I have had the privilege of serving in full-time vocational ministry since 1991. During that time, God has called me to serve in various capacities in some amazing churches throughout Tennessee, Florida, and Texas. Somewhere along the way, I picked up a bad habit. I’m not sure where I learned it but it is there nonetheless. Whether I am present at the church I serve or a guest at another church, I am constantly evaluating. And when I say constantly that is not an exaggeration. I evaluate the parking lot… the greeters… the bulletins… the temperature… the cleanliness… the decor… the music… the preaching… everything!
As I am growing older in ministry, I realize that there is nothing wrong with evaluation. Often times, when greeting people after the service many will ask, “That was a great message! I don’t know why no one responded today. When we evaluate “church” we must ask the right questions. Here are 4 questions I am learning to ask after the invitation on Sunday.
- Do people love God more? As we gathered for worship did we experience the presence of God and the peace of God and the power of God through worship? Did God stir within us to draw near to Him?
- Do people love one another more? As we gathered for worship did God lead us to be more focused on others? Are we eager to serve one another and build one another up in love? Did our time together through worship lead our church family to a sense of belonging and realize our gifting as a people?
- Do people love those who are far from God more? Are we growing more Kingdom-minded in our lifestyle? As we gather for worship is God deepening our compassion and concern for those who are far from Him?
- Do people love God’s Word more? Through our worship services is God leading us to take more initiative in His Word? Are we understanding grace more? Are we compelled by His Spirit to share Biblical truth with one another more?
Whether you lead a church or a faithful part of a church family what questions do you ask after the invitation on Sunday?
