Video: Denzel Washington Tells Graduates – “Put God First”

Academy Award-winning actor Denzel Washington’s very first piece of advice Saturday for graduates of Dillard University consisted of just three words. “Number one,” he said slowly and resolutely. “Put. God. First!” During the rest of his brief commencement address — just over 10 minutes long — Washington urged graduates to “fail big” and take chances. But in regard to material … Read More


Nelson SearcyLeadership

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Church Finances: A Leader’s Responsibility

Today’s blog comes to us from my friend and stewardship mentor Steve Stroope as an excerpt from his book, Money Matters in Church: A Practical Guide for Leaders. Steve is lead pastor of the multi-campus Lake Pointe Church near Dallas, Texas. Under his leadership, the congregation has grown from 57 members in 1980 to a current attendance of more than … Read More


Nelson SearcyChurch Systems, Leadership, Stewardship

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Lessons from Lyle Schaller

Considered the preeiminent church consultant of the last century, Lyle Schaller passed away on March 18 this year at 91. If there were one, he would win the Guinness Book of World Records award for most parishes consulted – with thousands and thousands of visits! Here’s a snapshot of some ideas we can glean from Schaller that I shared recently … Read More


Nelson SearcyChurch Growth, Church Systems, Coaching

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Senior Pastor Success Story: Paul Thomas

Paul Thomas has led Breckenridge United Methodist Church in Breckenridge, MI since 2013; it is the first church where he has served as pastor. He is a member of my Renegade Pastors Network and upgraded to Senior Pastor Coaching in February. I am thrilled to see pastors like Paul so committed to abandoning average and making incredible changes in his … Read More


Nelson SearcyChurch Systems, Coaching, Leadership

The Ten Most Influential Churches – New Resource Ends Today!

Didn’t want you to miss this new resource exclusive – with over $835.70 in bonuses that go away TODAY . . . Through the brand new resource, Ten Most Influential Churches of the Last Century, you will discover new secrets and strategies so that you too can experience exponential growth in your ministry! You can still pick up this exclusive new resource at a special introductory rate … Read More


Nelson SearcyChurch Growth, Church Systems, Evangelism

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8 Ways to Avoid the Summer Slump – and Increase Your Stewardship – Part 2

There are many proven things you can do to avoid a “summer slump” in stewardship. Today we continue with Part 2 of my 8 ways to not just glide through the summer – but GROW. (To read Part 1, click here.) 5. Preach on giving.  Biggest felt need during the summer – breaking free from debt. We’ll do a debt-free Sunday right in the … Read More


Nelson SearcyChurch Growth, Church Systems, Stewardship

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8 Ways to Avoid the Summer Slump – and Increase Your Stewardship – Part 1

Summer is fast approaching and you have two options in your approach – plan in the summer or beg in the fall. The prevailing myth is that you can’t avoid the so-called “summer slump.” But I challenge you today – be careful about buying into those average ways of thinking. You CAN flatten that summer dip – and make sure … Read More


Nelson SearcyChurch Growth, Church Systems, Stewardship

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