3. I feel like I’m going back in time when I go to most churches.
Listen, I know God is unchanging, but the world changes.
I hear pastors make illustrations with references from the 80s that go right over people’s heads.
I hear music that was popular in the 90s (which is getting to be a long time ago).
A ton of churches make zero references to social media during the services, but it’s a big part of people’s lives. I hate to say this, but when I visited some churches, it felt just like it did when I visited them 10 years ago and gave me very little motivation to go back.
2. Most churches have NO IDEA what to do with the true skills and gifts that men and women have…
if they don’t involve singing, doing camera work, or running lyrics on a laptop.
I rarely feel challenged in church and rarely hear of any opportunities to use any of my skills, gifts, or talents in a remotely meaningful way. I am sure people felt this way when I was a pastor as well, but it totally went over my head.
Your church is full of smart, experienced, skilled people. It’s OK for them to be ushers and greeters, but if somebody is an expert at something, take the time to figure out how to use that.
It will engage them on a deep level and make the commit like never before.
1. All of that said, I’m still so proud of you pastors.
Your work is so important, but so hard and it can be nearly impossible to get outside of your bubble to know what the world truly thinks and feels.
I am rooting for you in every way!
Keep getting better. Figure out how to have regular, unbiased feedback from visitors or even from 3rd parties that you bring in. It will keep you sharp!
