Sermon Illustrations

Pastors Perceptions: Barna Research has recently completed an extensive survey of Senior Pastors in America. 83% describe themselves as "evangelical Protestant and 81% say they are "theologically conservative." 37% claimed to be Wesleyan or Arminian and 32% are Reformed or Calvinist in their theological views. Seeker-driven pastors head 1/3 of the nation’s Protestant congregations. Only 8% of all pastors claim to have the spiritual gift of evangelism while 66% cite teaching or preaching as their gift. Other gifts claimed include administration (16%) prophecy (13%), leadership (12%), evangelism (8%) and encouragement (6%). 95% of Senior Pastors are married men serving full-time. More than 80% have a college degree and their median age is slightly under 50. (13% have been divorced at least once). Only 60% have a seminary degree. The typical pastor has his or her greatest ministry impact at a church in years 5 through 14 of their pastorate, yet the average pastor lasts only 5 years at a church. (Barna Online 9/26/01)

http://garydfoster.com

Related Sermon Illustrations

Related Sermons

  • Leaving An Impression

    Contributed by Lloyd Grubbs on Sep 10, 2008
    based on 9 ratings
     | 29,165 views

    Every Christian is leaving their mark on society. Even after were gone our lives will still be making an impact.

  • A Spiritual House - The Building And Purpose

    Contributed by Duane Smith on Oct 27, 2008
    based on 4 ratings
     | 25,653 views

    The goal of this message is to help us understand that God dwells in us and that He has a purpose in the church being a living, vibrant community of believers.

  • Temple Without Walls Series

    Contributed by Peter Loughman on Jul 28, 2009
    based on 12 ratings
     | 21,062 views

    The holy place of Jesus Christ resides not in any building, cathedral, or historical site, the holy place of Jesus Christ resides in your heart.

  • The Church Series

    Contributed by Timothy Gardner on Nov 27, 2012
    based on 3 ratings
     | 18,207 views

    The word "Church" is so often used out of context. This sermon series helps the church (the people) identify how God defines church buy using seven different analogies found in the Bible. This is the introduction sermon to the series. There are eight serm

  • He's Coming Back Series

    Contributed by Connail Johnson on Oct 23, 2012
    based on 1 rating
     | 16,605 views

    Some of the most exciting periods of our lives are the times of anticipation. The times when we can't think of anything but what we are expecting to occur. When we are living with an attitude of expectancy our steps begin to quicken & our eyes brighten as