We grow in the values of the kingdom symbiotically—that is, by cooperating with the work of God in our lives. Here's an activity, done best in a relaxed setting, to sharpen our awareness of what God is doing to shape us into the image of Christ.
Materials needed: A five or ten-pound block of red or brown clay (available for under $10 at most art supply stores); washbasin and several old towels; ...
The following questions will help you and your team discover and clarify your church's core ministry values. First, try to answer the questions yourself. Then discuss the answers as a group.
1. Where do you invest your time in this ministry? Why?
2. Where do people invest their money in this organization? Why?
3. What are people within and outside this ministry saying about it?
Ancient mariners feared the doldrums. They could die of thirst or starvation if they were caught in the wrong latitudes for too long with no wind. Churches are much the same if they're caught without motivational winds. Here are some often-overlooked causes and cures of congregational doldrums.
•Caught in a Cultural Time Warp: Some churches that find their sails hanging listlessly have lost touch ...