I promise I have never talked with Thom Rainer. He has never
interviewed me, yet several of the stories in his powerful new book Who Moved My Pulpit Leading Change in the
Church (B&H Publishing Group, 2016) sounded familiar. He talked about people I know. He described
scenarios that I've been involved with over many years, in churches, and in
secular organizations. And he did it in simple language that can be understood
with having studied Biblical languages and Systematic Theology.
This is a book for
pastors, and for church leaders. It's based on years of experience as a church
consultant and researcher. Rainer references Scripture, and encourages prayer.
To lead change you have to understand change, and be fully
aware that almost half of any mixed group, for whatever reason, are going to
resist change: some vehemently. A
smaller percentage are going to embrace change, a few eagerly, and others when
they hear the reasons, and then there are those who tend to follow whichever
side seems to be winning.
Rainer uses stories of things that he has personal knowledge
of, and shows how different scenarios might or might not work. And offers
suggestions for what the next steps that
need to be taken might be. Although anyone
in a leadership position might find it easier than not to focus on the trouble
makers, the squeaky wheels; it's important to remember that there are so many
people in our churches that do love their pastor, and want to help him, not
just make his life miserable.
But just like a shepherd likes his sheep, the church leader is called to love everyone
in his flock, not just the ones that are always there to help, and never talk
back.
And speaking of called, being a pastor is a calling. There's
no other reason why anyone would stay for very long!
Although I would have gladly bought this book, I did receive
several copies from the publisher as part of the launch team. I still have a
couple of copies left for the first church or ministry leaders who respond to the blog.
5/5
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