I previously posted 10 dangerous paradigms in the church. Obviously, there are positive mindsets in the church also.
I decided to share some from the perception of a pastor.
Here are 10 positive paradigms in the church:
We can do it Pastor
The “can do” attitude. Is there anyone who can’t work miracles with that?
Jesus will make a way!
So, if that’s your paradigm, then all we have to do is follow Him – right?
It’s not about me.
Wow! Really? You’re serious. Because to hear someone say that – makes a pastor’s day.
Let’s walk by faith!
Yes, let’s do. Because, without faith, it’s impossible to please God. At least, according to the Bible I read.
What can I do to help?
Imagine if everyone showed up at church ready to do whatever it took to make the day work. Just imagine. We can dream, can’t we?
We need some change around here.
I think we do. I think you’re right. I think I’ll clone you. Sustained momentum always requires change. Always.
I know we need to talk about money.
You do? Seriously? You recognize it takes money to do ministry? Wow! Are you contagious?
It’s none of my business.
Okay, this is a tough one, but seriously, is it? Do you really need to know everything, or do you just like information? I wonder if we moved forward with less information if we would be closer to walking by faith – which in essence means we go without seeing. Just wondering.
I’m excited about trying something new.
By excited, do you also mean you’ll support it? And speak positively about it? Even behind the pastor’s back? Because, if you do, I’m gonna hug you. Seriously. Right now. Big hug.
This church is awesome!
It’s simple, but it builds momentum. Believing in the church, it’s leadership, and it’s potential is a key to welcoming people who will later feel likewise.
As a pastor, those are 10 positive paradigms I would share. I realize they aren’t for everyone. But, which one would you most like to see as a pastor?
What positive church paradigm would you add to my list?
There were some great suggestions in the negative post. It's easier to complain than it is to come up with solutions. I'll hold out that there will be some good positive suggestions in the comments that are forthcoming. I'll seed the suggestions:
* Non-pastors who take the initiative to organize prayer chains / prayer meetings, Bible studies, special teaching classes, missions trips, Christian conferences, evangelistic outreaches in the community, one-on-one discipleship, etc., particularly holding to the core teachings of the Christian faith and the ecclesiological distinctives of the church. The pastor isn't the only one who should be doing these things.
* "I love both the theological depth of the older hymns and the vibrance of newer songs."
* "Thanks for wanting to include me, but I don't want to hear any gossip." or "Do I have your permission to share that with some people who will pray confidentially for you?"
* "What extra resources can I get hold of that would help me understand [insert deeper theological course of study here] better."