Ridgeline Church, just 3 years old, has seen big growth in numbers and discipleship because Pastor Steven got rid of the dirty dozen.
Former Costco manager turned Assemblies of God pastor Steven Long says his 12 barriers to growth are common sense, but not commonly addressed.
In this interview Steven borrows from his business background to name the things that keep people from going to church.
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Synopsis
It starts with a lack of prayer and ends with the charge to love people – that’s how Steven Long bookends his 12 Barriers to Church Growth. In between are a number of practical implications that may inspire you to think more deeply about how you do church. Here are my notes from the interview:
Mature Christians Make Christians
Steven compares biology to spirituality and says the mark of a mature Christian is one who can, and does, replicate. Bringing others to the Lord, says Long, is the sign of the mature Christian.
You’ve Got 17 Minutes
That’s how long it takes a newcomer to decide whether or not they’ll be back, so Steven says car parkers, greeters and ushers play a more influential role than the preacher.
Look to Disney
Steven says churches stand to learn lots from Disney’s way of pacing, scripting, and sculpting entertainment experiences. He says churches need to learn from pop culture, sanctify what they can, and use it for God’s glory.
About Steven Long
Steven served in three Costco wholesale warehouses in California before heeding God’s call to be a full-time pastor. Most recently he was the Executive Pastor of Radiant Church in Surprise, AZ; a church of 5,000 in weekend attendance. Once named the 18th fastest growing church in America, he was responsible for the operations of Radiant. In the spring of 2007, God confirmed a dream to launch a new church in the west valley of Phoenix, AZ. On January 24th, 2008, Steven and Cheri launched the first “vision” meeting in their home. They believe in using the performing arts to effectively communicate the life-transforming truth of the Bible. They are committed to making sure your worship experience is anything but boring.
Books Steven Recommends
Axiom – Bill Hybels
The Power of a Whisper – Bill Hybels
Next Generation Leader - Andy Stanley
