Hey Coach John

You May Now Enter The Blogosphere

A quick look at how this generation communicates and connects.

Weblog – Blog, My Space, Facebook; what do these words have in common? They’re all words used to describe new methods of connecting, methods that are rapidly changing the communication norms in America and around the world.

A new social trend is rapidly sweeping the planet and reshuffling social norms that have been in place for centuries. Experts now tell us that there could be as many as ninety-two million bloggers world-wide. On top of that, there could be as many as 700,000 new articles being posted daily. Wow!

So by now you may be asking, “Just what is a blog?” A blog is an abbreviated term for the word weblog. It’s nothing more than a communication tool that is used in various ways to inform and connect people. Some use them as journals, sharing their personal world; others use them as a teaching tool to communicate truth and or personal insight.

I can’t help but believe that Daniel somehow caught a glimpse of this day when he penned the words, “many shall run to and fro and knowledge shall multiply. Daniel 12:4 YLT

So by now you may be wondering “why would communication methods that have been relevant for centuries, all of a sudden shift?” Here are a few possible reasons:

1. A Mobile Society Has Demanded It.

Centuries ago most families remained geographically connected. They generally lived in the same neighborhood and frequently in the same household. Not today! Most live hours if not days away from family and loved ones.

It only makes sense to connect using the most convenient methods available.

2. Competing Demands for Our Time.

As strangely as it sounds, many are too busy for regular sit down communication. (Please understand I’m not advocating this kind of lifestyle!)

Consequently, we buy into the cultural norms that best fit their life and schedule.

3. Technology Now Allows Us to Connect Differently.

Technology has been on an endless pursuit to connect mankind. Wireless, Bluetooth, and fiber optics, are just a few of the tools mankind now uses to stay connected.

However remember, even in a technological world, mankind needs relationships.

Conclusion:

Weblogs Blogs, My Space, and Face Book will continue to carve out new connecting norms in America culture. Unfortunately, the religious world continues to respond basically the same way it did in Jesus' day.

Jesus penned these words in Luke 16:8, “The sons of this world are more shrewd in dealing with their own generation than the sons of light.”

Like Jesus, I’m concerned that the sons of this generation might be out-doing us. Think about it.

Coach John

Works cited: Technatori Blog Research, www.technatori.com

The Quiet Coaching Revolution - Part II

Esteem growing among evangelicals for the Christian coaching movement

The coaching movement is building up a head of steam as it becomes an increasingly hot topic in today’s world. Hot, because it focuses on the issues that are pivotal for most post-moderns, primarily the issues of personal growth and development.

Coaching also seems to be gaining popularity among traditional Christian organizations. Consequently, many groups are scrambling to catch up with the coaching wave. One such organization is The Navigators, in Colorado Springs Co. If time would permit we could talk of their new and innovative coaching strategy.

In essence, a silent undercurrent of preparation is now emerging that will soon release an army of coaches into the body of Christ worldwide. How will this paradigm shift shape the church? Will it really make a difference? Or is it just another passing trend?

I, for one, believe it will depend largely on the church, and her key leaders. As discussed in last week’s blog, major paradigm shifts must happen in order to embrace biblical coaching. (See last week’s blog, Sept. 30th)

Undoubtedly one of the greatest advocates of the coaching model was Jesus himself. He practiced it on every turn. Have you ever thought about Jesus as a life coach? Watch him in action:

• Jesus’ main model for the development of leaders was the coaching model. He practiced the Hebraic model of relational learning, coupled with real life experiences. (Mk.11:20-23) i.e. teachable moments

• He often asked powerful questions to evoke thought and encourage discussion. He encouraged thinking outside the box. Good coaches today do the same. BTW, Jesus’ answers often came in the form of powerful questions. (Mt. 16:13-19)

• Jesus always practiced genuine authenticity. He broke through barriers by being authentic and transparent, rather than using His title or position. (Jn.4:1-24)

Conclusion:

Some in the church world believe the coaching movement is here to stay. I happen to be one of them.

No, the coaching movement probably won’t take the world by storm; rather, it will influence it little by little as a quiet force, transforming culture one life at a time.

Are you ready for the quiet revolution?

Coach John