Step 3: Cast the Vision
“If you don’t know where you are going, any road will get you there.” (Quote: Lewis Carroll) More often than not, too many churches exist on 52 dis-connected Sunday’s every year. Even though each week seems similar to the week before, there is no over-arching purpose or direction. In one sense, we are predictable. In another, we aren’t going anywhere. 18“Where there is no vision, the people perish.” Proverbs 29:18 (KJV)
Vision – “the act or power of seeing or imagination” (Definition by Merriam-Webster) The vast majority of Pastor’s have a plan for what he will preach on any given Sunday. Less often, but in most churches, there is a plan of worship. We know what songs we are singing, when the offering will be taken up and which upcoming events are happening the following week. Most Sunday School teachers prepare a specific lesson for each Sunday. Some will even have a calendar of events and functions just for that class. Dis-Connected.
As Pastor, how do you plan to lead your church and your Sunday School to accomplish specific objectives to further God’s Kingdom? How will you lead your church to work together to accomplish the Great Commission? How will you lead your Sunday School to Reach and Enroll New People, Teach Toward Changed Lives and Involve Members in Ongoing Ministry?
The congregation needs to hear from your heart. They need to know “why” they should reach and enroll new people. Why should they teach for life change? Why should they get involved in the ongoing ministry of the Sunday School and church? What will it look like when they reach and enroll new people; teach toward life change; and be involved in ongoing ministry? How will they accomplish these great objectives?
As Pastor, how will you help them to develop goals and action plans that move them towards accomplishing these objectives? Who is going to encourage them, equip them and lead them to carry out these plans?
Pastor, you are critical to the future of your Sunday School. They need to know that you value them and their efforts. They need to know that you are willing to support them whether it is a success or a complete failure. They need you to lead them forward.
Jesus described Himself as a shepherd and we are His sheep. You are the shepherd of the flock God has entrusted to you. Where are you leading them and how will you know when you have arrived?
Below are links to some great helps for you as you seek to develop a vision “message” as you lead your church to prepare for the Sunday School Challenge.
