Recently, I had the privilege of participating in a Zoom call with various church leaders, including Senior Pastors, Executive Pastors, and their leadership teams. The topic of discussion was “What Are We Missing?” As a coach and leader, I found this call incredibly insightful. The churches represented ranged in size from 55 to 6,500 attendees on a Sunday morning.

The leaders were open, honest, and transparent about their struggles, victories, and challenges. They sought our help to identify what they might be missing in their churches. Each coach brought a unique perspective based on our experiences in church leadership. Prior to this call, we had our own preparatory meeting to develop questions that addressed both known and unknown factors. We included one question that we felt is rarely discussed in conference rooms, teams, or even from the pulpit.

We covered the basics—strategy, vision, mission, leadership pipelines, etc.—and then posed a question we believe is often overlooked and contributes to what might be missing in many churches: “What is your salvation story?” Before anyone could answer, we followed up with, “Why are you not asking for salvations every Sunday? After all, this changed your life.”

Why this question? The coaches I met with emphasized that many salvation stories are deeply emotional. They may not always be dramatic, but they are profoundly significant. The pastors we spoke with could share their stories with detailed information about their first step towards eternity and the joy of celebrating this with others.

However, over time, these amazing stories often get shelved and shared less frequently. Why? This is a personal question each leader must wrestle with. We also asked why they don’t invite people to make this life-changing decision every Sunday. Common reasons included, “Everyone in this room is saved,” “Not enough time,” and “No one will raise their hands or come forward.” The last reason was particularly troubling, as it was confirmed multiple times and described as “draining” when no one responds week after week.

Let me be clear, this group established upfront that it was a safe space to share, vent, and dream. We stepped forward, stepped on some toes, lifted people in prayer, and provided questions for leaders to reflect upon:

• If no one presented the gospel to you, where would you be today?
• If there was no altar call, no invitation to raise a hand, where would you be today?
• If you are certain that “everyone in the room” is already saved, have you created a church with little impact beyond its walls?
• You say it’s draining when no one responds. We understand, but remember—this is not about you. It’s about Christ working within you and your congregation. What if it takes someone 3, 23, or 40 times to respond? Isn’t it worth it? Aren’t they worth it?

Pastors and leaders, I hope that after reading this, you understand and appreciate the perspective of the coaches. While we did discuss various aspects of “what is being missed,” everyone on the call agreed that this is a crucial area that needs to be addressed. It represents a pivotal moment for many—don’t miss out on this opportunity!

Then Jesus told them this parable: “Suppose one of you has a hundred sheep and loses one of them. Doesn’t he leave the ninety-nine in the open country and go after the lost sheep until he finds it? And when he finds it, he joyfully puts it on his shoulders and goes home.” Luke 15:3-6 (The Message)

Thanks for stopping by the fire,

Coach Dennis

PS…

Now, I understand that you, the reader, might not be a leader, pastor, or even a Christian. If this describes you, would you like to discover the amazing power of Jesus Christ in your life? Would you like to know that one day, when you pass away, you can spend eternity with Christ? This is your starting point. If you read this and pray the prayer, please let me know. I will gladly help you find a church to begin a beautiful journey

Believing in Jesus Christ as the Savior is the sole path to salvation. The Bible’s message is crystal clear: we have all sinned against God (Romans 3:23). Due to our sins, we deserve eternal separation from God (Romans 6:23). However, because of His immense love for us (John 3:16), God became human and died in our place, bearing the punishment we deserve (Romans 5:8; 2 Corinthians 5:21). God offers forgiveness of sins and eternal life in heaven to all who, by grace through faith, accept Jesus Christ as their Savior (John 1:12; 3:16; 5:24; Acts 16:31).

Dear Lord,
I admit that I am a sinner. I have done many things that don’t please you. I have lived my life for myself only. I am sorry, and I repent. I ask you to forgive me.
I believe that you died on the cross for me, to save me. You did what I could not do for myself. I come to you now and ask you to take control of my life; I give it to you. From this day forward, help me to live every day for you and in a way that pleases you.
I love you, Lord, and I thank you that I will spend all eternity with you.
Amen.