The Next Chapter

On By Rob PrinceLeave a comment

Twelve and a half years ago, people kept asking me, “Why would you leave a great church like Central Church in Lenexa, Kansas to go to Flint, Michigan?”

Lenexa is a beautiful city with every amenity you could want. The church is practically in the back yard of the Global Ministry Center of the Church of the Nazarene. The pastor who preceded me is a General Superintendent. It was (and still is) a fantastic church. So why leave? Especially to a city that, at the time, carried the unwanted moniker of “murder capital of the United States” — complete with notoriously bumpy Michigan roads. 

Now, twelve and a half years later — after a water crisis, a global pandemic, and everything else the Enemy could throw at us (yes, the roads are still bumpy) — I’m hearing the same question again: “Why would you leave a great church like Flint Central? God has done such powerful things here — why leave now?”  

The answer is the same both times: We believe God is calling us to a new adventure. (Honesty alert: Having our grandkids living close by in Kansas didn’t hurt in the decision making process. The Lord is good.)

This next chapter involves working through the Nazarene Bible College to launch a new pastoral training center — one still waiting for the right name. Its purpose is clear: to come alongside struggling, isolated, and lonely pastors with a simple message — “We are here for you.”  The vision is to encourage, equip, shape, and form a new generation of evangelistic holiness preachers — then mobilize them into a world that desperately needs the hope of Jesus. We want to help District Superintendents identify and release dynamic, fire-in-their-bones pastors ready to step into fields that are still “white unto harvest.”

I’m deeply honored to be on the ground floor of this effort. It’s incredibly exciting. The time for action is now. Simply put, we need courageous, on fire for Jesus pastors— more than ever. We aren’t looking for warm bodies to fill troubled pulpits. We need a God-empowered, Jesus-like, Spirit-filled army of men and women who are ready to answer the call. Whether it’s busy metropolises, small rural towns or the far corners of the earth (my first church was in Bad Axe, Michigan — qualifying as both a small rural town and a “far corner of the earth”), we believe God is not finished with any place or any people.

It’s a new day. Revival is on the horizon. Do you sense it? God is raising up men and women for ministry right now. The master of roadblocks and procrastination — our Enemy — is whispering lies: “God might be calling you… but not yet. Wait for a better time.” Don’t listen. There is no better time. Your wires aren’t crossed. God is calling — and help is on the way. This new Center will walk with people as they step fully into God’s call in fresh, dynamic, and life-changing ways. People living in darkness are about to encounter the light of Christ through pastors loving and living into the calling God has placed upon their lives.

“See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland.”
— Isaiah 43:19

This Pastor (Curmudgeonly?) Reminisces the “Good Old Days”

On By Rob Prince4 Comments

More and more I find myself reminiscing the “good old days.” How life was better. Simpler. Does that make me a curmudgeon? “Hey, you rotten kids, get off my lawn.” Maybe it does.

In the good old days, people sat in waiting rooms looking at outdated magazines or (believe it or not) actually talked to one another. Now we just look at our phones as if we were wearing a sign reading, “Don’t bother me.” Can’t we have polite conversations with our fellow humans anymore? 

In the good old days, people gossiped. One chattery phone call at a time. Now, on social media we see all the dirty laundry and gossip– every wretched morsel. Must we post every minutia true or false?

In the good old days, leaders could fall. Of course, they could. People are human. But when leaders fell, unless it was a larger than life figure (Can you say, “Jimmy Swaggart”?), we didn’t hear about it. Maybe it happened at the same rate in the good old days, but we didn’t hear about it. Now, every time a church or Christian failure makes the headlines, I get a little more discouraged. Does anyone live a holy life anymore?

In the good old days, we trusted that people had mostly good intentions. Now everyone from politicians to preachers to police officers to school board officials to well, everyone… is looked upon suspiciously. We don’t trust others anymore. 

In the good old days, church folks could vote different from me, and I still thought of them as brothers and sisters in Christ. Now, if I don’t vote like my fellow church members I am either a fascist, a socialist or just plain dumb or some combination of the three; and I certainly can’t be a Christian (unless I’m just plain dumb. Jesus loves dumb people too). Can’t we disagree charitably anymore? 

In the good old days, people got mad and angry. They still do. It just seems that folks get angrier faster theses days. People are more vulgar too. Common decency isn’t so common. Can’t we learn to turn down the temperature instead of throwing gasoline on every single thing?

In the good old days, evangelical was a Christian term. It meant Christians believed they were to share the good news of Jesus Christ to our non-Christian neighbors. Now evangelical is a political term and it brings with it all kinds of baggage much of which does not look like Jesus at all. Whatever happen to the “What would Jesus do bracelets?  Maybe we need to get them out of our junk drawers and start wearing them again (and actually doing what Jesus would do). 

The good old days weren’t always good. I don’t want to overlook the many sins of the past. People needed Jesus then. People still do. It just seems that we need Jesus now more than ever. 

Are Revival Services like the Penny— have they lost their value?

On By Rob Prince5 Comments

The last penny came off the press yesterday. Pennies started being made in 1793. Back then a penny bought a biscuit, a candle, or some candy. Today, it costs about four cents to make a penny. I wasn’t a math major but it seems that if it costs four times the amount to make a penny than what it is worth, it quite literally is not a money making venture. The penny had to die. It didn’t make financial sense to make cents. 

I wonder if there are things that have lost their value in the church? Do we do things that no longer make sense, but cost cents (sometimes a lot more than cents)? Every church that I have been a part of has had a few sacred cows hanging around that probably could have been let out to pasture years ago. Sometimes we do things that don’t necessarily cost cents, but still have no value and should be buried.

The opposite is also true, there might be things that have immense value that we have let go by the wayside because the bottom line. For example, I wonder if spiritual renewal weeks (revival services) fall into this category. A yearly (even semi-annually) revival meetings were common place fifty years ago. Today, most churches no longer have them. The unsaved have other things to do. School activities take out many students and parents from evening services. Other busyness invades our time. The seasoned saints felt they no longer needed such gatherings. Attendance dropped. It grew costly. There are better ways to spend money. I’ve heard all the arguments. Churches don’t see the value in the special services. It’s like the penny. They cost more than they are worth.

But is that true? Revival/spiritual renewal services still can have immense value. In fact, it makes no spiritual sense to call them off. No matter the cost. 

Our spiritual renewal services are preceded by a 24/7 prayer week. We are convinced spiritual renewal should be bathed in prayer. There are three people in the building (two hosts and one pray-er) for every hour from Sunday to Sunday. Next, from Sunday to Wednesday, we have special services. We provide a free meal before the weekday meetings. We start early (5:30 meal; 6:30 service) so young families can still attend. We provide children’s services (it’s not babysitting. It’s age appropriate children’s worship). We do our best to allow our “regular” worship leaders and pastors to have the services off—so that they can receive the blessing of spiritual renewal (maybe those leading need spiritual renewal the most. We don’t want our leaders to have the well run dry). We bring in excellent speakers. It’s an important rhythm of our church. We ask folks to prioritize the gatherings. We remind them that we all need it. Pastors included. Hitting pause on our busy schedules and settling to hear what the Lord has for us has immense value. It’s not like the penny.

What’s the value in one person saved? One marriage renewed? One teenager called in to the ministry? One person healed? One discouraged saint reinvigorated? The penny might not be worth the time and effort to make them anymore. The same cannot be said for times of spiritual renewal.

We lost them

On By Rob PrinceLeave a comment

Several years ago, the Church of the Nazarene made a decadal emphasis on reaching the next generation. A powerful video was made announcing the effort (see it here).  “You’re losing us” multiple minors warned. The video closed with various children telling their ages in ten years. Several years later, I’m curious where those kids are now?  Did we, in fact, lose them? My guess is, in many cases, we did.

In the decade that followed the video, budget cuts eliminated positions in the global children’s ministry leadership team. If memory serves, we announced the children and youth emphasis, then did nothing about it. No real follow up was offered. So now, a several later, most Nazarene churches have fewer children than they did ten years ago. Our decadal emphasis did nothing. Many churches have less than five children who regularly attend. Some have zero kids and no prospects of reaching any. Those churches are dead. They just don’t know it.

A quote attributed to C.S. Lewis is true (no matter who said it first): “Children are not a distraction for a more important work, they are the most important work.” It’s time to move Manual paragraph 922 regarding the Value of Children and Youth out of the appendix and onto the front page. Every church (Every. Single. Church.) should prioritize reaching boys and girls for Jesus. Turn the worship services into a training centers. Turn potlucks into prayer sessions. Understandably, not every church can afford a “children’s pastor,” but no church can afford to forget about the children in their communities. Every pastor must become a “children’s pastor” no matter his/her role in the church.

We don’t need another Bible study for people who already know the Bible. We need mentors and tutors in elementary schools. Allow the boy or girl scouts or children advocacy groups to meet in the building. Host trunk or treat events. Offer free babysitting to single moms or invite support meetings for foster parents. Make an all-out, anything goes, no holds bar effort to reach boys and girls for Jesus. We need a true emphasis on reaching boys and girls, not just a well-produced video. 

The future of the denomination hangs in the balance. Reach children or die. 

Note: Thankfully some positive signs are afoot. The addition of Global children’s discipleship advocates, Trey and Candice Brooks, is a great start. They are terrific. I just hope it’s not too little too late.

When Revival Comes to America

On By Rob PrinceLeave a comment

Did you see the social media post recently listing Bible sales and music downloads as an indicator of a religious revival in America? In response, church researcher, Ryan Burge, stated that for even a 3% church attendance increase (over the general population in USA), it would mean (on average) every church in America (about 300,000 houses of worship) would increase attendance by 35 people in the last 90 days. The average church in America has 75 people. Has every church grown to 110? “On the ground reporting doesn’t match that reality,” he said. According to Burge, while there are examples of a church here or there showing remarkable growth, increased attendance is not happening. Most churches are in decline. But are Bible sales, music downloads or even church attendance indicators of revival? I’m not so sure.

When revival comes to America, we will know it. Everyone will know it—Christian and non-Christian alike will know it. It won’t be a church here or a church there experiencing the power of the Holy Spirit. It will be a fresh wind sweeping across our land. It will result in changed hearts and changed churches, but also changed workplaces and schools. Justice will roll like a mighty stream. Relationships will be restored. Wrongs will be righted. Forgiveness offered and received. God’s kingdom coming to earth as it is in heaven, in other words.

When revival comes to America, there probably will be more Bibles sold, more Christian songs downloaded and more “butts in the pews,” but it will be much more than that. The hungry will be fed. Prisoners will be visited. Strangers welcomed. Sinners and non-sinners alike would be blessed by a mighty revival. The name of Jesus will be lifted high across the land. 

When revival to comes to America, there will be a burning, ever-present longing for Jesus. I want that. I really do. I am praying for that end. it will mean commitment. I’m not talking about the sacrifice from strangers in the great unknown corners of the country, I’m talking about me. I’m praying revival starts in me. It will mean letting go of my desires and seeking Jesus with all I have. I’m praying for the courage to be willing to do everything needed to see revival happen in the church, in our land and in me.

When revival comes to America, I will be changed.

Money led vs Spirit led churches

On By Rob PrinceLeave a comment

Money led churches worry.
Spirit led churches trust.

Money led churches don’t want to offend big donors.
Spirit led churches don’t want to offend the Holy Spirit.

Money led churches think of their pastors as employees.
Spirit led churches think of their pastors as men and women called by God.

Money led churches look at the bottom line.
Spirit led churches keep an eye on the finish line.

Money led churches play it safe.
Spirit led churches take risks.

Money led churches love their neighbor… if they can afford it.
Spirit led churches love their neighbor… period. 

Money led church view success in terms of profit.
Spirit led churches view success in following the Old Testament prophets.

Money led churches continually ask for more money.
Spirit led churches continually seek more of the Spirit.

Money led churches think of what they can get out of people.
Spirit led churches think of what they can give to people.

Money led churches say “no” when it doesn’t make financial sense.
Spirit led churches say ‘Yes” in spite of dollar and cents.

Money led churches count the cost of every program.
Spirit led churches count the cost of every person.

Money led churches are greedy.
Spirit led churches are generous.

Money led churches in the end have no money.
Spirit led churches in the end have the Spirit of God.

Money led churches close.
Spirit led churches thrive.

Let’s be a Spirit led church!

Here’s the First Step in Saving Dying Churches

On By Rob PrinceLeave a comment

Did the Macedonian church have the “secret sauce” to keep churches open and pulpits filled that is missing today? Last week, Axios stated that 15,000 churches could close this year (Read it here). I wrote the need to fill pulpits  (read it here ). Paul wrote: In the midst of a very severe trial, their overflowing joy and their extreme poverty welled up in rich generosity. For I testify that they gave as much as they were able, and even beyond their ability. 1 Corinthians 8:2-3

What you just read is impossible. Absolutely impossible. The Macedonians in “severe trial” still were experiencing “overflowing joy” and “rich generosity.” That’s not the impossible part (Jesus brings joy in the most difficult circumstances), what Paul wrote next is impossible: they gave “even beyond their ability.” How can one do that? You can only give what you can give. How can you give “beyond your ability”? That level of giving only happens as one is obedient to the enabling and providing whisper of the Holy Spirit. If we are going to fill all of the soon-to-be-empty pulpits and stop church closings, we need churches full of “beyond-their-ability” givers. 

The church closing and empty pulpit crisis is as much an economic issue as it is a spiritual one. There is not enough money in the offering plates. Pastors can’t feed their families on what the church can afford to pay. Maybe there are a faithful few who’ve been giving “beyond their ability” but not enough parishioners are doing so (Edited to read: some churches have closed even as the faithful have given “beyond their ability.” Church closures are not always economic, in other words). 

Historically, many churches had people giving beyond their ability. In more than one of the churches I’ve pastored there are stories of faithful people mortgaging their homes because the church experienced a financial crisis. One church would pass the plates; the ushers would count the money; and, if there wasn’t enough, they’d pass them again. Such sacrifice is unheard of these days. What pastor would have the gall (courage?) to make such an appeal?

The greatest transfer of wealth is happening in the next 10-15 years. Not coincidently, the greatest need for pastors is happening in the next 10-15 years. What would happen if faithful followers tithed in their wills? I’m not suggesting writing family out of their will or trust, but simply tithing as they are “promoted to glory.” Folks have been faithful in life, could they be faithful in death too. This bequest could be to a local church or (dream with me for a minute) a special endowment* set up by a denomination to supplement the pastor’s salary in churches with an annual income below a certain amount. 

A compelling case could be made to wealthy donors that in order to save churches, we need a several million dollar endowment to invest in the lives of pastors. This is pastor appreciation month, what better way to appreciate pastors than to make it so these servants of the Lord are not living below the poverty line (like I did when pastoring in Bad Axe, Michigan years ago). Lifting the financial burden is one way to fill pulpits and stop the closing of churches. 

Maybe the church’s longevity could be extended as people (rich and no-so-rich) give beyond their ability in life and death. I pray that like the Macedonian churches, in the midst of severe trial, there will well up in us “overwhelming joy” and “rich generosity.” Such faithful giving just might save the church for years to come!

*The math for a pastoral salary supplement endowment is daunting. To truly work on a large nationwide scale, several million dollars (estimated: in excess of $250 million) would need to be invested to payout enough to actually help pastors. Depending on how many pastors would be eligible, the numbers could make establishing such an endowment difficult but not impossible. Not if there is “overwhelming joy and rich generosity.” 

Help Wanted: Pastors in Small towns, Rural areas and inner cities (actually everywhere)

On By Rob PrinceLeave a comment

Why is pastoring an existing church in rural America or in an inner city so undesirable that few are willing to go? Is it that hard? That unaffordable? That unfruitful? Seemingly, many think so. Has the Spirit quit calling people?  I hardly think so. Unfortunately, many churches will close if would-be-ministers don’t heed or don’t hear the Spirit’s call.  

Pastoring anywhere these days is hard. Make no mistake, it’s tougher today than when I started pastoring at the Bad Axe Church of the Nazarene in beautiful Bad Axe, Michigan (yes, that’s a real town). Pastors face loneliness, political angst, anxiety, little compensation, complaints, social media monsters, complaints, distractions, addictions, complaints, stuck-in-the-past parishioners, carnal members (“carnal” isn’t a modern word, but it’s still a modern ailment) and far more difficulties than past generations. The hardships are different from the ones that Paul faced, but life’s challenges are still ever present. 

According to Acts 20:22-24, the Spirit “compelled” Paul to go to Jerusalem. He didn’t know what was awaiting him. He had a pretty good idea it wasn’t going to be easy. In every other city, he had faced prison and hardships. Jerusalem would probably be no different. In response to the Spirit, Paul proclaimed that his life meant nothing compared to the task of testifying to the grace of God which he was called to complete. 

We need similar Pauline willingness and courage. The fields are still “white unto harvest” to use Jesus’ analogy. In the next 10-15 years as the current pastors retire or are “promoted to glory,” unless people obey the Spirit’s compelling call, many churches will close. There are just not enough willing-to-go pastors to fill all of the soon-to-be empty pulpits. Who will go to the small rural places? Who will go into tough inner cities? Who will pastor the handful of faithful followers of Jesus in difficult places with little money and less recognition? Take note: It’s hard. It’s sacrificial. There is little glory.  But so needed!

Shh… listen… is the Spirit is calling you? Is the Spirit calling me? 

Young people, men, women, teenagers, second career individuals, and recently retired are you listening? Is there anyone with a fire in your belly for the lost? The Spirit is still calling. There are plenty of places in need of faithful pastors (not just rural and inner cities). Will anyone heed His compelling invitation? Such individuals are out there! Courageous ministers, like Paul, are still out there. Churches in rural areas, small towns, in our cities and everywhere in between need these Kingdom builders! Keep listening. Keep obeying. Willing  workers, the Kingdom needs us!  The Spirit is calling. He/she who has ears let them hear.

Jesus Wept

On By Rob Prince1 Comment

When Paul wrote how believers are to “mourn with those that mourn”(Romans 12:15), he didn’t include in that directive to  check passports or voting records or social media posts first. He meant as you put yourself in the shoes of others, mourn as if it were your child, your spouse or your parent.  

This week’s 24th anniversary of 9-11 and the violence in our country (murders of the Ukrainian woman, a political activist in Utah, and the school shooting in Colorado –the 47th of 2025) shook the nation. There were those who chose to respond to these occurrences with outright glee or turning the blind eye of indifference. Clearly neither are acceptable responses for the American tragedies. Nor should the same extremes be evident in the deaths in Gaza or Ukraine or anywhere else in the world where evil and murder seem to reign. Death (in any form) is the enemy on display at Golgotha. It’s the bitter foe defeated in Christ’s empty tomb. 

Put yourself in the other’s shoes. Lace up the tennis shoes of the children who will be in school knowing  their classmates are dead or marred for life. Step into the sandals of a mother in Gaza who’s child was killed because of a bomb. Put on the heels of Erika Kirk as she navigates life with two children and no husband. Slip into the loafers of Iryna Zarutska’s mother who is dealing with the horror that her daughter survived a war but not a bus ride in America. For that matter, put on the boots of the father, who turned in his son for the assignation of Charlie Kirk. It’s not about politics. It is about Christian concern and empathy. 

It is just as troubling to have people happily lashing out about Kirk’s death and those who ignore school shootings or deaths in war. Jesus called us to love our neighbors and love our enemies. To love is to come alongside in grief. To offer hope amongst a hopeless situation. To point people to Jesus when they are walking the most difficult road of their lives. 

Followers of Jesus respond to death, crime, and war as Jesus would. Not ignoring. Not rejoicing. John 11:35: Jesus wept.

What are the Assemblies of God churches doing that the Nazarenes aren’t doing?

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According to the research of Ryan Burge, Professor of Practice at the Danforth Center for Religion and Politics at Washington University, there is only one denomination (of all the denominations in the USA) that is significantly larger than it was 30 years ago: The Assemblies of God (see the graph). Of course, the big question is: why them and not us?

The Assemblies of God is a global Pentecostal church which began in 1914 in Hot Springs, Arkansas. The Church of the Nazarene began in 1908 in Pilot Point Texas. In fact, the original name of the Church of the Nazarene was the “Pentecostal Church of the Nazarene.” (The word “Pentecostal” was dropped in 1919 so as to not be confused with churches like the Assemblies of God that emphasized speaking in tongues and other manifestations of the Holy Spirit). While we differ on “the tongues issue,” we certainly would consider the Assemblies of God church a “sister” church. So why are they doing so well, when the until this year, the Church of the Nazarene in USA/Canada has been in a massive decadal decline?

One might pick an obvious answer and say, it is because of their emphasis on speaking in tongues. But is that it or is there something else going on? I’m sure there are several factors that have contributed to the denominational growth. I will suggest one. 

By virtue of their emphasis on the workings of the Holy Spirit, the Assemblies of God preach a gospel that is near. By that I mean experiential. They are in tune to the fact that Jesus is with us when we gather (with “two or more,” remember His words). In a world that is increasingly disconnected from one another, they preach a gospel of connectedness. This isn’t a tongues issue. It’s what our society is seeking. In an ever increasing lonely world, it’s a message that says, “God wants to connect with you.” 

It can be our message too. Again, I don’t think it is about unknown tongues. It is about meeting with Jesus. Seeking Jesus. Expecting Jesus to show up at our gatherings. It’s the presence of Jesus that makes for a compelling worship service. Not music, lights or preaching. It’s Jesus. 

The Assemblies of God figured that out long ago, and people are drawn to their story. That can be us. Jesus wants to meet with us. Do we plan, pray and prepare our hearts for an up close and personal encounter with Jesus. Maybe if we saw that happening more and more in our churches (starting with our pastors and church leaders), our growth trajectory would look more like the Assemblies of God rather than the stock graph line of Radio Shack (It’s not that bad my fellow Nazarenes). 

Our world needs Jesus. The Assemblies of God doesn’t have a corner on the market of Jesus. It’s a message we can and do preach. The more our people get in touch with Jesus, the greater our impact on culture and society will be. Our task is simple: Connect people to Jesus. 

The name on the front of my jersey reads “Church of the Nazarene“

On By Rob PrinceLeave a comment

With the National Nazarene Softball Tournament approaching (sponsored by the Springdale Church in Cincinnati, Ohio on Labor Day weekend. Central church is sending a team), I started thinking about the jerseys worn. Maybe you’ve seen in a sports themed movie when a coach tells an overly selfish player, “The (team) name on the front of the jersey is more important than the (player’s) name on the back of the jersey.” It’s a lesson on the importance of the team.

The team I’ve chosen to be a part of is the “Church of the Nazarene.” Its name is on the front of my jersey.

There are other teams (churches). Good teams. Still I’m a Nazarene. In my cranky critical moments, I think being on another team could be better. For example, non-denominational churches don’t have apportionments.They can give as much or as little to world missions, local missions, retired ministers and Christian colleges as they’d like. No World Evangelism Fund for them. Bad Pun Alert: There’s not a whiff of WEF. They can have as little or as many rules as they like too. Easily change anything they want with a quick vote of their leadership, congregation or on the whim of the pastor (if that’s how their bylaws guide them). Not us. In the Church of the Nazarene, we have a Manual. It can be changed only upon the vote of the General Assembly. Some sections (the Articles of Faith) take at least two General Assemblies before the wording can be changed, and then it has to be ratified by all the districts. 

Sometimes I think it would be easier to be in a non-denominational church with its name on the front of my jersey. Less restrictive. More freedom. Sounds good.

But is it?  Non-denoms also have less accountability. While I don’t want “Big Brother” constantly looking over my shoulder, I am comforted that there are guidelines and procedures for many (not all) circumstances that might come a church’s way. I’m glad that there is a collective wisdom in place. I’m thankful for the checks and balances within the Nazarene system. The Church of the Nazarene is not like a fly-by-night dog-and-pony show. It’s been around for 117 years and still going strong. Located in over 160 countries, it’s a stable, global, team. A non-denom team can’t say that. 

It’s easy to complain (Yes, I’m looking in the mirror as I write those words). But today I am thankful. I trust that Church of the Nazarene leadership is not corrupt. I believe our church leaders when they say they are praying for the churches and its members. In any organization there is a bad apple or two, but that does not negate the thousands and thousands of hard-working, Jesus-loving, faithful  Nazarenes throughout the world. Within any organization, decisions will be made and monies spent that I wish had not been made or spent, but I still trust that the conclusions made (even where I would have landed someplace else) have not been made without prayer and consideration. Moreover, I love my local team. I tell visitors all the time, “I’m biased, but ours is a great church.”  

Is the church perfect? No. Are some actions frustrating? Yes. Are there problematic people? Of course. Can someone point to an inaccurate application of justice? Probably. Still, I am glad the team name on the front of my jersey reads, “Church of the Nazarene.“ They are my people, and I am sticking with them.

Saved and Sanctified

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Back when “testimonies” were a regular part of a Sunday night church services (do you remember those?*), one of the cliché’s frequently heard in Nazarene circles was the claim, “I’m save and sanctified.” Too often, the phrase sounded like an accomplishment achieved. “Saved and sanctified” seemed more a badge of pride instead of an acute awareness of how far one has yet to go in their journey toward Christ-likeness. 

There is no boasting in the truly “saved and sanctified.” There is a humility that is averse to using such “arrival-like terminology.” To be “saved and sanctified” is not like taking an airplane to Atlanta and stepping off the jetway saying, “I’m here. I made it.” Instead “saved and sanctified” is more like a long arduous hike. There are cracks and crevasses along the way. Plenty of places, where it would be easy to fall, and sometimes one does. It can be exhausting. It’s not always fun. The life traveler learns from the rough places. In times of distress, as they call upon the Lord, and God picks the journeyer up, dusts them off, and they more carefully traverse the road ahead. In self-reflective moments, the “saved and sanctified” look back at the trail they’ve travelled and think, “Wow, the Lord has brought me a long way.” Still they realize that there is plenty of trail ahead. They are not alone, but they aren’t done either. They haven’t arrived. They continue walking upward.

An unchurched neighbor might not use “saved and sanctified” terminology, especially if not versed in “Christian-ese.” Instead they might use words to describe their truly “saved and sanctified” friend as: Honest, kind, loving, joy-filled, patient, good, merciful, gracious, faithful, gentle, and display immense self-control (unknowingly, the unchurched just described the fruit of the spirit). To the point, being “saved and sanctified” is not a claim that one makes lightly about themselves, but it’s better merited as non-churched watchers unintentionally acknowledge the identifiers of holiness and humility displayed in the person’s life.

Pray that our non-church, pre-Christian neighbors and friends will see the attributes of holiness in us more and more, as we carry the kingdom of God with us into the world.

*Please note: in spite of the random goofiness of some Sunday night testimonies, I miss them. They were good for the unsaved and young believers to hear the victories of the saints. It was good for the seasoned believers, to hear the joy and excitement of newbie Christians. I miss other elements of the Sunday night service too. We lost a bit of community that once existed in the old-time Sunday night services.

I am a Nazarene

On By Rob Prince1 Comment

Not all Christians agree with everything that the Church of the Nazarene believes. For crying out loud, not all Nazarenes agree with everything in the Manual. If we did the Manual would never change, but it does change every four years. As such, through it all, we strive to have unity in the essentials; liberty in the non-essentials and charity in all things. (Key word: “Strive” we aren’t always united and/or charitable, but we sure should “strive” to be.). 

There are some things that the Church of the Nazarene is pretty rock solid on even as others disagree. For example, we Nazarenes have always practiced both baby dedication and infant baptism. Not everybody does. Karla and I baptized Alex and dedicated Ben (I don’t know why). I tell folks the jury is still out on which one is better. Infant baptism has been around since the earliest Christians. The anabaptists stopped practicing infant baptism a few hundred years ago, and offered baby dedications instead. So we do both. We Nazarenes have such a strong view of the prevenient grace of God, and it is wonderfully demonstrated in infant baptism. God loves that baby, while it’s still being formed and His love never stops. In baby dedication, the emphasis is on the parents commitment to raise the child in the a Christian home. Speaking of baptism, in believer baptism, we will drip, douse or dunk. It’s not the amount of H2O applied that matters, baptism proclaims the amount of grace applied in the individual’s life. 

We have always ordained women. In fact, percentage wise, we had more female pastors in our early years than we do today. People who don’t agree site Paul’s words to Timothy about women being silent in church (ignoring the context of the trouble making women in the local church at Ephesus at the time). They forget about Peter quoting Joel saying, women will be prophesying in the end times. They also look over the obvious citation of Priscilla and Aquilla leading a church in Romans 16. Or Lydia being a church leader in Philippi. Or the resurrected Jesus, giving Mary Magdalene the first glimpse of His glory, and commissioning her to tell the others about it. If women are good enough proclaimers for the resurrected Jesus, they are good enough for us!

We have always believed that God can make people holy today. We are a holiness people. Always have been. In both Old and New Testaments God says, “Be Holy.” Would God Almighty really tell us to do something that is impossible to do—or something that only a few select people could be?  I don’t think so. Holy living is possible and encouraged for every faithful follower of Jesus. The evidence of such holy living is the fruit of the Spirit demonstrated in the believer’s life.

We have always upheld a traditional view of marriage between a man and a woman. Many congregations are debating the biblical record these days. A few years back, when the question of human sexuality arose in the General Assembly, 97% of the delegates voted to uphold the traditional standard that we have always affirmed. That doesn’t mean we exclude people or are unwelcoming. We encourage all. Welcome all. Love all. Show grace and mercy to all.

Some things change. When I was a kid, Nazarene’s didn’t go to movies. We didn’t dance either. I got out of 5th grade square dancing because my mom sent a note saying “dancing was against our religion.” If I held a membership class that day, every boy in the fifth grade at Marquette Elementary School would have signed up to be a Nazarene. We’ve changed non-essential elements of life as culture has changed. We aren’t Amish after all.

Some things are still up for interpretation and we don’t fight about it— if folks choose to land some other place than where other members have landed– It’s OK. As such, Nazarenes don’t have a preferred Bible translation (although the Foundry uses the New International Version in its Sunday School materials). We don’t have a set view on Christ’s return (other than Jesus is coming again). We don’t have a set view on creation (other than God did it). We don’t tell people who to vote for in elections. Not sure Jesus would be an elephant or a donkey. We tell folks to read their Bible; pray about it; and decide. We leave room for folks who disagree or doubt or are seeking. 

Some things change. Some things don’t. Some things we leave up to the individual to figure out. That’s Nazarene-dom in a nut shell—and I’m glad to be a part of it.

The Nazarene Pastor Shortage and What One Church is Doing About It

On By Rob PrinceLeave a comment

On Flint Central Church’s recent mission trip to Panama, a high school student preached the Sunday morning message (with a translator) in the Panamanian church. By all accounts, she did great. Two students came home from the mission trip announcing that they were sensing a call into ministry. There are at least two other high schoolers who also have expressed an interest in becoming a pastor. If you are counting at home that is 5 students expressing an interest in ministry.*

Why does Central church have so many young men and women called into the ministry? 

There are probably a variety of reasons. I’ll list a few possible answers: 

1) There is a healthy church culture. The board and pastoral staff are aligned. Students view ministry positively because of the church culture that has developed. 

2) The church emphasizes “Growing Together.” Students have seen in their parents, grandparents or many other adults a faithful witness. There is a mutual love between the older, seasoned Christians and students.

3) The church has had great youth pastors who have inspired our students on what they could become and have modeled faithfulness before them.

4) Opportunities have been given for students to hear from the Lord: Mission trips, NYC, D-Now, retreats and camps. God speaks when students getaway and can listen to God. 

5) God calling people into ministry is mentioned from the pulpit and in youth group from time to time. The students have seen their peers called into ministry and have been open to God speaking to themselves too. Sometimes it’s a snowball effect, one student is called into ministry then another and another and another… it just keeps growing.

6) There have been opportunities for ministers-in-training to serve at Central as volunteers and interns. For example, yesterday’s summer combined adult and student Sunday School class was taught by a recent high school graduate.

7) The church puts its money where its mouth is. This year Central Church gave out over $26,000 to in scholarships to 18 Olivet Nazarene University students. There has been an emphasis on education and the church has helped provide for it.

And most importantly, 

8) Central church is a praying church. They’ve followed Jesus’ instructions: “pray to the Lord of the harvest to send out workers into his harvest” (Luke 10:2). The church has prayed and God has answered!

Corporately, the Church of the Nazarene needs to pray too. The Church of the Nazarene is in desperate need for young men and women to be called into the ministry. The current clergy are aging (writer included. Deep Sigh!) and we need more pastors. On our district there are 8 churches in need of a pastor. From what I can tell (I may be wrong) none of those churches have any prospects. No interviews are lined up. No one is knocking on the church doors to become the next pastor. The Eastern Michigan district is not alone. There is a pastor shortage and it’s going to get worse as we old timers die off.  After all these years, Jesus words are still true. The fields are still ready. We need to pray for (and develop) workers more than ever.

*This is not a new phenomenon at Central Church. Here are the 20-somethings from Central Church in ministry (or training): Bryce Potts is a student at Taylor University studying to be a worship pastor. He is interning at Central Church this summer. Two students are in Olivet’s summer PR groups (Tyler Chapin and Grace Bedell). Sarah Hurd is a youth pastor in Illinois. Tyler and Hannah VanSteenburg are pastoring in Madison Heights, Michigan. Of course, Haley (VanSteenburg) Baker is the wife of Central Church’s Mid-High Youth pastor, Tyler. While Justin Hilliard doesn’t have a ministry degree or pastor’s license, trust me, Central Church’s tech director (who grew up at Central church) is in ministry. Even though the Close sisters, Lydia and Sophie, expressed a call to ministry before coming to Central Church, I will include them too. Lydia and husband, Caleb, are pastoring the Refinery Nazarene Church in Brandon, Michigan. Sophie and husband, Ethan, are on staff at Devoted City Church in Raleigh, North Carolina. Another 20-something, Allie Degner, starts next week working at the Global Ministry Center of the Church of the Nazarene in the communications department, These are just the pastors and leaders in their 20’s—Flint Central has many other pastors age 30 and above who list Central church as their “home” church (including our own 30 somethings Pastors Sauer—Tyler and sister, Emily). If you are counting at home that’s 13 people from Central church in their 20’s in ministry.

Are American Christians Blind?

On By Rob PrinceLeave a comment

In John 9, a man, blind from birth, was healed by Jesus on the Sabbath. This got the pharisees in a huff (per usual). His parents, no doubt labelled “sinners” for bringing into the world a blind son, wanted no piece of the dispute. They had learned to keep their mouths shut around the pharisees (this is no surprise). But what strikes me odd about this brouhaha is the man’s neighbors (HIS NEIGHBORS!!) did not even know if this was the man who had been begging for years. 

John records it this way:

His neighbors and those who had formerly seen him begging asked, “Isn’t this the same man who used to sit and beg?” Some claimed that he was.
Others said, “No, he only looks like him.”
But he himself insisted, “I am the man.” John 9:8-9

How could one walk by a neighbor day in and day out and not see him? How could they not recognize him? Who was truly blind in the story– the man blind from birth or the people who refused to see?

Are Christians in America turning a blind eye on their neighbors too?  Do we see the suffering in our world? Do we see that injustices being done?  Do we see that law abiding immigrants are being rounded up and imprisoned without due process? Do we notice as they are being dragged out of churches? Are we singing “Turn your eyes upon Jesus” but not turning our eyes toward our brothers and sisters in Christ who are suffering? Do we sing a little bit louder as to drown out the cries for help?  Do we not see it? Or do we choose not to see it?  (see the Christianity today article about some detained Christians here).

What part of “Love your neighbor” have we missed? Will we be in with the other goats as the Judge tells us, “whatever you did not do to the least of these you did not do for me” (See Matthew 25)? 

No one wants criminals in the country. Everyone agrees they should not be allowed to stay. But what about the church-attending, law-abiding, asylum seeking neighbors?* Do we see them? What about those believers who have left their country of origin because of religious persecution or wanton violence? Do we care? Do we simply choose to listen to the narrative that what is being done is for “law and order”? 

“Law breaking is bad!” someone will shout. “They broke the law.” 

Tell that to Joseph in an Egyptian prison. 
Tell that to Shiphrah and Puah as they defied Pharaoh’s orders.
Tell that to Moses as he defied Pharaoh’s orders too.
Tell that to David as he was on the run from King Saul.
Tell that to Elijah as he was on the run from Queen Jezebel. 
Tell that to Jeremiah as he stood in the stocks. 
Tell that to John the Baptist as he was executed by Herod. 
Tell that to Peter and John when they boldly told the leaders that be, “Which is right in God’s eyes: to listen to you, or to him? (Acts 4:19)
Tell that to Stephen as the rocks were flying. 
Tell that to Paul as he sat in a Roman prison.
Tell that to Jesus as he hung on a Roman cross. 

It seems God fearing people have a long history of refusing to turn a blind eye to unjust laws or oppressed people.

Do we not see our neighbors? 

Are we blind?

*Honestly, “church-attending” isn’t even the issue. This is America. No one is forced to believe. 

Making Holiness Great Again

On By Rob Prince1 Comment

Making holiness great again is a worthy effort. What godly person doesn’t want holiness to be great?  The pharisees in the first century attempted to “make holiness great again.” Sadly, their version of “holiness”* was a strict adherence to the law, especially the sabbath laws. This approach weaponized holiness and put them in conflict with Jesus on multiple occasions. Theirs was a haughty brand of “holiness” that in the end looked nothing like the humble holiness that Jesus exuded. When holiness disintegrates into a prideful, battle weapon it is no longer holiness. It’s a self-congratulatory enterprise that looks more like the smirking pharisees on Good Friday, than the forgiving, dying Savior on the cross. It’s no longer great.

Religious bullying in the name of God Almighty is what Jesus abhorred. Could it be that Jesus is still disgusted by anyone touting a far less than great brand of holiness. A “holiness” more intent on keeping rules and keeping out rule breakers, than it is on a welcoming, Philippians 2:5-11, selfless-love brand of holiness?

Holiness is great when smugness is swapped with the unpretentious fruit of the Spirit.
Holiness is great when pride is replaced with humility. 
Holiness is great when it’s characterized by true righteousness not self-righteousness.
Holiness is great when perfect love chases out all fear.
Holiness is great when it looks like the open-armed father and not the angry, rule keeping older brother when his prodigal sibling returned.
Holiness is great when there are less pitch forks and torches and more flames of the Spirit. 
Holiness is great when the miniscule search for specks in the eyes of offenders gives way to 
lumberjack-ian task of log removeable from one’s own optic nerves. 
Holiness is great when it looks like Jesus.

One of the core values of the Church of the Nazarene is “holiness.” It would have been one of the pharisees’ core values too. Do we look more like the pharisees or Jesus? The pharisaical brand of “holiness” is one where there are multiple boxes which need to be checked. Accordingly, if not all of the boxes are checked, then it’s not “holiness.” The Jesus brand of holiness has only one box: holy forgiving selfless love.** If it’s checked, it’s holiness. Let’s strive to check that box. Let’s make that brand of holiness great again.

*The pharisees’ “holiness” is in quotation marks, because it’s something, but whatever it is– it’s not holiness. 

**Please Note: Jesus made demands on his followers (most notably “pick up your cross and follow me”). But those demands flow from a heart of love, not out a code of ethical boundaries. Those demands reflect–  Holy. Forgiving. Selfless. Love. 

Is it time for the Silent Majority in the Church of the Nazarene to speak?

On By Rob Prince1 Comment

Most people in the Church of the Nazarene (CotN) are silent when it comes to the happenings of the church. I’m not talking about those members on the fringe that barely know they attend a Nazarene church. No, these silent folks are “in the know.” They know all about the CotN. They observe social media happenings concerning the CotN. They pay attention to the issues in the church and in the world. They hear the chatter from the conservative groups, progressive groups, charismatic influenced groups, our college happenings or things on the mission field (both good and bad). They have opinions regarding these things. They simply keep their thoughts to themselves.

This is especially true for those in leadership positions. There must be a class when one enters the Global Ministry Center (GMC) on the how to avoid making comments on social media. Don’t “like” any opinion. Don’t address any problem. Don’t offend one side or the other. Be quiet.

I can’t blame them. I’ve seen people take a position (it’s happened to me) and one side or the other goes ballistic. Their name and opinion gets dragged through the mud. Their outlook was lambasted. People assumed this or that about the person. Usually it’s not good. People they thought were their friends (not just “Facebook friends,” but real ones) write hurtful things. Any response would come across as “defensive.” They’ve learned their lesson. “Stay quiet.”

(I’m pretty sure I have the inglorious distinction of one who has offended just about everyone at one time or another with these little 500-700 word blogs. Yet here I am, blabbering on. Apparently, I have not learned my lesson). 

There is a reason why the cliché, “The squeaky wheel gets the grease,” is true. We’ve seen it happen over and over in the church. The ones who yell the loudest– get the attention. No matter if their opinions are contrary to the stated doctrines of the Church. No matter if the loudest and angriest display very un-Christlike attributes. No matter that their bullying tactics intimidate people into silence. No matter that their message of aggression and callousness is what non-believers also see. “Truth,” they say, is what they are defending. But if “truth” is conveyed in an untruthful or un-Christlike manner is it still the “Truth”? “If you can’t stand the heat get out of the kitchen,” the theological bullies tell us. That’s another truth-filled cliché which is leading the silent exodus of sound-minded people. 

I’ve heard some opinions say, “80% of Nazarenes are nice and wonderful followers of Jesus and there are 10% of Nazarenes are on either end of the bully stick.” 10% ultra-conservative bullies and 10% ultra-progressive bullies. I tend to think the percentages are not nearly that strong. My estimation is that it’s only 1% on either end. Maybe less. At least, 98% of Nazarenes are following after Jesus and striving to live a holy life. The squeaky wheels are 2% (maybe less), but those squeaky wheels get a lot of the greasy attention on social media and elsewhere.

Solomon was right. “There is a time to be silent and a time to speak” (Ecclesiastes 3:7). It should go without saying (but I’m writing about it so maybe it’s not so obvious): We can’t always be silent. There is a time to speak. Former “CBS Evening News” anchor Scott Pelley said, “The most important thing is to have the courage to speak, to not let fear permeate the country so that everyone suddenly becomes silent. If you have the courage to speak, we are saved. If you fall silent, the country is doomed.”  Substitute the words “Church of the Nazarene” for the word “Country” and there’s a lesson for my fellow Silent Majority Nazarene members (yes, I count myself in that group). There are times when we can’t be silent. We must speak. It may  upset 1% on either end of the Nazarene spectrum, but we cannot fear. Take courage. Speak. 

Do Nazarenes Truly Believe Article of Faith XI?

On By Rob Prince1 Comment

In the world of denominationalism, the Church of the Nazarene (cotn) is small. Yes, it is inching close to 3 million members worldwide. Yes, there was slight growth in USA/Canada last year. Yes, in the world of “holiness” churches, the cotn is a bigger group than most in that very small subset. Still, in the Church universal, the cotn is a small tribe. 

Being small has some benefits. Like the sitcom Cheers bar, it seems everyone knows your name. Often it’s more like family than a denomination. There is a comfortable familiarity, going into a Nazarene church on the other side of the world and seeing posters for the World Evangelism Fund or an alabaster offering. It’s easy to think, “Yes, these are my people.” 

But being small, also means when a family member leaves or is asked to leave, you know it. It hurts just a little bit. Sometimes it hurts a lot. 

People leave for a variety of reasons, I’ve had people move to a community without a cotn and have joined another church. For some, sinful choices lead them to no longer fellowship in the cotn. Others got miffed at someone (Read: often the pastor) and have joined another church. Occasionally, an elder or licensed minister has gotten sideways with a doctrine or belief and have felt, he/she needs to exit. In rare cases (very rare) an elder is asked to leave. Ordered to do so by a church trial, if necessary. Those rare instances, usually make headlines on social media. It gets the usual characters grumbling, but trials for heresy are extremely rare.

The eleventh Article of Faith in the Manual of the cotn states: The Church is a historical reality that organizes itself in culturally conditioned forms, exists both as local congregations and as a universal body. Notice the capital “C” in “Church” and the word, “universal” regarding the Church. Nazarenes recognize that there are Christians in other traditions that will likewise receive an eternal reward and hear the Master say, “Well done, my good and faithful servant.” One need not show their Nazarene membership card or give St. Peter the secret Nazarene handshake (we don’t have one of those, do we?) to gain entrance through the pearly gates. 

Since Article XI exists, doesn’t it make sense that when someone leaves to join another church (for whatever reason) we would not besmirch their name or in other ways cast doubt on their faithfulness or Christian standing. Instead, we would wish them well and continue to pray for their good standing before the Lord. We wouldn’t celebrate the aforementioned exit (especially on social media). We wouldn’t draw lines in the sand. We wouldn’t contact lawyers. We would say, “Brothers and sisters, we may differ on some of the finer points of our faith but we are part of the Church universal. Go and be well.” 

At times, when someone leaves, it feels like a divorce. Betrayal even. Someone has to be right and someone has to be wrong. But does it have to be that way? Can’t two things be right at the same time? Neither party is evil. Both are trying to “work out their salvation in fear and trembling” (Philippians 2:12). Can’t there be a world where both the witch-hunts and the brazen, willful disregard to the Manual are out of bounds those who swore to uphold it? Moreover, can’t we refuse to resort to name calling while walking out the door or shouts of distain from inside the holy confines toward those walking away?

Being a part of the Church (capital “C”) means (in a too simplistic way) we have common beliefs regarding the primacy of Christ and the inspired Holy Bible containing all we need to know regarding salvation. After that, aren’t we all are “working it out.” If we truly believe Article XI, those exiting for another church would still feel loved. If we truly believe Article XI, we wouldn’t be so territorial. If we truly believed Article XI we would be sad, maybe even heart-broken, when one of our own sheep heads to a new pasture, but we wouldn’t be un-Christ-like. Not if we believe, Article XI. 

Has the Death of the Church of the Nazarene Been Greatly Exaggerated?

On By Rob Prince2 Comments

The famous quote about his death being exaggerated is attributed to Mark Twain over an obituary mistakenly printed. I wonder if the same can be said about the Church of the Nazarene (CotN)?

Someone has a disagreement with the CotN and conclude, “this is the death of her.” Splash their overly pessimistic opinions on social media. The usual suspects of disgruntled former members quickly chime in. “They’re done. Dead. Put a fork in her,” they say.

I imagine it was that way when the Missionary Bible folks thought TVs were too worldly in 50’s and left the CotN (minus the social media, of course) or when some folks exited over charismatic gifts in the 70s or when those who disagree with the CotN’s stance on human sexuality walk out today. “They are wrong,” they shout, “Turn out the lights, the party is over.”

But is that accurate? The church is growing in various parts of the world. Africa passed the USA a few years back in membership. Even USA/Canada had slight growth last year. Not everyone is leaving apparently. There have been a few pastors who’ve turned in their credentials, but it’s not an avalanche. A few churches have exited too, but, again, it’s a trickle not Niagara Falls. 

This is not to say, the church is without error. No doubt wrongs have happened. Dirty church politics have been played. There are leaders who have no business leading. Good members have been quieted. For some, politics seems more important than the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Rumors were started (even during the General Assembly voting process prompting chastisement from more than one General Superintendent). There have been unfair District Superintendents (Clarification: my use of the word “unfair” is an attempt to be kind. I’ve been lied to and about from some leaders in our tribe. That’s not only unfair, it’s unChristian). Even so, the church is full of good apples. Not bad ones. Leaders included. Good grief, it’s a church made up of flawed people. There will be messy situations by virtue of that fact.

I don’t fault those who feel that they can no longer fellowship in the Church of the Nazarene. I’m saddened by their exit. But there’s no judgment from me. I hope that they find a Gospel proclaiming church that lives into the words of Jesus.

As for me, I still believe in our theology. I still believe in our efforts to make Christ-like disciples. I still think we are a church that welcomes the stranger, folks on the margins, and the downtrodden (I know my local church does). I still believe in our leadership. Does that make me a Pollyanna? I hope not. I hope it makes me expectant of good days ahead. I want to believe in the best of people. I want to trust the Holy Spirit’s leading. I want to think the “old gal” still has some life in her. I want to think her death has been greatly exaggerated. 

This Pastor Needs the Jesus of Easter Maybe You Do Too

On By Rob Prince2 Comments

In my sixth decade of life and closing in on my fourth decade as a pastor, I hope I’m not turning into the stereotypical codger saying, “Get off my lawn, you blank-ity-blank kids.” Life could easily devolve if I lose my Center. Fixing my eyes on the Jesus of Easter is my only hope.

The church isn’t fair. Nepotism, cronyism, fundamentalism, materialism and a host of other bad “isms” infect the church. I need to constantly remind myself Jesus is the way.

Church leaders (both lay and clergy) have flat out lied to me. Not little white lies. Big black lies. I get it. The church is made up of people and people are people and sometimes people bare false witness. That’s why it’s so important to focus on Jesus. He is the Truth.

People are angrier. Less respectful. Have greater expectations and less patience. It can suck the life right out of you. That’s why it is so important to remember that Jesus is the Life.

I’ve been figuratively punched in the stomach plenty of times. I’d heal quicker from a literal punch. Jesus takes care of His battered sheep. He is the Good Shepherd.

It’s easy to get distracted. I’m at my best when connected to Jesus. He is the Vine.

When depleted and defeated, hungering for truth and justice, it’s Jesus who fills me. He is the Bread of Life. 

In dark times, and there have been dark times, He rescues and redeems. Jesus is the Light. 

When I feel boxed in, trapped by life’s circumstances, through him there is peace. Jesus is the Gate. 

This Easter season, I need to be reminded, maybe more now than ever, He makes the impossible possible. Jesus is the Resurrection!

I’m still trusting in the GREAT I AM.

Disappointed in some Corners of the Church of the Nazarene (USA Version)

On By Rob Prince5 Comments

Sometimes I’m disappointed in my tribe. Not my local church mind you (I’m super biased but Flint Central Church is a great church). No, I’m saddened by USA/Canada version of the Church of the Nazarene. Here’s why: a highly qualified female candidate was not elected to be the lead pastor in a local church (in this case, the District Superintendent was strongly supportive of her. It wasn’t his fault that she wasn’t elected). I’m convinced there was only one reason for her failure to reach the two thirds threshold required by the Manual. She is a female. In far too many places, we will let females be our children pastors or our youth pastors, but that’s it. In far too many places, a female pastoral candidate has no chance of becoming the lead pastor.

It’s a local church issue, you might defend the tribe. I wish that were the case. I wish it were just one local church with a lack of biblical understanding or a lack of Nazarene history and tradition or because (I hate to write it) misogynistic attitudes among the congregation that voted against the over qualified female candidate. But is it a local issue? I’m not so sure.

Yes, we (finally) have a couple of female District Superintendents in USA/Canada (two  in USA; one in Canada). Are three out of 80+ districts really worth celebrating or should we be weeping?  Yes, we have a female General Superintendent. But even she was never a solo pastor. I sometimes wonder if even Carla Sunberg would be elected to be the lead pastor in some of our churches. Of the COK churches (larger churches in USA/Canada), there are only three female pastors (Shawna Gaines at Trevecca Community, Selena Freeman at The Well in Springfield, MO and Beth Nelson at Prairie Heights in Fargo, ND).  Again three out of top 100 or so churches isn’t a great record. Just ask former Nazarene large church pastor, Tara Beth Leach, of the remarks and attitudes she encountered and had to endure in our tribe. It’s not a good report. 

Maybe it’s time for the USA/Canada region to learn from the Asia Pacific Region. That forward thinking region has a “Women in Leadership Coordinator” on its regional leadership team. Dr. Lynne Bollinger is serving in this role. It seems that USA/Canada needs to think of better ways to develop and elevate women in ministry too. But it’s not just giving a seat on the leadership team that’s needed. We must educate our people of the numerous Biblical references of female leaders. We need to call out misogynistic churches and leaders and remind them that “our sons AND DAUGHTERS will prophesy.” We need to confess that our polity (we have always ordained women) and our actions have not always matched.  

To be sure, there are other problems in the church in America. It’s not always easy building a growing, Christ-honoring church in our current culture. Our leaders have a lot on their plates. Prioritizing the endorsement and encouragement of female leaders will help us in dealing with some of these other issues. God speaks through women. We need them. We need their voices.  Just as God used Miriam and Deborah and Esther and Mary Magdalene and Phoebe and Priscilla and… well you get the idea… God will use today’s female leaders if we give them the opportunity. 

Blog less. Write More. (Famous Last Words, by Yours Truly)

On By Rob PrinceLeave a comment

During my sabbatical, I have made a commitment to blog less and write more. So what did I do, my first Monday back in the office? I wrote a blog about the need to not post on social media on matters we know nothing about in regard to our Nazarene colleges and universities (honestly that should be our position on all things). The post was read by many people. Unfortunately soon it devolved into name calling and the comments reflecting the exact opposite of what I had just written. UGH. People. 

It was a “welcome-back-to-the-real-world” moment for me. We live in a divided world. Sadly, including the church. Someone asked me to recall the days when the worst thing a Wesleyan could call a fellow believer was a “Calvinist.” Now, it seems that people are ready to toss our brothers and sisters in Christ into the fires of Hell over the slightest disagreement. We are quick to judge. Quick to anger. For all practical purposes quick to toss aside the grace that was so freely given to us. This should not be us.

Christians will not agree on everything. The Bible isn’t crystal clear on every topic. It takes prayer and discernment and sometimes some of us will get our wires crossed and come to a different opinion. It doesn’t mean that the other is totally wrong and have sold their soul to the devil. It means we simply disagree. 

Sunday, I talked about how the Pharisees were the “holiness people” of the first century. Their brand of “holiness” was constantly running up against Jesus. At times, I see the same “holier-than-thou” and “holiness-as-a-weapon” brands of holiness infecting some of us in holiness traditions. We need to be very careful or Jesus will likewise refer to us as a “brood of vipers” and “white washed tombs.” 

My fellow, holiness people, please let us act like it. Holiness isn’t about what you know, it’s how you live out what you know. Our world needs holy people living, posting and acting like Jesus.

My goal of a book a year will not be accomplished with days like yesterday. I need to blog less write more.

(FYI… I wrote this for the Church Board and Pastors of Central Church. Obviously, I also posted it to my blog. I know, two days in a row a blog post… so much for writing less blogs. Ugh. I have turned off the comments… not because I want to quench discussion, simply I don’t have time to monitor this today. Many blessings. And I mean it, I plan to blog less, write more.). 

A Word about Nazarene Institutions of Higher Learning and their Leadership Teams

On By Rob Prince1 Comment

The toughest job in the Church of the Nazarene is college president. I’ve written a blog on that topic before, you can read it here.  Don’t believe me, ask Dr. Carson Castleman of Mount Vernon Nazarene University. Following a vote of no confidence from by the faculty a few weeks ago, I have friends that love the guy; I have friends that… umm… less than love the guy. It’s hard being a college president. Dr. Jeren Rowell has done an excellent job leading Nazarene Theological Seminary in spite of the seemingly endless accusations and unfounded detractors. (FYI the seminary is the only institution where every faculty member is vetted by the Board of General Superintendents. No other school’s religion department is. Still, NTS is constantly taking inflammatory hits of being less than Nazarene. An argument can be made, it’s the MOST Nazarene.). Being a college or seminary president is a tough.

There are those who have done very well. Dr. David Spittal, who recently announced his retirement, came out to retirement to help MidAmerica Nazarene University and has stayed longer than many probably anticipated. He served MNU through trying times and was a blessing to that school in many ways. Speaking of leaving the ease of retirement, Dr. John Bowling is coming out of retirement to help give interim leadership to Nazarene Bible College. The NBC trustees could not have picked a better candidate. Also speaking of retirement, I sat in Trevecca’s own, Dr. Dan Boone’s seminar at the M-25 conference last week; let’s do all we can to keep that guy from retiring… ever. His seminar was masterful. I wish every District Superintendent in the United States could have heard it. Last fall, the Nazarene Theological College in Manchester, England’s principal, Dr. Deirdre Brower-Latz, was our revival speaker. She was terrific. What an exceptional mind and gifted speaker. Moreover, I recently spent a few days in the Philippines at the Asia Pacific Nazarene Theological Seminary. Drs. Larry and Lynne Bollinger are a treasure to the Church of the Nazarene. If there are better people than Larry and Lynne, I haven’t met them (although they are a little too rabid about the Boston Celtics). 

Bias Alert: Olivet Nazarene University President, Dr. Gregg Chenoweth, grew up at Flint Central. It is his home church. The family center is named “The Chenoweth Center,” after Gregg’s parents, Bob and Arlene Chenoweth. We have a “Chenoweth Scholarship” that has given thousands of dollars to Olivet students. Moreover, his grandfather, Rev. Robert Milner pastored several churches on the Eastern Michigan District and for a time, I was his grandmother’s pastor. All this to say, Gregg is the favorite son in these parts. You will not hear a discouraging word around here about Gregg. 

Nazarene institutions of high learning are going through challenging times (i.e. Eastern Nazarene College). Some of our schools are in the midst of transition (I’m looking at you Dr. Kerry Fulcher at Point Loma and the presidential search committees at Northwest, MidAmerica and NBC). Can Nazarenes everywhere commit to praying for our university leadership teams. As rumors and innuendos from all sides fly on the internet, I’ve learned that I don’t always know the facts. I am not always privy to first-hand information. Usually those that are, avoid social media. Before slinging any mud or jumping into the fray, can we pray? Before hopping into a gossip mill and drawing conclusions, can we seek the Lord? 

Leadership is hard. Competing voices are everywhere. It’s not always cut and dried. Sometimes decisions made are not of the “lesser of two evils” variety, instead are of the “all-the-choices-stink” variety. Not every decision will be agreed upon. Some things the leaders will get right and other things will prove to be wrong (leaders are people too). When people’s livelihoods are involved, it is understandably unsettling. Obviously, we must comfort the grieving. We can do so, without passing social media judgement on matters of which we know little. 

In all things, especially for those of us on the outside looking in, we need to exude Christ-like consideration, mercy, and grace. Our colleges and universities are taking hits on all sides, we need not add to the angst. 

Hey Nazarene Pastors, what are you waiting for?

On By Rob Prince3 Comments

Nazarene Pensions and Benefits has tried to help Nazarene pastors’ meager retirement plan. Last year P&B announced that pastors could get up to a 50% match of what a local church/pastor contributed in their Fidelity 403b account (up to a $2500 or 50% of $5,000). The latest addition of the NBUSA Quarterly–the newsletter for the Nazarene Benefits (see it here) has a troubling statistic. Through the first three quarters of last year, a whopping 76% of Nazarene ministers did not receive a match in their fidelity account. 

76%?

What are you waiting for my fellow pastors?

This is free money for you? Who not named Elon Musk or Bill Gates turns down free money (I think even those guys would take free money). 

As the church pays some (if not all) of the Pensions apportionment and the pastor/church contribute to the pastor’s Fidelity account; then Pension and Benefits matches (read: free money) up to $2500 (read again: free money) into their account. For example, my church pays its pension budget in full; then the church matches what a pastor contributes up to $2500. So the pastor gives $2500; our church gives $2500 and the denomination gives $2500. The grand total is $7500 in the pastor’s retirement account.

For old guys and gals like me, it helps a little bit. For younger pastors getting $7500 into a retirement account is a game changer. If young pastors do this year after year, when they become an old pastor like me, they will not need to worry about their retirement years. 

Last year, I thanked P&B for this change (you can read that article here). The old adage, “you can lead a horse to water, but you can’t make him drink,” seems to be true. As it relate to Nazarene pastors’ retirement maybe it should read: “You can try to provide a better retirement for Nazarene pastors, but 76% have said, “Thanks, but no thanks.”

Pastors this is the best retirement plan ever offered by our church. Please take advantage of it. Even if the local church and pastor can’t contribute the full $5000, pay your P&B budget and do something, anything. 

It’s a good deal. 

What are you waiting for?

When “Ghosted” Rely on the Holy Ghost

On By Rob Prince1 Comment

To be “ghosted” by someone is to end all contact without warning or explanation. Every pastor (who has been in church life for very long) knows the hurt that accompanies this response by parishioners. It’s disheartening when a pastor invests in a family’s life; been beside them in some of their most difficult circumstances and then the family leaves the church. Usually this occurs over a minor issue, that is, if the pastor ever discovers the true reason for the hasty exit.

Such “ghosting” is not limited to the wandering sheep of the pastor’s flock. Pastors have been “ghosted” by their district superintendent. They hear from their leader only if their church has failed to pay their apportionments, if at all. Denominational leaders ghost pastors too. Don’t return calls. Hedge on the truth. Are less than forthright. It happens. 

Disappointment in people (whether lay people or denominational leaders) is part and parcel with life in the ministry. People are people. They are broken. They sin. They lie. They go on social media with such nonsense. It hurts. It’s not new. Disappointment in people’s decisions have been around since Adam and Eve first grabbed the forbidden fruit in the garden. Still it hurts when people behave in such ways. The knife cuts even deeper when the hurt comes from people one has loved and respected.

Dismayed by such “ghosting,” often pastors feel all alone. As it happens again and again, this disappointment in lay people coupled with indifference from leadership has led many pastors to throw up their hands and quit. Ironically, when the pastor walks away, lay people and church leaders then attribute the minister’s exit to “burn out.” Failing to recognize that their ghosting silence and indifference led to the pastor’s demise. All this to say, it’s tough being a pastor these days.

To the laypeople and church leaders reading this: Don’t neglect the local pastor. Their job is immense. It’s hard. They are on the front lines of the Enemy’s attack. They need cheerleaders not mudslingers. They need people they can count on–  that have the pastor’s back, not those who will put a knife in it. They need encouragement, not silence. 

To the pastor’s reading this, you’d expect me to quote Jesus words that He will never leave you or forsake you. That’s true, but you already know that. Maybe you’d think I would remind you to keep your eyes on Jesus and not people. That’s also true, but I surmise you already know that too. Here’s my word for the disheartened and discouraged: You are not alone. You are not the only one who feels the way you feel. I’ve been there. All good pastors have been there. Press on. Don’t quit. Love those sheep who have stayed. Pray for those who have left and the clueless leaders who do not understand your plight.

Maybe what’s needed most is this:  Grab a cup of coffee at an out-of-the-way shop. Read a novel. Take a nap. My prayer for all of us (Church leaders, pastors, lay people) is Paul’s prayer for the Roman Church (in King James English): Now the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that ye may abound in hope, through the power of the Holy Ghost. Romans 15:13 KJV. Allow the Holy Ghost to renew your “ghosted” and heavy heart.

(Edited to read:  To my dear friends at Central Church who might be reading this, we have so many encouragers at our church! If every pastor had parishioners like Central Church there would be far less walking away! Thanks for your love and generosity).

Christmas Eve Eve (aka…the Night before the Preacher’s Super Bowl)

On By Rob PrinceLeave a comment

It’s Christmas Eve Eve. 

In the sentence above, the red squiggly line on my computer screen under the second “Eve” indicates it should not be there. The computer wants to delete the repetitive word. But that’s the point, it’s Eve’s Eve. Today is the day before Christmas Eve. It’s the day for getting last minute things done. It’s a day like no other. 

Today is the frazzled day of last minute shopping. Need anything from Wal-Mart? Count the presents. Make sure everyone is fairly gifted. Volunteer to battle the crowds for the good of the family; grab a last minute stocking stuffer and a gallon of milk. It’s the day to wrap the last few items. The family begins to gather from faraway places. What’s for dinner? Order a pizza. It’s Christmas Eve Eve.

When you are a believer but not the preacher on Christmas Eve, today is the day to remind your friends and family of the Christmas Eve service time. It’s the day to give that last minute invite to non-churched friends. It’s the day to make sure your row is packed with people who are ready to celebrate the Object of all our gatherings—Jesus.

When you are the preacher, Christmas Eve Eve is the night before the Super Bowl. The Christmas Eve Candlelight Service has the highest percentage of non-church goers than any other service of the year. More than Easter. More than Mother’s Day. Christmas Eve is the big day. Tomorrow is it. Which means, with all of the Christmas joy and carols and lighting of candles, still the Gospel must be preached. It’s not for nostalgia sake that we are gathering, but for Jesus. Folks need to know that there is an answer to their deepest needs. Jesus is the One who proclaimed, I am the Living One; I was dead, and now look, I am alive for ever and ever! And I hold the keys of death and Hades (Revelation 1:18). So on this Silent Night, the preacher can’t be quiet about the Good News. It’s too important.

Dear Christmas Eve preacher, no pressure, but it’s game time! The Super Bowl is tomorrow. Get plenty of sleep. Be ready. Be excited. Preach well and let Jesus do the rest. Go tell it on the mountain (or from the pulpit): Jesus Christ is born and that Good News makes all the difference. 

Good News About the Good News This Christmas

On By Rob Prince1 Comment

Ready for some good news this Christmas?  According to Leonard Sweet, a renowned missiologist, there are more Christians in China than there are people in the United States. The largest officially atheist country is (because so many people are coming to Christ) soon becoming the largest Christian nation!  

Let that sink in. 

There will be more people celebrating Christmas in China than in the United States. I’m not sure that they will all have Christmas trees. They might not all go out caroling in their neighborhood. They might not be able to express their faith as openly as you and I, but God is on the move in China. Praise the Lord!

It’s not just China. Africa is booming with those turning to Christ too. At the turn of the 20th century, there were about 10 million Christians on the continent of Africa,. Today, there are 734 million followers of Jesus in Africa. Simultaneously, atheism, which peaked around 1970 with 165 million adherents on the planet, is on the decline. Their numbers are falling from 147 million in 2020 to 146 million in 2024.* Praise the Lord, again!

In some of the most troubled hot spots in the world, with wars, famines and displaced people groups, God is still working. People are still responding to the Gospel. In spite of danger and difficulties, people are coming to Jesus! 

Sometimes we look around at empty churches in the United States and think that is the way it is around the world. Not so! God is working. We in the United State simply need to get on board with the rest of the world. Stop fighting about our differences and start focusing on the Difference Maker. All across our spinning globe, people in different languages and from different tribes and traditions will celebrates the birth of our Lord this week. In fact, more people are claiming Christ than ever before in the history of the world!

There are plenty of troubling statistics concerning death and destruction. There are plenty of things over which to grieve. Turn on the evening news, and you might only hear bad news. But there is good news about the Good News! As we gather this Christmas and sing “O come All Ye Faithful” rejoice in the good news that there are more faithful people coming to Jesus than ever before! There is Joy in the world. The Savior is still coming and changing lives!!

*According to the Study of Global Christianity of Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary

Pastor, the New Year is in Sight… you can make it!

On By Rob PrinceLeave a comment

Christmas season is in full swing. It’s the busy season for retailers– and pastors too. There’s parties, programs, gift exchanges, benevolence requests, of course, sermons to write and everything else that goes into the season. Then it gets busier. Toss in a sick child, a funeral, a broken down car, a troubled teenager, a disgruntled member, a financial crisis either at home or at the church (you know, the everyday life of a pastor) and it gets even more complicated. It was 17 years ago this week (December 20, 2007), while reading a letter from a disgruntled member during a financial crisis that my brain hemorrhage occurred. I’m convinced (and my neurologists concur) that the reason for the aneurism was (in part) due to the stressful season. 

Stress is an ever present “friend” for pastors. Besides the burden of carrying the parishioners’ troubles and sicknesses and the pastor’s own family circumstances, there are all the church financial and building issues. Pastors get anonymous letters and a few signed by disgruntled members over any number of topics. Top that off with pastors enduring the lies, rumors, and troublemakers’ shenanigans. Social media has made the stress level of pastors’ lives rise to new heights. All of these stressors are compounded at Christmas time. 

Pastors, if your worship attendance numbers, offering total or sermon wasn’t great this past Sunday. It’s OK. To, in part, quote the late great, Tony Campolo, “It’s Monday, but another Sunday is a comin’.”  In other words, you get another chance this week for all those things to improve. If you received an unwanted email about this or that (I received one over the weekend), take a deep breath, count to ten and give that person over to Jesus (I’m still working on that one, to be honest). If you’ve got to take a break, take it. If you need to hand off some duty to someone in the congregation, do it. If you need to simply settle it for a long winter’s nap, sleep away. 

Pastors, during the hectic Christmas season make sure you take care of yourself. The Kingdom needs you healthy and well. Your church needs you healthy and well. Your family (and you) need you well too. So stop listening to the naysayers, go for a walk and enjoy the crisp winter air. We’re in the homestretch toward Christmas. You can make it! Take care of yourself, drink a cup of hot chocolate (or eggnog) and enjoy the season once more.

Merry Christmas! The lights of the New Year are in sight, you’ve almost made it.

Stop Counting Worship Attendance!

On By Rob Prince2 Comments

Worship Attendance numbers have caused more pastoral anxiety (and more false pride) than any other number listed on the Nazarene Annual Pastor’s Report (APR). Those numbers don’t reflect the what’s really happening or not happening within a church. Church growth (or lack of growth) does not necessarily reflect the health of a church. Too many good pastors have been defeated because a group got miffed at what the faithful pastor said or didn’t say and stormed off to the Baptists down the street. Attendance fell and so did the pastor’s confidence. Others were puffed up when the Baptist church in town split and half their crowd hopped over to the Nazarene church. There is a solution to this less-than-holy enticement. Stop counting. Stop asking how many were in church last Sunday. Just stop.

All those experiencing modest growth and the church growth prodigies in the crowd are having a heart attack: “We have to count people because people count.” Thank you Elmer Towns (Don’t know Elmer? Google him). No, we don’t have to count people. Who says? And we don’t have to focus on numerical realities because there is a book in the Bible called Numbers (I heard that lame argument back in the day too). Just stop counting.

In most cases, in USA/Canada anyway, the numbers are useless. Here are the facts:

Fact 1: Most churches are declining or have flatlined in USA/Canada. 
Fact 2: Most growth occurring is transfer growth (sheep changing pastures, not lost sheep coming home).
Fact 3: On-line attendance is the most inaccurate number of all.
Fact 4: Combining on-line and in-person attendance is a deceptively inaccurate grand total. It’s inclusion on the APR is for bragging rights only and no other reason.

All this to say, why count worship attendance numbers?

If anyone knew the fickleness of numbers, it was Jesus. He fed 5,000 on one occasion and 4,000 on another (someone was counting), but how many of those folks were there when he really needed them? A few women and the teenager John were the only friendly faces on Golgotha. Even after He was raised from the dead and lots of people saw Him, only 120 showed up for the prayer meeting until Pentecost. Not exactly earth shattering numbers (yeah, yeah, I know someone counted the 120 people and someone counted the 3,000 who were “added to their number” on Pentecost too. Blah, blah, blah…does it really matter what those numbers were?). 

Can’t we count the things that Jesus said were important (see the Great Commission if you need a lesson on what’s important). Count Baptisms. Count Disciples-in-training. Count those engaged in ministry. Like the nameless mathematician in the disciples’ circle (probably Matthew the tax collector), count the number of people fed. In other words, count community impact? Count those numbers, not how many butts are in seats or clicks made on Facebook live. 

The church growth movement (and it’s prioritizing noses and nickels) is in part to blame for the declining mess we are currently in. We were counting people, but didn’t care for them. We were counting nickels, but not nurturing neighbors. Let’s stop caring about who has more people in a pew and start caring more for the hurting people not in our pews. Let’s start calculating ways to show Jesus’ love to the “never attenders” and “down-in-outers,” instead of building brownie points with power brokers in a denominational office.   

Stop counting worship attendance and start serving!

This Pastor’s Wife is “Worth Far More Than Diamonds”

On By Rob Prince3 Comments

By my calculation, tonight’s Board and Pastors’ Christmas Dinner will be the 34th such affair for Karla’s culinary expertise. We started in Bad Axe, when Karla cooked a meal for the church board and the entire pastoral staff (me, myself and I). She has carried on the Christmas tradition at each church. The board and staff for years was small enough to have the meal in our home. As the churches grew, so did the size of the gathering. Now, the event is held in the church foyer (Karla didn’t want a “funeral dinner feel” to the meal, and Central Church’s foyer with big Christmas trees and a high ceiling makes for a lovely setting). Tonight, there will be 50 or so folks for dinner. 

Karla plans and searches for the perfect recipes all year long. She keeps notes on what folks ate and what they didn’t eat (Note to self: No Liver and onions. C’mon, she has never served liver and onions). She thinks and rethinks how to make a meal that even Goldilocks would say,  “everything is just right.” This year’s main entre is ham. There will be a potato dish that she first tried out on our home group (aka “the guinea pigs”). There will be veggies and salads and I don’t know how many deserts. All homemade. All prepared to perfection.

It can be a dangerous effort too. A few years back, she was taking the glazed carrots out of the convection oven, but the food tins proved to be too heavy. As the carrots dropped all over the floor into a sugary, sticky mess, she slightly tore her rotator cuff. She might not have given” life and limb” for this meal, but she has given a “limb.”
 

Some pastors’ spouses play the piano or lead a ministry. Back in the day, when it was mostly male pastors, the question most frequently asked at interviews was, “can your wife play the piano.” Karla played the flute (and she did accompany congregational singing with it, but that’s another story for another day). She doesn’t lead Ladies Bible studies. She isn’t the missionary president type. If you want to get on her “naughty list” ask her to do something up front. More “Martha” than “Mary” (the sisters of Lazarus from the story in Luke 10), Karla is a behind the scenes worker-bee. Hospitality and serving are her gifts. 

Solomon once wrote: A good woman is hard to find, and worth far more than diamonds. (Proverbs 31:10 MSG). He ought to know and apparently Solomon looked and looked and looked for a good woman (he had 700 wives and another 300 concubines… umm… maybe he looked too much.). It only took me one try to find “a good woman worth more than diamonds.” 

Karla is invaluable to me. She keeps me going when I’m ready to quit; helps me in more ways than I can list; and has made me look good more times than I can count. When she finally has time to sit down and read this article (probably sometime next week), she won’t be happy. She’d rather be in the background than in the spot light. Still, I’m very thankful for the love and effort she puts into tonight’s meal. Central church is blessed to have a great church board and wonderful pastoral staff, but I’m most thankful for tonight’s chef. 

What makes a “Joyful and Triumphant” Pastor? 

On By Rob PrinceLeave a comment

The Pastors’ Christmas Banquet is tonight on the Eastern Michigan District. The district is blessed to have Frankenmuth, a quaint Christmas village, nearby (technically, the town is located in the Michigan District’s territory but the drive is not too far for most EMD pastors). The dinner is at the iconic Zehnder’s restaurant and its famous family style chicken dinners. Karla and I always leave a little early for the dinner so we can stop at Bronner’s (the world’s largest Christmas store) in Frankenmuth to purchase a few ornaments. All this to say, the Eastern Michigan Pastors’ Christmas dinner is a far cry from some districts’ pastor’s Christmas dinners in musty church fellowship halls or at greasy truck stops along the freeway. 

When I first started attending this event, it was a much more dress-up affair. I once called the gathering the “Nazarene Prom.” It’s not as “promy” these days. There will be still be red sweaters and a few Christmas ties, but no gowns or corsages. We will eat chicken (and schnitzel), sing Silent Night and see pastor friends from across the district. It will be a nice evening.

I’m thankful for the brother and sisterhood of ministry. Some of the finest people, I know are pastors. While pastoring has its moments of glorious victories, there are also many times of disappointment, betrayal, loneliness and heartache. It’s not always easy being a pastor (believe me, I know). Some have toiled in difficult situations with little thanks, yet are still faithful. Some have been slandered, lied about, criticized by carnal members and still serve Jesus. Social media has butchered plenty of fine pastors (or their families) and caused many sleepless nights. Some have been passed over because leaders have listened (whether consciously or not) to those corrupt and sinful voices. They have endured loss and hurt but press on. It’s a calling not a job. It’s that calling that gets them up every day and keeps them working hard into the night. There once was a commercial saying being a U.S. marine was “the toughest job you will ever love.” Not true. Being a pastor has that distinction.

All this to say, tonight, as we are singing “O Come All Ye Faithful,” I will look around the roomful of pastors and see plenty who are “joyful and triumphant.” They are so, not because of accolades or church statistics. Instead these faithful shepherds, empowered and enabled by Jesus, are fulfilling the call He placed upon their lives. The Kingdom is enlarged because of these “joyful and triumphant” men and women

I will be honored to be standing in their midst. 

Then I will give you shepherds after my own heart, who will lead you with knowledge and understanding. Jeremiah 3:15

Being Thankful if Today’s Dinner is at a Mission or a Mansion

On By Rob PrinceLeave a comment

Karla and I didn’t go to Kansas City this Thanksgiving, and our kids didn’t come here. But we won’t be alone. This morning we will be at the Eastside mission, helping feed their neighbors a Thanksgiving meal. 

I haven’t served Thanksgiving Dinner at a mission in a long time. 

My internship during my seminary years was at the Kansas City Rescue Mission. Back then, I was a regular on the holidays at the mission. Had you asked me during that time, I would have told you that I would be a director of a rescue mission “when I grow up.” I had no visions of pastoring a church. I thought my calling was to the down-and-outers of the world not the up-and-comers. What I’ve learned, in the last 37 years, is that both groups need Jesus. 

Many folks eating the free meal at the mission have Jesus. But others there will think that their past sins and behaviors have blown their chances with God Almighty. They haven’t. That’s not how God works. God is willing to enter any surrendered heart (no matter our past). 

Many church-going regulars eating thanksgiving dinner around a big dining room table with lots and lots of food have Jesus too. But some church folks act like they need just a little “dash of Jesus” who makes their already full life just a little better. That’s not how God works either. Jesus isn’t a condiment to our lives. Jesus must be the main course. It’s an all or nothing deal with Jesus. Either we have Him or we don’t. The question then becomes “does Jesus have all of us?” 

Michigan native, Hillsdale college graduate and evangelist Judson Van DeVenter had the answer for all people no matter where one eats thanksgiving dinner.  His words penned over 125 years ago still ring true. “All to Jesus, I surrender. All to Him, I freely give.” 

Everyone is in the same boat. We all need Jesus and Jesus needs all of us. When we don’t have Jesus we are doomed. When Jesus doesn’t have all of us, we are living a far less than fulfilled life. We are never satisfied (even if our cupboards are full and surrounded by family). But when we have Jesus and Jesus has us, then no matter the circumstance or trial (even if our cupboards are empty and we are alone), we can be living a thankful, blessed life. 

True thankfulness flows from a heart fully surrendered to Jesus. Those people who know they have all of Jesus and Jesus has all of them are the most thankful people around whether eating their meal at a rescue mission or in a mansion.

Here’s Why I am Thankful for the Church of the Nazarene

On By Rob PrinceLeave a comment

Is the Church of the Nazarene perfect? No.
Are there faults in the Church of the Nazarene? Yes.
Can I point to bad churches, bad pastors, bad leaders, bad DSs, bad, bad, bad?  Yes. Yes and Yes.

Still, I am thankful for the Church of the Nazarene. 

Here’s why:

I found Jesus in the Church of the Nazarene.
The church building is now a doctor’s office. The small, rag tag body of believers split apart when the church closed. The preacher, who preached the message that prompted me to invite Jesus into my life, lost his credentials. But I found Jesus at the Elmwood Church of the Nazarene in Westland, Michigan in 1974. Fifty years later, He is still with me.

The theology of the Church of the Nazarene is rock solid.
I’m a Nazarene because I believe in the theology and doctrine of the CotN. If I didn’t, I would leave. Would I change this or that in the Manual? Oh maybe, but it’s not enough to scream about on social media.

The Preaching Collaborative has been a breath of fresh air. 
Dr. David Graves led an initiative (thanks to a Lily Grant) to make more effective, evangelistic preachers. The effort will probably make better preachers (the curriculum is good), but it’s been most refreshing because of the relationships I’ve established with the very gifted ministers in my cohort (I’m looking at you Dave, Travis, Christen, Nate and Ajay!!!).

USA/Canada’s Emphasis on The Cycle of Resurgence instituted was needed.
The emphasis on Blessing our Community; Bringing People to Jesus; and Becoming Christlike Disciples is simple enough, but vital for a turnaround. (Full Disclosure: Maybe I like it because it aligns perfectly with the three core commitments of the church I pastor: Being the Best Neighbors; Jesus changes Everything and Growing Together.)

The diversity in the General Superintendents’ board room.
GSs born in Guatemala, Columbia, Mozambique, Germany, and two in the United States make for a global room (Don’t quote me on this, but I believe Scott Daniels was born in Detroit Michigan, which is…well…  let’s just say a lot of good people were born around Motown… ahem). Having the group include a woman is also great. 

The Church of the Nazarene cares for its missionaries.
I’m thankful the CotN believes in missions. I’m glad Nazarene global missionaries don’t have to beg churches for financial support, but have an agreed upon salary and health insurance. In my weak moments, I’ve complained about the apportionment system, but I am thankful for WEF funding of our missionaries. 

The Church of the Nazarene has a commitment to higher education.
Even with the sad closing of Eastern Nazarene College this year, there are still over 40 educational institutions in the world where Nazarenes gather to learn. Learning has always been an important hallmark of the CotN. (Again my bias shows, my siblings and I all went to Olivet. All of my parents grandkids went to Olivet too – except for the lone “black sheep,” my son, who went to MidAmerica Nazarene University).

The Church of the Nazarene is family. 
When out and about, I love knowing that I have Nazarene brothers and sisters that I could call in an emergency. In 164 world areas, I have family. That is incredibly comforting to know I have a 2.7 million member extended and blended family! (We added seven more to that number yesterday at Central Church).

My local church is awesome.
The church is about the people I rub shoulders with on a weekly basis. These folks in Flint Michigan love Jesus and it shows. They are missional. They are intergenerational. They are generous. The church board is great. So are the pastors. I’m super biased, but I’m convinced my local church is the best Nazarene church on the planet (with apologies to the other 30,746 other Nazarene churches that are vying for the second best church). 

Yes, I’m thankful for the Church of the Nazarene. 

The “Sometimes” Truth about People (and you)

On By Rob PrinceLeave a comment

It shouldn’t surprise us, when people disagree and are not nice. Jesus was perfect. 100% perfect. He lived a perfect life. And yet, there were people, lots of people, who hated him. People called him names. People spat upon him. People tried to throw him off a cliff, and, of course, people clamored for and succeeded in crucifying him. People aren’t always nice.  Sometimes, downright ugly.

News flash: You ain’t perfect (neither am I). As such, here are a few other “sometimes” to keep in mind…

  • Sometimes you will be wrong and people will rightly disagree. Hopefully “politely” disagree.
  • Sometimes you’ll be right, and they will still disagree. 
  • Sometimes people who are wrong (just like you) will say, “Hooray, for you!” But both of you are still wrong. 
  • Sometimes people are wrong (unlike you) and will say, “Boo to you!” But you are still right and they are still wrong. 
  • Sometimes people will bald face lie about you. That’s always wrong. 
  • Sometimes (in fact most times, these days), they won’t say “Boo” or lie to your face. They won’t even private message their disagreement. Keyboard boo-birds and liars post it on social media for all to see. 
  • Sometimes it really hurts—especially when you are right or innocent. There’s no defending yourself on social media. You just have to take the “Boos” and the lies and ride out the storm. But that doesn’t make it fun or leave you without scars.
  • Sometimes you discover who your true friends are when the lies and boos are headed in your direction.
  • Sometimes you should not post anything, not blog, not hit “send,” and turn off your devises. (Are you reading what you are writing, Rob? I am. Good). 

When you are wrong apologize or change or stop thinking wrongly. Then move on.
When lies are spread about you, remind yourself of the truth, hold your head high and then move on.
When you are right be humble (no boasting allowed) but do not change (at least don’t change your thinking regarding that one issue). Then also move on. Always move on. Never stay put.

Right or wrong try your best to maintain relationships. Those people who say, “Boo to you” are like you (not perfect). They just think differently on whatever issue they are booing you. It doesn’t make them bad (although it would have been nice if their boos were in a private message). It doesn’t make them an enemy. It only means they think different than you on that issue. That’s all. 

The liars are bad. Lying is bad. Always (duh). Still treat the liars with the same respect and kindness the Lord has extended to you when you’ve lied. Forgive. Even when thy don’t ask for it. “Love your enemies” is a good reminder when lies are flying in your general direction. 

There’s too much spewing of hatred these days. Too much booing. Too many pointing fingers, wagging fingers and when it’s really bad middle fingers. Yikes!

Let’s be open to the fact that we could be wrong. Allow the Holy Spirit to help us. Let’s work harder on loving our neighbors who boo us and our enemies who lie about us. While we are far from perfect, let’s live into Paul’s instructions to the Philippians: In your relationships with one another, have the same mindset as Christ Jesus (Philippians 2:5). Peter’s instruction isn’t a bad reminder either: Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins (1 Peter 4:8). 

Sometimes as you love the boo-birds and enemies with the mindset of Christ Jesus, they become your friends. 

Sometimes.  

NEWS FLASH: The Election is Over–  Let’s Love One Another Again. 

On By Rob Prince1 Comment

Donald Trump is the president elect. There are those in our church who are glad and those in our church who are unhappy with the results of last week’s national election.  That is the way elections work. Someone wins. Someone loses.  My concern is how the country and more specifically how the church moves forward (no matter who happens to be residing in the White House). 

I’m going to sound like an old man (which is Ok because I am an old man): We don’t have to be so divided. We don’t have to be this way. It wasn’t always like this. Democrats and Republicans could be friends. Hang out together. Actually, enjoy each other’s company. They knew how one another voted and it didn’t send either into a tailspin. It was OK. Everyone loved the country. They just had different ideas on how it should be governed. 

I’ve talked to so many people who have lost friendships or worse over the election. They aren’t going to Thanksgiving family celebrations because of the political divide within their family. Are you kidding me? (OLD MAN ALERT AGAIN: Everyone needs to grow up).

Repeat after me: Relationships are more important than politics. Relationships are more important than politics. Relationships are more important than politics. 

People who voted for Kamala Harris are good Americans. So are those who voted for Donald Trump. Are there crackpots on both sides of the aisle? Of course, but let me remind you, Jesus said we are to love our neighbors (presumably even the goofballs). Even if our neighbor had yard signs for a candidate we didn’t like, we still need to love them. Paul wrote: “as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone” (Romans 12:15). Jesus said this about our family members with whom we may disagree, “If you are offering your gift at the altar and there remember that your brother or sister has something against you, leave your gift there in front of the altar. First go and be reconciled to them; then come and offer your gift” (Matthew 5:22-23). In other words, relationships matter! Even if our crazy cousin Harold spouts crazy conspiracy theories all day long. We still need to love him and his booger eating kid. 

Love means you talk. Love means you care. Love means you are present. Love means you are respectful. Love means you say, “I’m sorry.” Love sometimes means you zip your lip and say nothing. Love means you are constantly looking for the good, not the bad. Love means you say (or type on your keyboard) things that build up and not tear down. Love means… love. Honest. Faithful. True. Consistent. Persistent. Keeping no record of wrongs. Love Always Protects. Always trusts. Always Hopes. Always perseveres. Love never fails. (1 Corinthians 13:6-8a)

News Flash: the election is over. One side won. The other side lost. That’s the way the system works. No gloating. No bitterness. Let’s move forward as a country. Let’s try to be legitimately called “the UNITED States of America” (ALL CAPS ON PURPOSE). Let’s work together. Let’s be the great hopeful nation that everyone wants it to be. Let’s love one another again.

The Pastors I Admire

On By Rob Prince1 Comment

As I embark upon my twelfth year at Central Church, I am impressed by those pastors who have given their entire lives to one community (this is my fifth pastorate). Pastors on the Eastern Michigan District like Rev. Bob Hunter who went to Detroit Grace Church of the Nazarene straight out of Bible College in 1978 (or something like that) and has never left. Rev. John Wright who has only pastored Detroit New Hope and has been there around 40 years. Rev. Mike Kempton, a classmate of mine at Olivet and Nazarene Theological Seminary, has only pastored the Hazel Park, Michigan church. He is at 35+ years in that assignment. Those men, and many other pastors around the country like them, are heroes.

Flint Central is my longest pastorate. Compared to those pastors in the previous paragraph, I’m a newbie. Mine is the second longest pastoral tenure in the history of Flint Central church (Rev. John Andree was here longer). I’d like to say that my time here has been without worries or trouble. I’d like to say it, but I can’t. There have been peaks and valleys (as with any church). There have been times when the Enemy has said, “Be like a bread truck and move your buns” or something to that effect. But through it all, God has been faithful to remind me of my call to Flint Central Church. I wasn’t “hired” to be the pastor of Flint Central Church, I was called by God to be here. It’s that calling that hasn’t left me and has kept me here. 

All this to say, I’m sure Revs. Hunter, Wright, and Kempton have had moments of frustration and problematic people. They may have been wooed to go to other places. But they’ve stayed through thick and thin. They have remained faithful to the cause of Christ in their communities. They have fought the good fight, through all times. It is an admirable quality that I cannot match (unless I keep pastoring until age 104). 

Uncle Buddy Robinson, an evangelist of a century ago, understood the challenges of the ministry. Of course, he didn’t have today’s keyboard critics hiding behind their screens using social media to spread venomous lies and gossip. He didn’t know of maliciousness of rumormongering technology that could land below-the-belt gut punches with the stroke of a key. Still he knew the Enemy would put up a fight, trying to get beat-down pastors into throwing in the towel. He described a determination to stay in the fight that the three pastors mentioned above (and many others not named) exemplify.

Put iron shoes on my feet along with galvanized britches. Hang a wagon load of determination upon the gable end of my soul and help me to sign a contract to fight the devil as long as I’ve got a fist and to bite him as long as I’ve got a tooth and then gum him ’til I die.

In-it-for-the-lang-haul pastors like Revs. Hunter, Wright, and Kempton signed that contract years ago to keep on fighting no matter the circumstances. They have heroically remained faithful. I can’t match their longevity, but I pray all pastors (myself included) would strive to match their resolve, fortitude and grit. Keep on fighting and “gum him ‘til we die.” 

An After the Sermon conversation

On By Rob PrinceLeave a comment

Not everyone likes the preacher’s sermon. I get it. Sometimes the preacher is having a bad day. Not every sermon is a homerun. Sometimes it’s a strikeout. Sometimes the listener is having a bad day too. It happens.

My last sermon may or may not have been a strikeout (if you were present on Sunday or watched online you can be the judge or be the umpire– to keep my “strikeout” metaphor straight). One first time (probably last time) guest took serious umbrage with what I said.  Serious umbrage!

“You must apologize for not preaching the Gospel!” he said.

“I will not apologize for preaching about grace,” I retorted. If you weren’t in church last Sunday… shame on you. Just kidding there is plenty of grace (see the next two sentences). If you were absent, the recap is we started a new series called “SOLA.” It is a series that looks at the Five Pillars of Protestantism beginning with Sola Gracia or Grace Alone.

Suffice it to say the dude didn’t like the sermon on grace.

He stated that it is baptism that saves us. I again reiterated that it is Jesus who saves. Just Jesus. He didn’t like that answer either. He interjected a passage from James saying that our good works also saves us.

“It’s baptism and good works that save,” according to this man as he jumped from obscure scripture to obscure scripture to emphasize his beliefs.

I might have further upset him a little more when I told him we don’t “cherry pick” obscure verses to support our beliefs instead we believe in “plenary inspiration” meaning the “whole of scripture” is inspired. Furthermore, I reiterated again, the Bible is clear– it is Jesus who saves. Just Jesus. I said, “in fact, if you really want to know more, please join us in two weeks when the sermon will be on “Solus Christus” (Christ Alone).

I don’t think he will return.

Not everyone agrees with us theologically. We can’t change who we are (I don’t want to change who we are. I like us. Still there’s a piece of me that’s sad whenever someone exits for whatever reason. (FYI… just prior to that conversation, still after the 11AM service, I led a young man, also the first time in our church, to the Lord. Chalk it up to: You win some and you lose some.).

Pastoring is crazy these days. It’s extra crazy during election years. Ask anyone in a helping profession (police officers, nurses, teachers, social workers, and pastors), they will tell you there is an angered entitlement and victimized brashness that wasn’t present in past generations. It is much harder (thank you social media with its gossip and lies) to pastor than it was when I began 36 years ago. Life is different. Yet, people still need Jesus. That hasn’t changed.

Proclaiming the Good News of Jesus Christ has been my life’s calling. That passion is just as strong today (in fact stronger) as it was when I first sensed God speaking to me as a seventh grader sitting by a teen “afterglow” campfire at Water’s Edge Camp.

It is also a privilege and a joy to be a pastor. But it’s not for the faint of heart. Jesus didn’t say pastoring or life, for that matter, would be easy. He said He would be with us.

He has been.

He will be.

He is! 

The Church of the Nazarene Looks a lot like Heaven. Here’s Why that’s Even Better Than You Think:

On By Rob Prince1 Comment

There are 195 countries in the world (according the United Nations) and the Church of the Nazarene is in over 160 of them. The Church of the Nazarene is in more countries than McDonalds (164 vs 120). For some ecclesiastical context, the United Methodist Church is in 138 countries. The Free Methodists and Southern Baptists are each in just over 100 countries. The Wesleyans are in 90. The Missionary Church is in 110 countries. The “Global” Methodists are in just eight. So the Church of the Nazarene is more “missionary” than the Missionary church and far more “global” than the Global Methodist Church. 

An argument can be made that other than the Roman Catholic Church, the Church of the Nazarene is the most globally minded and equally represented church in the world (the Roman Catholics have been doing things a tad bit longer than the 116 year old Nazarenes). There are more African Nazarenes (927,961) than North American Nazarenes (577,282). Next year, for the first time in Church of the Nazarene history, there may be over 1 million Nazarenes on one continent (Africa, not North America). 

According to the 2023 General Secretary’s report, there are 30,747 churches around the globe (McDonald’s has a beat with its 45,000+ restaurants in the world). There are 30,000+ elders, deacons and licensed ministers. Moreover, there are 482 missionaries from 60 world areas serving in 83 areas. Every Sunday the message of Jesus is proclaimed in Nazarene churches in 192 different languages (Honesty Alert #1: I didn’t even know there were 192 different languages, let alone that there are Nazarene services in these different dialects). Besides the languages you might expect (English, Spanish, Portuguese, French and Haitian), there are Nazarene worship services in Bengali (134,164), Tsonga (121,784), Chichewa (84,942); Tok Pisin (64,714) and Amharic (48,356). (Honesty Alert #2: Not only have I never heard of these languages, I never would have guessed that thousands of Nazarenes speaking in these various tongues are worshipping every single week). It makes one long for heaven where  there will be  “a great multitude that no one could count, from every nation, tribe, people and language, standing before the throne and before the Lamb” (Revelation 7:9). 

All to say, the Church of the Nazarene looks a lot like heaven and, on the earth, is in the best position to have a global impact. Better than many of our sister denominations. We have “boots on the ground” all over the world. If disaster strikes, the Church of the Nazarene is already there (thank you Nazarene Compassionate Ministries). If  travelling in another country, know there are like-minded brothers and sisters ready to help should problems arise. But most of all, in all those places and in all those languages Jesus is being preached! 

Jesus said to be my witnesses “to the ends of the earth,” and the Church of the Nazarene is attempting to fulfill that mission. Praise the Lord!

She Ain’t Dead Yet: Reports of the Death of the Church of the Nazarene are Greatly Exaggerated

On By Rob PrinceLeave a comment

Mark Twain may or may not have once said, “the reports of my death are greatly exaggerated.” The same can be said for the Church of the Nazarene.

The extremes in the Church of the Nazarene like to point to conflict or trouble and conclude with the pronouncement, “…and that’s why the Church of the Nazarene is dying.” When some elders lost their credentials because of disagreements with the Manual regarding human sexuality, the cries from our brothers and sisters on the left were, “…and that’s why the Church of the Nazarene is dying.”  When those on the far right, like to point out the splinters in some ministers’ eyes (while missing the planks in their own) they frequently conclude, “…and that’s why the Church of the Nazarene is dying.” When a few folks on the far right, besmirched some General Superintendent candidates they perceived as “liberal” with social media gossip, rumors and flat out lies at the last General Assembly, sensible yet discouraged people on all sides cried, “…and that’s why the Church of the Nazarene is dying.” 

Like Mark Twain, the rumors of the Church of the Nazarene’s demise have been greatly exaggerated. 

One could get the impression that there are a lot of problems in the Church of the Nazarene. (Honesty alert: I’ve been accused of being a “Negative Nelly”). The church has struggled especially in Europe and USA/Canada. At times, I’ve pointed out troubling statistics. Conversely, Africa is booming with the Gospel message. I’ve been told the World Evangelism Fund (WEF) giving is up my a million dollars. Wow! Last week, I wrote how USA/Canada may have (it’s a rumor at this point) the first year of growth in 19 years. A few of my apparent fellow Negative Nazarene Nellies following the aforementioned blog wondered if the growth was simply sheep stealing from the United Methodists. Of course, there is no way to know where the growth came from across North America, but I have a hunch that its more than sheep changing pastures. I’m optimistic. I think there is something better happening.

Case in point, last week I spent a day and a half with some of the best of the best in the USA/Canada Church of the Nazarene. Dr. David Graves is leading an effort to improve Nazarene preaching. The Preaching Collaborative is an effort (funded by a Lily grant) to promote evangelistic, Biblical preaching. I am a facilitator in this effort. Most of the groups across the country gathered last week in Estes Park, Colorado. There were meetings, seminars and, it was a Nazarene event after all, food and gatherings around tables. 

I looked around the room and saw old ministers like me, but also young dynamic ministers like Galen Ryman of Chicago First Church, Nate Smith of The Table in Joliet, Colton Townley of The Crossings in Colorado, and Philip Modlin of Amplify in North Carolina (just to name a few) and I thought, the Church of the Nazarene is in very good hands. Speakers included Derwin Grey, Elise Snowden (another young Nazarene preacher who knocked it out of the park) and Dawie De Koker (Kevin Myers and Dr. Stan Reeder also spoke, but I left early to make it back to Central Church’s final  Spiritual Renewal week service). There were 175ish of us gathered. I’m sure there were a few stinkers in the crowd (present author excluded, please), but I couldn’t point them out. I was encouraged and believe the best days for the Church of the Nazarene are still ahead as we proclaim the Good News of Jesus Christ.

Don’t get too focused on what is perceived to be wrong in the Church of the Nazarene. I’m not suggesting putting one’s head in the sand. Of course, there are areas on all sides in which the church can improve. The Church of the Nazarene isn’t perfect (author included). Still let the main focus be the task at hand. Listening, learning and loving people in one’s local setting in an effort to share the Good News of Jesus. Jesus still changes things. The Church of the Nazarene is still in a position (maybe better than ever) to proclaim this Good News. Win the Lost.  Make disciples. Fulfill the mission.

She ain’t dead yet! 

Nazarene Worship Attendance In USA/Canada Grew In 2024 for the First Time in Nearly 20 years

On By Rob Prince1 Comment

Was 2023 the rock bottom year for the attendance for the Church of the Nazarene in USA/Canada? The worship attendance numbers for 2024 have not been released but the rumor is that for the first time in nearly 20 years, the USA/Canada region experienced worship attendance growth. It true, praise the Lord!

Following the massive attendance cliff following Covid, the church is starting to rebound. No doubt, this is happening in part because of the “cycle of resurgence” initiative started under regional director, Dr. Stan Reeder. The plan was bathed in prayer (always a good place to start). This year churches were to bless their community. Leading people to Jesus is next year’s focus. Finally it’s discipling people in the ways of Christ who will, in turn, bless their communities and the resurgent cycle begins. Some churches have stepped up their efforts to get into their communities and have already been leading people to Jesus and discipling them. Progress is happening. The church where I am privileged to pastor saw modest growth in 2024. Again, Praise the Lord!

“Butts in seats” (sorry for my crassness) is not synonymous with spiritual renewal. Taylor Swift can fill a stadium at 200 bucks a pop (or more), yet no one confuses the gathering with revival. Still, increased worship attendance is a sign of something (usually) good. When the Holy Spirit is moving in a church, it encourages those on the inside to invite outsiders so they too might experience what God is doing. In other words, the slight attendance growth should not be seen as the end (See: the 80s Church Growth Movement) but the beginning of a call to do the hard work of disciple-making.

“Counting people because people count” is not a compelling reason for filling a church. This isn’t Church Growth Movement 2.0. Jesus’ “church growth method” was not very effective. He went from 5,000+ at a free fish and bread event to John and a few women at Golgotha. Even after rising from the dead, there were only 120 in the meeting place on Pentecost. Not exactly, a booming, write-all-about-it, sign-a-book-contract evangelism explosion.

Jesus didn’t call us to fill a church. He called his followers to make disciples. That’s it. That’s the plan. Make disciples. Some will follow. Some will not. In fact, most will not (See Jesus statement on the “narrow road and only a few find it”). Even Jesus couldn’t convince some folks to follow Him (see Luke 9). Honestly, He didn’t seemed to obsessed about those who walked away. He didn’t chase after them. He didn’t beg them to reconsider. He simply invited someone else to follow. There’s always someone else who needs to hear the Good News. There is always someone else that is lonely and tired. Continuing to offer invitations and discipling the willing ones is the Jesus strategy. It seems to be working now too. 

Was 2023 the rock bottom year for attendance?  I hope so. If USA/Canada continues to repeat the cycle: bless our communities; tell folks about Jesus and make disciples, then continued growth could happen. Fulfilling the Great Commission (Matthew 28:19-20) is the ticket out of the attendance basement.