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September
12, 2006 | Issue #33 |
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Is
there an alternative to the endless cycle of capital
campaigns and budget shortfalls in churches? Can a church
adequately fund its vision, remain true to its values
and empower its people to experience the joy of generosity?
Can pastors lead their congregations to experience the
joy of giving, and at the same time fund compelling
ministry opportunities?
Leadership Network asked Byron Van Kley to recommend
some books that can help church leaders see the paradigm
for what's next, beyond the pressure to make budget
or launch other stewardship pushes. Byron has been researching
churches that have developed an exceptional culture
of generosity. He also serves as director of the Generous
Churches Leadership Community, which is made
possible through a joint venture with Generous Giving.*
The following are Byron's top reading recommendations
on the subject. They include both book description and
Byron's commentary on why he selected each book.
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The
Treasure Principle,
Randy Alcorn
This book is a quick, enjoyable read in language
that is easy for anyone to understand and apply.
Award-winning writer Randy Alcorn unpacks the
central biblical truth that "everything
belongs to God, and we are just his money managers."
Many churches have found it compelling as a
congregation-wide handout to accompany a teaching
series on stewardship and generosity. |
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Money,
Possessions and Eternity, Randy Alcorn
This book offers in-depth treatment, including
extensive biblical study and theological analysis,
of the topic of stewardship. It serves as a
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Click
here for more on Byron's reading recommendations
. . . |
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Exclusive
Offer for Catalyst Conference
Leadership Network is joining forces with the
Catalyst
Conference, a premiere leadership experience
held October 5-6, 2006 in greater Atlanta, GA.
See the link at the end of the article for financial
discount information. |
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9/11
Has Had Little Spiritual Impact
A new study by The Barna Group shows that despite
an intense surge in religious activity and expression
in the weeks immediately following 9/11, the faith
of Americans is virtually indistinguishable today
compared to pre-attack conditions. |
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"Second
Chair" Seminars Add Dates
Have you ever struggled with the tension of using
your leadership gifts and being a loyal subordinate?
Do you have God-sized dreams for the future and
find it difficult to be content with the present?
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Leadnet.org Gets a Facelift
The primary Web site for Leadership Network--
www.leadnet.org--has
a new look!
The new design represents much more than just
a prettier face. You'll now find it easier to access information
from and about our Leadership Communities.
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Buford Joins Prestigious HotSoup Panel
Leadership Network founder Bob Buford will join a cast
that includes Senator John McCain and seven-time Tour
de France winner Lance Armstrong when online community
HOTSOUP.com®
goes live in the early fall.
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Secrets of Generous Churches: Creating a Culture in Which
Serious Stewardship is Normal
Free Download
A nationwide movement of churches is taking shape, intent
on creating cultures marked by strong financial stewardship
and biblically guided generosity. This paper by Liz Swanson
addresses the issue of generosity by looking at questions
such as: What is a generous church? When a congregation
is transformed by the biblical message that "it is
more blessed to give than to receive," what does
it look like? |
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You
can find valuable information on a variety of ministry
topics by visiting the Leadership Network Advance
Archives. Some past issues include these feature articles:
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Help is a Click Away |
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Using a Great Day of Service to Shape Your Church's
Culture |
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Church Healthcare Ministry: Four Categories to
Watch |
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Leadership Network's Top-selling Books and Why |
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