I used to picture the medical profession as dealing only with people who are sick. Over time, I’ve noticed that doctors and hospitals have been giving increased attention to what it takes for people to remain healthy. The shift reveals a different way of looking at their mission. Now some people are thinking about the spiritual equivalent of preventative medicine. Fixing problems requires a lot of energy; maybe we can apply this positive orientation to church health. What does it take for a church to stay healthy?

In this installment of my Messages About Purpose and Strategy, I’ll share a list of the requirements for church health. I’m sorry I can’t remember the source of this material or I would cite the author. I look at this list as I plan, prepare, and pray. 

    1) Spiritually and emotionally mature leaders 
    2) A tangible reliance on the Holy Spirit 
    3) An external focus on those not yet a part of us (with special focus on the poor, the oppressed, 
        and combating the spiritual forces of darkness) 
    4) A commitment to reproduce believers, leaders, and spiritual fruit at all levels of ministry 
    5) A thorough intentionality in leading a believer through the lifelong journey of becoming like
        Jesus 

    This is my aim.