SEPT. 5 - A Fruitful Church: Barriers

Titus 3 discusses the dangers of "unfruitful" teaching and discussion, that can be a huge issue for Christians and congregations - these words are especially directed to pastors and leaders and teachers. Verses 1-2 and verses 9-10 are especially pointed:

TITUS 3:1-2 Be subject to rulers and authorities, to be obedient, to be ready for every good work, to speak evil of no one, to avoid quarreling, to be gentle, and to show every courtesy to everyone.

TITUS 3:9-10. Avoid stupid controversies, genealogies, dissensions, and quarrels about the law, for they are unprofitable and worthless. After a first and second admonition, have nothing more to do with anyone who causes divisions.


Rev. Joe Fort, our West District Superintendent approaches fruitfulness in terms of where we spend our time and energy as congregations, and as leaders of congregations.

Four areas often preoccupy the majority of our energy. These are necessary areas:
Membership care
Building care
Fellowship
Giving and stewardship

These are good things, but they are rarely the most fruitful areas. There are five important areas, that are truly windows in which God's Spirit moves to breathe life into congregations:
Focus on prayer
Engagement with the Word
Meaningful worship
A heart for missions
Personal evangelism

You can read more about these by going to this site:

A BLUEPRINT FOR MINISTRY - BY REV. JOE FORT