Tapping into a Vast Reservoir

The potential is not visible. On the surface, it is not obvious where a natural gas reservoir will be found. Energy companies expend considerable time and money to look at geological data to assess what is beneath the surface. A wise pastor doesn’t make superficial judgments about the spiritual depth or potential of a congregation, but rather trusts that God has placed just the right people in the church to accomplish His greater purposes.

Each situation is different. Even though energy companies are using the same basic technologies in natural gas fields all across the country, their specific approach is different in each situation. That’s because the geology and other factors vary considerably. Church leaders must avoid the “silver bullet” fallacy – the belief that if they just adopt a great program from another successful church, this will “fix” their problems. They can learn from others but must realize that their congregation is unique.

Releasing energy takes effort. These new natural gas fields don’t give up their treasures easily. It requires quite a bit of money and effort to release the gas from the rock formations that are deep underground. In the same way, congregational leaders must be prepared to invest a considerable amount of time and energy to raise the spiritual temperature of their congregations in order to tap into the potential that exists.

Controversy will arise. In the natural gas business, a huge debate is taking place on the risk associated with a technique called “hydraulic fracturing.” When a pastor or other leader decides to make changes in order to tap into a congregation’s spiritual reservoir, there will be opposition. It’s not a question of how to avoid criticism, but how to pick the right battles and how to engage in the ones that are inevitable.

The natural gas boom started when some energy experts had their eyes opened and started exploring. I hope you’ll start your own exploration process today.]]>