Francis Chan Q&A - What decisions within We Are Church do you think helped prepare us for COVID?

Summary

In this insightful discussion, the speaker reflects on the importance of building resilient church communities, emphasizing the need to prepare congregants for life's challenges rather than simply maintaining comfort. Drawing parallels to parenting, the speaker advocates for a mindset shift towards spiritual mentorship, enabling individuals to rely on their faith during hardships. The conversation highlights the disconnect between loving church activities and truly loving Jesus, urging a deeper engagement with spiritual practices. Ultimately, the speaker stresses that true preparation empowers believers to thrive independently, even amid adversity.

Takeaways

• 😀 The importance of building resilient churches that can worship and function regardless of external challenges.
• 😀 Early recognition of changing privileges for churches can help prepare communities for future crises.
• 😀 Viewing church members as spiritual children emphasizes the need for equipping them for life's challenges.
• 😀 True preparation involves fostering independence and spiritual maturity among congregants.
• 😀 Encouraging individuals to engage deeply with Scripture promotes personal ownership of faith.
• 😀 Many people may be more attached to church activities than to a personal relationship with Jesus.
• 😀 The pandemic offers an opportunity for individuals to deepen their personal devotion during isolation.
• 😀 Churches should promote reliance on the Holy Spirit rather than solely on institutional structures.
• 😀 Emphasizing adventure and faith can inspire congregants to creatively engage with challenges.
• 😀 True spiritual growth often emerges from adversity, highlighting the need for robust faith foundations.

Q & A

What was Bill Gates' warning in his TED talk?

Bill Gates warned that the world was not prepared for a pandemic, highlighting the need for better readiness and response strategies.

How did the speaker's views on church resilience evolve over time?

The speaker began to see the importance of preparing the church for potential crises, advocating for resilience in worship and community practices even before the COVID-19 pandemic.

What is the main concern expressed about church practices?

The concern is that many churches focus on keeping members happy and engaged in activities, rather than preparing them spiritually for difficult times.

What analogy does the speaker use to describe his role as a church leader?

The speaker likens his role to that of a spiritual parent, emphasizing the responsibility to equip congregants for life's challenges, much like a parent prepares their children.

What shift in mindset does the speaker advocate for in church leadership?

The speaker advocates for a shift from a focus on comfort and happiness to fostering resilience and spiritual independence among church members.

How does the speaker view the relationship between personal faith and church attendance?

The speaker suggests that true faith should thrive regardless of church attendance, arguing that individuals should find joy and strength in their personal relationship with Jesus.

What example does the speaker give about church planters?

The speaker contrasts two types of church planters: one who demands financial support to start a church and another who prefers to begin in a garage with minimal resources, highlighting a spirit of adventure and reliance on God.

What qualities does the speaker believe should be nurtured in church members?

The speaker believes church members should be encouraged to develop independence, confidence in their spiritual abilities, and a deep relationship with Jesus.

What is the potential risk mentioned if church members are overly dependent on church activities?

If members are too dependent on organized church activities, they may struggle to maintain their faith and connection to God if those activities are disrupted.

How does the speaker define good shepherding in a church context?

Good shepherding involves preparing congregants to face life's challenges independently and fostering a deep love for Jesus rather than just a love for church activities.