How Egypt And Wisconsin Revolts Could Affect Your Upcoming Church Service

We were told as children to never discuss religion and politics.  The level of passion people have for their beliefs and the arguments that could ensue when we have conflicting viewpoints were the reasons given. 

We live in a different world now.  We have seen tremendous conflict, both abroad in Egypt, as well as domestically in Madison, WI over political and ideological viewpoints.  I fear that the groundwork has been laid that we could see similar things happen at local churches across America, albeit on a smaller scale. 

We have become a generation who are so disenfranchised that many feel organized mass protests in public venues are the primary method for facilitating change.  I grew up in an age where the most dangerous form of protest was apathy.  Eventually, we would stop caring, move to another church, or worse, stop going to church at all if we were disenfranchised with leadership.  That was then.  This is now.

I feel we are soon going to begin witnessing a much more abrasive response in our churches.  These protests could make your monthly business meetings of the 60s, 70s, and 80s look like an elementary school pillow fight.  If you don’t believe this could eventually happen at your church, you may be over-estimating your people and the times.  I hope I’m wrong.

If I’m right, what can pastors and church leaders do to disciple and lead congregations to not only be under authority, but thrive and be part of a tribal movement which results in significant life change in your communities and around the world.

Here’s the irony, great leaders are already doing these things.  Great leaders: 

1. Value People - They are your only appreciable asset. 
2. Invest In People – Preach great, relevant messages and answer the questions people are asking.
3. Listen To Your People – Don’t marginalize them.
4. Serve Your Church.  Don’t Use It. – The only biblical leadership model is servant leadership.
5. Don’t Leapfrog Leaders – Include them in the decision process early as a sign of respect and to build broad-based buy-in.
6. Have Leaders Answering Questions, Not Asking Them – Leaders need to be communicating the vision of your church in small groups, classrooms, coffee shops, neighborhoods, ball fields, and offices.  When they do, make sure they are saying what you would if there.
7. Serve The Poor - This not only meets the felt needs of those less fortunate, but it expands our worldview and communicates that life is not all about us.
8. Tell Stories – Nothing generates positive momentum like life change.  For instance, I never get tired of watching baptism videos.
9. Constantly Communicate Your Vision With Clarity - If people know early and often what your church is about and the role they need to play, there is less chance of missed expectations throughout the journey.
10. Have Great Youth And Childrens Ministry – Parents will put up with a lot if their children are happy.  People are on board when you value what they value.
11. Pay Attention To Sub-Cultures – They give you a picture of what those in your church are really saying.
12. Continually Develop New Leaders – This expands your base of influence and gives voice to more people.
13. Be Extravagantly Generous – It is very difficult for people to be hostile when they have been given much.
14. Be A Grace Giver - Forgiveness, mercy, and patience should be the culture at your church and modeled by you.

Your thoughts? 

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