3 Must-Have Survival Tips for Your Church Building Program

“It’s a jungle out there” is a phrase we have all heard to describe how dangerous things can be. Church construction can certainly be described in this way since there are more ways for things to go wrong than right. Today, commercial construction is more complex and convoluted than ever, and in order to make it through the “jungle” you have to know how to survive.

“The prudent see danger and take refuge, but the simple keep going and pay the penalty.” Proverbs 27:12 NIV

3 Tips To Help You Not Just Survive, But Thrive In A Church Building Program:

Survival Tip #1 - Don’t Underestimate the Danger

In order to see the “danger” we need to understand what is at risk if a church building program fails.

• Confidence in the leadership
• Health and overall effectiveness of the ministry
• Unity in the body and the risk of increased conflict and strife
• Increased burden on staff and reduction in staff effectiveness
• Money – a LOT of money that was given sacrificially
• Ridicule. Luke 14:28-30

Survival Tip #2 - Don’t Underestimate the Value of Proper Process

Take “refuge” in proper process. Your  building program should follow a proper process that is based on knowledge, wisdom, and experience; all critical components that are needed to ensure the finished project is a success.

• Know the right steps to take. (Knowledge)
• Understand the right order in which to take each step. (Wisdom)
• Execute the steps correctly, the first time. (Experience)

Survival Tip #3 - Don’t Overestimate Your Knowledge or Experience.  

There is a fine line between faith and foolishness. Avoid “paying the penalty” by honestly and objectively assessing the church's abilities and experience (or the lack thereof) as it pertains to commercial construction.

• Gain a clear understanding of the entire depth and breadth of a church construction project from start to finish 
• Don’t bring a knife to a gun fight, and unless you are a retired or active construction professional, you have a knife.
• Be willing to bring in qualified help to sit on your side of the table. “Let the wise listen and add to their learning, and let the discerning get guidance.” Proverbs 1:5 NIV

If you interested in learning more about a guide that can safely lead you though the jungle, follow this link to learn more about How To Reduce Risk In Church Construction.