Getting Started Again
9/3/03
Are you having difficulty communicating The Jesus Connection process to the congregation you serve? Do you see mostly obstacles and risks ahead in leading the membership towards embracing transformation? Use the start of a new church year to move ahead. Consider:
You've had the experience of wondering on a Monday what you will preach on Sunday. So? preach on the principles of the Jesus Connection. This fall is a perfect time to stir up holy discontent and begin filling in a picture of the Church as God intended it to be! Discontent is holy if it includes an inspired future. Approach the topic directly in sermons (or indirectly to begin with, through illustrations and personal comments relating to the larger theme of the sermon.) Show them your heart. Let your passion catch fire in others. So what if some remain lukewarm? Others will ignite! In fact, you will serve them by showing them a purpose beyond themselves. I'll bet your congregation does not have a vision of the future for themselves or the church. Where else will they get it?
My teen-age children are involved with school and other activities. I have to schedule time to meet them so we can actually talk. We drop by Starbucks, Sonic, the driving range, even their bedrooms. So? take specific formal and informal leaders of your congregation to lunch. Tell them your vision. You might also consider leading a spiritual life group or a discipleship group, etc. which will embed your ideas in them. Where else will the leaders of your congregation see the possibilities?
Invite leaders/members personally to read one of Jan Linn's books. Invite them to attend one of TJC seminars. Invite them to participate in a spiritual life group. Where else will they catch the life of transformation?
Enough said.
So? You are convinced The Jesus Connection is the way to go. You can wait for the idea to spontaneously drop from the sky, or you take the leadership by planning in advance what you will do to set the congregation on course for structural and personal transformation. The ball's in your court. Congratulations.
P.S. Tell us what is working for you to lead the congregation towards adopting TJC. We'll share them.
- Cliff Jones, Country Club Christian Church, Kansas City, MO
