Talk To Who Isn’t There
Not long ago, I listened to an old political speech from John F. Kennedy. Though he was speaking to human beings in Washington, D.C., he kept addressing other nations and the leaders of NATO. Kennedy knew the speech would have an impact beyond the room, so he was careful to construct his words to have…
Read MoreHow to Talk about Money without Talking about Money
First, I think it is vitally important for you to know that I think it is okay to talk about money. In fact, I think you should talk about money frequently, strategically, and theologically. However, sometimes you can talk about money without talking about money. Here are some examples: Substitute “finances” for “money.” It sounds…
Read MoreWhat is a “Tithe Challenge?”
Most people are “tithe challenged,” but what people need is a “tithe challenge.” Every year, pastors and church staff are informed that only about 3-4% of Christians tithe. So, apparently people are “tithe challenged.” One way to combat those that are challenged in this area of their spiritual growth is through a “tithe challenge.” A…
Read MoreCould You Preach an 18 Minute Sermon?
In my lifetime, I’ve preached somewhere around 2,500 sermons. I’ve probably listened to that many more. That’s a lot of talking. Recently, I’ve become a fan of TED talks – 18 minute presentations on science, culture, technology and many other topics. I’ve watched some amazing presentations, and have stretched my knowledge on some new topics.…
Read MoreStats, Stories and Scripture Motivate People to Give
Every weekend, you have the opportunity to motivate your people to give. But it’s time to abandon the tired, canned speech that you use every week. You can spice up this important moment in your service. You can motivate and inspire people to give, not just give them an opportunity. Here’s three tools you can…
Read MoreVacations are Neccessary
Family vacations are important. If you’re working at a church that can’t survive without the pastor for a week or two, then you’re working at the wrong church. If you’ve led your staff or congregation to constantly need you, then you haven’t done a good job of leading your church. It’s absolutely…
Read MoreGetting Feedback on Your Messages
Asking for feedback on your messages can be humbling, and finding the right kind of helpful feedback can be puzzling. But Mark Messmore, the Preaching Minister at Troy Christian Church (and a Preaching Rocket member) has some insights. Here are Mark’s thoughts on finding good people to give good feedback. I have served in church of…
Read MoreAre you an exhausted leader?
Tired leaders are everywhere. Actually, it’s a badge of honor to be tired in a lot of circles. I am constantly around people that talk about the long hours, lack of sleep, & crazy travel schedules. Here is the deal: I used to be one of these guys that bragged about how hard I worked.…
Read MoreA Sermon with No Words
Zak White, the Lead Pastor of Revolution Church in San Antonio, Texas (and a Preaching Rocket member) recently preached an entire sermon without using words. In fact, they used pre-printed signs, typing on an iPad, prayer, hands raised in worship and facial experessions to lead a completely silent service. All of this happened on Mother’s…
Read MoreHow to Follow-up with Digital Donations
Churches often forget a key group of people in church – digital givers. People who give online may go unnoticed if the pastor does not set up systems to remind them to follow-up on first time digital givers, just like first time givers with cash or checks. Sometimes, because churches use digital giving systems outside…
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