Showing up isn’t success
My struggle with technology continues. I continue to wrestle with innovation. I know, I’m not supposed to, I’m supposed to be cutting edge, with all the latest tech, gadgets and gizmos…but I’m not sure it’s all working like it should. Don’t get me wrong I’m a fan of both, but not just for the sake of hipness, or because you think you “have to”.
Take the newest entrant into the realm of hot cool must haves: iphone apps.
The first I saw was out of Mars Hill and now there are quick and cheap solutions that allow every church to create it’s very own iphone app. Awesome! Get out your credit cards. Right?
I don’t know.
Sure people will download it, maybe even check it out, but then what? Will they really use it? Are you filling a need or just trying to get on the bandwagon (without knowing where it’s really headed)? Now if it’s a free service, hey, knock yourself out at the most you’re just out your time. But even then, don’t skip strategy.
It’s not just iphone apps it’s also church online, your website and even Sunday morning. Getting people to download, show up, etc. can’t be the primary measure of success. Sure you’ll measure that, but the real indicator of a successful ministry effort is if people are using it and are changed because of it. If no one is using it, it’s not going to change lives. At best it gives you bragging rights. You hit 1000 people showing up to church. Good start, but that’s not a success beyond a bit of exposure unless those people do something with it.
Instead of jumping on board at the first sign of a new ______, ask yourself how you are going to use it. Ask yourself the question I asked earlier, “are you filling a need?” Only when you you focus on the need can you create the right solution. Otherwise you’re just throwing things at the wall hoping they will stick.
If you’re going to build an app, don’t just repackage everything that’s already out there (unless everything is everywhere and you create a central point of communication), give them something they can use, want to use and will use. LifeChurch gives a great example of this with YouVersion, they didn’t just give you the bible on your iPhone though that alone would have been nice, they’ve built layers of tools that people can use to connect with each other and scripture.
Same goes for online. Why stop at offering audio online? What if you also make available the overheads and notes to follow along with. Or create a discussion area for Sunday’s sermon. I’ll leave online church for another day.
On Sunday morning look beyond raised hands and an altar call and ask, “how will this translate into daily living. Did I give them something they can grab hold of and live out during the week?”
So yes, build the apps, have Sunday morning services but don’t stop there. Once you get them through the door you have an obligation to make it stick because it’s not about you, it’s about them connecting with their Creator.
