much less our own.
9. Let us speak the truth of Scripture to the moral issues of our day but stay away from politics proper in regard to overtly aligning with a particular party.
We are not first and foremost Republicans or Democrats, but Christians, standing prophetically over all parties.
10. Let us maintain our spiritual vibrancy by refusing to believe our press reports.
We are not the fourth member of the Trinity. Our position does not automatically make us more spiritual, or more wise, than anyone else. Further, our position does not entitle us to cut corners sexually or financially as if we are somehow above the moral law.
11. Let us remain humble and teachable in spirit, understanding that we can learn from anyone – not simply our large-church peers.
Pastors with vastly fewer numbers than ours have much to teach us.
12. Let us remember that the largest pastoral crown in heaven will probably go to a bi-vocational pastor in a small town of 5,000 with an average attendance of 50.
And that pastor will deserve it.
So many of you are my friends, and I love you dearly, pray for you faithfully, and defend you loyally. Please take this to heart in light of the great task we share.
