Category Archives: The Call
Best Practices
In recent years I’ve heard a lot of talk about the idea of “best practices.” It’s a bit of a buzz word in the business world and recently it’s made landfall in the church. The term, “best practices” conveys the idea that there are a set of recognized procedures and techniques that are generally accepted as the most prudent and
» Read moreAnother Scandal
1 Corinthians 12:26 If one part suffers, every part suffers with it; if one part is honored, every part rejoices with it. I woke up this morning to the news of another alleged megachurch leadership scandal. It happens so regularly anymore we have become accustomed to the nauseating pattern. Accusations are made and corresponding dismissals issued. Public relations maneuvers and
» Read moreOn Truth
Trust: Your Most Valuable Leadership Asset
Sitting in the airport terminal I couldn’t help but overhear the cell phone conversation of the man sitting directly behind me. Apparently returning from a business trip this jerk was clearly proud of his accomplishments. He was loud and caustic as he spoke about the stupidity of his boss who, I’m sure, had no idea how he was being taken
» Read moreD.A.R.V.O.
As I’ve studied abuse patterns I’ve noted common patterns among abusers as they respond to allegations of abuse. These patterns have been observed and written about extensively. This abuse response pattern is evidenced in all types of abuse such as; emotional, spousal, spiritual, physical, sexual, and organizational abuse. A great way to remember and identify these patterns is an an
» Read morePodcast: Church Growth Isn’t What You Think It Is
9.5 Theses on Church Dysfunction
Okay so I couldn’t come up with 95 theses on the subject but I got as far as 9.5, which is really just a cute way to say there’s an even ten. In reality, none of these theses are half truths. What you will read here is my response after having dealt with significant dysfunction in more than one church
» Read moreCorruption in the Church: Why Does God Allow It?
It’s surprising sometimes that abuse and corruption finds its way right inside the church. I’m embarrassed that people outside the church see these things and make the assumption that all Christians are abusing, cheating thieves. I hate that! Do you ever wonder why God doesn’t sweep in and zap these abusers like he did Ananias and Sapphira. They fell dead
» Read moreThe School of Mafia Leadership
One thing I observed about the Mafia having grown up in a Chicago suburb was that they knew how to lead. No one ever questioned this. Most of their methods however, involved fear and intimidation. One thing’s for sure, their variety of leadership always got the job done, at least until the Feds caught up with them. I think it
» Read more