I'm a naysayer when it comes to establishing video venues for churches. I know some churches are having terrific success at drawing crowds with them. But they violate a personal core value of mine, which is to equip ordinary people for great roles in ministry.
I often acknowledge the speaking and leadership opportunities my dad gave me at his small church in Ohio almost 10 years ago. It was the turning point of my life and career. If I had grown up in a Willow or Northpoint, I wouldn't have had the opportunity to develop the confidence and skills for what I do today.
I like to draw out ideas to their full logical conclusions, and video venues just lead to a bad place for me... A one-world church? Only the most gifted teachers serving in up-front roles? Plus, if videos constitute church, why leave my cozy covers in the morning? Just click-on 'Hour of Power' or Osteen.
My father in law always says 'Every organization is perfectly designed to achieve the results that it gets.' Our end-goal is not attendance. It's transformed lives by the power of the Gospel. If people are going to experience transformed lives, they need open opportunities to develop their ministry potential without being talented professionals.
I go back and forth on them. Right now North Point is starting one about 6 miles from us so I am against them. :)
Posted by: Gary | June 20, 2005 at 08:32 PM