Transformation has always been the ultimate goal of Christianity. 

The Apostle Paul said it best.

Romans 12:2
Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is–his good, pleasing and perfect will.

2 Cor. 3:18
And we, who with unveiled faces all reflect the Lord’s glory, are being transformed into his likeness with ever-increasing glory, which comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit.

In a practical sense, I believe transformation is a process that happens in one of four ways – renewal, revival, reformation, or resolve.

Renewal involves reopening the value for creative and innovative juices to flow; impacting traditional ideas.  We experience renewal when old ways of doing things are replaced with fresh, new ideas that breathe “new life” into our hearts.  In renewal we can clearly see the value of change.  We realize that we cannot keep doing the same things over and over again; expecting different results.

Revival means restoring back to life that which has died.  In revival our life is re-connected with the “power source” – the Holy Spirit.  As power is restored, we experience a newfound energy and motivation to live for Christ.  The joy of our salvation is revived.  We feel empowered to deepen our relationship with God and share our testimony with others.  In revival we learn to “live again”.

Reformation brings relevant change to misaligned concepts and outdated designs.  Reformation involves a sense of “remodeling” – a makeover in structure or style.  In reformation appearances and designs can go through radical; and often, very noticeable, radical change.  We experience a profound difference in the way we think and act.  The old has passed away; in with the new.

Resolve involves an unwavering determination that sinks deep within our souls.  Resolve means fighting through the toughest challenges; never looking back.  In resolve we “grab the bull by the horns and wrestle him to the ground”.  We don’t give up and never retreat; despite the circumstances.  Resolve may also mean blazing a new path; pioneering a new journey into uncharted territory.

I like to think of transformation as a window of opportunity that the Lord opens up to our life; bringing spiritual awakening, new revelation, and empowerment.  Here’s our chance to breathe deeply a fresh awareness of Jesus in our life.  We can also seize a divine opportunity to feel the mighty winds of the Holy Spirit breeze through our life once again.

These transformational processes may also be considered as points of entry into an exciting journey into new life – one full of lots of challenges and risk-taking.  This journey helps us "bridge the gap" between complacency and proactive change; paving the way for progress and growth.

I have, at one time or another, experienced all four of these processes.  I am a better husband, father, and worker because of these life-changing processes; or also stated, seasons in my life.  But the one that I am experiencing most right now is resolve.  This one is really hitting me hard right now in my personal and professional life.  Perhaps it is because I am much older now and have seen many things.

Whatever the costs, I want to make a profound “difference” in what I do with the rest of my life.  I am “locked and loaded”; ready for battle.  I am determined to do whatever it takes to hear those words from Jesus as he reviews my life on earth.

Think about it.  If this is happening to me right now; then just think, what could happen if other Christians within my community caught the vision and engaged transformation?  Working together we probably could make a major impact in the lives of family, friends, and co-workers throughout our entire community.

Come on Church.  What’d you say?  Let’s do it!

Our team is at the MinistryCom Conference in Franklin, Tennessee this week.  This is a national conference for church communication and marketing professionals.

The conference is being held at The People’s Church where Rick White is the Senior Pastor.  Thousands of participants are expected to attend.

We are one of many exhibitors who are at the conference.  We hope to learn much from others who share our same passion for sharing the gospel of Jesus Christ in new and effective ways.

We hope to make new friends and build working relationships with other ministries.  We expect to hear a great report from our team.

Last week, Greg and I had a wonderful conversation with a United Methodist pastor in our community.  He had served for over 28 years in the ministry.  Now, he was planting a new church in an old, abandoned school-house that is being renovated and transformed into a community outreach center.

District offices of the United Methodist Church, the United Way, Big Brothers/Big Sister, and others have taken up residence in this center.  I see this as a wonderful example of how church and non-profit charities can work together in impacting their communities.

Inside this building is where this new church plant is happening.  It’s very exciting to see all the new construction going on.  People from the community have come in to help with the remodel.  Businessmen are stopping by to seeing what financial needs the new church has.  It really is a remarkable work in progress.

When I think about this, I am reminded of the comment made by C. Peter Wagner at a church conference that I attended many years ago.  He said, “It is easier to birth new babies; than it is to raise the dead.”  

This new church plant is happening in the midst of sad news for the United Methodist District in our area.  They had to close the doors on five churches this past year.  A steady decline in people, resources, and enthusiasm caused their demise.

This new church plant is happening in the midst of sad news for the United Methodist District in our area. They had to close the doors on five churches this past year. A steady decline in people, resources, and enthusiasm caused their demise. Now you may be asking yourself, “Why are they planting a new church, when they are closing the doors of old churches?”  This is where Wagner’s statement really rings clear.  There are times when old ways of doing things do not work like they use to.  They become outdated, counterproductive, and simply require more maintenance, which voids much growth.

When the Church begins answering questions that no one is asking anymore, something is wrong.  The Church, according to Jesus’ original design, was to be a “light in a dark place”.  This means always “shining” and relevant; bursting with faith, hope, and love.  The Church is a community of empowerment; and at the same time, a sanctuary of rest from the labors of life.

When local churches cease to breathe new life into the heart and lives of people, it is time to seriously consider why this is happening.  We cannot afford wasting time in addressing these concerns with the same level of thinking that helped create these concerns in the first place. To do so would suggest an “insane process” - doing the same things over and over again…expecting different results.

We must prepare and position ourselves for a "paradigm shift" in awareness…attitude…and application.  For me, this refers to what Jesus was talking about in Mark 2:21-22,

After our visit with the United Methodist minister, Greg and I commented to each other on our way to the car.  If our community had more Christians like this, taking our city for Christ would be a reachable goal. 

We were truly blessed and energized by our visit with a man, whose heart burns with great passion for the Lord and His Church.  We look forward to visiting with him again.

Growth is not always about numbers.  

Just because you have more people in the pew or more dollars in the bank account doesn’t mean you are growing according to biblical standards.  Growth is about “rising to the occasion” or “reaching new heights” in relationships.

The Apostle Paul best described growth in Ephesians 4:12-13, “to prepare God’s people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up until we all reach unity in the faith and in the knowledge of the Son of God and become mature, attaining to the whole measure of the fullness of Christ.”

In the Message, Ephes. 4:13 is translated, “until we’re all moving rhythmically and easily with each other, efficient and graceful in response to God’s Son, fully mature adults, fully developed within and without, fully alive like Christ.”

Relationships are the key factor in growth potential.  Why?  Because, it is all about people “connecting” with other people.  God wired us for relationships, which are the “avenues” for growth.  This applies to marriage, family, church, or business.  Meaningful relationships can pave the path towards change, progress, and growth.

The positive impact of relationships defines measurable growth.  Carefully ponder the above Scriptures, and you will understand how to measure growth.

Larry (one of my ministry partners) said to me the other day, “Why don’t we start an online revolution in Christian ministry?”  

Larry has been talking with ministry leaders across the U.S. about internet technology, and its potential use for worldwide ministry.  He has talked with seasoned veterans in ministry who are quite passionate about new technology. 

Most of these guys work in strategic positions in large Christian non-profit organizations.  Some are pastors; others are speakers at major conventions.  The point is that these guys recognize the needs of the Church and the apparent challenges that face leadership.

They are strong advocates of change, progress, and growth.  They are also practitioners of effective models in ministry.  They believe that an unprecedented opportunity awaits churches and ministries who are ready to embrace new technology and harness its power.

This is especially true of internet technology.  All of the ministry leaders that Larry has talked with have emphasized the importance of using the internet for reaching people for Christ.

Greg (another one of my ministry partners) was telling me the other day that he has encountered a lot of people turning to the internet, looking for fellowship and community.  Some of our research suggests that over 100 million Christians are now turning to the internet for social networking.

Do I see online community replacing face-to-face community?  Absolutely not.  But I am seeing new ways for people to connect and build relationships using the internet.  It makes a lot of sense; especially for young people who are growing up in a techno-savvy culture.

Whether we like it or not, the internet is here to stay!  So, why not take full advantage of its rapid growth, enormous popularity, and economical cost.  Let’s harness its power of communication and influence.  Let’s start an online revolution in Christian ministry that young people can rally behind and effect change in the lives of their peers.

History has proven that God has used innovative tools (like the printing press) in sparking spiritual awakening, renewal, and revival.  I believe He is now using the internet for new paradigms in ministry applications.  He is using it for prayer mobilization and evangelism.

The online revolution that I am talking about is a “back-to-the-basics” organic approach in reaching out and touching people’s lives with a message of hope – the good news about Jesus Christ.  We have the technology to do this, and quite well, through online community development.

So, let’s start an online revolution in Christian ministry.  We might even find ourselves tapping into a powerful “revolutionary tool” that God has ordained worthy and very effective for ministry usage, worldwide. 

Perhaps the internet (instead of television as previously suggested) will be the instrument in God’s hands to reach the globe for Christ and usher in His Second Coming.

What is it about the word "change" that scares people to death?

Pick up any Christian magazine today and most of the articles have something to say about the need for change.  The problem for me is that I hear a lot of people talk about it, but see little done about it.

The truth be known, change is really good for us.  So, why be scared of something that makes us better, wiser, and more healthier?

We see this as a "mission accomplished."  Our hopes in helping ministries build coalition forces for worldwide evangelism are now starting to take shape.

Reading is my passion! 

Over the course of 27 years, I’ve read countless number of books on various topics.  I enjoy everything from great Christian “classics” to modern, contemporary literature.  It’s not uncommon for me to have two or three books going at the same time.

Kim (my wife) and I truly enjoy going to the Christian bookstore.  Once inside, we tend to go in different directions.  She starts with new arrivals and then moves to biographies.  After that, she searches for certain authors in the Christian Living section.  Finally, she spends the rest of her time listening to praise and worship music.

I too like to start with the new arrivals but quickly move on to certain sections: Church Growth, Leadership, Discipleship, and Evangelism.  I like “how to” books; those with transferable concepts that can be taught to others.  Teaching is also one of my passions.  I truly enjoy passing along knowledge and wisdom to others; watching them grow and mature.

Our bookshelves at home overflow with books.  Some people even ask us if we are building a library.  What can I say?  We really like to read!

Despite the fact that Kim and my repertoire of literature are different, we both focus in on certain topics together.  These include books on relationships, building community, and contemporary church.  We believe reading keeps us “teachable” and open to fresh ideas.  This includes daily reading of our Bible, which starts out our mornings.

The following is a short list of Christian literature Kim and I highly recommend.  Most are currently on the shelf in Christian bookstores; others you may have to order.  Whether you are going through a “paradigm shift” in Christian transformation or simply need encouragement for tomorrow, these books may help.

Revolution by George Barna
Get Out of the Pit by Beth Moore
The Secret Message of Jesus by Brian McAllen
This Present Future by Reggie McNeal
Where Do We Go from Here? by Ralph W. Neighbor
Be a People Person by John C. Maxwell
Top Performance by Zig Ziglar
The Church in the Workplace by C. Peter Wagner
The Performance Factor: Unlocking the Secrets of Teamwork by Pat MacMillan
Connecting by Larry Crabb

Most of these books were written during the last number of years.  They reflect current thought about church and ministry.  For those of you looking for a specific topic of interest, I might be able to recommend some excellent works. 

Managing cell groups can be a challenge, especially if you are the pastor of the largest church in the world.

David Yonggi Cho is pastor of the largest Protestant church in the world, Yoido Full Gospel Church in Seoul, Korea.  A church with 750,000 members and approximately 25,000 cell groups.

During a recent breakfast in Southern California, Rick Warren, pastor of Saddleback Valley Community Church, asked pastor Cho: "How have you used technology to care for the needs of everyone in such a large church - to give personal attention when you have so many thousands of people?”

Cho responds:  “We couldn’t handle the situation without computers. We computerized everything in the church - every facet!  We also make use of the Internet.”

Concerning the future growth of his church, Cho says, “The next generation IS the Internet! Use the Internet - it is better…I have already announced to my people and ministers that the next step is to go into total cyberspace ministry because it is a real waste of money to build larger buildings.”

I was so excited reading this.  My immediate reaction was to simply get Pastor Cho on the phone and say, “We’ve got exactly what you are looking for.”  But, I don’t know how to get in touch with him.  Maybe someday.

I believe what we’ve got is the future in cell church software, especially with all the productivity tools that will be added.  We are also working on a way to translate our software in different languages.

It makes a lot of sense.  Cyberspace is where people are going.  So, why not take ministry to where millions of people are?

Everyone that sees Oikos is truly amazed. 

Greg and I were talking this morning about what people are saying about Oikos in the community. One of the friends of Greg’s family is Dr. Janet McMullen, associate professor of Radio/TV/Film at the University of North Alabama.  Both families attend church together.

In essence Dr. McMullen sensed great urgency for churches to use this cutting-edge technology to reach and minister to the "millennial generation."

Greg was "pumped" about what Dr. McMullen had to say about Oikos. He said, "I hope there are more people like Dr. McMullen who have a heart for ministry and a vision for new technologies that empower the Body of Christ."