What creates changes in church?

Our pastor, Clark Mitchell, says that crisis creates change in church…people come to church because of crisis and/or they leave because of crisis.

Andy Stanley adds that “the local church rarely makes necessary changes until the money runs out.”  He explains in his “Assumptions” podcast that people come to love programs and all the great things that have come out of those programs/habits and are far more focused on maintaining them than evaluating where they are still effective or not.

Maybe change happens through a lack of funding, or church support, or forced change from your group pastor…like me!  Or maybe change is just easier at times of crisis?

What are the programs/habits in your group that it is hard to let go of…even though they don’t work any more?  Why not ask God for the new song or new wine vs. relying on habits that no long maximize His vision and the passion he’s given you?

New Wineskins

How have you changed recently?  (Like in 2009 recently…)  Are your systems, content, or methods changed to meet to increasing demands of God’s vision in your life?  I have been overwhelmed by new opportunities these last 2 weeks to consider the wineskins  that have adequately held God’s vision & provision for me for a long time.  You know what?!?  It’s time for change, and God has tremendously blessed our Groups team with a new addition in Alan Danielson.  Alan and I are partnering together to envision new wineskins for how God is shaping our Connect, Grow, Serve process for 2009 and beyond.

As if that is not enough to bring home His message to me…My wife is looking for a new house.  I guess change is inevitable…and a predictable part of the Christian life.  I’m learning to be comfortable being uncomfortable & trusting God for new wine…knowing that it means new wineskins.

Are you seeking new wine?  If so, are you creating new wineskins as well?