Text-only Version of Leading Ideas, September 19, 2018

September 19, 2018
Leading Ideas from the Lewis Center for Church Leadership of Wesley Theological Seminary

5 Lessons for Better Preaching
Charley Reeb, author of two books on preaching, says that preachers better connect with people in the pews when they realize they are in the pulpit, not the classroom, and strive for messages that are less academic and more relevant to everyday life. Read more now: https://www.churchleadership.com/leading-ideas/5-lessons-for-better-preaching?id=li20180919

Episode 18
Leading Ideas Talks Podcast: “Franklin Planner Creator Hyrum Smith Shares Principles for Leading with Purpose”
What leadership lessons help make you more effective? In this episode Hyrum Smith, creator of the Franklin Planner, speaks with Lewis Center Director Doug Powe about leading with purpose as well as practical, transformational leadership lessons. Listen now: https://www.churchleadership.com/podcast/episode-18-franklin-planner-creator-hyrum-smith-shares-principles-for-leading-with-purpose?id=li20180919

4 Ways to Involve Younger People in Stewardship
Too often, churches overlook younger adults when it comes to stewardship and giving. Ian Urriola outlines four ways churches can foster a culture of generosity among young people. Read more now: https://www.churchleadership.com/leading-ideas/4-ways-to-involve-younger-people-in-stewardship?id=li20180919

The Right Question
“Leaders do not need answers. Leaders must have the right questions.”
Lisa Bodell, an expert on simplifying life and organizational processes, believes these questions help leaders get at the heart of much unnecessary complexity.
* Is it valuable? (worth the time)
* Is it minimal? (streamlined)
* Is it understandable? (clear)
* Is it repeatable? (model for other things)
* Is it accessible? (readily available)
Want more Right Questions? Read “Right Questions for Church Leaders” at https://www.churchleadership.com/books/right-questions-for-church-leaders/

Learn about Stewardship and Biblical Generosity
Designed to nurture the spiritual discipline of giving, “Theology of Stewardship and Biblical Generosity” may be used in a variety of Christian education settings or in conjunction with an annual stewardship emphasis. This video tool kit is ecumenical and may be used for self-study or with groups. Featured topics: Stewardship 101; What the Bible Teaches about Giving; A Christian Understanding of Money, Possessions, and Generosity; Biblical Generosity; and Faith and Generosity. Learn more and watch an introductory video now: https://www.churchleadership.com/product/theology-of-stewardship-and-biblical-generosity-download?id=li20180919

5 Indices of Health and Vitality for Small to Mid-sized Congregations
In “To the Point: A New Way to View Small Church Vitality,” small church expert Dr. Lew Parks describes five indices of health and vitality for small to mid-sized congregations that contribute to “dynamic equilibrium.” Read now and download free: https://www.churchleadership.com/to-the-point/point-new-way-view-small-church-vitality?id=li20180919

Support the Lewis Center
“Leading Ideas” is made possible by contributions to the Lewis Center for Church Leadership from readers like you. Thank you.
Donate now: https://www.churchleadership.com/support-the-lewis-center?id=leadingideas

Reach New Disciples this Advent and Christmas
The liturgical seasons of Advent and Christmas are nearly upon us. Leading Ideas offers many ideas to help your congregation reach more people and unchurched people, provide opportunities for newcomers, attract children and families, offer inspiring giving for ministries, and much more. Explore Advent and Christmas articles now: https://www.churchleadership.com/tag/christmas?id=li20180919

Quotable Leadership
“The struggle of life is not won with one glorious moment … but a continual struggle in which you keep your dignity intact and your powers at work, over the long course of a lifetime.” — Roger Wilkins

Adult Education Studies: Methodist Identity
The Methodist Identity video series explains what it means to be Methodist. The studies benefit both lifelong Methodists and those coming to Methodism from other traditions. “Part 1: Our Story” is hosted by Rev. Dr. Justo González, and “Part 2: Our Beliefs” is hosted by Bishop Gregory Ingram. Each study includes eight lessons and video presentations, supplemental videos, study guides, and extensive supplemental presentations. Learn more and order now: https://www.churchleadership.com/product-category/wesleyministrynetwork/methodist-identity/?id=li20180919