I’m Steve Lawes
Certified Church Consultant
Free Assessment
Not sure if a church consultant is really needed at your church? Use our FREE Church Assessment Tool to find out.
Certified Church Consultant
Schedule your FREE, no obligation, thirty (30) minute Zoom initial consultation.
Church in Decline? Plateaud?
Helping Churches Thrive
Utilizing a process we call “Virtual Church Consulting” we work with you through a series of steps to help pinpoint problems and offer solutions. This all online church consulting method is effective and affordable.
Internet Impact (Learn about your digital footprint)
Community Statistics (Learn about your community)
Church Health Survey (Learn about your church)
Effective Outreach Ideas (Learn how to reach your community)
Internet Impact
Your website is the “digital foyer” for the church. It is the first impression for almost everyone that visits your church.
Community Statistics
Demographic information is helpful in getting an overview of what is happening in your community.
Church Health Survey
A church health survey/assessment is a helpful tool that will give you information on the overall health of your church.
Effective Outreach Ideas
An outreach strategy is a specific set of tactics intended to ultimately attract new people to your church.
Church Consulting & Coaching
We offer a wide range of Church Consulting and Ministry Coaching Services. Our desire is to help pastors and churches thrive so that they are able to fulfill the calling that God has on them for their community.
Church Marketing
Think of church marketing as a tool to help people who are in need of what your church offers to be able to connect with you. We are not trying to sell something people don’t need. We are trying to connect them with the One who changes everything. Click on this link to read more about developing a Church Marketing Strategy.
Church Revitalization
Church Revitalization is the process of leading a dying or declining church back to a healthy place so that it can continue to carry out the calling and purpose that God has for it. Steve Lawes is certified in Church Revitalization with Church Answers.
Ministry and Pastoral Coaching
We offer a wide variety of Coaching Services for pastors and churches. For more information go to Church Encourager.
Disciplship Training
Partnering with the Jesus Moment Bible Institute and Seminary we are able to offer a wide variety of Discipleship Training opportunites for pastors and churches.
Meet Steve Lawes
Steve Lawes is a Certified Church Consultant. He has been the lead Pastor of Keys Vineyard Church in Big Pine Key since 1992. He has a Bachelors Degree in Bible and Theology from Berean University and Masters and PhD Degrees from Atlantic Coast Theological Seminary. He lead the Cuba Missions Team for Vineyard Missions from 1995-2005 and traveled to Cuba more than twenty times helping to plant churches and build up local leaders. He served as the South Florida Area Leader for the Association of Vineyard Churches for ten years. He also founded the Jesus Moment Bible Institute and Seminary in 2014 which has a student enrollment of over 1800. He has written three devotional books, Daily Psalt Intake, Daily Sage Intake and Daily Strength Training which are now out of print but are currently available as free e-books.
Free Ebook - Nine Point Church Consulting Strategy
Recent Posts from Church Consultant
Understanding the Royal Priesthood: A Reflection on Melchizedek and Our Calling
Introduction
In our recent sermon, we delved into the intriguing figure of Melchizedek and the concept of the royal priesthood, as outlined in the book of Genesis. This exploration is not just a historical or theological exercise; it holds profound implications for our daily lives as believers. Let’s unpack the sermon and discover how we can embody the royal priesthood in our modern context.
Who is Melchizedek?
Melchizedek is a mysterious character who appears in Genesis 14. He is described as the king of Salem (later known as Jerusalem) and a priest of God Most High. His encounter with Abram (later Abraham) after a victorious battle is significant for several reasons. Melchizedek blesses Abram, and in return, Abram gives him a tenth of everything. This exchange highlights the importance of blessing and being blessed, a theme that runs throughout Scripture.
The Royal Priesthood in the Bible
The concept of a royal priesthood originates in Genesis, where humanity is created to co-rule with God and serve as intermediaries between Him and creation. This role is compromised after the fall but is later seen in figures like Melchizedek and King David. David, in particular, embodies this role as he brings the Ark of the Covenant to Jerusalem and blesses the people, much like Melchizedek did.
Jesus: The Ultimate Royal Priest
The New Testament reveals Jesus as the ultimate royal priest, a fulfillment of the prophecies in Psalms and the typology of Melchizedek. Hebrews 5 and 9 explain how Christ, through His sacrifice, became the high priest of a new covenant, offering eternal redemption for humanity. This priestly role of Jesus is central to our understanding of salvation and our relationship with God.
Our Role as a Royal Priesthood
1 Peter 2:9 declares that believers are a chosen people and a royal priesthood. This identity is not just a future promise but a present reality. As royal priests, we are called to serve God and others, to bless and be blessed, and to love God and our neighbors. This service is not about gaining power or prestige but about humbly reflecting God’s love to the world.
Living Out Our Priestly Calling
How do we live as a royal priesthood today? It involves several key actions:
- Blessing Others: Just as Melchizedek blessed Abram, we are called to bless those around us, sharing the love and grace we have received from God.
- Serving with Humility: Following the example of Jesus, our service is marked by humility and a focus on the needs of others.
- Reflecting God’s Love: As royal priests, we represent God to the world and reflect the world’s praises back to Him.
Conclusion: Embracing Our Priestly Identity
This week, let’s challenge ourselves to embrace our identity as part of the royal priesthood. Consider these questions as you reflect on the sermon and your own life:
- How can I bless someone in my community this week?
- In what ways can I serve others with humility, reflecting Jesus’ love?
- How can I better represent God to those around me?
As we step into our calling as royal priests, let’s remember that our service and love are not just for our benefit but for the transformation of the world around us. Let’s go forth and live out this high calling with joy and faithfulness.
This series may be taken as a course offered by the Online Bible Institute. For more information check out the Keys Vineyard Ministries Courses page.
Steve Lawes is a Church Consultant and also provides coaching for pastors, churches, ministries and church planters.
Understanding the Kingdom Covenant: A Journey Through Genesis 12-50
Introduction
Welcome to our exploration of the Kingdom Covenant, a pivotal theme in the biblical narrative that spans from Genesis 12 through Genesis 50. This blog post delves into the essence of the sermon, guiding you through the key points and offering a structured summary for easy comprehension.
The Concept of Kingdom in the Bible
The term “kingdom” in the Bible doesn’t refer to a physical place but rather to the rule and reign of God. Our journey through the Bible reveals how this concept unfolds, starting with the Kingdom Revealed in Genesis 1 and 2, followed by Kingdom Rebellion in Genesis 3-11, and now entering the phase of Kingdom Covenant in Genesis 12-50.
The Significance of Covenants
Covenants are agreements between God and humanity, showcasing God’s unwavering faithfulness despite human inconsistency. The covenant with Abraham is a testament to God’s commitment to His promises and sets the stage for the unfolding biblical narrative.
What is a Blessing?
A blessing can be understood as experiencing heaven on earth. It’s a moment where the divine breaks into the mundane, offering a taste of the Eden experience. This concept is crucial as we navigate the story of Abraham and the blessings pronounced upon him.
The Pattern of Creation, Blessing, and Failure
The Bible presents a recurring pattern: creation, blessing, and human failure. Abraham’s story is no exception. Despite God’s clear direction and blessing, Abraham makes choices that deviate from God’s plan, illustrating the human tendency to stray.
Abraham’s Journey and Choices
Abraham’s call to leave Mesopotamia and settle in Canaan comes with a promise of great blessing. However, faced with a famine, Abraham’s decision to go to Egypt and the subsequent deception regarding his wife, Sarah, mark significant failures. Yet, God’s grace prevails, and Abraham is redirected back to the path of promise.
The Importance of High Places
The sermon emphasizes the need to find our “high place” with God, a space of communion and strength amidst life’s chaos. It’s in these moments of closeness with God that we are equipped to face challenges and emerge victorious.
Practical Application: Spending Time with God
To apply the lessons from Abraham’s life, we must prioritize spending time with God through prayer, Bible study, and worship. This daily choice to seek God’s presence empowers us to navigate life with divine strength and wisdom.
Conclusion: Embrace the High Place
In conclusion, let us challenge ourselves to seek our high place with God daily. Reflect on these questions as you consider the sermon’s message:
- How can I create a daily routine that includes prayer and reading the Bible?
- In what ways can I find peace and strength in God’s presence amidst life’s turmoil?
- How can I be a blessing to others as I walk in the blessings God has for me?
This week, let’s commit to finding time each day to connect with God, allowing His presence to transform us and enable us to be a source of blessing in the world.
This series may be taken as a course offered by the Online Bible Institute. For more information check out the Keys Vineyard Ministries Courses page.
Steve Lawes is a Church Consultant and also provides coaching for pastors, churches, ministries and church planters.
What is Church Revitalization?
Church revitalization is a term that is often used in church consultant discussions. Circles. Church revitalization is a critical and transformative process to renew and rejuvenate a church that has experienced a decline in attendance, engagement, or spiritual vitality. This process is not merely about increasing numbers; it’s about reinvigorating the church’s mission, vision, and impact within its community. The journey of revitalization involves several key steps and requires commitment, patience, and, often, a willingness to embrace change.
Understanding the Need for Revitalization
The first step in church revitalization is recognizing the need for it. Signs that a church may require revitalization include declining membership, decreased participation in church activities, an aging congregation without sufficient youth engagement, financial struggles, or a general sense of apathy and lack of enthusiasm. Acknowledging these issues is crucial for a church to begin the revitalization process.
Assessing the Current Situation
A thorough assessment of the church’s current state is essential. This involves evaluating various aspects such as demographic shifts in the congregation and community, the church’s financial health, the effectiveness of existing programs, and the condition of the church infrastructure. During this phase, honest and open conversations with church members and leaders are vital to understanding their perspectives and concerns.
Developing a Vision for the Future
Revitalization requires a clear and compelling vision for the church’s future. This vision should reflect the church’s spiritual mission and address the needs and opportunities within the community it serves. The vision should inspire and motivate the congregation, fostering a sense of shared purpose and direction.
Strategic Planning and Implementation
Once the vision is established, strategic planning is necessary to turn it into reality. This may involve redefining church goals, introducing new ministries or programs, restructuring leadership, engaging in community outreach, and improving worship experiences. Setting realistic goals and creating a detailed action plan with specific steps and timelines is essential.
Fostering Leadership and Lay Involvement
Revitalization is a collective effort and requires the involvement and commitment of both church leadership and lay members. Developing robust and visionary leadership is crucial, as is encouraging active participation from the congregation. Empowering members to take on meaningful roles and responsibilities can foster a sense of ownership and commitment to the church’s revitalization.
Building Community Connections
A revitalized church often seeks to strengthen its connection with the community. This can involve community service projects, partnerships with local organizations, or events that welcome and engage non-members. By serving and interacting with the community, a church can demonstrate its relevance and commitment to its mission.
Embracing Change and Adaptability
Revitalization often means embracing change, which can be challenging for some members. Open communication, patience, and sensitivity are essential as the church navigates these changes. Being adaptable and open to feedback throughout the process is crucial for the long-term success of revitalization efforts.
Evaluating Progress and Adjusting as Needed
Finally, regular evaluation of the revitalization process is essential to assess its effectiveness and make necessary adjustments. Celebrating successes, no matter how small, can boost morale and encourage continued efforts.
Church revitalization is a comprehensive process that breathes new life into a church. It involves understanding the need for change, assessing the current situation, developing a future vision, strategic planning, fostering leadership and lay involvement, building community connections, embracing change, and continually evaluating progress. With commitment and dedication, revitalization can lead to a renewed and vibrant church that effectively serves its congregation and community.
Steve Lawes is a Church Consultant and also provides coaching for pastors, churches, ministries and church planters.
Testimonials
“Steve and his team at Keys Vineyard Church have built a church that has done an inspiring job reaching their community. Steve is a treasure trove of experience and has continued to prioritize learning and growth throughout his more than 30 years of ministry in a way few pastors have. You’ll get a lot out of connecting with him!”
“I watched first hand as Steve experienced the devastation of hurricane Irma in his town of Big Pine Key, Florida. The town was destroyed, the church building rendered unusable and the staff impacted personally. I watched a leader rise to the need of his community and minister in a situation that not very many could. He has a powerful voice of experience and wisdom earned the hard way.”
“Steve Lawes is a valuable coach/ mentor. I’ve watched Steve over the last thirty years build a substantial outward focused church with disciples who do what Jesus did. He has inspired leaders of churches with simple/tested ideas to develop leaders and grow churches.
“
“Steve Lawes is an outstanding coach. He is authentic, creative, and personable. He has more cutting edge ideas than any pastor I know in regard to evangelism and meeting the needs of people in his community.”
Interested in Becoming a Church Consultant?
We are pleased to be partnering with the Jesus Moment Bible Institute and Seminary to be able to offer Free Church Consulting Training. Even if you are not looking to become a certified church consultant, the free church consultant training will be beneficial for your personal ministry.
One of the greatest questions Jesus asked was “Do You Want to Get Well?”
I t would seem that the answer was obvious. But getting well for the man who had been not well for a very long time meant that he would have to do something different. It is not easy to change, but it always starts with a first step.
Take that first step now by sceduling your no obligation, free thirty (30) minute Zoom meeting with us today. You have nothing to lose and it may be your first step to a new and healthy way of doing and being the church.
Don’t Wait Any Longer. Take The First Step Toward Getting Well Today!
