Question: I pastor a comfortable church. We’re not squabbling, we meet the budget, and people like the music. Why does that make me un-comfortable?
Answer: Sometimes a comfortable church can forget why they exist. Are you carrying out the Great Commission? Are lives being changed? Are marriages being rescued? Is the Holy Spirit at work in your midst?
Perhaps you’re wondering why the devil isn’t attacking the church. Could it be because the church isn’t doing anything that makes him feel uncomfortable?
Question: Our deacons’ meetings have gotten contentious. No one knows why, but we bicker now and we don’t get much done. What would you do?
Answer: Assign each deacon one or two ministry areas and let the meeting be a time of celebration and praise, inviting them to report ministry growth, future plans, challenges, etc. Ask them to meet beforehand with ministry leaders to discuss calendar events, upcoming special promotions, and praise reports. I think giving your deacons responsibility and accountability will help eliminate the conflicts.
Question: Chelsea likes to rock the babies. She’ll come into the nursery during church and disturb a sleeping baby so she can pick it up. Chelsea’s not on the rotation, and she’s only 12. But her mother won’t stop her. Should I?
Answer: Everyone loves a little baby! But the church has a responsibility to ensure the nursery is run in a professional manner. The discussion that needs to take place is not with Chelsea, but with her mother. Let her know that no one who has not been screened and had a background check is allowed in the nursery. While well-intentioned, her behavior isn’t acceptable and it’s her mother’s responsibility to explain it to Chelsea.
Pat Pajak is IBSA’s associate executive director for evangelism.