'BIG Faith: Six Key Factors that Grow Your Faith in God' by Sam Peters delves into the fundamental aspects that nurture a strong and resilient faith. Peters identifies and explores six key factors, offering insights and practical guidance on how to develop a deeper relationship with God. The book emphasizes the importance of prayer, scripture study, community involvement, and service to others. Through personal anecdotes and biblical teachings, Peters inspires readers to cultivate a faith that withstands challenges and grows stronger over time. It is a valuable resource for anyone seeking to enhance their spiritual life and deepen their connection with God.
In 'Desizing the Church', Karl Vaters challenges the conventional growth-oriented mindset in church leadership, advocating for a shift in focus towards health and depth within smaller congregations. Vaters argues that many churches are not meant to be large and that it's okay to be small. The book emphasizes the importance of recognizing and leveraging the unique strengths of smaller churches. It provides practical strategies for leaders to cultivate genuine community, foster discipleship, and create impactful ministries that fit their context. It serves as a guide for pastors seeking to revitalize their small churches by embracing their unique identity.
In 'Small Church, Big Opportunity', Sam Peters encourages small churches to view their size as an advantage rather than a limitation. The book offers strategies for small congregations to identify their unique strengths and leverage them for effective ministry. It emphasizes the importance of community engagement, relational discipleship, and creating a welcoming environment. Peters challenges the mindset that bigger is always better, and helps small church leaders discover innovative ways to thrive and make a significant impact in their communities. It provides practical advice and real-life examples to inspire and equip small churches for growth and success.
In 'Rebuilding Stronger: Navigating the Post-Pandemic Landscape of Worship', Sam Peters addresses the significant changes in worship practices resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic. The book offers practical strategies for churches to adapt and thrive in a new era of hybrid worship. Peters explores the importance of incorporating digital tools, maintaining community connections, and addressing the emotional and spiritual needs of congregations. It provides insights on how to create meaningful worship experiences both online and in-person, fostering a sense of belonging and spiritual growth. It serves as a valuable resource for church leaders seeking to navigate the challenges and opportunities of post-pandemic worship.
Karl Vaters interviews Sam Peters about the microchurch model, and more specifically, what are the minimum aspects that need to be in place for a church to be a church?
If you’re serving a small church that’s considering if you have a viable path forward, the microchurch model is worth considering, and Sam offers some help for thinking about it in fresh, new ways.
Sam Peters is a church consultant, and the author of several books, including Small Church, Big Opportunity; BIG Faith: Six Key Factors that Grow Your Faith in God, & Rebuilding Stronger: Navigating the Post-Pandemic Landscape of Worship.
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Bonus video
The Limitations of the Institutional Church in Reaching the Community
Karl Vaters interviews Sam Peters about some of the limitations that are now coming to light about the institutional church model (building, salary, etc.) that we’ve both spent our lives in. The challenges we talk about include:
1. Physical and Financial Constraints: Many churches invest most of their resources into maintaining buildings and programs rather than directly engaging the lost. This is especially difficult for smaller congregations.
2. Passive Churchgoers Instead of Active Disciple-Makers: Institutional churches can unintentionally foster a consumer mindset, where members attend services but are not equipped to lead or disciple others.
3. Limited Reach Beyond Church Walls: Most churches expect people to come to them rather than embedding the Gospel in everyday life and relationships.
4. Slow Adaptation to Cultural Shifts: In an age of rapid change, large churches with complex structures often struggle to pivot quickly to meet new challenges and opportunities.
5. Overemphasis on Sunday Gatherings: The primary focus in many churches is the Sunday experience, but disciple-making happens most effectively in smaller, relational environments.
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