Most ministry leaders are not well known outside their local setting.
Their fame is not widely traveled. Their stature is the product of wise decisions and godly behavior. They lead with character. They live with hope. They set their sights on what needs to get done…even when it’s difficult. No excuses! Just simple resolve.
They shake hands with discouragement from time to time. They have an ear tuned to the prompting of the Spirit. They forgive and they remember that they’re forgiven. They dismiss celebrity. They still champion the living out of the mission of God when most do not.
Simply put, they are important but little-known outside their local context.
Lots of churches are blessed with this type of leader.
I’m going to guess that you might be this type of leader yourself. If I’m right, thanks… Seriously, thanks!
So, what if…
- The “little-knowns” learned to invest themselves in several others?
- The “little-knowns” were trained to do it with new hope and new courage?
- The multiplication of “little-knowns” changed the mission landscape of lots of churches?
Our collective past has signaled:
- It’s the crowds that count.
- Crowds can lead to becoming “better-knowns.”
- Addition adds to crowds! The significance of multiplication is often overlooked. Its product is perceived as too slow!
Nothing wrong with large crowds, right? They’re a cause for celebration, right? PLI is being blessed with large numbers!
…It’s just that lots of “little-knowns” are dismissing the discipling leverage that results in surprising significance!
The future of the church in the United States hinges on lots of “little-knowns” who can “hear these words of mine and put them into practice” (Matthew 7:24) in their communities and congregations. Congregations large and small.
This simple tilt would result in breakthroughs for congregations that seldom celebrate the movement of God.
And the Gospel would pour into pockets and places around us that struggle in its absence.
It’s simple!
Jesus offered a simple invitation: “Come, follow me,” to some “little known” fishermen (Mark 1:17).
It’s simple…just not easy. And there are no shortcuts, either.
