Finishing the Race: A Guide to Stewardship

We should not outsource our discipleship to great speakers and writers who cater to our needs but cannot provide difficult truths. The central image is being embedded in a community centered on Christ. Listeners should interrogate their desire for their pastor to lead the church to bigger and better heights and examine their own motives for wanting that image of success. The American church puts too much emphasis on growth at all costs, leading to the ends justifying the means mentality. It is important to understand that not every church is called to be a mega church and growth should not be equated with God's blessing. Deep-rooted spiritual growth and ordinary faithfulness should be prioritized over mere excitement and growth that may eventually decline.