What’s a Blogger to Do?
- Posted by: Todd
- Posted on: Tue, November 08, 2005
- Viewed 110
- (35) comments so far
As always, I try to find a title that will grab your attention (so that you'll take the time to read the post). Since Dan's prayer was about "God not sending Christians to their church", I picked this title:
"Dear God: Please Don't Send Christians To Our Church!"
Provacative. Eye Catching. Short and Sweet. Attention Grabbing.
But I had no idea.
The onslaught of criticism of the article was amazing to me. By mid-day, I was getting tons of traffic from other blogs that had picked up on the story:
I guess the idea that everyone is important and valuable in God's eyes got thrown out the door. I realize that some Christians are along for the ride and need a kick in the you know where, but believe me, they aren't the only ones that aren't welcome in these Churches it's those dreaded Churched people too. You know the ones that went to Sunday School.
and
A favorite blog of many seeker-centered pastors, has an interesting account of one such church that actually prays against growing Christian attendance. They generally dont want Christians to fill up their seats, and take away seating for unchurched Harry and Mary.
Both of these snippets, I think, totally misrepresent what Dan was even talking about in the article. I'm not sure if people just read my title and went from that or what; but the reviews on their blogs (and on mine, since many of their visitors came and posted comments at MMI) were lethal.
The result? You guessed it... the blog post that I had hoped would help many who could use it to help them better define their ministry was 'hijacked' into a post that ended up being an anti-seeker; anti-evangelistic church; anti-large church; 'progressive' pastor; 'watered-down' theology post by those who don't share the overall values and mission of this blog. Quite frankly, it's the same place we've gone here (it seems like hundreds) many, many times.
That sent me into my own rant, for which I'm not particularly proud. 
I want a provacative blog. I want a blog that sharpens what you and I believe. I want a blog that handles controversial things (I had a whole handful of items this morning that I wanted to post and thought this morning probably wasn't the right time to do it!) I want a blog that discusses ministry items, trends, methods that may push us all 'out of our comfort zone'.
I DON'T want a blog where we debate the same things over and over again. I don't want a blog that is constantly based on criticism of others (although sometimes that's necessary). I don't want a blog that is constantly on the defense about something that we shouldn't have to be on the defense about. But that's what it has become many times.
I've become convinced that, while I wish everyone could participate and be a positive contribution to this blog, that's just not possible.
Does it mean that I just want a bunch of people who agree with me to join in this blogging journey?
Not at all.
Here's what I think it does mean though:
If you find that you violently disagree with most of the subjects and topics that I post on here, then this probably isn't the blog for you.
If you find the need to set me or others straight on just about every post you read here, then this probably isn't the blog for you.
If you feel that this blog preaches a watered-down or 'different' gospel, then this probably isn't the blog for you.
If you think the purpose of the church is only discipleship and only for Christians; or you think the church is only for evangelism and the lost; then you'll be frustrated, and probably find that this isn't the blog for you.
But...
If you want to be a part of a community of church leaders who are breaking the molds, reaching the lost, building the kingdom, doing their best to become effective for God's use, then I think you'll feel right at home.
And that discussion will not only be provacative; it will be challenging, lively, and even heated at times. But it will be so in a way that stretches us all in our faith and direction and service while staying true to the Word.
That's the type of blog that I'd love to see (and I think we've accomplished it on many different times here.)
Other than that... what's a blogger to do?
Have a great day!
Todd
Yesterday was a tough day for me at the blog. Just when I think I have a feel for how to do this thing, I get unpleasantly surprised. Yesterday’s article by Dan Reiland hit a nerve with lots of people. Most people loved it. A good number of people didn’t. When I posted the article, I thought there was very little that people wouldn’t like… thinking that Dan had somehow been able to say something that I’d been thinking for a long time, but never been able to express…
Comments
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pjlr on Tue, November 08, 2005
first!
Calm down Todd, you’re doing a fine job. The very nature of a blog invites people to rant and rave. There are a few commentors who nitpick every post. These are some people with serious issues and the dreaded illness of cynicismitis.
I have posted pros and cons on a variety of issues. In every case I think of, someone came back and conned my pro and pro’d my con. I choose to ignore the knee-jerkers, flame throwers, and the ad-hominem attackers.
I have found your site to be exactly what you have envisioned. Provocative. I wish I had time to comment on every post, but alas I just don’t have the time.
If I was asked for advice and I had 2 cents worth, I’d tell you to not respond to the constant critic. Monitor the blog, censor whomever is breaking the rules, post an occasional warning or disclaimer and let the chips fall where they may.
I’ve got MMIW as a favorite. I visit it twice every day. First thing in the morning and just before I leave the jobsite. It’s a pretty good little blog. Keep it going and don’t back off of the provocative stuff. I don’t always agree, but it helps me to see how the other side of an issue is seen by some.
sherry runnels on Tue, November 08, 2005
what is a blog?
Bart on Tue, November 08, 2005
Todd,
Don’t quit now!! I appreciate this blog. One of the things you want in a blog is to be provacative, If everyone agrees then it isn’t doing what it was designed for. Sometimes I find myself disagreeing just because everyone is agreeing. It is necesary to look at both side of an issue, and examine the possible problems or negatives also. I don’t like to see the same people rant about the same things every day, but I do want to hear some opposing views.
Bert on Tue, November 08, 2005
Sounds like you need a break Todd. Go get a massage and forget about the blog for awhile. We’ll still be here when you get back.
Sufficed to say, you’re not going to find any issue/topic that everyone is going to agree on. And while people may get up in each other’s faces, I don’t think it’s all that terrible.
The reason we keep coming back to mega vs. small, is because it’s the huge topic right now. Maybe in a few months that will change.
You’re putting forth good topics for us to think about. I’ve got my two cents, but it’s good to be challenged and I’ve read some very thought provoking posts since I’ve logged on over the months that often disagree with me. It’s all good!
I look forward to MMI every week.
Todd Rhoades on Tue, November 08, 2005
Thanks, Bert…
That’s one of the reasons I get frustrated though… because I hear time and time again, that the people I’m hoping to reach through this blog DO go away because of all the arguing over things that are off-topic. So if I let it go, I lose my audience as well (and then end up with just the ones who get us off-topic left!). :(
It’s just a balancing act. One I do better with somedays than others. http://www.mondaymorninginsight.com/images/smileys/smile.gif
I like the sound of a massage. Never had one (a professional one, at least). Maybe we could start a ‘massage fund’. Hey, that could be a post! Who could be against that?!
(smile)
Todd
Jon on Tue, November 08, 2005
Actually, I felt led to say that the title “Everybody wants to go to Heaven but nobody wants to die comes from an old Ledbelly blues sone fron the 20’s. It has deep Black spiritual roots to it.
rick on Tue, November 08, 2005
... that’s probably the same kind of thing Dan was talking about for the people he wanted to see in their church… hmmm? http://www.mondaymorninginsight.com/images/smileys/smile.gif
Evangelist Jeff on Tue, November 08, 2005
Todd, Hang in there buddy. Make no mistake about it there buddy. Jesus had trouble with the Pharisees and the Saducees, and they are still hanging around. Any where we go they are going to be there. Jesus spoke well of these people who have commented on this blog. He said “The blind lead the blind, and they both fall in the ditch.” I also remember something else on the Karate Kid. Daniels teacher told him that the student is actually like the teacher, good student, just bad teaching.” I don’t care what they say, I know the bible and what it teaches. Just do like Jesus did buddy. Just walk away and get alone with the Father.
Don on Tue, November 08, 2005
Todd;
I have 25 years of pastoral experience under my belt and the scars to prove it. The article about not sending more Christians was totally on-target. The trend in our “evangelical churches” to keep re-slicing the pie and capturing other people’s “market shares” does not add one whit to the kingdom. The bold church, the faithful church does care for and nurture believers, but does not cater to whims and fad in order to keep consumer Christians happy. The target of our ministry must be those who do not know Jesus Christ. Hang in there. Keep up the bold thoughts!
Peace
Maria on Tue, November 08, 2005
I don’t know you, and this is the first time i have read your blog, but from what i read, you’re doing a good job. Sometimes oppositon only strengthens us…sometimes. I hope that you continue to write challenging things for people to read. Oh let me say that I will feel right at home with the description you wrote at the end of your Blog today. Have a Blessed Day.
Jay Crouch on Tue, November 08, 2005
Todd,
Maybe too many professional Christian are grabbing up space in this blog. Todd…it is awesome and I truly believe God Himself is saying, “That’s what I’m talkin about!” It’s easy to stay in the Christian Ghetto (Roaring Lambs) and take offense with those who would spur us to action…actually fulfilling the mission of the Church to seek, save, and send. Far too many take too long of a pause after the “save” part and become pew dwellers and committee chairs. Also remember that an itchy scab is a sign of healing.
You go buddy! I’m here for ya!
Gary Hollinger on Tue, November 08, 2005
Hang in there Todd.
Three years ago your ministry led me to my first full-time worship pastorate. The fruits of this ministry have been incredible and (more than I could have asked or imagined) I am able to attend Moody Bible Institute to further my theological education with the assistance of my new church. I have continued to read MMI every week and have passed on a large number of articles to the staff and elders that spoke directly to situations we have gone through during the last three years. You cannot know what a blessing your minstry has been in my life. I hope one day to get to meet you and shake your hand (if not here, somewhere around the throne).
Please don’t let those who have personal agendas discourage you from continuing what has been a profound ministry. Keep the faith brother and carry on serving our Savior just as He has called you to do!
In His Hands,
Gary
Pete King on Tue, November 08, 2005
Todd,
I compeletly understand how you feel. With that said, I will openly admit that my words don’t really help much here. However, this experience of helping others is a painful and very rewarding journey. Your controversial topics are accomplishing your goals for this website. I’m afraid that the critic is always louder than the supporter. However, we must learn to ignore the critic and expose our hearts to vunerability. Never let your genuine desire to help all who come in contact with your life to over shadow the ones you have helped but have been silent. I’ve read your posting yesterday and although I didn’t agree with the individuals entire methodology I certainly didn’t fail to see your point. I believe with all my heart that if we will yield what He has called us to we will accomplish his purpose and our deepest desire to serve His Kingdom. Of all the most important bit of advise I could give here I would say, “Don’t let your discouragement overtake your hearts desire.” I realize this is probably just a bad day and things got a bit overwhelming but be encouraged that you are not carrying these things alone. People are praying for you and your ministry. Remember, No weapon formed against you shall prosper. That includes discouragement. Hang in there. Besides when we’re not fightin’, arguin’, and debatin’ we(God’s people) know when our brother needs some encouragement. So let me speak for all who appreciate and understand your purpose, “Hang in there!” God’s got your back and so do we.
Royal on Tue, November 08, 2005
Hey Todd,
I have a rule in communicating with people in our church. I will not email or text message or any other type of written communication on any subject that I can tell may have emotional attachments. (Ex> I won’t argue about any subject)
Without eye contact, body language, and emotion that is communicated through verbal communication, people read with their own slant and emotion and see what they want to see.
Sometimes I read a comment to a post and I think, “What post did this person read?” I have started blogging to try and improve my writing and thinking skills and to have another place to disciple others, but I know that I will often be misunderstood and misread.
When we make a writing mistake we call it a typo. We need a word for when people misunderstand what we are trying to commmunicate with our writing. One word. Then we won’t spend so much stress, time, and energy trying to recommunicate.
God bless and I enjoy your Web ministry.
Royal
Royal on Tue, November 08, 2005
Hey Todd,
I have a rule in communicating with people in our church. I will not email or text message or any other type of written communication on any subject that I can tell may have emotional attachments. (Ex> I won’t argue about any subject)
Without eye contact, body language, and emotion that is communicated through verbal communication, people read with their own slant and emotion and see what they want to see.
Sometimes I read a comment to a post and I think, “What post did this person read?” I have started blogging to try and improve my writing and thinking skills and to have another place to disciple others, but I know that I will often be misunderstood and misread.
When we make a writing mistake we call it a typo. We need a word for when people misunderstand what we are trying to commmunicate with our writing. One word. Then we won’t spend so much stress, time, and energy trying to recommunicate.
God bless and I enjoy your Web ministry.
Royal
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