Jesse Reimers

Every small church dreams of growth, whether driven by a divine calling for outreach or a practical need to expand. However, achieving sustainable growth requires more than just enthusiasm—it demands a fresh perspective and a clear understanding of what truly fosters long-term success. To start, it’s essential to address and dispel common myths that can hinder your church's growth potential. In his book, The Purpose Driven Church , Rick Warren emphasizes, “It's not about growing bigger, but growing healthier.” Understanding this concept helps in addressing some prevalent myths that can obstruct your growth journey. Let’s explore these myths and uncover the truths that will better equip you for successful church development. Myth 1: Growth is Always a Sign of a Healthy Church It’s a common belief that if a church is growing, it must be healthy. While it's true that healthy things tend to grow, not all growth is indicative of health. As Ed Stetzer notes in Transformational Ch...

Conflict is an inevitable part of church life. Whether it arises from differing opinions, personal disagreements, or organizational challenges, conflict creates friction that can generate heat if not managed effectively. As Tony Rose, a seasoned Southern Baptist pastor and conflict management expert, aptly notes, “All conflict produces friction, and friction will always produce heat. But the one who manages conflict properly turns that friction into traction, not heat.” In this post, we will explore how pastors of small churches can transform conflict into productive traction, fostering growth and unity within their congregations. Understanding the Nature of Conflict: Conflict, when viewed through the lens of church life, can be seen as a natural consequence of diverse perspectives and personalities. It’s essential to recognize that conflict is not inherently destructive but can be a catalyst for positive change if managed well. Friction from conflict can lead to innovative solutions,...

In today’s increasingly globalized world, understanding cultural differences is crucial for effective ministry. For pastors of small churches, navigating these differences can be particularly challenging yet immensely rewarding. "The Culture Map" by Erin Meyer is an essential resource that offers profound insights into cultural dynamics and provides practical tools for bridging cultural gaps. Here's a brief overview of the book and how it can significantly impact your ministry within your community. Overview of "The Culture Map" "The Culture Map: Breaking Through the Invisible Boundaries of Global Business" by Erin Meyer explores the complexities of intercultural communication. Meyer, a professor at INSEAD, uses her extensive research and real-world examples to create a framework that helps readers understand and navigate cultural differences effectively. The book is structured around eight dimensions of culture: 1. Communicating: Low-context vs. high...

As the warmth of summer graces our communities, it's the perfect time to bring your people together with fun, engaging activities that foster connection and community. We understand the unique challenges small churches face and are dedicated to providing support that enhances your ministry. Here are ten exciting summer activities your church can organize to ignite community and strengthen relationships: 1. Summer Movie Night Transform your church lawn into an open-air theater. Select family-friendly movies, set up a projector, and provide popcorn and drinks. This event is an excellent way to invite neighbors and create a relaxed, enjoyable evening for all ages. Consider theming the movie nights with discussions or activities that align with the film's message. 2. Community Outreach Project Engage your entire church in a community service project. Whether it's cleaning up a local park, painting a community center, or organizing a food drive, these acts of service embody the...

As July 4th approaches, many of us are preparing for a weekend filled with fireworks, barbecues, and celebrations of our nation's independence. For pastors and church leaders, this holiday presents a unique opportunity to both honor our country's heritage and deepen the spiritual lives of our congregations. Here’s how you can make the most of Independence Day weekend, combining both spiritual enrichment and practical community engagement. 1. Reflect on Spiritual Freedom Independence Day is a perfect time to draw parallels between the freedoms we enjoy as Americans and the spiritual freedom we have in Christ. Consider incorporating themes of freedom, sacrifice, and redemption into your sermons and discussions. Highlight scriptures such as Galatians 5:1 ("It is for freedom that Christ has set us free") to remind your congregation of the profound liberty we have through Jesus. Also you could host baptisms on this weekend to encourage guest participation. 2. Host a Commun...