Free Book: STAR Power

STAR Power by Hamp Lee III

The purpose of STAR Power is to address how we as leaders, pastors, etc. can motivate volunteers. Within my own ministry settings, the subject of motivating volunteers is almost non-existent. So many churches are looking for volunteers, but how many are striving to keep them motivated? I'm sure each of you knows at least 10 people (right now) that are stressed and burned out in ministry...with little or no motivation.

This short booklet addresses this issue under the headings of Support, Training, Appreciation, and Restoration (STAR). STAR Power provides a quick look into an area long overdue - motivate your volunteers!

To download or read (online) STAR Power, please access the following links:

READ ONLINE // DOWNLOAD

Home arrow Church arrow The Division in Denominations
The Division in Denominations Print E-mail
Written by Hamp Lee III   
Sunday, 06 August 2006

The definition for denomination is 'the act of naming or calling by name; any specially named class or group of things or people; a religious group or sect.' (Funk & Wagnalls Dictionary)

I think denominations and non-denominational churches can be divisive. Even among races, genders, and social or economic strata, Christians (likewise) seem to group themselves with like-minded individuals. We align with people that believe what we believe, act the way we act, preach like messages, etc. (I'm not saying one denomination is right or wrong, but this is evident across America and around the world.)

To be honest, I believe it should not matter if you are Southern Baptist, COGIC, Church of Christ, etc. They each represent a specific paradigm of Christianity (actions, thought, and dress) that should not be magnified above the worldwide Body of Christ.

When someone asks you what denomination you are a part of, they will 'assimilate' you based upon your response (the characteristics of the denomination). If you were to say you are a Christian, many would not be able to understand or accept that response - they would need some specific answer on how to 'categorize' you. As disciples of Jesus Christ, we can and should be categorized with the same characteristics of Jesus Christ because that is God's will (Romans 8:29)...and we are His followers!

Many people can get so focused on their denomination that they don't see themselves as part of the worldwide Body of Christ. Based upon many people's actions and statements, they would believe their denomination represents the entire Body of Christ (worldwide). The Body of Christ represents all believers of Jesus and not just those that carry similar doctrines and paradigms of beliefs.

Today, we find many denominations and non-denominational churches created out of the refusal to dwell among those with differing opinions, etc. For many, it seems much easier to create another denomination or non-denominational church than to stay among the brethren and work out various differences of opinion (when they do not lead to sin or disbelief in Jesus).

(i.e. As an African-American, I can't walk in some churches in the South and be accepted based on my belief in Jesus Christ.)

John 13:34-35 (KJV) - A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another. By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another.

Our 'goal' is be to known as disciples of Jesus Christ because of our love for others. There are over 200 denominations around the world, but what will they matter if none of the members can be identified as disciples of Jesus Christ based on their love?

 
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