Stirring the pot

Most churches and pastors try to avoid conflict.  There's no question that a lot of conflict does nothing but create problems within churches and other organizations, but it's also true that organizations seldom change or move forward without some level of conflict.  One of the reasons many change efforts fail is because those in leadership did not create a sense of urgency within the organization that would drive the change.  I do not see how one can create a sense of urgency without challenging the status quo, and that is almost guaranteed to create conflict.  It is almost a certainity that someone within the organization likes the status quo, often for personal reasons, and will oppose any challenge to it.  As much as we in leadership may not like the idea, one of our responsibilities is to stir the pot.  One writer suggests we need to create a holy dissatisfaction within our churches in order to move from where we are to where God wants us to be.

I can hear some of you now.  You have enough conflict and problems in your churches without intentionally starting new problems.  I understand that, but I also know that without intentional effort on the part of church leaders that our churches will never change.  Those that are stuck in a maintenance mindset will remain there until someone comes along to challenge them to get out of their ruts and capture a fresh vision from God.  Max DePree tells us the first responsibility of a leader is to define reality.  What is the reality of your church?  Is your church doing everything it can for the Kingdom of God?  Is your church actively and intentionally reaching out to the unchurched in your community?  What percentage of those who attend your services are growing as disciples of Jesus Christ?  I'm not asking how many attend services or Sunday school classes; how many actually demonstrate through their lives that they are developing the fruits of the spirit in their lives?

Many churches would probably not like the answers to these questions, but those answers are the reality that needs to be presented to the congregation along with some possible ways to address any shortcomings contained in those answers.  Yes, some people will get upset when first hearing the realities that exist in their churches.  Unfortunately, too many people enjoy living in denial.  But, this stirring the pot might create the urgency that would allow significant change to occur in your congregation.

As I work with churches from various denominations I see a growing unrest with the status quo.  Both congregations and church leaders are frustrated with the poor results they see from all the things their church is doing.  They know there has to be a better way of impacting people's lives in the 21st century.  While a number of congregations would oppose any proposed change to the way they function, there are some who are just waiting for their leaders to lead.

Let me suggest that it is time to stop the smoke and mirrors we often use to feel better about what is happening in our churches.  Take a hard, honest look at the ministry your church is doing, and ask yourself this question:  Did the Son of God give His life for this?  If you then feel that God is leading you to raise the level of ministry your church offers, then begin to stir the pot.  Demonstrate to your congregation your current level of ministry and the level you believe God wants from you, and then ask the people to become creative and discuss how you can go from where you are to where God wants you to be.  It won't be an easy journey, but it will be well worth it.