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 Hope: A Sermon Summary from Vineyard Church
Introduction
Welcome to Vineyard Church! This week, we looked into the profound theme of hope as part of our ongoing series, “Kingdom Coming.” This series takes us through the Bible, and currently, we are exploring the prophetic books from Chronicles to Malachi. This sermon, in particular, focused on the book of Isaiah and the powerful message of hope it conveys, especially relevant during the Advent season.
What is the Significance of Hope in Christianity?
The Prophetic Message of Hope
Isaiah’s prophecies were delivered during a time of exile for Israel, a period marked by despair and longing for restoration. The prophets, including Isaiah, spoke of a future hope—a Messiah who would come to renew and restore everything. This hope was not just for the people of Israel but extends to us today as we await the second coming of Jesus.
Living in Exile
We, too, live in a form of exile, separated from the perfect existence we were created for in the Garden of Eden. This world, marred by sin and suffering, is not our true home. However, the hope we have in Christ’s return and the ultimate restoration of all things gives us the strength to persevere.
How Does Hope Change Our Lives?
The Power of Hope
Hope is transformative. It changes our perspective and gives us the strength to endure hardships. Just as the Chicago Bears’ hope changed the course of a football game, our hope in Christ can change the course of our lives. This hope is anchored in the promises of God and the assurance of Jesus’ return.
The Mountain of the Lord
Isaiah 2:1-5 paints a vivid picture of hope symbolized by the mountain of the Lord. This mountain represents the ultimate heaven and earth connection where all nations will stream to learn God’s ways. This imagery is a powerful reminder that our hope is not in this world but in the eternal kingdom of God.
What Does It Mean to Walk in the Light of the Lord?
Learning to Be Fully Human
In the presence of God, we learn what it means to be truly human. The enemy seeks to make us subhuman, but God desires for us to be fully human, living in the fullness of His creation. This transformation happens as we walk in the light of the Lord, learning His ways and reflecting His light to the world.
Love Wins
Isaiah’s prophecy also speaks of a time when enmity and conflict will cease. Weapons of war will be turned into gardening tools, symbolizing a return to our original vocation as cosmic gardeners. This transformation is only possible through the love of God, which makes conflict unnecessary and brings peace.
Life Application
Embracing Hope
As we reflect on this message of hope, let’s challenge ourselves to live it out in our daily lives. Here are a few questions to ponder:
- Where is your hope anchored? Is it in the temporary things of this world or in the eternal promises of God?
- How can you reflect the light of Christ in your community? What practical steps can you take to be a beacon of hope to those around you?
- Are you learning to be fully human? How can you deepen your relationship with God and allow Him to transform you into the person He created you to be?
A Challenge for the Week
This week, let’s commit to reading the Bible daily, allowing God’s Word to illuminate our path and fill us with hope. As we do, let’s also look for opportunities to share this hope with others, whether through acts of kindness, words of encouragement, or simply being present for someone in need.
Conclusion
Hope is a powerful force that can transform our lives and the world around us. As we journey through this Advent season, let’s hold onto the hope we have in Christ, walking in His light and reflecting His love to a world in desperate need of it. May we be people of hope, for our sake and for the sake of the world. Amen.
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.
Living in Exile: Lessons from Daniel
Introduction
In our latest sermon, we looked into the book of Daniel, focusing on the theme of living in exile and maintaining faith amidst cultural pressures. This message is part of our ongoing series, “Kingdom Coming,” where we explore the Old Testament from Chronicles through Malachi. This week, we examined Daniel’s unwavering faith and how it serves as a model for us today.
The Context of Exile
What Does It Mean to Live in Exile?
Living in exile is a recurring theme in the Bible, particularly in the Old Testament. For the Israelites, exile meant being physically removed from their homeland and living under foreign rule. For us today, exile represents living in a world that often contradicts our faith and values. Just as the Israelites were called to engage with their surroundings without being assimilated, we too are called to be in the world but not of it.
The Glory Departs from the Temple
One of the significant events during this period is the departure of God’s glory from the temple. This symbolizes a time of spiritual exile, not just for the Israelites but for us as well. We are reminded that until we are fully restored in God’s kingdom, we live in a state of exile.
Daniel’s Example
Daniel in the Lion’s Den
In Daniel 6, we find the story of Daniel in the lion’s den. Despite a decree that forbade praying to any god other than King Darius, Daniel continued his practice of praying three times a day. His unwavering faith led to his miraculous deliverance from the lions, demonstrating God’s power and faithfulness.
Engaging Without Compromising
Daniel’s life exemplifies how to engage with the culture without compromising one’s faith. He was deeply involved in the political and social systems of Babylon but remained steadfast in his devotion to God. This balance is crucial for us as we navigate our own cultural landscapes.
Lessons for Today
Be Salt and Light
Jesus calls us to be the salt of the earth and the light of the world (Matthew 5:13-16). This means we are to influence the world positively without losing our distinctiveness as followers of Christ. Just as salt preserves and flavors, we are to bring the values of God’s kingdom into our daily lives.
Expect Pushback
Living out our faith will inevitably lead to pushback, whether it’s subtle resistance or outright persecution. Jesus warned his followers that they would face opposition, but he also promised that their reward in heaven would be great (Matthew 5:11-12).
The Importance of Prayer
Daniel’s response to the decree was to pray more fervently. Prayer should be our first response to challenges, not our last resort. It keeps us connected to God and strengthens us to face whatever comes our way.
Foreshadowing Jesus
Parallels Between Daniel and Jesus
The story of Daniel in the lion’s den foreshadows the story of Jesus. Both faced false accusations and were sentenced to death despite their innocence. Just as Daniel was delivered from the lions, Jesus was resurrected from the dead, conquering sin and death once and for all.
The Stone and the Seal
A stone was rolled over the mouth of the lion’s den and sealed, just as a stone was rolled over Jesus’ tomb and sealed. Both stories end with miraculous deliverance, highlighting God’s power and sovereignty.
Life Application
Living Out Our Faith
This week, let’s focus on living out our faith in practical ways. Here are some questions to ponder:
- How can I engage with my community without compromising my faith?
- What areas of my life need more prayer and less distraction?
- How can I be salt and light in my workplace, school, or home?
Challenge for the Week
Take time each day to pray intentionally for your neighbors and community. Ask God to help you be a positive influence and to give you the strength to stand firm in your faith. Consider setting aside specific times for prayer, just as Daniel did, to keep your focus on God throughout the day.
Conclusion
Daniel’s story is a powerful reminder of God’s faithfulness and the importance of maintaining our faith in a world that often opposes it. As we go through this week, let’s strive to be like Daniel—engaged but not assimilated, prayerful and steadfast, and always trusting in God’s deliverance.
May you find strength and encouragement in these lessons as you navigate your own journey of faith.
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 Faith Through the Fiery Furnace: A Lesson from Daniel 3
Introduction
In today’s sermon, we looked into the powerful story of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego from Daniel 3. This narrative is not just a historical account but a profound lesson on faith, loyalty, and God’s deliverance. Let’s explore the key themes and takeaways from this inspiring story.
The Pressure to Conform
What Does It Mean to Conform to Culture?
Babylon’s strategy was to assimilate conquered peoples into their culture, pressuring them to conform. This is evident in Nebuchadnezzar’s decree to worship the golden image. Similarly, today’s culture often pressures us to conform to its values and norms, which can conflict with our faith.
How Did Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego Respond?
Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego resisted this pressure. They refused to worship the golden image, standing firm in their faith despite the threat of a fiery furnace. Their story teaches us the importance of not compromising our beliefs, even when faced with severe consequences.
Genuine Faith: Trusting God Without Conditions
What is Genuine Faith?
Genuine faith is trusting God for who He is, not just for what He can do for us. Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego exemplified this by declaring their faith in God’s ability to save them but also their commitment to Him even if He did not.
Why is This Important?
This kind of faith is crucial because it shows our unconditional trust in God. It helps us withstand trials and challenges, knowing that God’s plans are greater than our understanding.
Facing Fiery Ordeals
What Are Fiery Ordeals?
Fiery ordeals are the trials and challenges we face in life. As believers, we are not exempt from difficulties. In fact, 1 Peter 4:12 reminds us not to be surprised by these trials as they test the genuineness of our faith.
How Should We Respond?
We should respond with trust and faith in God. These ordeals refine our faith, deepen our trust in God’s wisdom, and help us develop compassion for others going through similar trials.
The Fourth Man in the Furnace
Who is the Fourth Man?
In the furnace, a fourth figure appeared with Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, protecting them from harm. This figure is believed to be a pre-incarnate appearance of Jesus Christ, symbolizing God’s presence with us in our trials.
What Does This Mean for Us?
This assures us that we are never alone in our fiery ordeals. Jesus is with us, guiding and protecting us through every challenge we face.
Life Application
How Can We Apply This Lesson?
This week, challenge yourself to trust God unconditionally. Reflect on the following questions:
- Am I conforming to cultural pressures that conflict with my faith?
- Do I trust God for who He is, or only for what He can do for me?
- How do I respond to the fiery ordeals in my life?
- Do I recognize Jesus’ presence with me in my trials?
A Challenge for the Week
Commit to standing firm in your faith, regardless of the pressures and challenges you face. Trust in God’s presence and His plans for you, knowing that He is with you in every fiery ordeal.
Conclusion
The story of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego is a powerful reminder of the importance of unwavering faith and trust in God. As you go through this week, remember that you are not alone. Jesus, the fourth man in the furnace, is with you, guiding and protecting you through every trial. Say yes to Jesus and experience the peace and strength that comes from knowing Him.
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.
“
“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!
