Pat’s Playbook: Keep them coming back; Talk it out; Stick to the lesson

July 31, 2018 By Pat Pajak

QUESTION

How do we combat the once-a-month tendency that’s infecting even our (formerly) best attenders?

ANSWER

The truth is that many younger church-goers may not see the necessity of weekly attendance, and feel like once or twice a month is enough. Unfortunately, that has carried over to some of our former best attenders. Preaching an exciting series or book of the Bible could help keep listeners connected from week to week. You might remember how Batman used cliffhangers to get people to tune in next week. Consider putting something similar in your sermons. Leave the congregation with a question, challenge, or idea that will be resolved in next week’s message.

QUESTION

I strongly disagree with some of what they’re spending our church money on. Can I redirect my offering?

ANSWER

Holding back or designating your offering could be perceived as a power play to try to exert control over the process, rather than a way to correct a legitimate concern. If your church has a budget committee or finance team, see if you can set up a meeting with them the next time they are together. Discuss the approved budget, and determine if money is being spent outside of that plan. If not, be prepared to explain exactly why you are in disagreement.

QUESTION

We had several big arguments about politics in our Sunday school class—real doozies—but they were about important biblical issues. Should we declare a politics-free zone, or keep arguing and hope we don’t drive anyone away?

ANSWER

When a group of Christians addresses issues like abortion, homosexuality, the sanctity of marriage, evolution, gender identification, or prejudice, it’s natural for politics to play a role in the conversation. But remember, Sunday school is not designed to argue or resolve worldly issues. Stay focused on the Scripture lesson of the day. If a political viewpoint is shared, discuss it, but stay on track. In some instances, you may simply have to agree to disagree, and move on.

Pat Pajak is IBSA’s associate executive director for evangelism. Send questions for Pat to IllinoisBaptist@IBSA.org.

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