July/Aug 09: The NEW Small Church

 

In the swirl of daunting challenges—suburban and urban migration, megachurch momentum, dwindling resources, branded competition, shifting institutional loyalties, leadership deficits, economic hardship, and ingrown congregations—the resiliency of the small church in America has shone through. In fact, across America, smaller congregations are becoming models of innovation, effective community and global vision.

 

In This Issue:

 

The NEW Small Church

Many of America’s small congregations have become models of innovation and ministry effectiveness—with a sense of vision that’s transforming their communities and touching the world.

 

8 Churches That Show Just How Big Small Can Be

 

The Bivocational Pastor: Economic Necessity? Or Strategic Possibility?

 

Christ and Creativity for At-Risk Kids

 

Pro Surfer Bryan Jennings: Walking on Water

 

Easting Financial Hardships at Christmas: Plan That Outreach Now

 

Francis Chan on Planting Churches with Boldness and Prayer

 

The Outreach Interview: Andy Stanley fields questions from small-church pastors

James P. Long
James P. Longhttp://JamesPLong.com

James P. Long is the editor of Outreach magazine and is the author of a number of books, including Why Is God Silent When We Need Him the Most?

How Does Church Planting Benefit the Sending Church?

Can giving away your best people be a good thing?

How Does Understanding God’s Happiness Change Lives?

As much as I believe in the holiness of God, I also believe in emphasizing God’s happiness as a legitimate and effective way to share the gospel with unbelievers or to help Christians regain a foothold in their faith.

You Can’t (and Shouldn’t) Please Everyone

Learning to balance the natural tension of loving and caring for people, but not allowing someone to leverage their personal agenda or hijack the vision of your church is part of the leader’s responsibility.