Southside's DNA Pt. 4

As I continue to read the book, 7 Practices of Effective Ministry by Andy Stanley, Reggie Joiner, and Lane Jones, I'm reminded that this is one way to do ministry. These are principles not programs. As our staff looks at the 114 year old church, rich in heritage, brimming with potential, that He has called us to shepherd, nurture and assist in it's growth, I see a tremendous amount of ideas we can garner from a book such as this. (perhaps that's why our dear friend gave all the staff a copy!)

One idea that is challenging my thinking is stated in this 4th principle: Teach less for more. It's been drilled into my head that 3 points, 3 illustrations, and 3 supporting verses can make up a great message! Although that's not entirely the model I use, it's more of a compilation. Many other pastors would agree. But this principle points out something: We teach too much. It's been estimated that students within a student ministry are only under teaching for about a 150 hours, if you just count the teaching time. And other studies conclude that we retain ideas more when they're repeated, rather than added onto with point 2, point 3, etc. So the necessity of strategic planning in teaching to an audience, rather than a flavor of the month is what this principle is getting at.

I'm still not convinced that a 3 point message needs to be tossed out. Presentation is key to any message being taught and the listener learning. But how much is said that can be left unsaid? How much is over the top, flashlight approach vs. laser focus teaching that leaves the listener walking away with a general sense that they learned something, but can't tell you what nor use it to help them in their lives and walk with God? Good chapter, great ideas. needs to be mulled over more to fit our ministries.