Each busy-ness dilutes true Gospel
| Posted On: 12/24/08 08:10:54 PM |
Age 53, IN |
Most lay elders/board members I meet have minimal or no training in spritual leadership, so they have little understanding of these concepts. This article and Mahaney's book will help.
My personal view is that churches should drop half of their programing, to allow the pastor and lay leaders to focus on teaching, preaching, and discipline. Classes, programs, small groups, etc can quickly dilute the focus away from the true, simple Gospel (sin, repentance, faith) by tying up the pastor's time and energy and letting members focus on support rather than content. Much more attention is paid to who is bringing the salad compared to "how can we counsel this couple."
Discpline and discipleship takes time. Everything else is fluff. Fluff makes people feel important.
As a lay leader, I tried to "slip in the Gospel" occasionally. It was not my focus. My focus was to "get thru the next meeting, rehearsal, and Sunday 'performance'".
As a former choir director, and "worship team" musician, I even question the Biblical validity of having a choir. (THAT will draw ire from many!) I watched many, including myself, skip Bible study because we were devoted to choir and a busy rehearsal schedule. I was doing "my part" for God but not being fed. The Mary vs Martha routine.
|
Wonderful Article
| Posted On: 12/22/08 07:32:53 PM |
Age 40, NH |
Steve,
Thank you for reminding us (including myself) of the reason for discipline, restoration. It is easy to forget that when dealing with someone caught in flagrant sin, especially when they are hurting someone else with their actions.
Grace and Peace,
Jim
|
|
|
|
|
