Reflections on the Economy

I recently read the following perspective on the economy in Jim Tomberlin's Multi-Sitings newsletter.   I think it has some great insight.  Would love to know what impact today's economic challenges are having in your context.  Post a comment or email me here.

Reflections on the Economy 

*In insecure and financially-troubled times people feel a greater need for God than in times of prosperity.  For local churches that are clear on their mission with an intentional strategy and focused attention, these are great days of harvest and multiplication.

*The crash of the economy is a reminder of the words of Jesus to "store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moth and rust do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal." Matthew 6:20

*Barak Obama raised an unprecedented $150m+ for his presidential campaign in October. To raise that kind of money during the worst financial month since the Great Depression demonstrates that there is always money for ideas that people believe in.

*Money is always tight for growing churches in good times as well as bad.  Effective churches learn how to manage their resources well.  Healthy churches will always have just enough money to accomplish what God has called them to do.

*Going multi-site has always been a good stewardship decision, now it is becoming essential for growing churches. How do you provide the maximum number of seats at the optimal inviting hours in the least expensive way in your community?   

*The rising cost of fuel is reinforcing the multi-site church strategy of putting the local back into the local church.

*The breakdown in the financial system should prompt  churches to re-visit their banking/lending relationship. Is your bank a sound, balanced, well-capitalized institution? Do you have a direct point of contact who knows your ministry personally? 

*Finally, remember the recession-proof words of the Apostle Paul,  "Command those who are rich in this present world not to be arrogant nor to put their hope in wealth, which is so uncertain. . .Command them to do good, to be rich in good deeds, and to be generous and willing to share.  In this way, they will lay up treasure for themselves as a firm foundation for the coming age. . . 1 Timothy 6:17-19

Leadership Network

Greg Ligon, Vice President and Publisher

Jim is one of the pioneers of the multi-site movement and is currently serving churches through Third Quarter Consulting.

Reflections on the Economy 

*In insecure and financially-troubled times people feel a greater need for God than in times of prosperity.  For local churches that are clear on their mission with an intentional strategy and focused attention, these are great days of harvest and multiplication.

*The crash of the economy is a reminder of the words of Jesus to "store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moth and rust do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal." Matthew 6:20

*Barak Obama raised an unprecedented $150m+ for his presidential campaign in October. To raise that kind of money during the worst financial month since the Great Depression demonstrates that there is always money for ideas that people believe in.

*Money is always tight for growing churches in good times as well as bad.  Effective churches learn how to manage their resources well.  Healthy churches will always have just enough money to accomplish what God has called them to do.

*Going multi-site has always been a good stewardship decision, now it is becoming essential for growing churches. How do you provide the maximum number of seats at the optimal inviting hours in the least expensive way in your community?   

*The rising cost of fuel is reinforcing the multi-site church strategy of putting the local back into the local church.

*The breakdown in the financial system should prompt  churches to re-visit their banking/lending relationship. Is your bank a sound, balanced, well-capitalized institution? Do you have a direct point of contact who knows your ministry personally? 

*Finally, remember the recession-proof words of the Apostle Paul,  "Command those who are rich in this present world not to be arrogant nor to put their hope in wealth, which is so uncertain. . .Command them to do good, to be rich in good deeds, and to be generous and willing to share.  In this way, they will lay up treasure for themselves as a firm foundation for the coming age. . . 1 Timothy 6:17-19

Leadership Network

Greg Ligon, Vice President and Publisher

Jim is one of the pioneers of the multi-site movement and is currently serving churches through Third Quarter Consulting.