Leadership Training Part 1: Building a Hopeful Future Through Authentic Community

 

Summary

We began our 2025 Leadership Training Workshop by laying a foundation of hope and vision. Today’s gathering focused on the hope and vision for our church’s future, rooted in God’s promises and practical wisdom. We began by acknowledging that while we cannot change the past, we are called to move forward together, trusting that God will do His part as we do ours. The heart of our mission is not simply to grow in numbers, but to meet real needs and bring healing to our community—just as Jesus did when He fed the five thousand. When we offer what little we have in obedience, God multiplies it beyond our expectations.

We reflected on the changing landscape of church life, noting that the days of institutional loyalty are gone. Today, people—especially the younger generation—are seeking authentic relationships and meaningful interaction. Our church’s strength lies in its relational core, small groups, and genuine love for one another. This is the foundation upon which we can build, as healthy, multi-generational relationships are the key to spiritual vitality and growth.

Leadership is crucial in this journey. We discussed the “three C’s” of leadership: character, compassion, and competence. Good leaders are honest, responsible, and filled with the fruit of the Spirit. They are also hungry to help others and willing to be trained. Our vision is to multiply leaders who embody these qualities, so that ministry can flourish at every level.

We explored practical strategies for outreach and discipleship, drawing from both past experiences and innovative models. Whether it’s children’s ministry, online small groups, or media outreach, the principle remains the same: meet people where they are, build relationships, and invite them into the life of the church. We learned from examples like Tommy Barnett and Steve Furtick, who grew their churches by focusing on children and families, and by adapting to the needs of their communities.

Finally, we emphasized the importance of persistence and follow-up. Growth doesn’t happen overnight, but through consistent, multi-faceted engagement—what we called “seven touches.” Every member has a role to play, not just the pastor. When we each reach out, share our stories, and welcome newcomers, God uses our efforts to draw people in and transform lives.

Key Takeaways

- God multiplies what we surrender. When we offer our limited resources—time, energy, or gifts—to meet the needs of others, God multiplies them in ways we could never predict. The story of the loaves and fishes reminds us that obedience with little can result in abundance for many, including ourselves. [07:00]

- Authentic relationships are the foundation of a thriving church. In a world skeptical of institutions, people are drawn to genuine community and interactivity. Our church’s strength lies in its small groups and loving connections, which are the soil where faith grows and new life takes root. [09:20]

- Leadership is about character, compassion, and competence. Effective leaders are not just skilled, but also trustworthy and deeply caring. When leaders embody the fruit of the Spirit and are committed to serving others, the entire church is lifted and empowered for ministry. [22:55]

- Adaptability and creativity are essential for outreach. Methods that worked in the past may not fit today’s context, but the mission remains the same. By learning from others, embracing new tools like online groups and media outreach, and being willing to “sniff and scurry” for new opportunities, we position ourselves for God’s blessing and growth. [39:03]

- Persistent, multi-faceted engagement is key to lasting impact. It often takes multiple “touches”—personal invitations, follow-up, events, and ongoing communication—before someone truly connects. Every member’s testimony and involvement matter, as God uses the whole body to draw people into His family. [01:18:58]

YOU MAY CLICK ANY OF THE TIMESTAMPS BELOW TO GO TO A CHAPTER IN THE VIDEO RECORDING.

Youtube Chapters

[00:00] - Welcome
[01:49] - Introduction and Overview
[07:00] - God’s Promise and Our Part
[09:20] - The Shift to Relationship-Based Ministry
[18:55] - Leading Through Change
[22:55] - The Three C’s of Leadership
[25:10] - Ezekiel’s Vision: Fresh Water for a Dying World
[26:43] - Community Outreach Success Stories
[29:28] - Multiplying Ministries and Vision Implementation
[33:54] - Lessons from Early Ministry and Door-to-Door Outreach
[39:03] - Adapting Outreach for Today
[47:17] - Children’s Ministry and Modern Models
[55:07] - Online Small Groups and Discipleship
[59:37] - Media Outreach and Digital Evangelism
[01:10:22] - Welcoming and Retaining Newcomers
[01:15:15] - Home Witnessing and Seven Touches
[01:24:22] - Q&A and Final Reflections
[01:27:41] - Pastoral Renewal and District Collaboration
[01:29:50] - Stewardship and Church Administration

Study Guide

FEEL FREE TO USE THE BELOW GUID FOR BIBLICAL BACKGROUND ON OUR APPROACH

Bible Study Discussion Guide: Hope and Vision for Our Church’s Future

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### Bible Reading

1. John 6:5-13 (ESV) – Jesus Feeds the Five Thousand
5 Lifting up his eyes, then, and seeing that a large crowd was coming toward him, Jesus said to Philip, “Where are we to buy bread, so that these people may eat?”
6 He said this to test him, for he himself knew what he would do.
7 Philip answered him, “Two hundred denarii worth of bread would not be enough for each of them to get a little.”
8 One of his disciples, Andrew, Simon Peter’s brother, said to him,
9 “There is a boy here who has five barley loaves and two fish, but what are they for so many?”
10 Jesus said, “Have the people sit down.” Now there was much grass in the place. So the men sat down, about five thousand in number.
11 Jesus then took the loaves, and when he had given thanks, he distributed them to those who were seated. So also the fish, as much as they wanted.
12 And when they had eaten their fill, he told his disciples, “Gather up the leftover fragments, that nothing may be lost.”
13 So they gathered them up and filled twelve baskets with fragments from the five barley loaves left by those who had eaten.

2. Galatians 5:22-23 (ESV) – The Fruit of the Spirit
22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness,
23 gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law.

3. Ezekiel 47:1-12 (ESV) – The River from the Temple (selected verses)
1 Then he brought me back to the door of the temple, and behold, water was issuing from below the threshold of the temple toward the east...
9 And wherever the river goes, every living creature that swarms will live, and there will be very many fish. For this water goes there, that the waters of the sea may become fresh; so everything will live where the river goes.
12 And on the banks, on both sides of the river, there will grow all kinds of trees for food. Their leaves will not wither, nor their fruit fail, but they will bear fresh fruit every month, because the water for them flows from the sanctuary. Their fruit will be for food, and their leaves for healing.

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Observation Questions

1. In the story of the feeding of the five thousand, what did Jesus do with the small amount of food that was offered? What was the result for both the crowd and the disciples?
(See John 6:5-13; [07:00])

2. According to the sermon, what are the “three C’s” of leadership, and why are they important for the church’s future?
([22:55])

3. What shift in church life did the pastor say is happening today, especially among younger generations?
([09:20])

4. In Ezekiel’s vision, what happens as the water flows farther from the temple? What does this symbolize for the church’s mission?
(Ezekiel 47:1-12; [25:10])

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Interpretation Questions

1. Why do you think Jesus chose to use the small offering of loaves and fish, instead of performing a miracle from nothing? What does this teach us about how God works with what we surrender?
([07:00])

2. The pastor emphasized that authentic relationships are now more important than institutional loyalty in church life. Why might this be the case in our current culture?
([09:20])

3. How do the “three C’s” (character, compassion, competence) reflect the fruit of the Spirit listed in Galatians 5:22-23? Why is it important for leaders to have all three?
([22:55])

4. The vision from Ezekiel describes water bringing life and healing wherever it goes. How might this image shape the way our church approaches outreach and ministry?
([25:10])

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Application Questions

1. Think about a time when you felt you had “only a little” to offer—whether time, energy, or resources. How might God be inviting you to surrender that “little” for Him to multiply?
([07:00])

2. The pastor said that people today are looking for authentic relationships, not just programs or events. What is one practical way you can build a genuine connection with someone in our church or community this month?
([09:20])

3. Of the “three C’s” of leadership—character, compassion, and competence—which one do you feel strongest in, and which one do you want to grow in? What is a specific step you can take to develop that area?
([22:55])

4. The sermon described “seven touches”—multiple points of contact before someone truly connects with the church. What are some creative ways you (personally or as a group) can be part of these “touches” for newcomers?
([01:18:58])

5. The pastor shared stories of adapting outreach methods, like using online groups or children’s ministry, to meet people where they are. Is there a new method or idea you feel called to try, even if it feels outside your comfort zone?
([39:03])

6. Ezekiel’s vision shows the river bringing life and healing. Where do you see “dry places” in our community that need God’s fresh water? How can you be part of bringing healing there?
([25:10])

7. The sermon said that every member’s testimony and involvement matters, not just the pastor’s. What is one story from your own faith journey that you could share with someone who is new or searching?
([01:18:58])

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Closing Prayer:
Ask God to help you see where He is already at work, to give you courage to offer what you have, and to multiply your efforts for His kingdom. Pray for authentic relationships, for new leaders to rise up, and for the Spirit to bring healing and new life through your church.

Devotional

Day 1: God Multiplies What We Offer in Faith
When we feel our resources are too small to make a difference, God calls us to offer what we have in faith and obedience. Just as Jesus fed the five thousand with five loaves and two fish, when we commit to meeting the needs of others—even with limited means—God multiplies our efforts beyond what we could imagine. The lesson is not to focus on our lack, but to trust that God will provide abundance when we step out to serve. [07:40]

John 6:5-13 (ESV)
5 Lifting up his eyes, then, and seeing that a large crowd was coming toward him, Jesus said to Philip, “Where are we to buy bread, so that these people may eat?” 6 He said this to test him, for he himself knew what he would do. 7 Philip answered him, “Two hundred denarii worth of bread would not be enough for each of them to get a little.” 8 One of his disciples, Andrew, Simon Peter’s brother, said to him, 9 “There is a boy here who has five barley loaves and two fish, but what are they for so many?” 10 Jesus said, “Have the people sit down.” Now there was much grass in the place. So the men sat down, about five thousand in number. 11 Jesus then took the loaves, and when he had given thanks, he distributed them to those who were seated. So also the fish, as much as they wanted. 12 And when they had eaten their fill, he told his disciples, “Gather up the leftover fragments, that nothing may be lost.” 13 So they gathered them up and filled twelve baskets with fragments from the five barley loaves left by those who had eaten.

Reflection: What is one “small” gift, talent, or resource you can offer to God this week, trusting Him to multiply it for the good of others?


Day 2: The Spirit Brings Life and Healing to the Community
God’s Spirit flows from His people like living water, bringing life, healing, and hope to those around them. Just as Ezekiel saw water flowing from the temple, growing deeper and bringing healing wherever it went, so too are we called to let the Spirit work through us to meet needs and bring restoration to our community. When we step out to serve, God draws people in and brings new life to places that seemed barren. [25:10]

Ezekiel 47:1-12 (ESV)
1 Then he brought me back to the door of the temple, and behold, water was issuing from below the threshold of the temple toward the east (for the temple faced east). The water was flowing down from below the south end of the threshold of the temple, south of the altar. 2 Then he brought me out by way of the north gate and led me around on the outside to the outer gate that faces toward the east; and behold, the water was trickling out on the south side. 3 Going on eastward with a measuring line in his hand, the man measured a thousand cubits, and then led me through the water, and it was ankle-deep. 4 Again he measured a thousand, and led me through the water, and it was knee-deep. Again he measured a thousand, and led me through the water, and it was waist-deep. 5 Again he measured a thousand, and it was a river that I could not pass through, for the water had risen. It was deep enough to swim in, a river that could not be passed through. 6 And he said to me, “Son of man, have you seen this?” Then he led me back to the bank of the river. 7 As I went back, I saw on the bank of the river very many trees on the one side and on the other. 8 And he said to me, “This water flows toward the eastern region and goes down into the Arabah, and enters the sea; when the water flows into the sea, the water will become fresh. 9 And wherever the river goes, every living creature that swarms will live, and there will be very many fish. For this water goes there, that the waters of the sea may become fresh; so everything will live where the river goes. 10 Fishermen will stand beside the sea. From Engedi to Eneglaim it will be a place for the spreading of nets. Its fish will be of very many kinds, like the fish of the Great Sea. 11 But its swamps and marshes will not become fresh; they are to be left for salt. 12 And on the banks, on both sides of the river, there will grow all kinds of trees for food. Their leaves will not wither, nor their fruit fail, but they will bear fresh fruit every month, because the water for them flows from the sanctuary. Their fruit will be for food, and their leaves for healing.”

Reflection: Where do you see spiritual dryness or need in your community, and how can you let God’s Spirit flow through you to bring healing or hope this week?


Day 3: Building Relationships is the Foundation for Church Growth
True growth in the church comes not from programs or traditions, but from authentic relationships and interactivity. People are drawn to communities where they feel known, loved, and connected—not just to an institution, but to one another and to God. Focusing on building genuine relationships across generations creates a healthy, vibrant church that attracts and retains people of all ages. [09:20]

Romans 12:9-13 (ESV)
9 Let love be genuine. Abhor what is evil; hold fast to what is good. 10 Love one another with brotherly affection. Outdo one another in showing honor. 11 Do not be slothful in zeal, be fervent in spirit, serve the Lord. 12 Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer. 13 Contribute to the needs of the saints and seek to show hospitality.

Reflection: Who in your church or community could you reach out to this week to build a deeper, more authentic relationship with, and how might you take a step toward that today?


Day 4: Embracing Change with Faith and Action
Change is inevitable, and while it can be uncomfortable, those who move forward in faith—rather than getting stuck in hesitation or nostalgia—are the ones who experience God’s blessings. Like the “sniff and scurry” characters who found new cheese by acting instead of hemming and hawing, we are called to step out, try new things, and trust that God will guide and provide as we go. [21:30]

Isaiah 43:18-19 (ESV)
18 “Remember not the former things,
nor consider the things of old.
19 Behold, I am doing a new thing;
now it springs forth, do you not perceive it?
I will make a way in the wilderness
and rivers in the desert.”

Reflection: What is one area where you have been hesitant to embrace change in your church or personal life, and what is one concrete step you can take this week to move forward in faith?


Day 5: Every Member Plays a Vital Role in Outreach
The most effective outreach happens when every member participates, not just the pastor or leaders. Personal testimonies, follow-up, and genuine care from the congregation are what truly draw people in and help them feel at home. When each person takes responsibility for welcoming, connecting, and inviting others, the church becomes a living, growing body that reflects Christ’s love to all who enter. [01:18:58]

1 Corinthians 12:12-14, 27 (ESV)
12 For just as the body is one and has many members, and all the members of the body, though many, are one body, so it is with Christ. 13 For in one Spirit we were all baptized into one body—Jews or Greeks, slaves or free—and all were made to drink of one Spirit. 14 For the body does not consist of one member but of many. ... 27 Now you are the body of Christ and individually members of it.

Reflection: What is one practical way you can personally welcome, follow up with, or encourage someone new in your church this week?

HERE ARE SOME KEY QUOTES FROM OUR SESSION:

Quotes

Don't think there's something wrong with your church because there's people who get, you know, bent out of shape when something has changed. Don't think there's something wrong with your church when somebody complains about something that is not the way it's always been. That's the way it is everywhere. [00:20:27] (19 seconds)  #EmbraceChange Edit Clip

If we don't sniff and scurry, we won't have a church. If we do, we have a chance. So we have to go forward if there's any expectation whatsoever of success. [00:22:49] (17 seconds)  #MoveForwardToSucceed Edit Clip

The Spirit, the Holy Spirit that is in each and every one of us, our task, our commission is to bring fresh water to a dying world. If we bring that, the fish will swarm to it and also let us be those trees as well that we might be able to heal. [00:25:52] (29 seconds)  #SpiritBringsLife Edit Clip

Everybody just wants the result. What do they want? They want to see 200 people in church and they want to see a 30 member choir. But you know what? You start with one and two and three and four and five and you keep sniffing and scurrying until you have whatever, you know, a choir of 15 people and you got 80 people in the church. [00:29:44] (21 seconds)  #StartSmallGrowBig Edit Clip