Consultation

The drawers are empty, the shelves are cleared off, and the lights are turned off in the pastor’s office. Retirement is a big change not only for a pastor but also for his church. Where does the church go from here?

Money matters matter—even at church, because as church leaders we have a God-given responsibility on behalf of God’s people to direct the financial affairs of …

The task of a pastoral search committee in a church isn’t what it used to be. It was never easy, but it seems to be …

Most church leaders are happy to see guests visit on Sunday. Sometimes they come as a result of a personal invitation. At other times, a …

Here’s what I’ve discovered about leadership development: some of the best leaders I’ve worked with as a pastor had their start as workers. They didn’t …

The local church, by God’s design, has the responsibility of fostering spiritual growth. All that we do in worship, fellowship, service, and Bible study ought …

Church ministry is people ministry, and those of us who seek to sharpen our skills in this area will reap the rewards of greater support …

Although Sunday School ministry has been declining in recent decades, I’m not ready to give up on it. I still think the Sunday School is …

8 things deacons can do to help their pastors stay balanced, healthy, and effective Never have the demands been greater or the pressures more stressful …

12 Suggestions . . . First, a disclaimer: I’m not an expert on worship. I’ve had no significant training in music or the arts (although …

Successful church leadership is rooted in spiritual commitment. People who are walking with God, growing in their faith, demonstrating godly character, and seeking God’s guidance …

Among my responsibilities as associate national representative of the GARBC is working with churches that are in pastoral transition. Much of that work focuses on …

Sometimes our church outreach events are our community’s best kept secret. We do a great job planning them—safety clinics, classic car shows, sportsmen’s dinners, sports …

8 Common Mistakes Church Leaders Make Where would we be without those faithful workers who regularly give of their time to serve in our churches? …

4 Suggestions I’ve never heard of a church that didn’t have a constitution, but I have heard of church leaders who wish they didn’t have …

In the first year of one of my pastorates, I removed about 200 people from the membership! It’s true—but let me explain. Although the church …

Good communication is a central part of a pastor’s role as a preacher and Bible teacher. It’s also an important skill in the ministry of …

We have plenty of guests in our services,” a church-planting pastor recently told me. “But they don’t seem to want to come back.” I’ve heard …

Wait! Don’t skip this page or merely pass it on to your nursery coordinator. Here’s why: While excellent child care has always been an important …

Most churches are thrilled to see visitors attend services. Often we can reach these people with the gospel; other times we can minister to them …

Every church should make evangelism a ministry priority. But getting organized and strategic is the challenge! Here’s my recommendation: Start with at least one initiative …

If I have learned anything about working with people in local churches, I’ve learned this: congregational unity is a fragile thing! One minute everything is …

We all desire growing, healthy churches. But we know that such churches don’t automatically become that way. Healthy ministries result from the strategic efforts of …

Here’s a thought. With all the talk these days of strategic planning and organizational church ministry, what would happen if we did church work without …

One of the most effective times for evangelistic outreach is Christmas Eve. Outreach pastors and evangelism ministry leaders agree on this: Unbelievers seem to be …

No church can be successful without committed leadership. It starts with pastors who are committed to the Word and the people they serve, but it …

Studies have confirmed a dramatic increase in crimes against church ministries in recent years. Tragically, dangers such as arson, child abuse, vandalism, assault or threats …

Marriages are in trouble these days. Divorce rates remain high. Affairs and immorality abound. Many couples have unsatisfying relationships because of seemingly constant conflict, a …

During my years in the pastorate, I recall lots of financial ups and downs. At times the giving was great, and we ended the year …

…Consider Doing Evangelism on Christmas Eve This year! One of the most effective times for evangelistic outreach is Christmas Eve. Outreach pastors and evangelism ministry …

The process of finding the man of God’s choosing for pastoral leadership in a church is a challenging one. In independent churches like ours, the …

My top 8 suggestions about outdoor church signs Have one! The name of the church in big letters on the side of the building isn’t …

How a Pleasing Exterior Attracts Your Community Real estate professionals know that initial impressions can be huge factors for potential buyers. What a home looks …

Perhaps you’ve heard the story about the pastor who got into an angry argument with a disgruntled deacon in the lobby after church one Sunday. …

Most churches I know have challenges with money. It’s a continual burden for church leaders in the light of increasing costs and the failure of …