The Learning curve

The Unsaved Christian Dean Inserra

Offers a compelling argument for the existence of cultural Christianity, and teaches pastors to leverage the regular rhythms of church life to reach nominal Christians.

– Rayden Hollis, pastor, Red Hill Church, Edwardsville outreach to reconnect with their friends, and left with a calendar of events we’d planned for the year ahead. Your church can also do this around holidays, or at the end of the school year as you look ahead to summer activities. Let them know they’re welcome at your church, and that there are specific opportunities for them. Expect a cumulative effect. The best way to sum up back-to-school outreach is that it often moves the needle little by little as your church builds relationships with teachers, administrators, and families. The impact you make will likely share a close correlation with how consistent and sacrificial your ministry is, and how prepared you are to interact with the families that do show up at church.

As you brainstorm ministry opportunities this fall and beyond, ask your leaders and volunteers these questions:

What can we offer teachers and school administrators in the way of resources and encouragement?

How can we position our church as a go-to resource for families in need of support?

Our church had the opportunity to minister to couples and families that we never would have had if we hadn’t provided school supplies for their children, or hosted basketball practice for their student’s team. This year, gear up for long-term ministry that really helps families.

Jack Lucas is IBSA’s director of next generation ministries.

This article is adapted from the Fall issue of Resource magazine, which is available at Resource.IBSA.org

Subscriptions are free to IBSA church leaders. Write to Communications@ IBSA.org

Sing!

Keith and Kristyn Getty

It doesn’t matter if you can carry a tune or not—this book is for pastors, worship leaders, and every member of the congregation. Only about 150 pages, but I find myself going back for more as it inspires me to sing praise!

– Jill McNicol, ministry leader, First Baptist Church, Patoka

Pat’s Playbook

Growing burden

Q

Health insurance costs are forcing me to consider going bivocational. I need benefits for my family, but it’s getting harder for the church (or me) to pay for them. Are there any alternatives?

A

Unfortunately, insurance costs have skyrocketed, and some churches have found they can only help subsidize the cost—or not provide it at all. Many pastors count on their wives’ place of employment to provide their family insurance. Some Christian organizations allow families to join at a reduced rate, and when a medical problem arises, every member pays in a small portion to offset the bill. Taking on a higher deductible may also save money, if you’re able. Contact your insurance agent and ask them to research the best price possible.

Our mission field

QI hear at least 8 million people in Illinois do not know Jesus. That number is overwhelming to a small church. Are we responsible for the eternal fate of 8 million people?

AWe are responsible to share the gospel in our Jerusalem, Judea, Samaria, and to the ends of the earth (Acts 1:8). Indeed, it is an overwhelming task, which is why we gather together with almost 1,000 other Southern Baptist churches in Illinois, plus 46,000 in America, to support thousands of missionaries around the world. Reach your community with the gospel and continue to give through the Cooperative Program. Then pray for the Lord to raise up new churches all across Illinois and trust many of the 8 million will be reached as believers partner together!

Pat Pajak is IBSA’s associate executive director for evangelism.

Love Thy Body

Nancy Pearcey

Helps me process the biblical response to our culture, in light of today’s increasingly hostile climate to God’s perspective of life and sexuality.

– Sammy Simmons, pastor, Immanuel Baptist Church, Benton