Dr. Eberhard Speaks Out

The Rev. Dr. David Eberhard will do an article periodically called "Dr. Eberhard Speaks Out." He will challenge us with his thoughts and experience as a leading churchman in America. While we may agree, or not agree, he will share with us what he has learned that works in the local parish. Over his forty years of experience in the ministry, he has always tended to be ahead of the current curve of church practices, and is always "pushing the envelope" to get us to expand our thinking.

Dot Com! "... Often on Sundays the reporter will say "don't go out today". This negatively effects the religious community. They never say that on a work day. This hype and sensationalism really hurts business, entertainment events, restaurants, churches, school activities , etc. Cool down and make life less stressful for everyone. Meanwhile, I'm going to 'dot ... Com'."

Where is the Church? "... It's up to you, the Church, to be heard loud and clear that you have been given the healing, forgiving, caring message for all. "Where Is The Church ?" I hope you let it be heard before it becomes to late."

Church Membership! "...In America we are losing one downtown parish after another . It would be great if others saw fit to have their members once in awhile attend and support the downtown church, to see that there is the presence of the church in downtown for generations to come...."

It's OK! "...Let the church be the church! Stop tinkering with the truths, end the dumbing down of faith, stop the endless litmus tests and over zealous restrictions on membership. We have lost enough churches-- many of them closed because they failed to be the church, they failed to be faithful to God's Word..."

Why All The Fuss? "...We should not abandon all the great churches in the downtowns of America. These are our anchors, our beacons of Christian testimony, in an ever growing secular society..."

Hyping. "...Yes, we need to reach out; yes, we need to reclaim those who have drifted away, but we must also remember we have been "called" to serve those under our care. Hey everybody, I am here, I need the loving news of Jesus Christ as my Savior. How about a little less hype - and more just plain caring ministry."

People and Money. "...Yes, you can have a fine church building, but if you do not have people it is a museum. And, if you have a good church facility, and good worship & events, and good leadership, and people - but do not have money, you can't achieve much. It takes people and money!"

Sorry. "...How about a few less "sorry" and a lot more "God Loves You - Welcome."

Heritage and Legacy. "...It is not enough to just live and serve the Lord for today only. I encourage others to look closely at their heritage, to celebrate today the parish's life, and prepare a legacy of faith to pass on to the next generation."

Enjoying Church!. "...We enjoy the depth of the talent, experiences, and friendliness of our 1800+ members. We enjoy the many, many friends of Historic Trinity who are so faithful in their support and participation. We invite you to Historic Trinity Lutheran Church where you can truly enjoy attending church!"

"Crying Wolf" - "The Sky Is Falling". Not "maybe", not "if", not with "strings attached". Jesus' death on the cross freed us from sin, the devil, and eternal death. We are free, forgiven, positive people who are filled with hope and assurance. Look up, there is a better day ahead - the sky is not falling - and this is not crying "wolf".

Get a Vision - Go For It!. Visionary leadership - needs to tie into a vision, but it must be believable, an accessible dream, where people can buy into the dream, and then they will buy into your leadership. Remember God will continue to do His miracles amongst you. So, go forth boldly in faith, knowing that with God all things are possible.

Competing or Complaining. "...How we retain the present members and make new members and visitors real feel welcomed is dependent upon our attitude. We need to get out of our comfort zones and neat little clusters and talk to everyone. Let them know they are welcome and accepted...."

Giving Options. "...If you have money and no people than you have an empty museum. Find ways to increase your people and your money. To increase your income, seriously consider providing giving options to your members and friends."

Time For A New Synod?. "...There seems to be no reasonable position for agreement on either side. So one asks "Is it time for a new Synod?"

A Growing Church. "...Remember, God will continue to do His miracles amongst us in all parishes, regardless of size. May we all grasp a greater vision for our parishes and let us go forth boldly in faith, knowing that with God all things are possible."

Worship Practices. "...but rather it is providing the membership with strong bold scriptural preaching and inspiring church music that meets the needs of its people."