By Joel Comiskey, Reap the Harvest
Jim pastors a cell church in the heart of a major U.S. city. He’s passionate about cell ministry, leads a group, and has seen his church grow through cell ministry. I recently asked Jim what his biggest challenge is. Without hesitation, he said, “Staying focused. That’s the hardest part.”
Jim explained that well-meaning people—especially newer members—often suggest new ministries and ideas they’ve seen work at other churches. “I constantly have to remind our team that we’re a cell church. Our foundation is the cell. I’ve learned the importance of saying ‘no’ to stay focused on what matters most.”
Jim has also made it a requirement for all ministry leaders to be in a cell group. Making cell ministry the backbone of the church hasn’t been easy—some very gifted individuals would rather jump straight into their area of passion. But Jim remains firm: “If we want to be healthy and aligned, everyone must experience cell life. It’s the backbone of our church.”
Jim has discovered the wisdom—and the blessing—of saying no. He has come to realize that no church can excel in everything. When leaders chase too many good ideas, they end up doing none of them well. The result is scattered energy, burnout, and lost momentum.
George Barna talks about one reason some pastors are ineffective: “They tried to be so helpful to everyone that they wound up being helpful to no one.” (User Friendly Churches, p. 51).
The temptation to add just one more program is real. It often comes wrapped in great intentions—and even promises to “help the cells.” But seasoned cell pastors know that every “yes” adds a burden to leaders and members. The unintended consequence? Less time for what matters most: cell, celebration, equipping, coaching, and prayer.
Over the past 35 years of cell church ministry, I’ve seen churches thrive—and others lose their way. One of the key differences is the ability to concentrate. To say no. To stay the course. In August, we’ll explore the power of concentration in the cell church. Click here to receive our blogs in your email inbox. We’ll cover:
Week 1 (August 3–9): Why Concentration Is So Important
We will share biblical insights on focus and how concentration strengthens the church. We will include personal examples or stories from Scripture that reveal the power of staying on mission.
Week 2 (August 10–16): Why It’s So Easy to Get Distracted
We’ll explore how new ideas often emerge from influential individuals with good intentions. We’ll reflect on how to affirm these people while clearly and graciously saying no in a loving manner.
Week 3 (August 17–23): Building a Culture of Concentration
We’ll explore how focus becomes part of a church’s DNA—especially as new believers are saved and discipled within the cell system. We’ll offer examples of how to stir vision to support long-term alignment.
Week 4 (August 24–30): Helping Pastors and Leaders Stay Focused
We’ll give practical strategies for leaders to maintain clarity and resist distraction. How can pastors stay refreshed and keep the main thing the main thing?
Week 5 (August 31–September 6): Personal Stories of Staying Focused We will share how fruitful pastors and leaders have resisted distraction and kept their church on the cell path—honest testimonies of the blessings—and challenges—of saying no.