Refocusing Resources in the Missional Church

As churches make the paradigm shift to externally-focused ministry (missional) the need to refocus resources is imperative.  The intent is not to layer an externally-focused ministry emphasis on top of our existing ministry resources, but rather refocus our existing resources to be externally-focused. 

When we think of resources we so often limit our thinking to money.  While that is part of it, the shift requires a look at a wide range of resources.  Here are some examples of refocusing resources might look like in various areas:

Prayer

§          Community prayer walking

§          Adopting community leaders, schools, etc. for prayer.

People development and deployment

§          Each care group adopts a community ministry

§          Turn members into missionaries where they live, work, and play.

Time/Calendar

§          Reduce church events so people can serve the community.

Facilities

§          Develop facilities with community needs in mind.

§          Encourage community groups to use church facilities.

Money

§          Increase budget used for serving the community.

§          Have a capital drive for community ministry.

§          Create a foundation to serve community needs

Technology

§          Enhanced website to reach the community.

§          Offer spiritual growth to community through technology (i.e. pod casting)

What could we do?  What should we do?  What will we do?