What if we modeled after Marvel Comics?

What If…? is a series of comic books published by Marvel Comics whose stories explore how the universe might have unfolded if key moments in its history hadn’t occurred. What If we followed the narrative of the road not traveled in our congregations. Let’s see:

What If we treated everyone who came into our churches like guests ready to be welcomed with intentional hospitality?
Many people today, by their own admission, “church shop” when looking for a new congregation to call home. What happens if we treat them like guests and not customers?

What If the pastor’s job was to spiritually equip and empower the people of the church so that they lead the ministry?
In many congregations the laity are passive. They attend church so the pastor can minister to, and on their behalf. How does the worship experience change if the laity are actively in the leadership position?

What If we grew into mature disciples and became responsible for our own spiritual nourishment?
Some people stop attending or switch congregations because they feel like they are “not being fed.” What does it look like to make church about providing the resources to feed yourself.

What If, the finance committee saw it as their mission to find ways to fund and resource the ministries needed by the local church?
In many congregations the finance committee exists to set and control the budget of the church. What would change in the church if they were asked to use their creativity to find resources to expand our ministries?

What If the narrative thread throughout our churches and throughout our denomination was 100% of our folks give 100% of their time, talent, and treasure to the work of God in the world?
Most of our congregations still function under the 20/80 rule: 20% of the people do and give 80% of the time, talent, and treasure.  What superheros would we find sitting in our pews?

What an exciting “road not traveled” that would be?