Jesse Reimers

The Great Disconnect and why we need to reconnect with the Great Commission. As pastors of small churches, it’s easy to feel the weight of leading a congregation, managing limited resources, and caring for your people. But amid the daily demands of ministry, there is a foundational question that we must continually return to: Are we fulfilling the mission Jesus gave us? The answer, according to recent studies, might be more troubling than we realize. A study on church engagement revealed a significant gap in the understanding and application of the Great Commission, the very mission Christ commanded us to undertake. Many Christians, perhaps even some in our own congregations, may not know what the Great Commission is or why it matters. The Great Disconnect It may shock you to know that two-thirds of Christians say they have never heard of the Great Commission. Of those who have heard it, only 26% of practicing Christians can identify and explain it correctly. This is a sobering real...

As we conclude our series on the top priorities of pastoral ministry, we arrive at the tenth and final priority: “Identify and Train Leaders.” This essential task is crucial for the sustainability and growth of small churches. In his book The Pastor's Ministry , Brian Croft emphasizes the importance of equipping others for leadership roles within the church. This post explores why identifying and training leaders is vital, practical steps for doing so, and the biblical foundation for this critical aspect of pastoral ministry. The Importance of Identifying and Training Leaders 1. Sustaining Ministry and Vision Effective leadership is essential for sustaining the vision and mission of the church. As a pastor, you cannot do everything alone, and empowering others ensures that the work of the ministry continues even in your absence. In 2 Timothy 2:2 (NIV), Paul instructs Timothy to entrust reliable individuals with the teachings he has received: “And the things you have heard me say i...

In the ministry of small churches, one of the critical responsibilities is to "Encourage the Weaker Sheep," as outlined in Brian Croft’s The Pastor's Ministry . This ninth priority emphasizes the importance of providing care, support, and encouragement to those who may be struggling in their faith or facing challenges in their lives. For pastors, this ministry is essential not only for the spiritual health of individuals but also for the overall vitality of the church community. In this post, we’ll explore why encouraging the weaker sheep is crucial, how to identify those in need of encouragement, and practical steps for providing support. The Importance of Encouraging the Weaker Sheep 1. Reflecting Christ’s Compassion Encouraging those who are struggling is a way to reflect Christ’s compassion and love. Jesus Himself demonstrated this throughout His ministry, reaching out to the marginalized, the broken, and the lost. In Matthew 11:28 (NIV), He invites, “Come to me, all...

In the landscape of pastoral ministry, the eighth priority emphasized in Brian Croft’s The Pastor's Ministry is the imperative to "Confront Sin." This responsibility is essential for maintaining the integrity of the church and the spiritual health of its members. Confronting sin is not merely about pointing out wrongdoing; it is a profound act of love aimed at restoration and growth. In this post, we will explore the significance of confronting sin, how to approach this difficult task, and the biblical foundation that supports this vital aspect of pastoral care. The Importance of Confronting Sin 1. Preserving the Church’s Holiness The church is called to be a community set apart for God’s purposes. In 1 Peter 1:16 (NIV), we are reminded, “Be holy, because I am holy.” Confronting sin is essential for preserving the holiness and integrity of the church. Allowing unaddressed sin to persist can lead to spiritual decay and compromise the church’s witness to the world. 2. Pro...