Christian communities need challenges to develop in their growth. The
following are some characteristics of a good challenge:
1. The motive of the challenge is love: love of the gospel; love for
Christ’s community; and, love for those who will grow as they respond.
2. The challenge is achievable.
3. The challenger shares in the risk and the costliness of the goal.
4. The challenger is sensitive to the emotional load that the community
is already bearing.
5. The challenger respects and honours those who must, for their own
private reasons, say no.
6. The challenger has a trust level with the community so they feel
they are not being used as a means to an end.
7. The achieving of the challenge will be measured, marked and
celebrated.
8. The challenges being issued are not always financial ones, but are a
balance of discipleship, outreach, stewardship, proclamation and education
objectives.