When We Speak Different Languages in the Same Church

  The most fruitful moments in ministry come when a church member says, “I’ve heard that word for years, but I never understood its meaning.” When we take time to bring people along, we honor the priesthood of believers and affirm that theological growth is not reserved for experts. We strengthen the whole body when we work to lovingly define terms rather than assuming there’s understanding.

      Churches don’t need pastors who talk over their heads. For that matter, pastors don’t need churches that are perpetually shallow. Shared understanding is built upon patient teaching, honest dialogue, and mutual grace.