Several years ago, the talented actor Ardien Brody was supposed to be the star of the the movie The Thin Red Line. He filmed all his scenes and reportedly did a fine job with the acting. However, Brody was largely cut from the film in the editing process by director Terrence Malick. Despite the giftedness of Brody, this was the correct decision as The Thin Red Line was nominated for seven Academy Awards.
Especially in this global, electronic, virtual, and on-line world, this story teaches us the importance that critical elements such as adaptability, looking outside the box, and creativity play in our leadership.
As I reviewed the history of this movie, I thought of churches that have multiple services.  Are those responsible for programming (pastor, worship leader, service coordinator, etc…) making in-game decisions and adjustments needed to deliver the best service possible for the attendees?
- Do they improve or even remove songs that do not connect?
- Do they re-arrange the order of worship if it better ties the message and service together?
- Do they remove video or drama that has a lack of excellence or effectiveness?
- Do pastors review the elements of their message and make changes to illustrations or key points to better connect people to the heart of God?Â
The best churches, those that prevail and make the most impact, are always fine tuning every aspect of their ministry. Often the most important time on Sunday morning is the 30-45 minutes between services.
This can get messy when having to tell well-meaning volunteers who worked very hard on set designs, music, testimonials or drama that it just isn’t hitting the mark and must be removed for the following service(s).Â
The other area where this becomes a challenge is the management of artists. In both environments, you must create a culture of excellence where personal relationships also matter. This provides the foundation and decision grid that better allows all involved to understand strategic decisions.  It is also critical that church leaders must show incredible appreciation and grace to those affected by the decision.
It is acceptable and necessary to try things and make mistakes. It is simply not acceptable to live with and tolerate what you know is not effective. This does not honor God and frustrates those in attendance.
Terrence Malick made some very difficult decisions but everyone benefited from his courage, expertise, insight, ability to change, and desire to create the best product possible. Pastors and church leaders, everyone who attends your services will benefit as well when you do the same.
Pastors and church leaders, do you make key changes to your format between services? If yes, why and what were the results? If not, tell us why as well.
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