What Do They Mean?

I just finished Scoops again. They have really come in fast this year. We deal with thousands of congregations in the United States. I’m sure there are those who deal directly with more than that, but from emceeing CYC with over 600 congregations, EYC with another 100+, and a Lads Convention, I do interact with a few. 

There are some similarities and I notice trends. One that stands out is that there are a lot of our congregations growing, optimistic about potential growth, and poised to grow. There is a refreshing optimistic air amidst us. 

Another that stands out is the number who will say something akin to “must be a people person,” or “must relate to all ages,” or “we want a man who will reach out to our community.” A couple of days ago I met with a group of elders looking to hire a minister. They said: “We want a man who is a people person.” What do all these mean?

I think I know and I’d like to state it to you plainly. It means churches don’t want a jerk. They do not want a person who does not think through their words and actions before they act. It means they want a man who will accept responsibility for their relationships within the leadership and think about how to build them and not burn bridges when something tough happens. It means they want a preacher who is not a hermit and who tries hard to work with others. It means that if another person is a jerk they will strive to be patient with them as much as possible. 

Maybe it means more. Maybe it simply means he loves people. Maybe it means he loves souls. He wants to interact with people, be a part of their lives, and influence them for good and for God. 

The congregation above had lost a minister. Each elder talked about how he was not an engaging speaker but that he was the most effective minister both in the church and in the community that they have ever had. One of them summed it up: “He just loved everybody and it showed.” And that is the summation of the best preachers and ministers I have known through the years. Try it, it’s Biblical, it’s godly, and, not surprisingly, it works.

“…Do the work of an evangelist, make full proof of thy ministry” (2 Timothy 4:5 KJV)

“Work at telling others the Good News, and fully carry out the ministry God has given you” (2 Timothy 4:5 NKV)