Ten years ago I partnered with Bobby Harrington to write the book DiscipleShift, where we talked about the the need we were seeing for relational disciple making in churches around the country. Since that time we have actually seen many churches and church leaders make a shift towards disciple making, at least in their language and programs.
Unfortunately, relationships are universally hard work, and many churches and leaders still have a weakness in that area. This struggle is not new, relational conflicts are woven throughout the Bible, and in the new testament both Jesus and the early churches had relational issues to deal with.
In my dealings with other church leaders, I have consistently found them to be some of the lonliest people in the world. Statistics show that right now many pastors are leaving the ministry and looking for jobs elsewhere. Why? Because the form of Christianity that they are living is not leading to an abundant life..
If this is true for pastors, then what are the ramifications of those who attend the churches those Pastors lead? If we are going to succeed in getting our churches to turn towards a relational model of discipleship, it has to begin with us.
I have just released a new book called RelationShift that is addressing this very issue. RelationShift will walk you through the five shifts you need to make that will help you cultivate real relationships with real people.
If you are a church leader and find yourself struggling to find strong relationships where you can be transparent and vulnerable, I believe that is right where Satan would like you to stay. I would challenge you to take a step towards some deeper connections, reach out to some trusted people and begin some conversations. Maybe this book with give you the push you need to begin to make a change.
If we are going to succeed in getting our churches to turn towards a relational model of discipleship, it has to begin with us. Share on X
You can get a copy of RelationShift HERE
