Preaching Does Not Create Behaviors--Systems Create Behaviors–
I'm a big believer in systems.
In fact, I think most problems can be solved with a good system.
Just think about some of the systems you have in your personal life to solve problems. Some of mine...
We kept forgetting to put the trash cans out on Wednesday night. Now "Alexa" reminds us with a friendly announcement. That is a system.
My kids used to leave the lights on in the basement all the time. I solved the problem with a vacancy switch that turns itself off after not sensing anybody.
I use online withdrawal systems for consistent retirement savings and charitable giving.
I can set my car to not go too fast to solve the problem of speeding. (It should be noted that is a system I choose NOT to engage).
Perhaps you've used a system to help you lose weight, read your Bible, or remember birthdays and anniversaries. Some people use activity and fitness trackers such as Apple Watch or Fitbit as a system to help them remember to stand up, check their heart rate, or workout.
In our work lives, many times we blame a human for something that needs a system. We run into the same frustration again and again, and we think it is a "who" problem rather something that could be solved with a system.
I work with scores of churches and many of their problems are the same and could be solved with the right systems. Some examples:
People are meeting Jesus but not growing up in their faith. You need a system such as Alpha or Rooted or Growth Track to help with spiritual formation.
The back door is wide open. You get lots of visitors, but they don't stick around. It's because you don't have a system, or your system not working. Perhaps the system is everyone gets a call or text within 24 hours of their first visit. Or maybe we need better systems to provide our guests with a great first experience (fantastic training available here).
You get first-time gifts, but many never give again. You need systems to thank and engage people after their first, second and third gifts, and to identify those consistent givers who become lapsed (this Generosity Playbook could help).
You have a large age gap and want to develop young people into leadership positions, but it's just not happening. You need someone to design a simple system that intentionally develops your young staff and ensures they get an opportunity to lead and influence.
You have a lot of inexperienced managers who are making poor decisions. They aren't going to get better without intentionality! You need a system to develop your leaders (such as this one), or a program for training (such as this one).
If you have a system problem, you can't pray it away or preach it away. You need to create a system or change your current systems.
If you are looking for ways to motivate your people into groups, serving, giving or attending -- the solution is not another sermon series. Preaching does not create behaviors--systems create behaviors. Anytime you want to get your people do do anything, you need a system.
Consider making your next hire a systems-minded person who can help you solve problems, reduce frustration, which will release the rest of your team to effective high-impact ministry.
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