I’m Steve Lawes
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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.
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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.
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Recent Posts from Church Consultant
Understanding the Valley of Dry Bones: A Journey Through Ezekiel 37
Introduction
Welcome to our blog post, where we delve into the profound messages from our recent sermon on Ezekiel 37. This chapter, often referred to as the “Valley of Dry Bones,” offers a powerful vision of hope and restoration. Whether you’re a long-time believer or someone exploring the Christian faith, this summary will help you grasp the essence of the sermon and its application to your life.
The Context of Ezekiel’s Prophecy
Who Was Ezekiel?
Ezekiel was a prophet during a tumultuous time in Israel’s history. His ministry began when the presence of God left the temple, a significant event that symbolized the spiritual decline of Israel. Ezekiel’s prophecies were often dramatic and unconventional, designed to capture the attention of a spiritually dull people.
The Significance of the Valley of Dry Bones
Ezekiel 37 presents a vision where God takes Ezekiel to a valley filled with dry bones. This vision symbolizes the hopelessness and spiritual death of the Israelites, who had strayed far from God. Yet, it also serves as a powerful message of hope and restoration, pointing towards the coming of Jesus and the ultimate renewal of all things.
The Vision of Dry Bones
The Question of Life
In the vision, God asks Ezekiel, “Son of man, can these bones live?” Ezekiel wisely responds, “Sovereign Lord, you alone know.” This question sets the stage for a miraculous demonstration of God’s power to bring life to what is dead.
Prophesying to the Bones
God instructs Ezekiel to prophesy to the bones, saying, “Dry bones, hear the word of the Lord.” As Ezekiel speaks, the bones come together, and tendons and flesh appear on them. However, they are still lifeless until God commands Ezekiel to prophesy to the breath, bringing the bodies to life.
The Breath of Life
The breath entering the bodies symbolizes the Holy Spirit, the same breath that God breathed into Adam at creation. This act of breathing life into the bones signifies God’s power to revive and restore, even in the most hopeless situations.
The Message of Hope
Israel’s Restoration
God explains that the dry bones represent the people of Israel, who feel their hope is gone. He promises to open their graves and bring them back to life, filling them with His Spirit and returning them to their land. This prophecy points to the ultimate restoration through Jesus Christ.
The Broader Implication
This vision is not just about Israel; it speaks to all of us. It reminds us that no matter how dire our circumstances, God has the power to bring life and hope. It encourages us to place our trust in Him, rather than in temporary things that cannot bear the weight of our trust.
Life Application
Living with Hope
The vision of the valley of dry bones teaches us to place our hope in God, who can bring life to the most hopeless situations. When we face difficulties, we should remember that our ultimate hope lies in the promise of eternal life and restoration through Jesus Christ.
Questions for Reflection
- Where have you placed your hope? Is it in temporary things or in the eternal promises of God?
- How can you allow the Holy Spirit to breathe new life into areas of your life that feel dry and lifeless?
- What steps can you take this week to deepen your trust in God and His promises?
A Challenge for the Week
This week, take time each day to read and meditate on Ezekiel 37. Reflect on areas of your life where you need God’s restoration and ask the Holy Spirit to breathe new life into those areas. Share your reflections with a friend or in a small group, and encourage each other to place your hope firmly in God.
Conclusion
Ezekiel 37 offers a powerful message of hope and restoration. By understanding this vision and applying its lessons to our lives, we can experience the transformative power of God’s Spirit. Let us place our hope in Him and trust in His promises, knowing that He can bring life to even the driest of bones.
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 Our Longing for Home: A Journey Through Exile and Redemption
Introduction
Welcome to our new series, “Kingdom Coming,” where we delve into the Chronicles through Malachi. This series is part of a larger journey through the Bible, aiming to deepen our understanding of God’s word and its impact on our relationship with Jesus. Today, we explore the themes of exile and redemption, focusing on the departure of God’s glory and the promise of a new covenant.
The Departure of God’s Glory
Why Did God’s Glory Depart?
In the book of Ezekiel, we witness the departure of God’s glory from the temple. This event signifies a significant shift in the relationship between God and His people. Due to the corruption and disobedience of the Israelites, God’s presence could no longer dwell among them. Ezekiel describes this departure in vivid detail, highlighting the gravity of the situation.
The Impact of Exile
The departure of God’s glory led to the Babylonian exile, where the people of Judah were taken captive for 70 years. This period of exile was a direct consequence of their actions, serving as a reminder of the importance of obedience and faithfulness to God. The prophets, during this time, spoke of a future hope—a time when God’s presence would return and a new covenant would be established.
The Longing for Home
Understanding Our Deepest Longing
All of us have an inherent longing for home, a place where we feel complete and at peace. This longing stems from our separation from the Garden of Eden, where we were created to live in perfect harmony with God. The fall introduced exile, and ever since, humanity has been yearning to return to that state of eternal life and communion with God.
The Role of the Prophets
The prophets played a crucial role in keeping the hope of redemption alive. They spoke of a time when God would gather His people, redeem them, and restore their joy. This promise pointed to a future fulfillment in Jesus and the ultimate restoration of all things in the new heaven and new earth.
The Promise of Redemption
Jesus: Our Redeemer
The promise of redemption is fulfilled in Jesus Christ. Through His sacrifice, we are offered forgiveness and a way back to God. Jesus is the ultimate redeemer who delivers us from the power of sin and death. In Him, we find the hope and assurance of eternal life.
The New Covenant
Jeremiah speaks of a new covenant where God’s law will be written on our hearts, and we will be His people. This covenant is not like the old one, which was broken, but a renewed relationship based on grace and love. This new covenant is partially fulfilled in Jesus and will be fully realized when He returns.
Life Application
Living as Signposts
As believers, we are like signposts pointing others to the way home. Our lives should reflect the hope and redemption we have in Jesus, guiding others towards Him. We can visit our future home through worship, prayer, and reading the word, experiencing glimpses of the eternal life that awaits us.
Questions for Reflection
- How does understanding exile help you make sense of the challenges and longings you face in life?
- In what ways can you live as a signpost, pointing others to Jesus and the hope of redemption?
- How can you deepen your relationship with God and experience more of His presence in your daily life?
Challenge for the Week
This week, take time to reflect on the areas of your life where you feel a longing for something more. Bring these longings to God in prayer, asking Him to fill you with His presence and guide you towards a deeper relationship with Him. Look for opportunities to share the hope of Jesus with others, living as a signpost pointing the way home.
Conclusion
Understanding our longing for home and the promise of redemption helps us navigate the challenges of life with hope and assurance. As we journey through this series, may we grow in our relationship with Jesus and live as beacons of His love and grace 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.
Understanding the Temple: A Journey Through 1 and 2 Samuel and 1 and 2 Kings
Introduction
This week, we explored the concept of the Temple as depicted in 1 and 2 Samuel and 1 and 2 Kings. This exploration is part of our ongoing series, “Kingdom Foreshadowed,” where we journey through the Bible to uncover the deeper meanings and connections that point us towards Jesus and the ultimate restoration of all things.
The Significance of the Temple
What is the Temple?
The Temple in the Bible is more than just a physical structure; it represents a place where heaven and earth meet. Initially, this connection was seen in the Garden of Eden, a cosmic temple created by God. After the fall, humanity lost access to this divine connection. However, God, in His faithfulness, reintroduced this connection through the Tabernacle and later the Temple.
David’s Desire to Build a House for God
David, after establishing peace around his kingdom, felt compelled to build a house for God. Living in a palace himself, he found it inappropriate that the Ark of God remained in a tent. He consulted Nathan the prophet, who initially agreed but later received a message from God. God’s response was profound: He would build a house for David instead.
God’s Promise to David
In 2 Samuel 7:11-13, God promises David that He will establish a house for him, a lineage that will lead to an everlasting kingdom. This promise is twofold: it speaks of a physical house (the Temple) that Solomon, David’s son, would build, and a spiritual house, a lineage culminating in Jesus Christ.
Solomon and the Construction of the Temple
Solomon’s Prayer and Dedication
Solomon, David’s son, fulfilled the promise by constructing the Temple. In 1 Kings 8, Solomon prays earnestly for God’s presence to inhabit the Temple. He acknowledges that no earthly structure can contain God, yet he seeks God’s favor and presence in the Temple he has built.
The Presence of God Fills the Temple
God’s presence indeed fills the Temple, signifying His acceptance and blessing. This moment is crucial as it reestablishes the connection between heaven and earth, albeit temporarily, as the people of Israel continue to struggle with faithfulness.
The Prophetic Significance of the Temple
Jesus as the True Temple
In John 2, Jesus identifies Himself as the Temple. He declares that if the Temple is destroyed, He will raise it again in three days, referring to His resurrection. This statement reveals that Jesus is the ultimate fulfillment of the Temple, the perfect connection between heaven and earth.
The New Temple: Believers as the Dwelling Place of God
With Jesus’ resurrection, believers become the new Temple. 1 Corinthians 6:19-20 states that our bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit. This profound truth means that God’s presence now dwells within us, making us living connections between heaven and earth.
Life Application
Living as the Temple of the Holy Spirit
Understanding that we are the Temple of the Holy Spirit should transform how we live. Here are some practical steps to apply this truth in your life this week:
- Acknowledge God’s Presence: Take time each day to recognize and honor the presence of the Holy Spirit within you.
- Live Holy Lives: Strive to live in a way that reflects the holiness of God, knowing that you are His dwelling place.
- Be a Light: As a living connection between heaven and earth, let your life shine brightly, drawing others to the love and truth of Jesus.
Reflective Questions
- How does knowing that you are the Temple of the Holy Spirit change your perspective on daily life?
- In what ways can you better honor God’s presence within you?
- How can you be a more effective witness of God’s love and truth to those around you?
Conclusion
The journey through 1 and 2 Samuel and 1 and 2 Kings reveals the profound significance of the Temple and its ultimate fulfillment in Jesus Christ. As believers, we are now the living Temple of the Holy Spirit, called to live holy lives and be a light to the world. Embrace this truth and let it transform your life, bringing glory to God in all you do.
Thank you for joining us on this journey. We look forward to continuing our exploration of the Bible and its timeless truths. Stay tuned for our next post as we delve into the books of Chronicles through Malachi and discuss the theme of exile and its relevance to us today.
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.
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.
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“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?
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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!
