Caretakers, Reformers & Entrepreneurs

I received this email from a pastor-friend yesterday and thought I’d share an edited version of his question and my response with all of you.

I was curious as you plant The Gateway Church if you think the future of most successful growing churches will be established or planted churches? There seems to be pro's and con's to both sides. I guess I am asking you as a fellow young minister do you think that planting or revitalization is easier to pull off? Looking ahead for us we are wondering if planting would be a good option, going on staff would be best or to stay here and continue to build off the last 3 years. Obviously we want to be led by God, but just wondering what you kind of thought on this topic?

Overall I think the Kingdom needs both new churches and revitalized churches, but the truth is neither is doing that great of a job reaching lost people. Over the last decade thousands of churches have been "revitalized" and become “megachurches.” Over that same time period thousands of new churches have been planted. And yet, overall the number of Christ-followers in our country has declined. Bottom line: we're good at transferring Christians, we're just not very good at reaching the lost.

On a personal level, I think it comes down to how God has wired you. I think there are basically three types of pastors:

• Caretakers: these are content pastoring a small church of saints into eternity. There is no growth, but the people are well cared for by the pastor (who does it all).

• Reformers: these pastors can take an old church and overhaul the systems and programs, inspire people to change, and begin to reach the next generation. God has gifted them to deal with criticism from the "saints." They have the patience and endurance to turn a big ship in a new direction.

• Entrepreneurs: these pastors don't have that kind of patience. They desperately want to reach the lost and don't have the time to waste on transforming old systems. God has given them unique vision that requires new wineskins.

My advice, find out how God has wired you and fulfill God's Kingdom mission in that role to the best of your ability. Whatever you do, don't try to be someone you are not.