Transitioning

by Dan Southerland

A biblical look at how to steer a congregation in a new and exciting direction aligned with God’s unique purpose for them. Transitioning is written to help church leaders and their congregations successfully navigate change and discover that the rewards far exceed the risk. Drawing principles from the book of Nehemiah, Southerland maps out an eight-step strategy for moving from being a traditional, ministry-driven church to a purpose-driven church. Transitioning illustrates practical, field-tested concepts with examples from the Bible and Southerland’s own experience. A detailed workbook section with fill-in-the-blanks, scripture passages, and action steps helps pastors and their leadership teams convert knowledge into reality.

Genres: Leadership, Nonfiction, Church

Paperback

First published January 1, 1999

Reviews

[Jonathan García · Rating 4 out of 5]

Es un libro viejo muy actual. Se hace énfasis en la necesidad de ser claro con la "visión" de cualquier organización eclesiástica local. El autor nos lleva desde su experiencia por una ruta viable para llegar a un buen puerto, esto es, implementando la visión (que primero se afina y luego podrá sufrir oposición). Sencillo y útil para los pastores y líderes que recién comienzan (te ahorra años de malas experiencias).

[Sean · Rating 5 out of 5]

An excellent book which speaks of how to lead your church to change by using the book of Nehemiah as an inspiration. It is well thought through and practical. Useful with the churches and probably the most organisations.

[Jeff Bobin · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a great outline on leading a church through a transition time.

Change is never easy and bringing it about comes with many challenges and always comes with conflict. It is also a needed part of every organization including the church. Change always costs someone something and often we are afraid of the costs and so we don't get the benefits.

One of the dangers of this book is that someone will take it and try to make it the magic formula for their church or organization. There is a lot of valuable information and many great processses in this text that could inspire you to leading change in your church.

I would have liked to rate this 4 1/2 stars since I think it is really worth the read but worry that 5 stars will indicate you can take it as a canned process and make it work in your enviroment.

Worth the time to read if you are willing to allow the Spirit to lead you in the change process.

[John Kennedy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Although this book is written for large churches, it is must reading for any congregational lay leaders in the midst of change, such as being between pastors. Step 6, dealing with opposition, is worth the purchase price as a great chapter to encourage what can be a lonely time for leaders trying to carry on in the midst of change.

[John Lipton · Rating 2 out of 5]

This book is great for a study with church leaders ready to walk through change in their church. Recommend for Church Boards/Councils who are ready to follow a pastor's leadership to effective ministry.

[Juan Carlos · Rating 4 out of 5]

My very first book on transitioning the local church. Wrote by an authentic person and pastors who live through the changes. Dan is also a friendo who invest in other pastors and build on healthy purposes. This book is a must before starting changes in our local church

[Christopher · Rating 1 out of 5]

Confusion about what is God's vision and what is the pastor's vision for the church are at the heart of what is wrong with this book. When the pastor claims God's authority for the "transition" that is taking place; we have a tyrant on our hands.

[Cynthia · Rating 4 out of 5]

What is our target?