Your Church Members Won’t Always Agree with You And Why That’s Ok
Jun 14, 2022
It’s unreasonable to expect everyone to agree with everything you say. In fact, if you’re doing your job well as a pastor, taking firm stances and having a clear vision, then you will likely have dissent. In most cases, this dissent is not an omen of malevolence, but rather a sign of trust. Thom and Sam discuss why it’s not a bad thing that everyone doesn’t always agree with you.
Over a long tenure, you won’t even agree with yourself.
Apathetic compliance can create a dangerous echo chamber.
The New Believer’s Bible is uniquely designed to help new Christians read, study, and understand the Bible.
It includes features that help Christians develop and deepen their faith, while providing a foundation for their new life in Christ.
At the heart of this Bible is the trusted and easy to understand New Living Translation.
Combine that with notes and resources that answer the “Where do I go from here?” question and you have a Bible that is perfect for helping new believers, people returning to the faith, and even seasoned believers to take that next step in their faith through God’s Word.
Your Call to Pray for the Persecuted: An Interview with Todd Nettleton from the Voice of the Martyrs
Jun 07, 2022
The Bible tells us to remember the prisoners as if we were in prison with them (Heb. 13:3), and the first request of persecuted Christians is that we PRAY for them. In today’s episode, Thom and Sam talk to Todd Nettleton, Chief of Media Relations and Message Integration for the Voice of the Martyrs–USA about a wonderful tool to help Christians answer the first request of our persecuted family by helping us to pray specifically and knowledgeably for them.
Can you tell us a little bit about The Voice of the Martyrs…what the organization does, and how the ministry started?
Why should Christians be praying for brothers and sisters who are enduring persecution for their faith?
What is the significance of a Bible for a believer living in a hostile or restricted nation?
Can you share the story of one of the persecuted Christians you’ve met?
Todd Nettleton is the Chief of Media Relations and Message Integration for the Voice of the Martyrs–USA and host of The Voice of the Martyrs Radio. He serves as a voice for persecuted Christians, inspiring Christians with the faithfulness of Christ’s followers in 70+ nations where they face persecution for wearing His name. During more than 20 years serving at VOM, Todd has traveled the world and conducted face-to-face interviews with hundreds of Christians who’ve endured persecution in more than 30 nations. He is the host of The Voice of the Martyrs Radio and author of When Faith Is Forbidden: 40 Days on the Frontlines with Persecuted Christians (Moody 2021). A graduate of Bartlesville Wesleyan College (now Oklahoma Wesleyan University) Todd has done postgraduate study at the University of Oklahoma.
The New Believer’s Bible is uniquely designed to help new Christians read, study, and understand the Bible.
It includes features that help Christians develop and deepen their faith, while providing a foundation for their new life in Christ.
At the heart of this Bible is the trusted and easy to understand New Living Translation.
Combine that with notes and resources that answer the “Where do I go from here?” question and you have a Bible that is perfect for helping new believers, people returning to the faith, and even seasoned believers to take that next step in their faith through God’s Word.
The Early Warning Signs Preceding a Decline in Church Health
May 31, 2022
I have yet to see a church drift towards greater health. The current of apathy always pulls away. But what causes this drift? What are some early warning signs of an unraveling in a congregation? Thom and Sam discuss some key indicators often preceding a decline in church health.
People in the church, especially leaders, talk more about themselves than Jesus.
God’s mission is no longer a central feature of worship services.
Less of the operating budget is dedicated to outwardly focused ministry and mission.
New believers are perceived as disturbing the peace of the body.
More resources are dedicated to older generations than younger generations.
Few care about the persecuted church.
Hospitality is not emphasized and receives little attention.
DaysSpring and Tyndale have partnered together to bring you this encouraging Bible in the NLT translation.
The DaySpring Hope & Encouragement Bible amplifies twelve indisputable truths about who you are in Christ such as you are known, you are blessed, and you have a reason for hope.
These truths equip you to recognize and embrace your treasured place in God’s heart.
Armed with this knowledge, you will be able to face any challenge, step into your toughest calling, and live the adventure God has for you.
What Transparent Church Leaders Gain and What Secretive Church Leaders Lose
May 24, 2022
Unless you work for an organization like the CIA, then transparency is often among the top characteristics requested of leaders. Of course, even organizations built on the foundation of secrecy have gotten into trouble for a lack of transparency. Transparency is a healthy leadership characteristic. But why? In the context of a local church, what does a transparent pastor encourage, as opposed to one who is not?
Southeastern is committed to helping you get the training you need to pursue your ministry from anywhere around the world. That’s why we’re waiving the application fee to any of our programs for Church Answers listeners. Use the code “CHURCHANSWERS” and we’ll waive the fee. No matter what stage of life’s journey you find yourself in, we want to help you take your next step in getting equipped to disciple and teach others. In coming to Southeastern, you’ll find that seminary isn’t just about theological education; it’s about ministry preparation. Explore degrees, schedule a visit, or apply today at sebts.edu.
DaysSpring and Tyndale have partnered together to bring you this encouraging Bible in the NLT translation.
The DaySpring Hope & Encouragement Bible amplifies twelve indisputable truths about who you are in Christ such as you are known, you are blessed, and you have a reason for hope.
These truths equip you to recognize and embrace your treasured place in God’s heart.
Armed with this knowledge, you will be able to face any challenge, step into your toughest calling, and live the adventure God has for you.
Things Believers Do that Make the Unchurched Bristle
May 17, 2022
Through our research, we’ve heard from the unchurched about things believers do that make them bristle the most. On this episode, Thom and Sam discuss a few of the most abrasive turn-offs.
Confuse me with gossip and bad behavior.
Mislead me with inconsistent messaging about your church.
Patronize me with trite spiritual answers to real problems.
Avoid me because I don’t believe the same things you do.
DaysSpring and Tyndale have partnered together to bring you this encouraging Bible in the NLT translation.
The DaySpring Hope & Encouragement Bible amplifies twelve indisputable truths about who you are in Christ such as you are known, you are blessed, and you have a reason for hope.
These truths equip you to recognize and embrace your treasured place in God’s heart.
Armed with this knowledge, you will be able to face any challenge, step into your toughest calling, and live the adventure God has for you.
Southeastern is committed to helping you get the training you need to pursue your ministry from anywhere around the world. That’s why we’re waiving the application fee to any of our programs for Church Answers listeners. Use the code “CHURCHANSWERS” and we’ll waive the fee. No matter what stage of life’s journey you find yourself in, we want to help you take your next step in getting equipped to disciple and teach others. In coming to Southeastern, you’ll find that seminary isn’t just about theological education; it’s about ministry preparation. Explore degrees, schedule a visit, or apply today at sebts.edu.
Southeastern is committed to helping you get the training you need to pursue your ministry from anywhere around the world. That’s why we’re waiving the application fee to any of our programs for Church Answers listeners. Use the code “CHURCHANSWERS” and we’ll waive the fee. No matter what stage of life’s journey you find yourself in, we want to help you take your next step in getting equipped to disciple and teach others. In coming to Southeastern, you’ll find that seminary isn’t just about theological education; it’s about ministry preparation. Explore degrees, schedule a visit, or apply today at sebts.edu.
The NLT Streetlights New Testament is a visually compelling, easy-to-understand resource for churches, ministries, and individuals.
Linking to remarkably creative audio and video resources, the NLT Streetlights New Testament explains Christian truth to young people and serves as a basic discipleship tool for ministries. Its unique tone and approach to the gospel have strong appeal for those in an urban culture.
The feature content focuses on helping the reader engage the Word of God. The Corner Talk features answer these key questions: Who is God? Who am I? What do I do?
This New Testament also includes QR codes that link to the entire Streetlights New Testament Audio Bible, as well as to visually compelling teaching videos.
Moving Your Congregation to Greater Bible Reading and Literacy: An interview with Glenn Paauw from the Institute for Bible Reading
May 03, 2022
The Bible is more accessible than ever, yet Bible reading and Bible literacy are on the decline. Many Christians struggle to read Scripture, often ending up confused, bored, and full of unmet expectations. What has gone wrong? How can we change this dynamic? In today’s episode, Thom and Sam talk to Glenn Paauw, Senior Director of Content for the Institute for Bible Reading about how church leaders need to fundamentally rethink how they invite their congregation into the Bible.
1. Why are people not reading their Bibles?
2. What are some bad Bible reading habits that we’ve created out of good intentions?
3. How does Immerse work?
4. How can Immerse help churches become Bible reading communities?
5. Can churches use Immerse for evangelism and outreach?
Glenn Paauw serves as the Senior Director of Content for the Institute for Bible Reading, a ministry focused on inviting people into God’s transformative story by changing the way they read the Bible. The focus of his 35 years in Bible ministry has been publishing, researching, speaking, and writing on the topic of reading and living the Bible well. His book Saving the Bible From Ourselves is available from InterVarsity Press.
The NLT Streetlights New Testament is a visually compelling, easy-to-understand resource for churches, ministries, and individuals.
Linking to remarkably creative audio and video resources, the NLT Streetlights New Testament explains Christian truth to young people and serves as a basic discipleship tool for ministries. Its unique tone and approach to the gospel have strong appeal for those in an urban culture.
The feature content focuses on helping the reader engage the Word of God. The Corner Talk features answer these key questions: Who is God? Who am I? What do I do?
This New Testament also includes QR codes that link to the entire Streetlights New Testament Audio Bible, as well as to visually compelling teaching videos.
Southeastern is committed to helping you get the training you need to pursue your ministry from anywhere around the world. That’s why we’re waiving the application fee to any of our programs for Church Answers listeners. Use the code “CHURCHANSWERS” and we’ll waive the fee. No matter what stage of life’s journey you find yourself in, we want to help you take your next step in getting equipped to disciple and teach others. In coming to Southeastern, you’ll find that seminary isn’t just about theological education; it’s about ministry preparation. Explore degrees, schedule a visit, or apply today at sebts.edu.
Four Key Safeguards to Make Sure Your Church’s Finances Stand Up Under Scrutiny
Apr 26, 2022
Money is one of the most sensitive subjects in the church. It’s also one of the most visible. Churches can struggle with the right amount of financial oversight. On this episode, Thom and Sam discuss four key safeguards for better financial oversight in the church.
Three areas often missed: Major spending outside the budget, using part of the budget for unintended purposes, and hiding personal expenses
Safeguard #1: Have a consistent process for counting the weekly offering, inputting data, bookkeeping, preparing financial records
Safeguard #2: Have multiple checkpoints with multiple people involved.
Safeguard #3: Maintain transparent and consistent reporting.
Safeguard #4: Maintain strong leadership accountability and do not make any exceptions.
Southeastern is committed to helping you get the training you need to pursue your ministry from anywhere around the world. That’s why we’re waiving the application fee to any of our programs for Church Answers listeners. Use the code “CHURCHANSWERS” and we’ll waive the fee. No matter what stage of life’s journey you find yourself in, we want to help you take your next step in getting equipped to disciple and teach others. In coming to Southeastern, you’ll find that seminary isn’t just about theological education; it’s about ministry preparation. Explore degrees, schedule a visit, or apply today at sebts.edu.
Inspire is the bestselling Bible line for coloring and creative journaling
The Inspire Bible Collection includes a variety of single-column New Living Translation Bibles and portions books featuring hundreds of beautiful line-art illustrations for coloring and wide margins for Bible journaling
Each edition features over 400 unique Scripture line-art illustrations for coloring
Square-trimmed coloring-book-style Scripture portions books contain full books from the Bible and are printed on thick art paper. They include all of the favorite features from Inspire, including wide margins for creative journaling and Scripture line-art illustrations for coloring. Markers, paint, and any other art supplies can be used in these special editions of Inspire.
Ten Things Pastors Don’t Like about Pastoring
Apr 19, 2022
There are certain aspects of pastoral ministry that pastors simply do not like. While every pastor is different, our survey found the top ten facets of pastoral ministry like the least. Sam and Thom look at a survey we did ten years ago, and compare it to a recent survey.
1. Business meetings
2. “Supporters” who don’t support the pastor publicly
Inspire is the bestselling Bible line for coloring and creative journaling
The Inspire Bible Collection includes a variety of single-column New Living Translation Bibles and portions books featuring hundreds of beautiful line-art illustrations for coloring and wide margins for Bible journaling
Each edition features over 400 unique Scripture line-art illustrations for coloring
Square-trimmed coloring-book-style Scripture portions books contain full books from the Bible and are printed on thick art paper. They include all of the favorite features from Inspire, including wide margins for creative journaling and Scripture line-art illustrations for coloring. Markers, paint, and any other art supplies can be used in these special editions of Inspire.
Southeastern is committed to helping you get the training you need to pursue your ministry from anywhere around the world. That’s why we’re waiving the application fee to any of our programs for Church Answers listeners. Use the code “CHURCHANSWERS” and we’ll waive the fee. No matter what stage of life’s journey you find yourself in, we want to help you take your next step in getting equipped to disciple and teach others. In coming to Southeastern, you’ll find that seminary isn’t just about theological education; it’s about ministry preparation. Explore degrees, schedule a visit, or apply today at sebts.edu.
The Difference Between a “Can Do” Church and a “Can’t Do” Church
Apr 12, 2022
Every church has an organizational culture. Some churches have a culture of optimism. You can feel the energy in worship. Others are pessimistic. You can sense the deadness when you walk into the sanctuary. What is the difference between churches that approach obstacles with a “can do” attitude over others that have a “can’t do” attitude? What makes a church have a lively optimism over a dead pessimism?
Church size is not an issue for an optimistic church. The “can do” church is always the right size.
The “can’t do” church sees the people it doesn’t have as a problem. The “can do” church sees the people it has as an opportunity.
The “can’t do” church is stuck in the past or asleep dreaming about the future. The “can do” church believes now is the time to act.
The “can’t do” church believes more money is needed. The “can do” church does ministry with whatever resources God has provided.
Southeastern is committed to helping you get the training you need to pursue your ministry from anywhere around the world. That’s why we’re waiving the application fee to any of our programs for Church Answers listeners. Use the code “CHURCHANSWERS” and we’ll waive the fee. No matter what stage of life’s journey you find yourself in, we want to help you take your next step in getting equipped to disciple and teach others. In coming to Southeastern, you’ll find that seminary isn’t just about theological education; it’s about ministry preparation. Explore degrees, schedule a visit, or apply today at sebts.edu.
Hollywood Heroes – How Your Favorite Movies Reveal God by Frank Turek and Zach Turek
Hollywood Heroes will change the way you watch movies and transform the way you understand our ultimate hero—Jesus Christ.
In Hollywood Heroes, authors Dr. Frank Turek and his son Zach Turek:
o Highlight a collection of characters from the world’s most popular movies to show how their fictional stories reveal factual truths about God
o Assert that our culture’s obsession with superheroes reflects our desire for something only God can do—making everything right in the end;
o Offer a practical way for young adults to share the Gospel with their peers, based on a shared interest in superhero movies; and
o Give pastors, youth group leaders, and parents an engaging resource for sharing the Gospel message and inspiring life lessons with young adults
Movies and characters discussed in the book include: Captain America, Iron Man, Harry Potter, Star Wars, Lord of the Rings, Batman, and Wonder Woman
Offer: Visit navpress.org/hollywoodheroes and use promo code RAINER for 30% off your purchase of Hollywood Heroes.
Healing Our Racial Divide – An Interview with Dr. Derwin Gray
Apr 05, 2022
Why must everything be so black and white? Like many of us, Derwin Gray is weary of the racial divide in our society. He longs to see hurts healed, wrongs corrected, and trust replace distrust. In today’s episode, Thom and Sam talk to Derwin about what the Bible has to say about how to heal our persistent racial divides.
1. What is colorblind theology? How has it prevented the church from taking steps toward reconciliation?
2. What is the distinction between “colorblind” and “color-blessed”? How have you seen examples of each within the church?
3. What encouragement would you offer to pastors and church leaders who want to preach against the sin of racism but have received backlash from their congregations?
4. How does accepting the supremacy of Christ help us in healing our racial divide?
5. What gives you hope for our country despite the racial injustice and disunity in its history?
Dr. Derwin L. Gray is the co-founder and lead pastor of Transformation Church (TC), a multiethnic, multigenerational, mission-shaped church located in the Charlotte, North Carolina, metro region. He is a popular conference speaker and the author of Hero: Unleashing God’s Power in a Man’s Heart; Building a Multiethnic Church; The Good Life; God, Do You Hear Me?; and Limitless Life. Derwin earned a master of divinity degree with a concentration in apologetics from Southern Evangelical Seminary under the mentorship of the renowned theologian Dr. Norman Geisler. He also earned a doctor of ministry degree in the New Testament in context at Northern Seminary. Derwin met his wife, Vicki, at Brigham Young University, and they have been married since 1992. They have two adult children, Presley and Jeremiah.
Hollywood Heroes – How Your Favorite Movies Reveal God by Frank Turek and Zach Turek
Hollywood Heroes will change the way you watch movies and transform the way you understand our ultimate hero—Jesus Christ.
In Hollywood Heroes, authors Dr. Frank Turek and his son Zach Turek:
o Highlight a collection of characters from the world’s most popular movies to show how their fictional stories reveal factual truths about God
o Assert that our culture’s obsession with superheroes reflects our desire for something only God can do—making everything right in the end;
o Offer a practical way for young adults to share the Gospel with their peers, based on a shared interest in superhero movies; and
o Give pastors, youth group leaders, and parents an engaging resource for sharing the Gospel message and inspiring life lessons with young adults
Movies and characters discussed in the book include: Captain America, Iron Man, Harry Potter, Star Wars, Lord of the Rings, Batman, and Wonder Woman
Offer: Visit navpress.org/hollywoodheroes and use promo code RAINER for 30% off your purchase of Hollywood Heroes.
Southeastern is committed to helping you get the training you need to pursue your ministry from anywhere around the world. That’s why we’re waiving the application fee to any of our programs for Church Answers listeners. Use the code “CHURCHANSWERS” and we’ll waive the fee. No matter what stage of life’s journey you find yourself in, we want to help you take your next step in getting equipped to disciple and teach others. In coming to Southeastern, you’ll find that seminary isn’t just about theological education; it’s about ministry preparation. Explore degrees, schedule a visit, or apply today at sebts.edu.
The Three Big Reasons Great Churches Fall
Mar 29, 2022
Can you think of a church that once had a great reputation that is now hardly ever mentioned? Even worse, if it is mentioned, it is done so negatively. There are three big reasons great churches fail. Sam and Thom discuss all three in detail.
Southeastern is committed to helping you get the training you need to pursue your ministry from anywhere around the world. That’s why we’re waiving the application fee to any of our programs for Church Answers listeners. Use the code “CHURCHANSWERS” and we’ll waive the fee. No matter what stage of life’s journey you find yourself in, we want to help you take your next step in getting equipped to disciple and teach others. In coming to Southeastern, you’ll find that seminary isn’t just about theological education; it’s about ministry preparation. Explore degrees, schedule a visit, or apply today at sebts.edu.
There is a growing body of evidence that most Christians today are struggling to meaningfully connect with the Bible.
The Immerse Bible reading experience takes you on a new and unique journey through the Bible. Immerse delivers Scripture as it was originally created: without chapter or verse breaks. This makes for uninterrupted reading of God’s Word. The result is a clean and simple page formatted for one thing: longform reading.
Created with the look and feel of a paperback book, in the clear and trusted New Living Translation, Immerse enables you to easily read and understand the Bible.
As people around the world search for new ways to connect with others, Immerse is a Bible to read and then discuss with friends who have read the same passages.
Using this unique edition, members can read through a major section of the Bible like the New Testament by following the 8 or 16-week reading plan.
Keeping Tabs on How the News Media Influences Your Church
Mar 22, 2022
Part of shepherding your church is understanding the major cultural influences impacting people in your congregation. News media can have a big effect on the perspectives of your members. How can you be proactive to prevent as much polarization as possible? What news sources are good to track? Thom and Sam answer these questions on this episode.
Different generations receive news differently. Older generations are more inclined to watch network news, while younger generations receive much of their news on social media. More watch the news than read it.
Preaching the news will not help facilitate discipleship in your congregation. Shepherd your people online and stick to encouraging others via social media.
Don’t be afraid to talk to someone if you notice or hear something from them that is potentially damaging to the church.
Get out of the echo chamber and help people understand how to prioritize what is important.
Not every issue deserves a comment from you, especially issues in which you have limited knowledge and experience.
Consume a broad spectrum of news sources: WSJ, NYT, WaPo, CNN, Fox News, local newspapers and broadcasts, and key leaders and thinkers on social media.
There is a growing body of evidence that most Christians today are struggling to meaningfully connect with the Bible.
The Immerse Bible reading experience takes you on a new and unique journey through the Bible. Immerse delivers Scripture as it was originally created: without chapter or verse breaks. This makes for uninterrupted reading of God’s Word. The result is a clean and simple page formatted for one thing: longform reading.
Created with the look and feel of a paperback book, in the clear and trusted New Living Translation, Immerse enables you to easily read and understand the Bible.
As people around the world search for new ways to connect with others, Immerse is a Bible to read and then discuss with friends who have read the same passages.
Using this unique edition, members can read through a major section of the Bible like the New Testament by following the 8 or 16-week reading plan.
Southeastern is committed to helping you get the training you need to pursue your ministry from anywhere around the world. That’s why we’re waiving the application fee to any of our programs for Church Answers listeners. Use the code “CHURCHANSWERS” and we’ll waive the fee. No matter what stage of life’s journey you find yourself in, we want to help you take your next step in getting equipped to disciple and teach others. In coming to Southeastern, you’ll find that seminary isn’t just about theological education; it’s about ministry preparation. Explore degrees, schedule a visit, or apply today at sebts.edu.
The Great Reshuffling of Pastors and the Future for the Church
Mar 15, 2022
Millions of people are quitting their jobs every month in what many are calling “The Great Resignation.” Pastors are not immune from this trend. Thom and Sam discuss how pastors, staff, and church leaders are undergoing a “Great Reshuffling,” a term they prefer since you don’t really resign from serving the church. What does this trend mean for the future of the church?
1. Consider the push, pull, and pray factor before leaving your church.
2. The demographic reality is not enough Millennial and Gen X pastors exist to replace retiring Boomers.
3. The trend of fewer people wanting to be a pastor will continue.
4. There will be more church adoptions out of necessity.
5. Younger pastors at small and mid-size churches will lead many of these adoptions.
6. As people settle, neighborhood churches have the potential to grow quickly.
7. The number of co-vocational and bi-vocational pastors will trend up, while full-time specialty positions in the church will trend down.
Southeastern is committed to helping you get the training you need to pursue your ministry from anywhere around the world. That’s why we’re waiving the application fee to any of our programs for Church Answers listeners. Use the code “CHURCHANSWERS” and we’ll waive the fee. No matter what stage of life’s journey you find yourself in, we want to help you take your next step in getting equipped to disciple and teach others. In coming to Southeastern, you’ll find that seminary isn’t just about theological education; it’s about ministry preparation. Explore degrees, schedule a visit, or apply today at sebts.edu.
Filament Bible Collection
Bible Reading Reimagined
Includes mind-blowing study notes, devotionals, videos, worship music, and more are curated for the page you are reading through the Filament Bible app.
Learn more without carrying more.
Filament Bibles offer a rich reading experience that is seamlessly connected to vast and varied in-depth content related to what you are reading by simply scanning the page number with your phone or tablet.
These reimagined Bibles, illuminated with Filament, are available at the same low price as everyday print-only alternatives, combining readability, portability, and affordability to create a spectacular Bible experience.
Five Ways a Pastor Can Use Monday to Recover from Sunday
Mar 08, 2022
Many pastors get the Monday blues. Sundays can be emotionally draining and physically exhausting. Making Monday a day full of meetings is not wise for most pastors. Thom and Sam discuss five ways you can be strategic about making Monday a day of recovery. Even if Monday is not a day off, there are some ways you can steward the time to be a better pastor.
1. Minimize major decisions on Monday and maximize prayer.
2. Do not schedule many meetings with people, if any at all.
3. Read, study, and get a head start on your sermon. Close your email and other messaging systems for several hours.
4. Work from home on Mondays.
5. Make Monday your long workout day.
Bonus: Make afternoon phone calls to under-contacted church members like widows, widowers, and low-maintenance members.
Includes mind-blowing study notes, devotionals, videos, worship music, and more are curated for the page you are reading through the Filament Bible app.
Learn more without carrying more.
Filament Bibles offer a rich reading experience that is seamlessly connected to vast and varied in-depth content related to what you are reading by simply scanning the page number with your phone or tablet.
These reimagined Bibles, illuminated with Filament, are available at the same low price as everyday print-only alternatives, combining readability, portability, and affordability to create a spectacular Bible experience.
Southeastern is committed to helping you get the training you need to pursue your ministry from anywhere around the world. That’s why we’re waiving the application fee to any of our programs for Church Answers listeners. Use the code “CHURCHANSWERS” and we’ll waive the fee. No matter what stage of life’s journey you find yourself in, we want to help you take your next step in getting equipped to disciple and teach others. In coming to Southeastern, you’ll find that seminary isn’t just about theological education; it’s about ministry preparation. Explore degrees, schedule a visit, or apply today at sebts.edu.
Counting the Cost of Staying in a Church
Mar 01, 2022
Thom and Sam consistently advocate long pastoral tenure. Every church will have its critics and its problems. We usually urge pastors to stick it out. But there are times pastors need to count the cost and ask if it’s really worth it to stay. Could it be that God is using the situation to nudge the pastor to move on? By the way, we are grateful to the listener who recommended we tackle this topic. We are always glad to hear from you.
1. Count the cost if the financial burden is great.
Southeastern is committed to helping you get the training you need to pursue your ministry from anywhere around the world. That’s why we’re waiving the application fee to any of our programs for Church Answers listeners. Use the code “CHURCHANSWERS” and we’ll waive the fee. No matter what stage of life’s journey you find yourself in, we want to help you take your next step in getting equipped to disciple and teach others. In coming to Southeastern, you’ll find that seminary isn’t just about theological education; it’s about ministry preparation. Explore degrees, schedule a visit, or apply today at sebts.edu.
Filament Bible Collection
Bible Reading Reimagined
Includes mind-blowing study notes, devotionals, videos, worship music, and more are curated for the page you are reading through the Filament Bible app.
Learn more without carrying more.
Filament Bibles offer a rich reading experience that is seamlessly connected to vast and varied in-depth content related to what you are reading by simply scanning the page number with your phone or tablet.
These reimagined Bibles, illuminated with Filament, are available at the same low price as everyday print-only alternatives, combining readability, portability, and affordability to create a spectacular Bible experience.
The Silent Epidemic and the Church: Ministering in the Midst of the Opioid Crisis – An Interview with Steve Arterburn
Feb 22, 2022
A crisis that can get overshadowed by COVID, but is plaguing our communities is the opioid epidemic. Opioids and other addictions are destroying individuals, families, and communities. What role does the church play in bringing help and hope amidst such a destructive force? How can churches step into this space and bring Christ’s healing and freedom to people who are enslaved by their addictions? On today’s episode, Thom talks to Steve Arterburn about this crisis and how churches can help.
Stephen Arterburn is the founder and CEO of New Life Ministries–the nation’s largest faith-based broadcast, counseling, and treatment ministry–and is the host of the nationally syndicated “New Life Live!” daily radio program heard on over 180 radio stations nationwide. Steve is also the founder of the Women of Faith conferences, attended by over 3 million women.
Steve is also a nationally known public speaker and author. He is written over 60 books and is also the developer and editor of ten Specialty and Study Bibles including The Life Recovery Bible, which has sold over 3,000,000 copies. It is the 2nd all-time best-selling Study Bible at Tyndale.
Stephen serves as the Teaching Pastor at Northview Church in Carmel, Indiana where he resides with his wife, Misty, and their family.
1. Why did you start a ministry focused on reaching people who were in bondage from addiction?
2. What is the backstory for the Life Recovery Bible and what role do you see this Bible playing in people’s recovery journey?
3. Why is it important for the church to play a vital role in ministering to people and families who have been ravaged by addiction?
4. If a pastor or a church feels called to this ministry what should they be prepared for and how should they prepare?
Like many of us, Derwin Gray is weary of the racial divide in our society. But he’s also the founding pastor of a successful and growing multiethnic church – Transformation Church in the metro area of Charlotte, North Carolina.
In How to Heal Our Racial Divide, what Derwin shares brings the entire message of the gospel to life. Be inspired by the richness of a thriving church that embraces God’s vision and discover the steps to lead your church toward the multiethnic call of Scripture.
Together our churches and the body of Christ can be the change God yearns to see in our world. For more information on How to Heal Our Racial Divide, visit Tyndale.com.
You can find the direct link to Derwin Gray’s new book in today’s show notes.
Southeastern is committed to helping you get the training you need to pursue your ministry from anywhere around the world. That’s why we’re waiving the application fee to any of our programs for Church Answers listeners. Use the code “CHURCHANSWERS” and we’ll waive the fee. No matter what stage of life’s journey you find yourself in, we want to help you take your next step in getting equipped to disciple and teach others. In coming to Southeastern, you’ll find that seminary isn’t just about theological education; it’s about ministry preparation. Explore degrees, schedule a visit, or apply today at sebts.edu.
What Should You Do About Toxic Social Media Posts?
Feb 15, 2022
Social media is an unavoidable method of communication. Ignoring social media completely is a mistake. You must shepherd people online as well as in person. Much of social media is benign, but some of it can become toxic. How should you handle harmful posts when you encounter them?
Do not feel pressure to respond to every issue that pops up online.
Ignore toxicity from people you do not know
Avoid contributing to the toxicity at all costs.
A pattern of toxic posts from a church leader must be addressed.
Stand up to online bullies but do not engage in back-and-forth insults with them.
Stay in your lane. Do not feel obligated to jump into discussions outside your expertise.
Southeastern is committed to helping you get the training you need to pursue your ministry from anywhere around the world. That’s why we’re waiving the application fee to any of our programs for Church Answers listeners. Use the code “CHURCHANSWERS” and we’ll waive the fee. No matter what stage of life’s journey you find yourself in, we want to help you take your next step in getting equipped to disciple and teach others. In coming to Southeastern, you’ll find that seminary isn’t just about theological education; it’s about ministry preparation. Explore degrees, schedule a visit, or apply today at sebts.edu.
How to Heal Our Racial Divide by Derwin Gray
Like many of us, Derwin Gray is weary of the racial divide in our society. But he’s also the founding pastor of a successful and growing multiethnic church – Transformation Church in the metro area of Charlotte, North Carolina.
In How to Heal Our Racial Divide, what Derwin shares brings the entire message of the gospel to life. Be inspired by the richness of a thriving church that embraces God’s vision and discover the steps to lead your church toward the multiethnic call of Scripture.
Together our churches and the body of Christ can be the change God yearns to see in our world. For more information on How to Heal Our Racial Divide, visit Tyndale.com.
You can find the direct link to Derwin Gray’s new book in today’s show notes.
How to Handle a Church Staff Person’s Moral Failure
Feb 08, 2022
Few models exist on how to handle the moral failure of a staff person. Indeed, there is little consensus among pastors about what to do, even with something as explicit as adultery. On this episode, Thom and Sam discuss four key questions to help you determine a path forward with a staff person after a moral failure.
1. What is the degree of offense?
2. Does the staff person deny it or not?
3. What is the level of remorse and repentance?
4. What are the church’s policies and/or covenant?
Trusted & Treasured by Millions of Readers over 30 years, the Life Application® Study Bible Is Today’s #1–Selling Study Bible
Winner of the 2020 Christian Book Award for Bible of the Year!
Now it has been thoroughly updated and expanded, offering even more relevant insights for understanding and applying God’s Word to everyday life in today’s world.
Discover How You Can Apply the Bible to Your Life Today
Link in show notes
Southeastern is committed to helping you get the training you need to pursue your ministry from anywhere around the world. That’s why we’re waiving the application fee to any of our programs for Church Answers listeners. Use the code “CHURCHANSWERS” and we’ll waive the fee. No matter what stage of life’s journey you find yourself in, we want to help you take your next step in getting equipped to disciple and teach others. In coming to Southeastern, you’ll find that seminary isn’t just about theological education; it’s about ministry preparation. Explore degrees, schedule a visit, or apply today at sebts.edu.
Preaching When You Don’t Feel Like It
Feb 01, 2022
Even when you’re feeling your best, preaching is an exhausting endeavor. But sometimes you get sick. Pastors can also struggle with their emotions or mental health issues. Then there are the Sundays when you’re just grumpy. On this episode, Thom and Sam talk about how to preach even when you don’t feel like it. They share some practical tips to help you get through the message without faking it.
1. Some long-term solutions are obvious, like getting a good night’s rest, exercising, and praying.
2. Be honest. Tell your congregation you don’t feel well physically. Mention how God’s Word is worth the struggle to be in church.
3. Use your spiritual battles to illustrate sermons but be careful not to share too much publicly. God can use your battle to bring someone else eternal victory.
4. Emphasize the part of your sermon that excites you most. When you aren’t feeling well, focus most on something you can feel.
5. Be willing to hit a single. Use your limited energy to muster through a decent message rather than striking out swinging for the fences when you’re weary.
Southeastern is committed to helping you get the training you need to pursue your ministry from anywhere around the world. That’s why we’re waiving the application fee to any of our programs for Church Answers listeners. Use the code “CHURCHANSWERS” and we’ll waive the fee. No matter what stage of life’s journey you find yourself in, we want to help you take your next step in getting equipped to disciple and teach others. In coming to Southeastern, you’ll find that seminary isn’t just about theological education; it’s about ministry preparation. Explore degrees, schedule a visit, or apply today at sebts.edu.
NLT Life Application Study Bible, Third Edition
Trusted & Treasured by Millions of Readers over 30 years, the Life Application® Study Bible Is Today’s #1–Selling Study Bible
Winner of the 2020 Christian Book Award for Bible of the Year!
Now it has been thoroughly updated and expanded, offering even more relevant insights for understanding and applying God’s Word to everyday life in today’s world.
Discover How You Can Apply the Bible to Your Life Today
Equipping More People in Your Church to Give Sacrificially
Jan 25, 2022
The subject of giving is one that can be tense in the church. Many pastors and church leaders struggle to equip their congregations to give sacrificially. What is sacrificial giving? How can your church encourage a culture of generosity? Thom and Sam discuss some practical ways to equip your church.
All believers are called to give generously.
Preaching alone is not enough to create a culture of sacrificial giving.
Establish multiple channels for giving.
Have clear, easy-to-read financial statements.
Maintain a consistent system of financial accountability.
Never violate the confidentiality of individual giving records.
Help people connect personally to the mission of the church.
If you’re a pastor, you may feel weary in these challenging times the Church is facing.
Sam has put together a valuable new resource to lighten your load, with tools to help you and your leadership team leverage your strengths and discover hidden opportunities to revitalize your church’s growth.
The Church Revitalization Checklist is an extremely practical guide with ideas to inspire your congregation and help them step into God’s purpose for your church today.
You can find more information on this new resource, The Church Revitalization Checklist, by visiting churchanswersresources.com
The Church Revitalization Checklist provides a step-by-step path to a hope-filled future for both you and your church. Popular church expert Sam Rainer will walk you and your leadership team through a seven-point checklist–everything from reconsidering your priorities to evaluating your location and facilities. Learn how to inspire your congregation and help them step into God’s unique purpose for your church today. Check out Sam’s new book at: https://www.churchanswersresources.com
Southeastern is committed to helping you get the training you need to pursue your ministry from anywhere around the world. That’s why we’re waiving the application fee to any of our programs for Church Answers listeners. Use the code “CHURCHANSWERS” and we’ll waive the fee. No matter what stage of life’s journey you find yourself in, we want to help you take your next step in getting equipped to disciple and teach others. In coming to Southeastern, you’ll find that seminary isn’t just about theological education; it’s about ministry preparation. Explore degrees, schedule a visit, or apply today at sebts.edu.
You will experience betrayal at some point. For those with a long tenure in ministry, you’ve likely gone through a difficult season because of betrayal. The sting of betrayal hurts. How can we manage the pain while at the same time leading others? On this episode, Thom and Sam discuss the types of betrayal and how you can respond.
The goal is always reconciliation.
Not every case will be reconciled.
Prepare to be wronged again when you try to work it out.
Ask yourself if what happened is truly betrayal or a misunderstanding.
Don’t try to win the argument. Rather, attempt to heal the soul.
Betrayal from a superior requires intervention with a group of mediators.
Betrayal from a subordinate requires the help of another person in authority.
Betrayal from a friend should include a trusted bridge-builder.
Southeastern is committed to helping you get the training you need to pursue your ministry from anywhere around the world. That’s why we’re waiving the application fee to any of our programs for Church Answers listeners. Use the code “CHURCHANSWERS” and we’ll waive the fee. No matter what stage of life’s journey you find yourself in, we want to help you take your next step in getting equipped to disciple and teach others. In coming to Southeastern, you’ll find that seminary isn’t just about theological education; it’s about ministry preparation. Explore degrees, schedule a visit, or apply today at sebts.edu.
If you’re a pastor, you may feel weary in these challenging times the Church is facing.
Sam has put together a valuable new resource to lighten your load, with tools to help you and your leadership team leverage your strengths and discover hidden opportunities to revitalize your church’s growth.
The Church Revitalization Checklist is an extremely practical guide with ideas to inspire your congregation and help them step into God’s purpose for your church today.
You can find more information on this new resource, The Church Revitalization Checklist, by visiting churchanswersresources.com
The Church Revitalization Checklist provides a step-by-step path to a hope-filled future for both you and your church. Popular church expert Sam Rainer will walk you and your leadership team through a seven-point checklist–everything from reconsidering your priorities to evaluating your location and facilities. Learn how to inspire your congregation and help them step into God’s unique purpose for your church today. Check out Sam’s new book at: https://www.churchanswersresources.com
How Churches Are Getting People to Return to In-Person Worship Services – A Special Three-Part In-Depth Series – Part 3: 6 Lessons to Apply for Getting People to Return to In-Person Worship
Jan 14, 2022
In this special three-part series, Thom looks at how some churches are successfully getting people to return to in-person services. This special project looks deeply at data and information from research and case studies. In part 3, they offer six concrete steps for moving forward to get people to return to in-person worship.
1. Re-learn the forgotten role of prayer and reaching people.
2. Follow the “every month” rule.
3. Find three or four key tools to complement your emphasis: Examples: Text In Church, Invite Your One, Pray and Go.
4. Make a concerted effort to learn your community (Know Your Community)
5. Define systems of accountability with both lead metrics and lag metrics.
6. Church fostering will actually help in-person attendance increase.
Resources:
ENGAGE Conference – Get your free ticket and join over 18,000 other church leaders at this free conference. You can register by heading to churchanswers.com/engage
How Churches Are Getting People to Return to In-Person Worship Services – A Special Three-Part In-Depth Series – Part 2: How Some Churches Are Defying the Negative Trends
Jan 14, 2022
In this special three-part series, Thom looks at how some churches are successfully getting people to return to in-person services. This special project looks deeply at data and information from research and case studies. In part 2, they note that hundreds of churches are defying these negative trends. These growth churches point us to solutions.
Roughly 5% of churches are seeing MORE people attend in-person worship services than pre-COVID. That’s 17,000 churches!
They had created an outward culture above and beyond programs and tools.
But they were not hesitant to use tools. Two examples: Invite Your One and Text In Church.
The cultural change took place with the pastor’s leadership.
The often-asked question was: What are we doing THIS MONTH to reach outwardly?
Most of these churches have prayer ministries for reaching people.
Resources:
ENGAGE Conference – Get your free ticket and join over 18,000 other church leaders at this free conference. You can register by heading to churchanswers.com/engage
How Churches Are Getting People to Return to In-Person Worship Services – A Special Three-Part In-Depth Series – Part 1: Understanding the Underpinnings of Declining In-Person Attendance
Jan 14, 2022
In this special three-part series, Thom looks at how some churches are successfully getting people to return to in-person services. This special project looks deeply at data and information from research and case studies. In part 1, Thom explains why you have to understand the underpinnings of the challenge before you look at solutions.
COVID is not the main culprit.
Slow erosion became rapid decline.
There was a perplexing pattern that preceded COVID.
Disunity was a corollary of the perplexing pattern.
Simply stating that median worship attendance is 20% lower than 2019 masks the problem.
Resources:
ENGAGE Conference – Get your free ticket and join over 18,000 other church leaders at this free conference. You can register by heading to churchanswers.com/engage
The Church Revitalization Checklist: A Three-Part Series – Part Three of Three: Bad Dreams and Pessimism Kill Revitalization
Jan 11, 2022
Thom and Sam take the listeners on an exciting three-part journey about major moves that should be made in any and every revitalization. They are part of a larger “checklist” revitalization leaders need to follow. In this third of three episodes, the Rainers examine the wrong kind of dreams many church leaders and members have.
This Lenten season, is your church or small group looking for a new and life-changing way to read the Bible?
You’re invited to try a 40-day Lenten reading plan using Immerse: The Bible Reading Experience.
Immerse is a true reading Bible. It removes distractions, like chapter and verse breaks, that can make Bible reading challenging. It feels less like a Bible study, and more like a book club.
With the 40-day reading plan, you can start on Ash Wednesday and read through every book of the New Testament by Easter Sunday.
Take 40 days to experience the Bible like never before. Have your church or small group try Immerse for Lent.
Visit ImmerseForLent.com for more information, free resource downloads, and a special discount on Immerse: Messiah books.
Southeastern is committed to helping you get the training you need to pursue your ministry from anywhere around the world. That’s why we’re waiving the application fee to any of our programs for Church Answers listeners. Use the code “CHURCHANSWERS” and we’ll waive the fee. No matter what stage of life’s journey you find yourself in, we want to help you take your next step in getting equipped to disciple and teach others. In coming to Southeastern, you’ll find that seminary isn’t just about theological education; it’s about ministry preparation. Explore degrees, schedule a visit, or apply today at sebts.edu.
The Church Revitalization Checklist: A Three-Part Series – Part Two of Three: Tending to What Is Most Important in Church Revitalization
Jan 04, 2022
Thom and Sam take the listeners on an exciting three-part journey about major moves that should be made in any and every revitalization. They are part of a larger “checklist” revitalization leaders need to follow. In this second of three episodes, the Rainers examine the most urgent issues in revitalization.
Southeastern is committed to helping you get the training you need to pursue your ministry from anywhere around the world. That’s why we’re waiving the application fee to any of our programs for Church Answers listeners. Use the code “CHURCHANSWERS” and we’ll waive the fee. No matter what stage of life’s journey you find yourself in, we want to help you take your next step in getting equipped to disciple and teach others. In coming to Southeastern, you’ll find that seminary isn’t just about theological education; it’s about ministry preparation. Explore degrees, schedule a visit, or apply today at sebts.edu.
This Lenten season, is your church or small group looking for a new and life-changing way to read the Bible?
You’re invited to try a 40-day Lenten reading plan using Immerse: The Bible Reading Experience.
Immerse is a true reading Bible. It removes distractions, like chapter and verse breaks, that can make Bible reading challenging. It feels less like a Bible study, and more like a book club.
With the 40-day reading plan, you can start on Ash Wednesday and read through every book of the New Testament by Easter Sunday.
Take 40 days to experience the Bible like never before. Have your church or small group try Immerse for Lent.
Visit ImmerseForLent.com for more information, free resource downloads, and a special discount on Immerse: Messiah books.
The Church Revitalization Checklist: A Three-Part Series – Part One of Three: Hit the Reset Button, Not Pause
Dec 28, 2021
Thom and Sam take the listeners on an exciting three-part journey about major moves that should be made in any and every revitalization. They are part of a larger “checklist” revitalization leaders need to follow. In this first of three episodes, the Rainers examine why the church cannot merely pause but must hit a total reset button.
1. Understand that everything has changed, just like always.
2. Evangelism is not an option.
3. You have to deal with the attendance frequency issue.
Tyndale is partnering with Operation Worship to get Bibles into the hand of our troops.
Every day, thousands of soldiers and military families ask for God’s Word to fight fear, stress, anxiety, and depression.
This holiday season, you can give hope to our troops by sending them an Operation Worship Bible.
Just $6 is enough to put a Bible into the hands of a military member.
Bibles are printed in the U.S. then shipped to military chaplains throughout the world, who then deliver them directly to our brave service members.
More than 1.5 million Operation Worship Bibles have been distributed to military personnel around the world.
Visit deploybibles.com right now to make your tax-deductible donation.
Southeastern is committed to helping you get the training you need to pursue your ministry from anywhere around the world. That’s why we’re waiving the application fee to any of our programs for Church Answers listeners. Use the code “CHURCHANSWERS” and we’ll waive the fee. No matter what stage of life’s journey you find yourself in, we want to help you take your next step in getting equipped to disciple and teach others. In coming to Southeastern, you’ll find that seminary isn’t just about theological education; it’s about ministry preparation. Explore degrees, schedule a visit, or apply today at sebts.edu.
Monkeys and Military Bibles – An Amazing Interview with Jeff Hilliard
Dec 21, 2021
The Bible changes lives and getting it into the hands of those in need is mission-critical. On today’s episode of Rainer on Leadership Thom and Sam talk with Jeff Hilliard about answering the call to send hope to troops.
Can you tell us about Operation Worship and how it got started?
How do military members actually receive these Bibles?
What were some of the biggest challenges in getting Operation Worship started? What are the ongoing challenges?
Why should someone consider donating to Operation Worship right now?
Jeff Hilliard, is the President & CEO of Compudigital Industries, located in Rocklin, CA. God used a t-shirt cannon and stuffed monkeys to call Jeff to be an inspirational speaker and distributor of FREE camo Bibles to the military through Operation Worship and the Open Window Foundation. Jeff resides in California with his wife, Patti.
Southeastern is committed to helping you get the training you need to pursue your ministry from anywhere around the world. That’s why we’re waiving the application fee to any of our programs for Church Answers listeners. Use the code “CHURCHANSWERS” and we’ll waive the fee. No matter what stage of life’s journey you find yourself in, we want to help you take your next step in getting equipped to disciple and teach others. In coming to Southeastern, you’ll find that seminary isn’t just about theological education; it’s about ministry preparation. Explore degrees, schedule a visit, or apply today at sebts.edu.
Tyndale is partnering with Operation Worship to get Bibles into the hand of our troops.
Every day, thousands of soldiers and military families ask for God’s Word to fight fear, stress, anxiety, and depression.
This holiday season, you can give hope to our troops by sending them an Operation Worship Bible.
Just $6 is enough to put a Bible into the hands of a military member.
Bibles are printed in the U.S. then shipped to military chaplains throughout the world, who then deliver them directly to our brave service members.
More than 1.5 million Operation Worship Bibles have been distributed to military personnel around the world.
Visit deploybibles.com right now to make your tax-deductible donation.
Believing is Seeing: An Interview with Dr. Michael Guillen
Dec 14, 2021
For many Christians, the Christmas season is a time of spiritual reflection on the important foundations of the Christian faith. On today’s episode, Thom and Sam talk to former Harvard physics instructor, Dr. Michael Guillen, about his journey from Atheism to Christianity and how he discovered that faith is the mightiest power in the universe.
1. Why do so many people believe that science and religion are enemies?
2. Do scientists (even atheist scientists) rely on faith, too? How so?
3. What do you say to someone who dismisses faith as a weakness? Who claims to not rely on faith whatsoever?
4. What is your hope for anyone who reads this book?
Michael Guillen, PhD, is a graduate of UCLA and Cornell University and holds degrees in physics, math, and astronomy. The former Science Editor for ABC News, he was also a physics instructor at Harvard for eight years, host of the History Channel series “Where Did It Come From?” and producer of the award-winning family movie Little Red Wagon, currently on Amazon Prime. He hosts the weekly podcast Science + God with Dr. G, sponsored by K-LOVE and Air1 radio networks, runs a film and television production company, and shares the stage with best-selling author Rice Broocks at speaking engagements on college campuses worldwide.
Dr. Guillen has a new book with Tyndale titled, Believing Is Seeing: A Physicist Explains How Science Shattered His Atheism and Revealed the Necessity of Faith
With The One Year Pray for the Persecuted Bible, you will read through the whole Bible in one year as you also pray daily for believers around the world who are suffering because of their faith. This Bible provides the structure to help you read God’s life-changing Word in the trusted New Living Translation in just 15 minutes a day. It includes daily prayer prompts to help you intercede for people who are persecuted because of their faith in Jesus Christ and full-color designed pages that feature the stories of six persecuted Christians who boldly witness for Christ amid great risk and adversity. The One Year Pray for the Persecuted Bible will help you apply the principles of God’s unchanging Word to effective prayer. Learn more at Theoneyearbible.com.
Southeastern is committed to helping you get the training you need to pursue your ministry from anywhere around the world. That’s why we’re waiving the application fee to any of our programs for Church Answers listeners. Use the code “CHURCHANSWERS” and we’ll waive the fee. No matter what stage of life’s journey you find yourself in, we want to help you take your next step in getting equipped to disciple and teach others. In coming to Southeastern, you’ll find that seminary isn’t just about theological education; it’s about ministry preparation. Explore degrees, schedule a visit, or apply today at sebts.edu.
We are alarmed at the number of pastors and church leaders who are struggling right now. If you feel like you are at a crossroads, you are not alone. Don’t give up. You can get the help you need, and one of the best ways to find help is through a leadership coach.
Wisdom comes from proactively seeking an outsider’s perspective.
A coach can encourage without giving platitudes.
Venting is necessary but dangerous with people inside your church.
A coach can offer a refreshing and unbiased assessment.
Ongoing coaching arrangements provide stability for the chaos of ministry.
A coach can help be a calming presence when you’re in a storm.
Church Answers Platinum – email info@churchanswers.com
Episode Sponsors:
Southeastern is committed to helping you get the training you need to pursue your ministry from anywhere around the world. That’s why we’re waiving the application fee to any of our programs for Church Answers listeners. Use the code “CHURCHANSWERS” and we’ll waive the fee. No matter what stage of life’s journey you find yourself in, we want to help you take your next step in getting equipped to disciple and teach others. In coming to Southeastern, you’ll find that seminary isn’t just about theological education; it’s about ministry preparation. Explore degrees, schedule a visit, or apply today at sebts.edu.
The One Year Pray for the Persecuted Bible
With The One Year Pray for the Persecuted Bible, you will read through the whole Bible in one year as you also pray daily for believers around the world who are suffering because of their faith. This Bible provides the structure to help you read God’s life-changing Word in the trusted New Living Translation in just 15 minutes a day. It includes daily prayer prompts to help you intercede for people who are persecuted because of their faith in Jesus Christ and full-color designed pages that feature the stories of six persecuted Christians who boldly witness for Christ amid great risk and adversity. The One Year Pray for the Persecuted Bible will help you apply the principles of God’s unchanging Word to effective prayer. Learn more at Theoneyearbible.com.
Passing The Promise: An Interview with Keith Getty
Nov 30, 2021
On today’s episode of Rainer on Leadership we are celebrating the release of Keith and Kristyn Getty’s new album, “Confessio – Irish American Roots”. Thom and Sam discuss the inspiration for the album, the Getty family’s recent year-long trip to Ireland, and what’s next for Getty Music.
Keith and Kristyn Getty occupy a unique space in the world of music today as preeminent modern hymn writers. In re-inventing the traditional hymn form, they have created a catalog of songs teaching Christian doctrine and crossing the genres of traditional, classical, folk, and contemporary composition which are sung the world over.
The Getty’s have a new album, Confessio – Irish American Roots, that was released on October 29, 2021.
Another Gospel by Alisa Childers, detailing her journey seeking truth in response to progressive Christianity, has hit a nerve across the country
Lee Strobel calls it “the most influential book you will read this year.”
Alisa had dedicated her life to God but all of that was deeply challenged when she met a progressive pastor. Another Gospel describes her journey as she wrestled with questions that struck at the core of the Christian faith and found her way back to the truth.
Readers will learn how to stand firm in their biblical beliefs in the face of progressive Christianity.
Learn how to respectfully identify and respond to false beliefs that are infiltrating the church and threatening historic Christianity
In a culture of endless questions, we need solid answers.
For interviews contact: Katie Dodillet – Tyndale 630-784-5275
Southeastern is committed to helping you get the training you need to pursue your ministry from anywhere around the world. That’s why we’re waiving the application fee to any of our programs for Church Answers listeners. Use the code “CHURCHANSWERS” and we’ll waive the fee. No matter what stage of life’s journey you find yourself in, we want to help you take your next step in getting equipped to disciple and teach others. In coming to Southeastern, you’ll find that seminary isn’t just about theological education; it’s about ministry preparation. Explore degrees, schedule a visit, or apply today at sebts.edu.
The Essentials of a Great Ministry Resume
Nov 23, 2021
We are in the midst of a great reshuffling of ministry positions. Many pastors are considering leaving their churches, and many churches are looking to fill open positions. Most churches still require a resume to be considered as a candidate. What should you include in your resume? On this episode, Thom and Sam discuss the essentials of a great ministry resume.
Follow the instructions when applying for a specific ministry position.
Keep your resume to two pages.
Including a photo of your family is a common practice, but make it a good one.
Put your ministry goals and objectives in a cover letter, not on the resume.
The most common grammatical mistake is the use of random capitalization.
Hyperbole will lead potential employers to question your character.
Tell a story about your ministry. Don’t just use numbers.
Never use the phrase “references available upon request.”
Southeastern is committed to helping you get the training you need to pursue your ministry from anywhere around the world. That’s why we’re waiving the application fee to any of our programs for Church Answers listeners. Use the code “CHURCHANSWERS” and we’ll waive the fee. No matter what stage of life’s journey you find yourself in, we want to help you take your next step in getting equipped to disciple and teach others. In coming to Southeastern, you’ll find that seminary isn’t just about theological education; it’s about ministry preparation. Explore degrees, schedule a visit, or apply today at sebts.edu.
Another Gospel by Alisa Childers, detailing her journey seeking truth in response to progressive Christianity, has hit a nerve across the country
Lee Strobel calls it “the most influential book you will read this year.”
Alisa had dedicated her life to God but all of that was deeply challenged when she met a progressive pastor. Another Gospel describes her journey as she wrestled with questions that struck at the core of the Christian faith and found her way back to the truth.
Readers will learn how to stand firm in their biblical beliefs in the face of progressive Christianity.
Learn how to respectfully identify and respond to false beliefs that are infiltrating the church and threatening historic Christianity
In a culture of endless questions, we need solid answers.
The Seven Expectations of Every Church Member
Nov 16, 2021
Every Christ-follower is meant to be connected to the church. You are not here by accident. God has a plan for you, and that plan includes being a faithful and active part of a local church. Church membership includes seven basics of belonging. Embrace the seven basics of belonging and serve God more through the church. You need your church, and your church needs you.
1. Worship: Saying “yes” to God
2. Grow: Making disciples who make disciples
3. Serve: Reaching outward beyond yourself
4. Give: Honoring God with your offering
5. Pray: Prioritizing God’s will through prayer
6. Seek unity: Keeping the main thing the main thing
Another Gospel by Alisa Childers, detailing her journey seeking truth in response to progressive Christianity, has hit a nerve across the country
Lee Strobel calls it “the most influential book you will read this year.”
Alisa had dedicated her life to God but all of that was deeply challenged when she met a progressive pastor. Another Gospel describes her journey as she wrestled with questions that struck at the core of the Christian faith and found her way back to the truth.
Readers will learn how to stand firm in their biblical beliefs in the face of progressive Christianity.
Learn how to respectfully identify and respond to false beliefs that are infiltrating the church and threatening historic Christianity
In a culture of endless questions, we need solid answers.
For interviews contact: Katie Dodillet – Tyndale 630-784-5275
Southeastern is committed to helping you get the training you need to pursue your ministry from anywhere around the world. That’s why we’re waiving the application fee to any of our programs for Church Answers listeners. Use the code “CHURCHANSWERS” and we’ll waive the fee. No matter what stage of life’s journey you find yourself in, we want to help you take your next step in getting equipped to disciple and teach others. In coming to Southeastern, you’ll find that seminary isn’t just about theological education; it’s about ministry preparation. Explore degrees, schedule a visit, or apply today at sebts.edu.
Five Considerations Before You Leave Your Church
Nov 09, 2021
We are in the midst of a great reshuffling in churches. Pastors are considering leaving their churches in numbers we have not seen in recent memory. Aging Boomers and the pandemic are two reasons, but there is more happening. Thom and Sam discuss what you should consider before leaving your church.
1. Don’t make a decision based on weariness or decision fatigue.
2. Just because your church is in decline does not mean you need to leave.
3. The push, pull, and pray factors. You need all three before making a move!
4. The polarization of people and workload of ministry are not likely any better at another church.
5. Your family situation is a legitimate reason to make a move.
Southeastern is committed to helping you get the training you need to pursue your ministry from anywhere around the world. That’s why we’re waiving the application fee to any of our programs for Church Answers listeners. Use the code “CHURCHANSWERS” and we’ll waive the fee. No matter what stage of life’s journey you find yourself in, we want to help you take your next step in getting equipped to disciple and teach others. In coming to Southeastern, you’ll find that seminary isn’t just about theological education; it’s about ministry preparation. Explore degrees, schedule a visit, or apply today at sebts.edu.
Seven Key Ways Churches Have Broken the 150 – 250 Barrier Post-COVID
Nov 02, 2021
Churches are still growing despite the struggles of many congregations in a post-COVID era. Thom and Sam look at seven key ways churches have broken the most common attendance barriers in the past several months.
1. The pastor has re-committed to an outward focus.
2. The pastor has engaged at least one other person for this outward focus.
3. There has been an intense re-engagement with the community.
4. Leadership has established metrics for accountability.
Southeastern is committed to helping you get the training you need to pursue your ministry from anywhere around the world. That’s why we’re waiving the application fee to any of our programs for Church Answers listeners. Use the code “CHURCHANSWERS” and we’ll waive the fee. No matter what stage of life’s journey you find yourself in, we want to help you take your next step in getting equipped to disciple and teach others. In coming to Southeastern, you’ll find that seminary isn’t just about theological education; it’s about ministry preparation. Explore degrees, schedule a visit, or apply today at sebts.edu.
Overcoming Stress and Burnout in Life and Ministry – An interview with Carey Nieuwhof
Oct 26, 2021
Stress, burnout, and being overcommitted and overworked have become a part of everyday life for many people. But, what can you do about it? On today’s episode, Thom and Sam talk with Carey Nieuwhof about how to reclaim margin in your busy life.
1. Almost everyone, including pastors and church leaders, feels overwhelmed, overcommitted, and overworked. How did we end up here as a culture?
2. You write that people get caught up in a Stress Spiral. Can you explain what the Stress Spiral is and what it does to people?
3. Burnout is becoming an epidemic in our culture. What’s at stake if people don’t change and start living at a sustainable pace?
4. You argue that vacations and Sabbaticals aren’t enough. Why not? What do you mean?
5. As a pastor, it is often hard to say “no.” How do you say no to people nicely, without losing friends or influence?
Carey Nieuwhof is a bestselling leadership author, speaker, podcaster, and former attorney. He hosts one of today’s most influential leadership podcasts. His podcast, blog and online content are accessed by leaders over 1.5 million times each month. He speaks to leaders around the world about leadership, change, and personal growth.
His new book, At Your Best, outlines a detailed, proven strategy on how to get time, energy, and priorities working in your favor. It’s designed to help leaders move past being constantly overwhelmed, overcommitted, and overworked and reclaim margin in their lives.
Carey and his wife, Toni, live north of Toronto, Canada.
For 45 years, Walk Thru the Bible has helped people overcome obstacles to knowing and living God’s Word. Our innovative live events and high-quality biblical resources inspire passion for reading God’s Word and advance biblical literacy in 130 countries. Our otLIVE and ntLIVE events help people discover and understand the big picture storyline of God’s grand story of redemption. In just 2½ hours, a trained, certified Walk Thru the Bible instructor leads a church or group in a fun and unforgettable Bible experience event that teaches the major events, people, and chronology of the Old or New Testament. Post event, 75% of participants commit to reading their Bible on a regular basis. Millions of people around the world have experienced a Walk Thru the Bible live event—we can help bring an unforgettable Bible experience to your church. For more information: walkthru.org/bibleexperience. We have a special offer for you at walkthru.org/bibleexperience.
Southeastern is committed to helping you get the training you need to pursue your ministry from anywhere around the world. That’s why we’re waiving the application fee to any of our programs for Church Answers listeners. Use the code “CHURCHANSWERS” and we’ll waive the fee. No matter what stage of life’s journey you find yourself in, we want to help you take your next step in getting equipped to disciple and teach others. In coming to Southeastern, you’ll find that seminary isn’t just about theological education; it’s about ministry preparation. Explore degrees, schedule a visit, or apply today at sebts.edu.
The Future of the All-White Church in America
Oct 19, 2021
Racial tensions still exist in the United States, and there are certain demographic realities that must be addressed. The country is becoming more diverse and will continue to do so at an increasing rate. On this episode, Thom and Sam discuss how demographic changes will impact all-white churches in America. What can we expect the happen to them in the next ten years?
Two trends tell the story: The white population is in decline for the first time since 1790, and the youngest generation is minority white.
Birth rates in all-white congregations have slowed, and all-white churches will become significantly older.
Gen Z is the most diverse generation and will gravitate towards churches that look like their schools.
All-white megachurches with large campuses in suburban areas face the steepest declines.
Some all-white congregations will continue to thrive in areas where they reflect the community.
Healthy multi-ethnic churches will grow gradually, not exponentially, as they intentionally make an effort to equip, train, and hire people of color.
Geography will matter less in the future than in the past. Diversity was once an urban reality, but it is now everywhere.
Southeastern is committed to helping you get the training you need to pursue your ministry from anywhere around the world. That’s why we’re waiving the application fee to any of our programs for Church Answers listeners. Use the code “CHURCHANSWERS” and we’ll waive the fee. No matter what stage of life’s journey you find yourself in, we want to help you take your next step in getting equipped to disciple and teach others. In coming to Southeastern, you’ll find that seminary isn’t just about theological education; it’s about ministry preparation. Explore degrees, schedule a visit, or apply today at sebts.edu.
For 45 years, Walk Thru the Bible has helped people overcome obstacles to knowing and living God’s Word. Our innovative live events and high-quality biblical resources inspire passion for reading God’s Word and advance biblical literacy in 130 countries. Our otLIVE and ntLIVE events help people discover and understand the big picture storyline of God’s grand story of redemption. In just 2½ hours, a trained, certified Walk Thru the Bible instructor leads a church or group in a fun and unforgettable Bible experience event that teaches the major events, people, and chronology of the Old or New Testament. Post event, 75% of participants commit to reading their Bible on a regular basis. Millions of people around the world have experienced a Walk Thru the Bible live event—we can help bring an unforgettable Bible experience to your church. For more information: walkthru.org/bibleexperience. We have a special offer for you at walkthru.org/bibleexperience.
Five Reasons Being a Pastor Is More Difficult Than it Was 15 Years Ago
Oct 12, 2021
If you think serving a church as a pastor is more difficult today than in recent years, you are not imagining things. Thom and Sam look at five of the reasons this change took place.
Culture no longer honors the role of the pastor.
The expectations of pastors by church members have grown significantly.
For 45 years, Walk Thru the Bible has helped people overcome obstacles to knowing and living God’s Word. Our innovative live events and high-quality biblical resources inspire passion for reading God’s Word and advance biblical literacy in 130 countries. Our otLIVE and ntLIVE events help people discover and understand the big picture storyline of God’s grand story of redemption. In just 2½ hours, a trained, certified Walk Thru the Bible instructor leads a church or group in a fun and unforgettable Bible experience event that teaches the major events, people, and chronology of the Old or New Testament. Post event, 75% of participants commit to reading their Bible on a regular basis. Millions of people around the world have experienced a Walk Thru the Bible live event—we can help bring an unforgettable Bible experience to your church. For more information: walkthru.org/bibleexperience. We have a special offer for you at walkthru.org/bibleexperience.
Southeastern is committed to helping you get the training you need to pursue your ministry from anywhere around the world. That’s why we’re waiving the application fee to any of our programs for Church Answers listeners. Use the code “CHURCHANSWERS” and we’ll waive the fee. No matter what stage of life’s journey you find yourself in, we want to help you take your next step in getting equipped to disciple and teach others. In coming to Southeastern, you’ll find that seminary isn’t just about theological education; it’s about ministry preparation. Explore degrees, schedule a visit, or apply today at sebts.edu.
What Your Church Can Expect for Christmas this Year
Oct 05, 2021
The Christmas season is a time when guests are more likely to visit your church. Christmas Eve services, in particular, are popular with people from the community. Now is the time to start making plans. On this episode, Thom and Sam discuss what will be different and what you can expect for Christmas this year.
1. Christmas Eve services will be as popular as ever. Guests will be there!
2. Christmas Eve falls on a Friday this year. It’s ideal timing. Have a separate Christmas Eve service and invite people to your Sunday services.
3. This year people will spend a lot on gifts. Don’t be afraid to ask people to be generous with gifts to the church.
4. Most community activities that were canceled last year will be back in full swing.
5. People still expect a more traditional worship service at Christmas.
If you’re a church, school, nonprofit, values-based business, or family office, Vanderbloemen would be honored to serve you. Their team’s goal is to empower yours by aligning your people solutions for growth: hiring, compensation, succession, and culture. Hire the right people. Pay them well. Plan for the future. Build a culture that lasts. Learn more at Vanderbloemen.com
Southeastern is committed to helping you get the training you need to pursue your ministry from anywhere around the world. That’s why we’re waiving the application fee to any of our programs for Church Answers listeners. Use the code “CHURCHANSWERS” and we’ll waive the fee. No matter what stage of life’s journey you find yourself in, we want to help you take your next step in getting equipped to disciple and teach others. In coming to Southeastern, you’ll find that seminary isn’t just about theological education; it’s about ministry preparation. Explore degrees, schedule a visit, or apply today at sebts.edu.
Six Simple Tips to Start Having More Fun in Ministry
Sep 28, 2021
Working in ministry can be demanding and stressful, but sometimes we forget to have fun in our callings. Perhaps you need a lighter season. On this episode, Thom and Sam discuss some ways to restart the fun in your vocation.
1. Skip a few standing meetings and spend more time with your family.
2. Call an old friend and go on a weekend road trip together.
3. Practice using more humor in your sermons.
4. Have a meal with your faithful supporters and thank them.
5. Play a practical joke on someone you trust.
6. Go on a night out with your leadership team and their spouses.
Southeastern is committed to helping you get the training you need to pursue your ministry from anywhere around the world. That’s why we’re waiving the application fee to any of our programs for Church Answers listeners. Use the code “CHURCHANSWERS” and we’ll waive the fee. No matter what stage of life’s journey you find yourself in, we want to help you take your next step in getting equipped to disciple and teach others. In coming to Southeastern, you’ll find that seminary isn’t just about theological education; it’s about ministry preparation. Explore degrees, schedule a visit, or apply today at sebts.edu.
If you’re a church, school, nonprofit, values-based business, or family office, Vanderbloemen would be honored to serve you. Their team’s goal is to empower yours by aligning your people solutions for growth: hiring, compensation, succession, and culture. Hire the right people. Pay them well. Plan for the future. Build a culture that lasts. Learn more at Vanderbloemen.com
Knowing and Enjoying God: An Interview with Tim Challies
Sep 21, 2021
Knowing and enjoying God should be integral to the Christian life. However, many of us struggle to grow in the means of grace and develop a deeper relationship with God. On today’s episode of Rainer on Leadership Thom and Sam talk with Tim Challies about the daily spiritual disciplines that help Christians know and enjoy God more fully.
Tim Challies is a Christian, a husband to Aileen, and a father to two girls in their teens and one son who is waiting for him in heaven. He worships and serves as an elder at Grace Fellowship Church in Toronto, Canada. He is a blogger and book reviewer and has written a number of popular books. His latest book is Knowing and Enjoying God (Harvest House, September 2021).
1. What was your inspiration for writing a devotional book?
2. How can a small message grow someone’s faith in a big way?
3. In Knowing and Enjoying God, you challenge readers to cultivate consistent means of grace – also referred to as spiritual disciplines. What means of grace are you seeing the church in the most need of right now?
4. A great majority of your book falls into the habits of reading the bible, of praying, and of participating in the local church. Why a strong emphasis on these three?
If you’re a church, school, nonprofit, values-based business, or family office, Vanderbloemen would be honored to serve you. Their team’s goal is to empower yours by aligning your people solutions for growth: hiring, compensation, succession, and culture. Hire the right people. Pay them well. Plan for the future. Build a culture that lasts. Learn more at Vanderbloemen.com
Southeastern is committed to helping you get the training you need to pursue your ministry from anywhere around the world. That’s why we’re waiving the application fee to any of our programs for Church Answers listeners. Use the code “CHURCHANSWERS” and we’ll waive the fee. No matter what stage of life’s journey you find yourself in, we want to help you take your next step in getting equipped to disciple and teach others. In coming to Southeastern, you’ll find that seminary isn’t just about theological education; it’s about ministry preparation. Explore degrees, schedule a visit, or apply today at sebts.edu.
Southeastern is committed to helping you get the training you need to pursue your ministry from anywhere around the world. That’s why we’re waiving the application fee to any of our programs for Church Answers listeners. Use the code “CHURCHANSWERS” and we’ll waive the fee. No matter what stage of life’s journey you find yourself in, we want to help you take your next step in getting equipped to disciple and teach others. In coming to Southeastern, you’ll find that seminary isn’t just about theological education; it’s about ministry preparation. Explore degrees, schedule a visit, or apply today at sebts.edu.
If you’re a church, school, nonprofit, values-based business, or family office, Vanderbloemen would be honored to serve you. Their team’s goal is to empower yours by aligning your people solutions for growth: hiring, compensation, succession, and culture. Hire the right people. Pay them well. Plan for the future. Build a culture that lasts. Learn more at Vanderbloemen.com
How the Neighborhood Church Could Make a Comeback
Sep 07, 2021
It’s time for the neighborhood church to make a comeback. The stigma of small churches is fading. Incredible potential is right around the corner. Imagine what could happen if neighborhood churches got healthy on a large scale. The neighborhood church movement is primed for a launch. If this comeback occurred, what might it look like?
1. The stigma becomes the advantage.
2. Church fostering becomes more common.
3. Local pastors become less like islands and make friends.
4. Community revitalization becomes part of the mission.
If you’re a church, school, nonprofit, values-based business, or family office, Vanderbloemen would be honored to serve you. Their team’s goal is to empower yours by aligning your people solutions for growth: hiring, compensation, succession, and culture. Hire the right people. Pay them well. Plan for the future. Build a culture that lasts. Learn more at Vanderbloemen.com
Southeastern is committed to helping you get the training you need to pursue your ministry from anywhere around the world. That’s why we’re waiving the application fee to any of our programs for Church Answers listeners. Use the code “CHURCHANSWERS” and we’ll waive the fee. No matter what stage of life’s journey you find yourself in, we want to help you take your next step in getting equipped to disciple and teach others. In coming to Southeastern, you’ll find that seminary isn’t just about theological education; it’s about ministry preparation. Explore degrees, schedule a visit, or apply today at sebts.edu.
Five Ways to Enjoy Your Community to Reach Your Community
Aug 31, 2021
Church leaders should love their community as much as their churches. Love for a congregation mismatched with disdain for a community will cause you to retreat in an unhealthy church bubble. What are some ways church leaders can learn to love their communities more?
Don’t travel away from the community at every opportunity you get.
Celebrate with the community at public events.
Live in the heart of the church neighborhood, not on the outskirts or in another community.
Join a civic organization and serve.
Try something new in the community on a regular basis.
Southeastern is committed to helping you get the training you need to pursue your ministry from anywhere around the world. That’s why we’re waiving the application fee to any of our programs for Church Answers listeners. Use the code “CHURCHANSWERS” and we’ll waive the fee. No matter what stage of life’s journey you find yourself in, we want to help you take your next step in getting equipped to disciple and teach others. In coming to Southeastern, you’ll find that seminary isn’t just about theological education; it’s about ministry preparation. Explore degrees, schedule a visit, or apply today at sebts.edu.
If you’re a church, school, nonprofit, values-based business, or family office, Vanderbloemen would be honored to serve you. Their team’s goal is to empower yours by aligning your people solutions for growth: hiring, compensation, succession, and culture. Hire the right people. Pay them well. Plan for the future. Build a culture that lasts. Learn more at Vanderbloemen.com
How Much Should You Shepherd Church Members on Social Media?
Aug 24, 2021
If a church member was at the main intersection in town with a bullhorn yelling at people, then you would want to know about it. Social media is the bullhorn, and there is a lot of noise out there. While you need to be aware of what church members say online, balance is key. On this episode, Thom and Sam discuss how pastors and church leaders can shepherd the congregation on social media.
Social media is a communication tool. It becomes good or bad by how you use it.
Completely avoiding social media is a mistake.
Immersing yourself in social media is a mistake as well.
You don’t need to know everything people say online, but it is good to be aware of patterns in behavior on social media and elsewhere.
Guard your church’s social media pages and track what staff and key leaders are doing.
Set the example by using social media for encouragement, not political attacks or denominational power grabs.
If you’re a church, school, nonprofit, values-based business, or family office, Vanderbloemen would be honored to serve you. Their team’s goal is to empower yours by aligning your people solutions for growth: hiring, compensation, succession, and culture. Hire the right people. Pay them well. Plan for the future. Build a culture that lasts. Learn more at Vanderbloemen.com
Southeastern is committed to helping you get the training you need to pursue your ministry from anywhere around the world. That’s why we’re waiving the application fee to any of our programs for Church Answers listeners. Use the code “CHURCHANSWERS” and we’ll waive the fee. No matter what stage of life’s journey you find yourself in, we want to help you take your next step in getting equipped to disciple and teach others. In coming to Southeastern, you’ll find that seminary isn’t just about theological education; it’s about ministry preparation. Explore degrees, schedule a visit, or apply today at sebts.edu.
The Importance of Pastoral Succession for the Future Health of Your Church – An Interview with William Vanderbloemen
Aug 17, 2021
Pastoral succession is an important process many churches overlook. On today’s episode of Rainer on Leadership Thom and Sam talk with William Vanderbloemen about why it is important for the future health of your church now more than ever.
What is pastoral succession and why is it important for the health of the church?
Why is pastoral succession more important now in a post-COVID world?
How does the senior pastor role of the future look different than the role does today?
When should pastoral succession discussions begin? Do you have any advice on how to lead this process?
If you’re a church, school, nonprofit, values-based business, or family office, Vanderbloemen would be honored to serve you. Their team’s goal is to empower yours by aligning your people solutions for growth: hiring, compensation, succession, and culture. Hire the right people. Pay them well. Plan for the future. Build a culture that lasts. Learn more at Vanderbloemen.com
Southeastern is committed to helping you get the training you need to pursue your ministry from anywhere around the world. That’s why we’re waiving the application fee to any of our programs for Church Answers listeners. Use the code “CHURCHANSWERS” and we’ll waive the fee. No matter what stage of life’s journey you find yourself in, we want to help you take your next step in getting equipped to disciple and teach others. In coming to Southeastern, you’ll find that seminary isn’t just about theological education; it’s about ministry preparation. Explore degrees, schedule a visit, or apply today at sebts.edu.
Developing a Culture of Generosity in Your Church: An Interview with Church Growth Services
Aug 10, 2021
The concept of generosity is an important part of the Christian faith. However, many pastors and church leaders struggle to develop a culture of joyful giving in their congregations. On today’s episode of Rainer on Leadership Thom and Sam talk with Michael Stadelmayer from Church Growth Services about how to develop a culture of generosity in your church.
Why is the concept of generosity so important to the local church?
What is something a pastor can do right now to help grow generosity in their church?
Are these simple steps a complete picture of developing a culture of generosity in your church?
What are a few of the most common or greatest barriers a pastor must overcome to develop an intentional generosity strategy?
Southeastern is committed to helping you get the training you need to pursue your ministry from anywhere around the world. That’s why we’re waiving the application fee to any of our programs for Church Answers listeners. Use the code “CHURCHANSWERS” and we’ll waive the fee. No matter what stage of life’s journey you find yourself in, we want to help you take your next step in getting equipped to disciple and teach others. In coming to Southeastern, you’ll find that seminary isn’t just about theological education; it’s about ministry preparation. Explore degrees, schedule a visit, or apply today at sebts.edu.
If you’re a church, school, nonprofit, values-based business, or family office, Vanderbloemen would be honored to serve you. Their team’s goal is to empower yours by aligning your people solutions for growth: hiring, compensation, succession, and culture. Hire the right people. Pay them well. Plan for the future. Build a culture that lasts. Learn more at Vanderbloemen.com
Six Common Mistakes Mid-Career Pastors Make
Aug 03, 2021
Experienced pastors are not immune from mistakes. On this episode, Thom and Sam discuss some common blindspots for mid-career pastors. These mistakes are not career killers, but they can set back a ministry. While all pastors can fall into these traps, those who are mid-career are particularly susceptible.
1. Going to a bigger or better church will reduce stress levels.
2. Flattening the learning curve for new trends because experience is adequate.
3. Relaxing standards of accountability because church trust level is higher.
4. Responding defensively to critics because of previous hurt.
5. Forgetting all your children need more attention, not less.
Southeastern is committed to helping you get the training you need to pursue your ministry from anywhere around the world. That’s why we’re waiving the application fee to any of our programs for Church Answers listeners. Use the code “CHURCHANSWERS” and we’ll waive the fee. No matter what stage of life’s journey you find yourself in, we want to help you take your next step in getting equipped to disciple and teach others. In coming to Southeastern, you’ll find that seminary isn’t just about theological education; it’s about ministry preparation. Explore degrees, schedule a visit, or apply today at sebts.edu.
If you’re a church, school, nonprofit, values-based business, or family office, Vanderbloemen would be honored to serve you. Their team’s goal is to empower yours by aligning your people solutions for growth: hiring, compensation, succession, and culture. Hire the right people. Pay them well. Plan for the future. Build a culture that lasts. Learn more at Vanderbloemen.com
From $1.06 and 25 People to a $700,000 Budget and a Church of 450 – An Interview with Jonathan Smith
Jul 27, 2021
Imagine a church on life support one year that has moved to thriving within a few years. Though you’ve heard of church turnarounds, you’ve rarely heard a story this dramatic. Sam and Thom interview Jonathan Smith with Texas Baptists to hear about this God-sized story.
Tell us the background of this church up to the point of its near-death experience.
How long did it take to get to the point in the title of this podcast?
What were some of the key factors in the turnaround?
What were some of the biggest obstacles to the turnaround?
What are some key transferable principles from this story for other churches?
Southeastern is committed to helping you get the training you need to pursue your ministry from anywhere around the world. That’s why we’re waiving the application fee to any of our programs for Church Answers listeners. Use the code “CHURCHANSWERS” and we’ll waive the fee. No matter what stage of life’s journey you find yourself in, we want to help you take your next step in getting equipped to disciple and teach others. In coming to Southeastern, you’ll find that seminary isn’t just about theological education; it’s about ministry preparation. Explore degrees, schedule a visit, or apply today at sebts.edu.
If you’re a church, school, nonprofit, values-based business, or family office, Vanderbloemen would be honored to serve you. Their team’s goal is to empower yours by aligning your people solutions for growth: hiring, compensation, succession, and culture. Hire the right people. Pay them well. Plan for the future. Build a culture that lasts. Learn more at Vanderbloemen.com
Navigating Tough Conversations with Your Kids – An Interview with Jimmy and Kristin Scroggins
Jul 20, 2021
One of the greatest challenges of parenting is navigating the crucial conversations that we must have with our kids. On today’s episode, Thom and Sam talk to Jimmy and Kristin Scroggins about having hard conversations with our kids that point them to Christ.
1. Why did you write this book? What inspired you to write it?
2. Talk about the tough conversations you’ve had with your own children. How did you handle those?
3. What are the “3 Circles?” What led you to start using the 3 Circles Gospel tool with parenting?
4. What role does the church play in this conversation of parenting? How can “Full Circle Parenting” help pastors and church leaders better equip parents?
Jimmy and Kristin Scroggins have been married for more than twenty-five years and have eight children and 2 grandchildren. Jimmy pastors Family Church in West Palm Beach, Florida.
If you’re a church, school, nonprofit, values-based business, or family office, Vanderbloemen would be honored to serve you. Their team’s goal is to empower yours by aligning your people solutions for growth: hiring, compensation, succession, and culture. Hire the right people. Pay them well. Plan for the future. Build a culture that lasts. Learn more at Vanderbloemen.com
Southeastern is committed to helping you get the training you need to pursue your ministry from anywhere around the world. That’s why we’re waiving the application fee to any of our programs for Church Answers listeners. Use the code “CHURCHANSWERS” and we’ll waive the fee. No matter what stage of life’s journey you find yourself in, we want to help you take your next step in getting equipped to disciple and teach others. In coming to Southeastern, you’ll find that seminary isn’t just about theological education; it’s about ministry preparation. Explore degrees, schedule a visit, or apply today at sebts.edu.
If you’re a church, school, nonprofit, values-based business, or family office, Vanderbloemen would be honored to serve you. Their team’s goal is to empower yours by aligning your people solutions for growth: hiring, compensation, succession, and culture. Hire the right people. Pay them well. Plan for the future. Build a culture that lasts. Learn more at Vanderbloemen.com
Southeastern is committed to helping you get the training you need to pursue your ministry from anywhere around the world. That’s why we’re waiving the application fee to any of our programs for Church Answers listeners. Use the code “CHURCHANSWERS” and we’ll waive the fee. No matter what stage of life’s journey you find yourself in, we want to help you take your next step in getting equipped to disciple and teach others. In coming to Southeastern, you’ll find that seminary isn’t just about theological education; it’s about ministry preparation. Explore degrees, schedule a visit, or apply today at sebts.edu.
Celebrating 20 Years of “In Christ Alone” – An Interview with Keith Getty
Jul 06, 2021
On today’s episode of Rainer on Leadership we are celebrating the 20th Anniversary of the hymn, IN CHRIST ALONE. Thom and Sam discuss the song’s success with writer Keith Getty and learn what’s next for Getty Music.
Keith and Kristyn Getty occupy a unique space in the world of music today as preeminent modern hymn writers. In re-inventing the traditional hymn form, they have created a catalog of songs teaching Christian doctrine and crossing the genres of traditional, classical, folk, and contemporary composition which are sung the world over.
In Christ Alone was released in America in September 2001 and it is estimated that over 100 Million people in churches sing this song each year. 20 years and this song continues to grow in use having occupied the number 1 slot in the CCLI UK chart and a top 15 slot in CCLI in the USA for the majority of that time.
Thom and Sam discuss the following with Keith and Kristyn:
Congratulations on the 20th anniversary of “In Christ Alone!” Tell our listeners a little about how you wrote this song and its far-reaching impact on Christians and churches across the world.
Tell us about the 2021 Sing! “In Christ Alone” Worship Conference this September 13-15 and its theme, “Reset. Restore. Reunite.”
Where do you see Christian hymns in the next 20 years? What is next for Getty Music?
Southeastern is committed to helping you get the training you need to pursue your ministry from anywhere around the world. That’s why we’re waiving the application fee to any of our programs for Church Answers listeners. Use the code “CHURCHANSWERS” and we’ll waive the fee. No matter what stage of life’s journey you find yourself in, we want to help you take your next step in getting equipped to disciple and teach others. In coming to Southeastern, you’ll find that seminary isn’t just about theological education; it’s about ministry preparation. Explore degrees, schedule a visit, or apply today at sebts.edu.
If you’re a church, school, nonprofit, values-based business, or family office, Vanderbloemen would be honored to serve you. Their team’s goal is to empower yours by aligning your people solutions for growth: hiring, compensation, succession, and culture. Hire the right people. Pay them well. Plan for the future. Build a culture that lasts. Learn more at Vanderbloemen.com
The Miracle in the Cow Pasture: The Future of Rural Churches – An Interview with B. J. Rutledge
Jul 05, 2021
The rural church is brimming with opportunities. Indeed, it may be one of the most fruitful mission fields in the world. Thom and Sam interview B. J. Rutledge about his leadership in a rural church that defied all expectations. You will not want to miss this episode.
BJ Rutledge is the lead pastor of Grace Fellowship Church in Paradise, Texas. The church is enjoying phenomenal success reaching thousands of people with the gospel. Some have called it, “The miracle in the cow pasture.” BJ is married to Janet, and they have 3 children and 5 grandchildren.
Thom and Sam discuss the following questions with BJ:
How did you end up in a rural town called Paradise, Texas, population 459?
What are some unique keys to leading a rural church?
Now that Grace Fellowship Church averages 1,800 people pre-COVID, many pastors might say your story is an anomaly that can’t apply to them. How would you respond?
What were some of your greatest challenges in leading Grace?
What final words would you like to share with pastors and other leaders about rural churches?
If you’re a church, school, nonprofit, values-based business, or family office, Vanderbloemen would be honored to serve you. Their team’s goal is to empower yours by aligning your people solutions for growth: hiring, compensation, succession, and culture. Hire the right people. Pay them well. Plan for the future. Build a culture that lasts. Learn more at Vanderbloemen.com
Southeastern is committed to helping you get the training you need to pursue your ministry from anywhere around the world. That’s why we’re waiving the application fee to any of our programs for Church Answers listeners. Use the code “CHURCHANSWERS” and we’ll waive the fee. No matter what stage of life’s journey you find yourself in, we want to help you take your next step in getting equipped to disciple and teach others. In coming to Southeastern, you’ll find that seminary isn’t just about theological education; it’s about ministry preparation. Explore degrees, schedule a visit, or apply today at sebts.edu.
Tips for Handling Controversial Cultural Topics with Your Congregation
Jun 29, 2021
Not every cultural issue deserves the attention of church leaders. Some issues, however, are unavoidable. Other issues desperately need the voice of the church. How can you discern when to speak and what to say? It seems just about anything can become a hot-button issue. On this episode, Thom and Sam discuss some tips for handling controversial subjects. Now more than ever, people need clarity from church leaders.
Part of shepherding a congregation is being aware of hot button issues.
You don’t have to speak to every issue, especially when you have little knowledge or experience about a topic. Silence is an option; often it is the best option.
Sometimes you need to speak about something even if you don’t know much about it. Seek help from those who know.
Always do what is best for the community and your church, not yourself. In some cases, you may take a lot of heat for standing up for what is right.
Read and listen broadly to a variety of experts on a variety of topics, especially those who have a different background or viewpoint than you.
Formulate your position with truth, justice, and optimism. Whiners and complainers are not leaders.
If you’re a church, school, nonprofit, values-based business, or family office, Vanderbloemen would be honored to serve you. Their team’s goal is to empower yours by aligning your people solutions for growth: hiring, compensation, succession, and culture. Hire the right people. Pay them well. Plan for the future. Build a culture that lasts. Learn more at Vanderbloemen.com
Southeastern is committed to helping you get the training you need to pursue your ministry from anywhere around the world. That’s why we’re waiving the application fee to any of our programs for Church Answers listeners. Use the code “CHURCHANSWERS” and we’ll waive the fee. No matter what stage of life’s journey you find yourself in, we want to help you take your next step in getting equipped to disciple and teach others. In coming to Southeastern, you’ll find that seminary isn’t just about theological education; it’s about ministry preparation. Explore degrees, schedule a visit, or apply today at sebts.edu.
Make the Most of the Rest of Your Summer with These Five Tips
Jun 22, 2021
For most churches, the summer months can be a lull. Families vacation and people tend to be in and out of the church more. It’s rare to have high attendance Sundays in the summer, but there are ways to make the most of the season. These five tips will help you navigate the summer months.
1. Research your church and community demographics.
2. Take key church leaders on field trips in the community.
3. Build your local network and reach out to other experts. Take area pastors to lunch.
4. Study global cultures, especially those with unreached and unengaged groups.
5. Create a helpful and healthy schedule that will carry you into the fall.
Southeastern is committed to helping you get the training you need to pursue your ministry from anywhere around the world. That’s why we’re waiving the application fee to any of our programs for Church Answers listeners. Use the code “CHURCHANSWERS” and we’ll waive the fee. No matter what stage of life’s journey you find yourself in, we want to help you take your next step in getting equipped to disciple and teach others. In coming to Southeastern, you’ll find that seminary isn’t just about theological education; it’s about ministry preparation. Explore degrees, schedule a visit, or apply today at sebts.edu.
If you’re a church, school, nonprofit, values-based business, or family office, Vanderbloemen would be honored to serve you. Their team’s goal is to empower yours by aligning your people solutions for growth: hiring, compensation, succession, and culture. Hire the right people. Pay them well. Plan for the future. Build a culture that lasts. Learn more at Vanderbloemen.com
Preaching with Humility – An Interview with Dr. Jim Shaddix
Jun 15, 2021
Being a humble pastor is challenging. On today’s episode, Thom and Sam talk to Dr. Jim Shaddix about the importance of preaching with humility.
Dr. Jim Shaddix
Jim Shaddix serves as Professor of Preaching at Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary in Wake Forest, NC, occupying the W. A. Criswell Chair of Expository Preaching. He also serves as a Senior Fellow for the Center for Preaching and Pastoral Leadership, which exists to resource pastors in local churches. Jim has pastored churches in Texas, Mississippi, Louisiana and Colorado, and also served as Dean of the Chapel and Professor of Preaching at New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary in New Orleans, LA. He is the author of several books including The Passion Driven Sermon and Decisional Preaching. Jim and his wife, Debra, focus much of their attention on discipling and mentoring young leaders and spouses. They have three grown children and ten grandchildren.
Southeastern is committed to helping you get the training you need to pursue your ministry from anywhere around the world. That’s why we’re waiving the application fee to any of our programs for Church Answers listeners. Use the code “CHURCHANSWERS” and we’ll waive the fee. No matter what stage of life’s journey you find yourself in, we want to help you take your next step in getting equipped to disciple and teach others. In coming to Southeastern, you’ll find that seminary isn’t just about theological education; it’s about ministry preparation. Explore degrees, schedule a visit, or apply today at sebts.edu.
If you’re a church, school, nonprofit, values-based business, or family office, Vanderbloemen would be honored to serve you. Their team’s goal is to empower yours by aligning your people solutions for growth: hiring, compensation, succession, and culture. Hire the right people. Pay them well. Plan for the future. Build a culture that lasts. Learn more at Vanderbloemen.com
The Mysterious Missing Spiritual Discipline of Gathering
Jun 08, 2021
In this episode, Thom and Sam look at worship attendance from the perspective of a spiritual discipline. Is attendance really a spiritual discipline, and what are the implications if it is?
Gathering with other believers is not usually viewed as a spiritual discipline.
The most commonly mentioned spiritual disciplines are prayer, fasting, and Bible reading.
From Acts 2:42 following, the church is urged to gather.
Gathering is sometimes called “attendance” and, thus, has detractors.
We are watching the debate on whether virtual meetings are true gatherings.
Southeastern is committed to helping you get the training you need to pursue your ministry from anywhere around the world. That’s why we’re waiving the application fee to any of our programs for Church Answers listeners. Use the code “CHURCHANSWERS” and we’ll waive the fee. No matter what stage of life’s journey you find yourself in, we want to help you take your next step in getting equipped to disciple and teach others. In coming to Southeastern, you’ll find that seminary isn’t just about theological education; it’s about ministry preparation. Explore degrees, schedule a visit, or apply today at sebts.edu.
If you’re a church, school, nonprofit, values-based business, or family office, Vanderbloemen would be honored to serve you. Their team’s goal is to empower yours by aligning your people solutions for growth: hiring, compensation, succession, and culture. Hire the right people. Pay them well. Plan for the future. Build a culture that lasts. Learn more at Vanderbloemen.com
Is Your Church Equipped to Handle a Suicide Epidemic? – An Interview with Dr. Matthew Sleeth
Jun 01, 2021
Every single day, someone you know is thinking about committing suicide. Ten million Americans will consider killing themselves in the upcoming year. On today’s episode, Thom and Sam talk to Dr. Matthew Sleeth about how Christians—and our churches—can offer hope and be part of the solution.
Dr. Matthew Sleeth
Matthew Sleeth, MD, a former emergency room physician and chief of the hospital medical staff, resigned from his position to teach, preach, and write about faith and health. Dr. Sleeth has spoken at more than one thousand churches, campuses, and events, including serving as a monthly guest preacher at the Washington National Cathedral. Recognized by Newsweek as one of the nation’s most influential Christian leaders, Dr. Sleeth is the executive director of Blessed Earth and author of numerous articles and books, including Hope Always: How to Be a Force for Life in a Culture of Suicide, which released from Tyndale House Publishers in May 2021. Matthew lives in Lexington, Kentucky, with Nancy, his wife of forty years. Their grown children serve with their families in full-time parish ministry and as medical missionaries in Africa
1. We’ve heard suicide described as an epidemic in the U.S. Would you share some of the facts about the prevalence of this issue among Americans today?
2. Are Christians equipped to handle a suicide epidemic?
3. What do you think is the primary challenge for pastors and other ministry leaders trying to make a difference in today’s culture of suicide?
4. What are some practical ways we as the church can cultivate communities of hope amidst all the trauma and trials people face in today’s world?
If you’re a church, school, nonprofit, values-based business, or family office, Vanderbloemen would be honored to serve you. Their team’s goal is to empower yours by aligning your people solutions for growth: hiring, compensation, succession, and culture. Hire the right people. Pay them well. Plan for the future. Build a culture that lasts. Learn more at Vanderbloemen.com
Southeastern is committed to helping you get the training you need to pursue your ministry from anywhere around the world. That’s why we’re waiving the application fee to any of our programs for Church Answers listeners. Use the code “CHURCHANSWERS” and we’ll waive the fee. No matter what stage of life’s journey you find yourself in, we want to help you take your next step in getting equipped to disciple and teach others. In coming to Southeastern, you’ll find that seminary isn’t just about theological education; it’s about ministry preparation. Explore degrees, schedule a visit, or apply today at sebts.edu.
Five Characteristics of Pastors Who Overcome a Church Bully
May 25, 2021
Almost every pastor at some point will be confronted by a church bully. This person is usually a control freak, and turns on the pastor when the pastor does not do his bidding. Thom and Sam look at five traits of pastors who have overcome these bullies.
1. They understand the principle of “allied patience.”
Southeastern is committed to helping you get the training you need to pursue your ministry from anywhere around the world. That’s why we’re waiving the application fee to any of our programs for Church Answers listeners. Use the code “CHURCHANSWERS” and we’ll waive the fee. No matter what stage of life’s journey you find yourself in, we want to help you take your next step in getting equipped to disciple and teach others. In coming to Southeastern, you’ll find that seminary isn’t just about theological education; it’s about ministry preparation. Explore degrees, schedule a visit, or apply today at sebts.edu.
If you’re a church, school, nonprofit, values-based business, or family office, Vanderbloemen would be honored to serve you. Their team’s goal is to empower yours by aligning your people solutions for growth: hiring, compensation, succession, and culture. Hire the right people. Pay them well. Plan for the future. Build a culture that lasts. Learn more at Vanderbloemen.com
What Church Leaders Are Doing to Recover Evangelism
May 18, 2021
Churches are not reaching people for Christ because they are not trying to. On today’s episode, Thom and Sam discuss what church leaders are doing to recover evangelism.
The death of evangelism due to liberalism
The death of evangelism due to factionalism
The death of evangelism due to lack of intentionalism
Southeastern is committed to helping you get the training you need to pursue your ministry from anywhere around the world. That’s why we’re waiving the application fee to any of our programs for Church Answers listeners. Use the code “CHURCHANSWERS” and we’ll waive the fee. No matter what stage of life’s journey you find yourself in, we want to help you take your next step in getting equipped to disciple and teach others. In coming to Southeastern, you’ll find that seminary isn’t just about theological education; it’s about ministry preparation. Explore degrees, schedule a visit, or apply today at sebts.edu.
If you’re a church, school, nonprofit, values-based business, or family office, Vanderbloemen would be honored to serve you. Their team’s goal is to empower yours by aligning your people solutions for growth: hiring, compensation, succession, and culture. Hire the right people. Pay them well. Plan for the future. Build a culture that lasts. Learn more at Vanderbloemen.com
New Membership Classes are More Important Than Ever Post-COVID
May 11, 2021
Many churches dropped membership classes during the pandemic. Now is the time to restart them. In fact, church membership classes are more important than ever. On this episode, Thom and Sam discuss several reasons why churches must keep providing these classes post-COVID.
These classes help minimize church conflict with front-end teaching.
Volunteerism is down. Increase the quality of volunteers with a membership class.
Potential members are now less inclined to push back on attending a class.
People need to re-establish habits as we emerge from the pandemic.
If you’re a church, school, nonprofit, values-based business, or family office, Vanderbloemen would be honored to serve you. Their team’s goal is to empower yours by aligning your people solutions for growth: hiring, compensation, succession, and culture. Hire the right people. Pay them well. Plan for the future. Build a culture that lasts. Learn more at Vanderbloemen.com
We know that you want to make a difference in the lives of others. That’s why Southeastern is committed to helping you get the training you need to pursue your ministry from anywhere around the world. We offer over 50 degrees from the associate to the PhD level. No matter what stage of life’s journey you find yourself in, we want to help you take your next step in getting equipped to disciple and teach others. In coming to Southeastern, you’ll find that seminary isn’t just about theological education; it’s about ministry preparation. Explore degrees, schedule a visit, or apply today at sebts.edu.
Five Keys to Improving Your Leadership at a Mid-Size Church
May 04, 2021
The popularity of mid-size churches is growing. Mid-size churches are too big for one person to lead but not big enough for a full staff. These churches have unique leadership challenges and opportunities. On this episode, Thom and Sam discuss some tips for leaders in mid-size churches. Metrics, delegation, and the ability to pivot are especially important.
Shift your mindset: Mid-size churches are too big for one person to lead but not big enough for a full staff
Monitor the right metrics and use quarterly trends to help guide decisions
Be willing to pivot when programs or ministries struggle
Delegate as you encourage and equip
Have a specific local focus that sets your church apart
If you’re a church, school, nonprofit, values-based business, or family office, Vanderbloemen would be honored to serve you. Their team’s goal is to empower yours by aligning your people solutions for growth: hiring, compensation, succession, and culture. Hire the right people. Pay them well. Plan for the future. Build a culture that lasts. Learn more at Vanderbloemen.com
We know that you want to make a difference in the lives of others. That’s why Southeastern is committed to helping you get the training you need to pursue your ministry from anywhere around the world. We offer over 50 degrees from the associate to the PhD level. No matter what stage of life’s journey you find yourself in, we want to help you take your next step in getting equipped to disciple and teach others. In coming to Southeastern, you’ll find that seminary isn’t just about theological education; it’s about ministry preparation. Explore degrees, schedule a visit, or apply today at sebts.edu.
Five Reasons Why the Smaller Church Is Viewed More Favorably Today
Apr 27, 2021
Thom and Sam discuss five reasons for the amazing phenomenon of the smaller church becoming the church of choice today. Reason number four may surprise you.
1. The demographic reality: the younger the generation, the more likely they are to prefer smaller gatherings.
2. The COVID reality: people gathering for worship have come to appreciate smaller gatherings more.
3. The facility reality: more church leaders are viewing large worship facilities as wasteful.
4. The neighborhood church reality: this type of congregation is making a big rebound.
5. The Boomer reality: this generation gave us the large church gathering, and they are diminishing in number.
We know that you want to make a difference in the lives of others. That’s why Southeastern is committed to helping you get the training you need to pursue your ministry from anywhere around the world. We offer over 50 degrees from the associate to the PhD level. No matter what stage of life’s journey you find yourself in, we want to help you take your next step in getting equipped to disciple and teach others. In coming to Southeastern, you’ll find that seminary isn’t just about theological education; it’s about ministry preparation. Explore degrees, schedule a visit, or apply today at sebts.edu.
If you’re a church, school, nonprofit, values-based business, or family office, Vanderbloemen would be honored to serve you. Their team’s goal is to empower yours by aligning your people solutions for growth: hiring, compensation, succession, and culture. Hire the right people. Pay them well. Plan for the future. Build a culture that lasts. Learn more at Vanderbloemen.com
How Leaders Should Apologize Publicly
Apr 20, 2021
Most leaders will not want to be in a position where they have to apologize publicly, but it is likely to be necessary at some point. Thom and Sam look at key issues to consider when you need to apologize publicly.
Make certain it is the right time and the right place.
Go directly to the heart of the issue without excuses.
Do not use prefatory comments like, “If I offended anyone . . . “
Keep in mind most sincere apologies will be brief.
If you are apologizing on behalf of your church or organization, take the blame yourself.
If you’re a church, school, nonprofit, values-based business, or family office, Vanderbloemen would be honored to serve you. Their team’s goal is to empower yours by aligning your people solutions for growth: hiring, compensation, succession, and culture. Hire the right people. Pay them well. Plan for the future. Build a culture that lasts. Learn more at Vanderbloemen.com
We know that you want to make a difference in the lives of others. That’s why Southeastern is committed to helping you get the training you need to pursue your ministry from anywhere around the world. We offer over 50 degrees from the associate to the PhD level. No matter what stage of life’s journey you find yourself in, we want to help you take your next step in getting equipped to disciple and teach others. In coming to Southeastern, you’ll find that seminary isn’t just about theological education; it’s about ministry preparation. Explore degrees, schedule a visit, or apply today at sebts.edu.
The Best Way to Lead Your Church in an Uncertain Year
Apr 13, 2021
Nobody is certain of the future, but this year is more uncertain than most. On today’s episode of Rainer on Leadership, Thom and Sam discuss ways to lead your church forward in an uncertain year.
Nobody is certain of the future, but this year is more uncertain than most.
The importance of spiritual disciplines and discipleship remains, but they alone are not leadership.
Identify your new baseline with attendance and giving.
Prioritize quarterly and six-month strategies above long-term vision.
Be intentional about enhancing a celebration culture but don’t neglect the care of those who are hurting.
Now is the time to seek outside counsel and inside accountability.
We know that you want to make a difference in the lives of others. That’s why Southeastern is committed to helping you get the training you need to pursue your ministry from anywhere around the world. We offer over 50 degrees from the associate to the PhD level. No matter what stage of life’s journey you find yourself in, we want to help you take your next step in getting equipped to disciple and teach others. In coming to Southeastern, you’ll find that seminary isn’t just about theological education; it’s about ministry preparation. Explore degrees, schedule a visit, or apply today at sebts.edu.
If you’re a church, school, nonprofit, values-based business, or family office, Vanderbloemen would be honored to serve you. Their team’s goal is to empower yours by aligning your people solutions for growth: hiring, compensation, succession, and culture. Hire the right people. Pay them well. Plan for the future. Build a culture that lasts. Learn more at Vanderbloemen.com
Lessons from Chick-fil-A: How to Transition to a New Career in 2021
Apr 06, 2021
Like people in other professions, pastors are exhausted and struggling with decision fatigue. A great reshuffling is occurring. Many pastors and church staff are considering a transition. On today’s episode of Rainer on Leadership Thom and Sam interview Dee Ann Turner about how you can successfully transition to a new role.
Dee Ann Turner CEO, Dee Ann Turner & Associates, LLC
Dee Ann is a 33-year veteran of Chick-fil-A, Inc. Prior to retirement in 2018, she was Vice President, Talent and Vice President, Sustainability for Chick-fil-A, Inc. Selected as the company’s first female officer in 2001, she was instrumental in building and growing Chick-fil-A’s well-known culture and talent systems. Today, she leads her own organization, Dee Ann Turner & Associates, LLC, writing books, speaking to over 50 audiences per year and consulting and coaching leaders globally. She is the author of the best-seller, It’s My Pleasure: The Impact of Extraordinary Talent and a Compelling Culture. Her latest book is Crush Your Career: Ace the Interview, Land the Job and Launch Your Future.
Dee Ann has been married to her husband, Ashley, for 37 years and they are the parents of three grown sons.
1. Many pastors are considering a transition to another career or a bi-vocational role in 2021. What advice would you give them as they make this transition?
2. How do you distinguish a job from a calling?
3. What are your top tips for finding and interviewing for a job?
4. Discuss how important it is to leave a job well. Do you have any advice for pastors and church leaders who are making this move?
If you’re a church, school, nonprofit, values-based business, or family office, Vanderbloemen would be honored to serve you. Their team’s goal is to empower yours by aligning your people solutions for growth: hiring, compensation, succession, and culture. Hire the right people. Pay them well. Plan for the future. Build a culture that lasts. Learn more at Vanderbloemen.com
We know that you want to make a difference in the lives of others. That’s why Southeastern is committed to helping you get the training you need to pursue your ministry from anywhere around the world. We offer over 50 degrees from the associate to the PhD level. No matter what stage of life’s journey you find yourself in, we want to help you take your next step in getting equipped to disciple and teach others. In coming to Southeastern, you’ll find that seminary isn’t just about theological education; it’s about ministry preparation. Explore degrees, schedule a visit, or apply today at sebts.edu. Use the code CHURCHANSWERS (no spaces) and Southeastern will waive your application fee.
The mission at Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary is to glorify the Lord Jesus Christ by equipping students to serve the church and fulfill the Great Commission. The school offers more than 40 different degree programs, including the 37-hour Master of Arts in Church Revitalization in partnership with Church Answers and Revitalize Network. We are also partnering with Southeastern Seminary to make available for FREE a new ebook, How Your Church Can Reach People in a Post-COVID World by Thom S. Rainer. Learn about both of these offerings and more by visiting www.sebts.edu. Where are you going? Southeastern will help you get there.
If you’re a church, school, nonprofit, values-based business, or family office, Vanderbloemen would be honored to serve you. Their team’s goal is to empower yours by aligning your people solutions for growth: hiring, compensation, succession, and culture. Hire the right people. Pay them well. Plan for the future. Build a culture that lasts. Learn more at Vanderbloemen.com
If you’re a church, school, nonprofit, values-based business, or family office, Vanderbloemen would be honored to serve you. Their team’s goal is to empower yours by aligning your people solutions for growth: hiring, compensation, succession, and culture. Hire the right people. Pay them well. Plan for the future. Build a culture that lasts. Learn more at Vanderbloemen.com
The mission at Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary is to glorify the Lord Jesus Christ by equipping students to serve the church and fulfill the Great Commission. The school offers more than 40 different degree programs, including the 37-hour Master of Arts in Church Revitalization in partnership with Church Answers and Revitalize Network. We are also partnering with Southeastern Seminary to make available for FREE a new ebook, How Your Church Can Reach People in a Post-COVID World by Thom S. Rainer. Learn about both of these offerings and more by visiting www.sebts.edu. Where are you going? Southeastern will help you get there.
What You Should Expect for In-Person Easter Services This Year
Mar 16, 2021
Many churches did not hold in-person Easter services last year, but this year we are expecting the majority to do so. While the priority of celebrating the resurrection remains, this Easter may feel differently for people. For some, it will be their first Sunday back in over a year. On this episode, we discuss a few ways to prepare for in-person Easter services and what you can expect from those who plan to attend.
A portion of your congregation is targeting Easter as their first time back.
The nervousness of crowds will not go away by Easter, even with the vaccine.
Your church should welcome people with thoughtful hospitality.
Make a special emphasis and ask people to get reconnected to the church.
People will be more open to follow-up this Easter.
Resources mentioned in this episode:
Simple Church in a Post-COVID World ebook has been rescheduled for release at a later date. If you would like to receive updates please email info@churchanswers.com
If you’re a church, school, nonprofit, values-based business, or family office, Vanderbloemen would be honored to serve you. Their team’s goal is to empower yours by aligning your people solutions for growth: hiring, compensation, succession, and culture. Hire the right people. Pay them well. Plan for the future. Build a culture that lasts. Learn more at Vanderbloemen.com
We know that you want to make a difference in the lives of others. That’s why Southeastern is committed to helping you get the training you need to pursue your ministry from anywhere around the world. We offer over 50 degrees from the associate to the PhD level. No matter what stage of life’s journey you find yourself in, we want to help you take your next step in getting equipped to disciple and teach others. In coming to Southeastern, you’ll find that seminary isn’t just about theological education; it’s about ministry preparation. Explore degrees, schedule a visit, or apply today at sebts.edu. Use the code CHURCHANSWERS (no spaces) and Southeastern will waive your application fee.
Dealing with Pandemic Anxiety and Stress in Your Life and in the Church: An Interview with Dr. Gregory L. Jantz
Mar 09, 2021
On today’s episode of Rainer on Leadership, Thom and Sam interview Dr. Gregory L. Jantz, an expert in treating depression and anxiety. Dr. Jantz provides a leading-edge framework for understanding and overcoming any type or level of anxiety, and provides a new plan for hope, equipping people to fight despair and regain the joy they’ve been missing.
Why is anxiety so rampant in today’s world? Why is it so paralyzing?
What are some symptoms of new or growing anxiety? What are some common misconceptions about anxiety?
In what ways is anxiety the new depression?
How can pastors help a church member who struggles with anxiety?
What are some small steps we can take today to foster joy and peace in ourselves and in others?
Mental health expert Dr. Gregory L. Jantz pioneered whole-person, holistic care. He is the founder of The Center: A Place of Hope, which was voted one of the top 10 facilities in the United States for the treatment of depression. Dr. Jantz is a bestselling author of more than 37 books. He is a go-to media source for a range of behavioral-based afflictions, including drug and alcohol addictions.
Dr. Jantz’s new book, The Anxiety Reset – A Life-Changing Approach to Overcoming Fear, Stress, Worry, Panic Attacks, OCD and More (Tyndale) releases TODAY, March 9, 2021.
The mission of Southeastern Seminary is to glorify the Lord Jesus Christ by equipping Christians to serve the church and fulfill the Great Commission. One way we like to do that is by giving away free resources. You can get a free copy of Thom Rainer’s E-Book, “How Your Church Can Reach People in the Post-Covid World” by visiting pastorscenter.org/free-books
If you’re a church, school, nonprofit, values-based business, or family office, Vanderbloemen would be honored to serve you. Their team’s goal is to empower yours by aligning your people solutions for growth: hiring, compensation, succession, and culture. Hire the right people. Pay them well. Plan for the future. Build a culture that lasts. Learn more at Vanderbloemen.com
If you’re a church, school, nonprofit, values-based business, or family office, Vanderbloemen would be honored to serve you. Their team’s goal is to empower yours by aligning your people solutions for growth: hiring, compensation, succession, and culture. Hire the right people. Pay them well. Plan for the future. Build a culture that lasts. Learn more at Vanderbloemen.com
The mission of Southeastern Seminary is to glorify the Lord Jesus Christ by equipping Christians to serve the church and fulfill the Great Commission. One way we like to do that is by giving away free resources. You can get a free copy of Thom Rainer’s E-Book, “How Your Church Can Reach People in the Post-Covid World” by visiting pastorscenter.org/free-books
The mission of Southeastern Seminary is to glorify the Lord Jesus Christ by equipping Christians to serve the church and fulfill the Great Commission. One way we like to do that is by giving away free resources. You can get a free copy of Thom Rainer’s E-Book, “How Your Church Can Reach People in the Post-Covid World” by visiting pastorscenter.org/free-books
The mission of Southeastern Seminary is to glorify the Lord Jesus Christ by equipping Christians to serve the church and fulfill the Great Commission. One way we like to do that is by giving away free resources. You can get a free copy of Thom Rainer’s E-Book, “How Your Church Can Reach People in the Post-Covid World” by visiting pastorscenter.org/free-books
Leading a Simple Church in a Post-COVID World: An Interview with Eric Geiger
Feb 09, 2021
Eric Geiger is the Senior Pastor of Mariners Church in Irvine, California. Before moving to Southern California, Eric served as senior vice-president for LifeWay Christian Resources. Eric received his doctorate in leadership and church ministry from Southern Seminary. Eric has authored or co-authored several books including the best-selling church leadership book, Simple Church. Eric is married to Kaye, and they have two daughters: Eden and Evie. During his free time, Eric enjoys dating his wife, taking his daughters to the beach, and playing basketball.
Give us a quick overview of your ministry at Mariners.
How did you first meet my dad? What are some memorable moments between you?
Tell us what first pointed you to the Simple Church research.
How did Simple Church change your life?
What would you say to someone reading Simple Church for the first time today?
How can Simple Church be helpful to a leader in the post-COVID world?
The mission of Southeastern Seminary is to glorify the Lord Jesus Christ by equipping Christians to serve the church and fulfill the Great Commission. One way we like to do that is by giving away free resources. You can get a free copy of Thom Rainer’s E-Book, “How Your Church Can Reach People in the Post-Covid World” by visiting pastorscenter.org/free-books
The mission of Southeastern Seminary is to glorify the Lord Jesus Christ by equipping Christians to serve the church and fulfill the Great Commission. One way we like to do that is by giving away free resources. You can get a free copy of Thom Rainer’s E-Book, “How Your Church Can Reach People in the Post-Covid World” by visiting pastorscenter.org/free-books
Should Pastors Be Friends with Church Members or Not?
Jan 26, 2021
As a pastor, you are part of the body of Christ. Within the body, friendship is important, even for pastors. Thom and Sam discuss friendship with church members and offer sound advice for pastors.
Yes! But we’ve all been burned… badly.
Friends outside the church are necessary but often too distant.
Every pastor should have at least one close friend inside the church.
Discern your true friends through four filters: Presence, protection, truthfulness, and trustworthiness.
The mission of Southeastern Seminary is to glorify the Lord Jesus Christ by equipping Christians to serve the church and fulfill the Great Commission. One way we like to do that is by giving away free resources. You can get a free copy of Thom Rainer’s E-Book, “How Your Church Can Reach People in the Post-Covid World” by visiting pastorscenter.org/free-books
Five Often-Overlooked Benefits of Established Churches
Jan 19, 2021
Depending on your definition, most churches fall into the category of established. Thankfully, It is no longer uncool to lead an established church. Thom and Sam talk through five often-overlooked benefits of established churches.
Current revenue stream (you have at least some resources)
Predetermined location (you already know where you are called)
The existing commitment level of people (belonging to a church)
Existing facility (roof over your head)
Rhythms and patterns of programming (volunteers in place)
The mission of Southeastern Seminary is to glorify the Lord Jesus Christ by equipping Christians to serve the church and fulfill the Great Commission. One way we like to do that is by giving away free resources. You can get a free copy of Thom Rainer’s E-Book, “How Your Church Can Reach People in the Post-Covid World” by visiting pastorscenter.org/free-books
What Every Church Leader Needs to Know About the Messiness of Divorce – An Interview with Toni Nieuwhof
Jan 12, 2021
Toni Nieuwhof joins Thom and Sam to share what every church leader needs to know about the messiness of divorce.
Toni Nieuwhof is an attorney, pharmacist and church leader who, along with her husband, Carey Nieuwhof, founded Connexus Church north of Toronto Canada. Already a published author in the legal field, Toni’s first general release book on marriage will be published in 2021. Toni has spoken in front of leaders in Canada, the US and around the world about marriage and relational health. Her practice as a divorce attorney and her extensive experience in ministry have given her a unique vantage point and a passion for serving couples who want to leave their unhappiness behind, not their marriage.
The mission of Southeastern Seminary is to glorify the Lord Jesus Christ by equipping Christians to serve the church and fulfill the Great Commission. One way we like to do that is by giving away free resources. You can get a free copy of Thom Rainer’s E-Book, “How Your Church Can Reach People in the Post-Covid World” by visiting pastorscenter.org/free-books
Are you looking to be more positive in the new year? Today we look at how destructive negativity can be for you and your team. On today’s episode of Rainer on Leadership, Thom and Sam discuss the 100 factor of negativity.
Every negative word has the power of one hundred positive words.
Negativity has many variants: Cynicism, speculation, misinformation, and selectivity.
Assume the best. Optimists take people to a better place.
The mission of Southeastern Seminary is to glorify the Lord Jesus Christ by equipping Christians to serve the church and fulfill the Great Commission. One way we like to do that is by giving away free resources. You can get a free copy of Thom Rainer’s E-Book, “How Your Church Can Reach People in the Post-Covid World” by visiting pastorscenter.org/free-books
Five Things You Should Do As You Lead Your Church to a New Year
Dec 29, 2020
We are about to welcome in a new year! In today’s episode of Rainer on Leadership, Thom and Sam discuss five things you should do as you lead your church to a new year.
Emphasize again the church’s vision and/or purpose.
Review your outwardly focused plans for the new year.
Check in with key leaders and/or influencers in the church.
The mission of Southeastern Seminary is to glorify the Lord Jesus Christ by equipping Christians to serve the church and fulfill the Great Commission. One way we like to do that is by giving away free resources. You can get a free copy of Thom Rainer’s E-Book, “How Your Church Can Reach People in the Post-Covid World” by visiting pastorscenter.org/free-books
Why People Love Traditional Christmas Eve Services
Dec 22, 2020
You will likely have more guests on Christmas Eve than any other service throughout the year. Here are several reasons why people love traditional Christmas Eve services.
You will likely have more guests on Christmas Eve than any other service throughout the year
Nostalgia is a powerful emotion around the holidays
The community expects a more traditional experience at Christmas
Candlelight services are popular among almost every demographic group
Any church can do a traditional Christmas Eve service
Always share the gospel in a Christmas Eve service
The mission of Southeastern Seminary is to glorify the Lord Jesus Christ by equipping Christians to serve the church and fulfill the Great Commission. One way we like to do that is by giving away free resources. You can get a free copy of Thom Rainer’s E-Book, “How Your Church Can Reach People in the Post-Covid World” by visiting pastorscenter.org/free-books
Calming a Restless Heart Through Music: An Interview with Kristyn Getty
Dec 15, 2020
We have an incredible interview with Kristyn Getty to talk with her about the new album from Keith and Kristyn Getty, Evensong, which reached number 1 on Billboard in the Kid’s Album category.
New album released in early October: Evensong: Hymns and Lullabies at the Close of Day.
Born out of the thoughts, songs, and prayers the Gettys use to close each day with their own family, this project features a mixture of lullabies and hymns to help families and individuals alike declutter the mind and comfort the heart.
In the week of its debut, Evensong topped the Billboard Charts at #1 in the Kid’s Album category, surpassing the storied soundtrack to Disney’s Frozen 2 for the first time in 36 weeks as the most popular Children’s project in the United States.
“During these uncertain times, the need for restful contemplation and focusing on the Word of God is more important than ever for Christians throughout the world. I hope these songs help people dwell on the Lord and His promises; to release a burdened mind, to calm a restless heart and point us towards real peace in Christ”
The mission of Southeastern Seminary is to glorify the Lord Jesus Christ by equipping Christians to serve the church and fulfill the Great Commission. One way we like to do that is by giving away free resources. You can get a free copy of Thom Rainer’s E-Book, “How Your Church Can Reach People in the Post-Covid World” by visiting pastorscenter.org/free-books
Are you contemplating leaving pastoral leadership for other areas of Christian ministry? Sam has an intimate conversation with Thom regarding the reasons behind his conscious and prayerful decision to stop preaching.
Overcoming the concern that I was not being obedient to my call
I had not been a pastor for many years, only supply and interim preaching
The mission of Southeastern Seminary is to glorify the Lord Jesus Christ by equipping Christians to serve the church and fulfill the Great Commission. One way we like to do that is by giving away free resources. You can get a free copy of Thom Rainer’s E-Book, “How Your Church Can Reach People in the Post-Covid World” by visiting pastorscenter.org/free-books
How to Minister to Church Members We Can’t Visit
Dec 01, 2020
Thom and Sam Rainer discuss practical ways to effectively minister to church members we can’t visit during this difficult time of quarantine and social distancing.
Call them.
Make certain the church sends a digital prayer list every week.
Organize small groups to call them and write them.
The mission of Southeastern Seminary is to glorify the Lord Jesus Christ by equipping Christians to serve the church and fulfill the Great Commission. One way we like to do that is by giving away free resources. You can get a free copy of Thom Rainer’s E-Book, “How Your Church Can Reach People in the Post-Covid World” by visiting pastorscenter.org/free-books
How to Lead When Disaster Strikes: An Interview with Stephen Kyle and Tim Songster
Nov 24, 2020
Pastor Steven Kyle from Hiland Park Baptist Church, has revitalized the church where he is serving with incredible growth. After growing a declining church from approximately 600 to over 2000, and expanding with two other multi-site campuses and revitalizing both dying churches, disaster hit. Twice. First Hurricane Michael, then Covid-19.
How did you plan for disaster relief and recovery before it was needed in the church and community?
Even though your buildings and campuses were damaged and unusable, how did the church continue to gather and minister?
What did you learn about rebuilding in a disaster in regards to insurance coverage and construction?
What systems did you put in place prior to and after the disaster that affected/stabilized giving during the disaster?
You have a very large church staff. How were you able to minister to your staff and their families in the aftermath of the hurricane?
How did your daily ministry change?
What did you learn from the Hurricane Recovery that is helping you in these pandemic days?
How do you define a win in a disaster recovery environment?
The mission at Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary is to glorify the Lord Jesus Christ by equipping students to serve the church and fulfill the Great Commission. The school offers more than 40 different degree programs, including the new Master of Arts in Church Revitalization in partnership with Church Answers and the Revitalization Network. This 37-hour degree is designed to help students move established churches from flatlining to flourishing.
Learn about this program and more by visiting sebts.edu. Where are you going? Southeastern will help you get there.
Does Your Church Need a Mentoring Ministry? – An interview with Kevin Harris from Radical Mentoring
Nov 17, 2020
On this episode of Rainer on Leadership, Thom and Sam are joined by Kevin Harris, President of Radical Mentoring. We take some time to discuss how your church could benefit from a strong mentoring ministry.
In 2002, Kevin Harris, underwent a dramatic change as husband, father, and Jesus-follower through his experience as a mentee in a Radical Mentoring group. He is now the President of Radical Mentoring, a non-profit focused on equipping churches and mentors with resources and coaching to create disciple-making environments where the next generation can develop deep relationships with God and others. Before joining Radical Mentoring, Kevin led a sales team at Wells Real Estate Funds and served in sales positions at CNL and Atlas Energy. He and his wife Susan have two boys and live in Atlanta, GA.
Why is it important for churches to have a mentoring ministry?
What is the difference between mentoring, discipleship, and leadership development?
What’s the ideal outline/process for disciple-making?
What makes mentoring groups successful?
What Kingdom impact are you seeing from the churches you serve?
The mission at Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary is to glorify the Lord Jesus Christ by equipping students to serve the church and fulfill the Great Commission. The school offers more than 40 different degree programs, including the new Master of Arts in Church Revitalization in partnership with Church Answers and the Revitalization Network. This 37-hour degree is designed to help students move established churches from flatlining to flourishing.
Learn about this program and more by visiting sebts.edu. Where are you going? Southeastern will help you get there.
Five Unusual Situations for Pastors (with thanks to the community of Church Answers)
Nov 10, 2020
Members of the Church Answers community have filled our inboxes with questions dealing with unusual situations. Thom and Sam take an interesting look at five of these unusual situations for pastors.
Deciding to pay the salary of a dying minister on staff to his family after he dies
Being gifted a for-profit business
Running a movie theater
Being asked to do the funeral for a dog
Being sent screenshots of text messages between two married (to other people) church members who were having an affair
The mission at Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary is to glorify the Lord Jesus Christ by equipping students to serve the church and fulfill the Great Commission. The school offers more than 40 different degree programs, including the new Master of Arts in Church Revitalization in partnership with Church Answers and the Revitalization Network. This 37-hour degree is designed to help students move established churches from flatlining to flourishing.
Learn about this program and more by visiting sebts.edu. Where are you going? Southeastern will help you get there.
Some Surprises of the Post-Quarantine Church: An Interview with Carey Nieuwhof
Nov 03, 2020
An expert in practical local church leadership, Carey Nieuwhof joins Thom and Sam to discuss his most recent book and a few surprises of the post-quarantine church.
Carey Nieuwhof is a former lawyer and founding pastor of Connexus Church. He’s the author of several best-selling books, including his latest, Didn’t See It Coming: Overcoming the Seven Greatest Challenges That No One Expects But Everyone Experiences.
Carey speaks to leaders around the world about leadership, change, and personal growth. He writes one of today’s most widely read Christian leadership blogs at www.CareyNieuwhof.com, as well as hosts the top-rated Carey Nieuwhof Leadership Podcast where he interviews some of today’s best leaders. His content is accessed over 1.3 million times a month by leaders.
Tell us some of the areas where you have been spending much of your time lately.
What is one positive surprise you have seen for churches in the post-quarantine era?
What is one negative surprise you have seen for churches in the post-quarantine era?
Do you think churches as a whole are adjusting well?
Where do you see some critical areas needed for change in churches today?
The mission at Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary is to glorify the Lord Jesus Christ by equipping students to serve the church and fulfill the Great Commission. The school offers more than 40 different degree programs, including the new Master of Arts in Church Revitalization in partnership with Church Answers and the Revitalization Network. This 37-hour degree is designed to help students move established churches from flatlining to flourishing.
Learn about this program and more by visiting sebts.edu. Where are you going? Southeastern will help you get there.
When to Keep Confidentiality with Church Members
Oct 27, 2020
It’s a tough word to say and requires wisdom to keep. We hear a lot about what we should and should not keep confidential. Today’s episode of Rainer on Leadership is packed full of great information for church leaders concerning the importance of confidentiality.
Always report abuse, no exceptions
Be careful when someone makes you promise confidentiality before telling you something
One mistake can cause a ripple effect with others
Do not sacrifice confidence with one person to gain with a group of others
Break confidence when you are concerned about the person’s safety
Keep confidence even when it may hurt your reputation
The mission at Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary is to glorify the Lord Jesus Christ by equipping students to serve the church and fulfill the Great Commission. The school offers more than 40 different degree programs, including the new Master of Arts in Church Revitalization in partnership with Church Answers and the Revitalization Network. This 37-hour degree is designed to help students move established churches from flatlining to flourishing.
Learn about this program and more by visiting sebts.edu. Where are you going? Southeastern will help you get there.
Five Ways to Heal the Negativity of the Election Season in Your Church
Oct 20, 2020
Today’s episode is fairly controversial as it deals with a very polarizing topic: Politics. How can the Church heal the negativity of the election season? Listen as Thom and Sam Rainer discuss five ways to tackle this very practical issue.
Listen first. Talk little.
Do not endorse individual candidates from the pulpit.
Guide your church in corporate prayer for our nation.
The mission at Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary is to glorify the Lord Jesus Christ by equipping students to serve the church and fulfill the Great Commission. The school offers more than 40 different degree programs, including the new Master of Arts in Church Revitalization in partnership with Church Answers and the Revitalization Network. This 37-hour degree is designed to help students move established churches from flatlining to flourishing.
Learn about this program and more by visiting sebts.edu. Where are you going? Southeastern will help you get there.
The Five Factors of a Long-term, Healthy Fit: An Interview with Matt Steen and Todd Rhoades with Chemistry Staffing
Oct 13, 2020
Matt Steen and Todd Rhoades from Chemistry Staffing share their wealth of knowledge and help us understand five factors of a long-term, healthy fit when searching for your next team member.
Matt Steen is the co-founder of Chemistry Staffing. He has served the local church for over two decades as a youth pastor, church planter, and executive pastor. Originally from Baltimore, Matt currently lives in Orlando, with his wife Theresa, and has a B.S. in Youth Ministry from Nyack College and an M.Div. and MBA from Baylor University. Certified as an Urban Church Planter Coach by Redeemer City to City and as a StratOp facilitator by the Paterson Center, Matt has made a career of helping churches thrive through intentionality, clarity, and creating healthy cultures. He is convinced that a healthy church is led by a healthy team with great chemistry, and loves partnering with Chemistry’s churches to do great things for the Kingdom.
The mission at Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary is to glorify the Lord Jesus Christ by equipping students to serve the church and fulfill the Great Commission. The school offers more than 40 different degree programs, including the new Master of Arts in Church Revitalization in partnership with Church Answers and the Revitalization Network. This 37-hour degree is designed to help students move established churches from flatlining to flourishing.
Learn about this program and more by visiting sebts.edu. Where are you going? Southeastern will help you get there.
The Church Guest Experience in a Post-COVID World: An Interview with Greg Atkinson
Oct 06, 2020
Author Greg Atkinson joins Thom and Sam to discuss the importance of the guest experience in a post-COVID world.
Greg Atkinson is the Founder of Worship Impressions and the First Impressions Conference. Greg is an author, leadership coach, consultant, and member of the Forbes Coaching Council. Greg has worked with churches of all stages and sizes, including some of the largest and fastest-growing churches in the country, as well as with businesses, non-profits, and organizations such as Josh McDowell Ministries.
You have focused a lot of your work on the church guest experience. What changes are you seeing in this area due to the pandemic?
What does hospitality look like in churches during this season?
What are some effective ways churches can provide a great guest experience for online guests?
What are some simple, practical things a church can do to welcome and retain new guests as in-person services resume?
When Eric Peterson became the pastor of a brand-new church, he quickly sought guidance from his dad, pastor Eugene Peterson, author of The Message and 30+ books. The intimate correspondence that followed between father and son is captured in Letters to a Young Pastor. Reading this book is like being personally mentored by Eugene as he reflects on pastoral ministry in all its complexity.
In turn, Eric then wrote Letters to a Young Congregation; his collection of honest and convicting letters written to his growing church. It addresses the essential questions every pastor wants their church members to answer.
Read the first letter of each book at LettersToAYoungPastor.com
The mission at Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary is to glorify the Lord Jesus Christ by equipping students to serve the church and fulfill the Great Commission. The school offers more than 40 different degree programs, including the new Master of Arts in Church Revitalization in partnership with Church Answers and the Revitalization Network. This 37-hour degree is designed to help students move established churches from flatlining to flourishing.
Learn about this program and more by visiting sebts.edu. Where are you going? Southeastern will help you get there.
Intentional Church Facility Stewardship – An Interview with Tim Cool
Sep 29, 2020
Tim Cool from Smart Church Solutions joins Sam and Thom on this episode of Rainer on Leadership to discuss Tim’s new book and how church leaders can be intentional stewards of church facilities.
We have talked about this concept several times, why write a book?
Why is now such a critical time for churches to understand these concepts?
God wants you to flourish. We all know life is not always fun, but it can always bear fruit. Join Beth Moore on a six-session journey to discover what it means to abide in Christ and to bear fruit. The six-session Chasing Vines Group Experience is a topical study you don’t want to miss. For information on Beth’s Chasing Vines book, the group study, and the DVD, go to ChasingVines.com
The mission at Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary is to glorify the Lord Jesus Christ by equipping students to serve the church and fulfill the Great Commission. The school offers more than 40 different degree programs, including the new Master of Arts in Church Revitalization in partnership with Church Answers and the Revitalization Network. This 37-hour degree is designed to help students move established churches from flatlining to flourishing.
Learn about this program and more by visiting sebts.edu. Where are you going? Southeastern will help you get there.
Overcoming the Numb Feeling and Moving Forward in a Post-Quarantine Era
Sep 22, 2020
Are you feeling numb to all that is happening around you, the decisions which need to be made, and the responsibilities in front of you? In this episode of Rainer on Leadership, we discuss overcoming the numb feeling and moving forward in a post-quarantine era.
All leaders can fall flat for a season, but detachment is not the answer.
Listen more to your confidants than your feelings.
Find joy in little victories.
Focus more on relationships and less on strategy.
Stop blaming individuals and start solving problems.
God wants you to flourish. We all know life is not always fun, but it can always bear fruit. Join Beth Moore on a six-session journey to discover what it means to abide in Christ and to bear fruit. The six-session Chasing Vines Group Experience is a topical study you don’t want to miss. For information on Beth’s Chasing Vines book, the group study, and the DVD, go to ChasingVines.com
The mission at Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary is to glorify the Lord Jesus Christ by equipping students to serve the church and fulfill the Great Commission. The school offers more than 40 different degree programs, including the new Master of Arts in Church Revitalization in partnership with Church Answers and the Revitalization Network. This 37-hour degree is designed to help students move established churches from flatlining to flourishing.
Learn about this program and more by visiting sebts.edu. Where are you going? Southeastern will help you get there.
Five Reasons Why the Speed of Change Must Accelerate in Your Church in the Post-Quarantine Era
Sep 15, 2020
We all know life will be different in the post-quarantine era. The church has fundamentally changed and many pastors are grappling with what the Church will look like in the coming years. Dr. Rainer and Sam Rainer discuss five reasons why the speed of change must accelerate in your church in the post-quarantine era.
COVID-19 accelerated negative change in your church by three to five years.
Most churches have moved to an extreme inward focus.
Your church may decline rapidly or die soon.
Your pastor may leave.
Evangelism is all but non-existent in many churches.
God wants you to flourish. We all know life is not always fun, but it can always bear fruit. Join Beth Moore on a six-session journey to discover what it means to abide in Christ and to bear fruit. The six-session Chasing Vines Group Experience is a topical study you don’t want to miss. For information on Beth’s Chasing Vines book, the group study, and the DVD, go to ChasingVines.com
The mission at Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary is to glorify the Lord Jesus Christ by equipping students to serve the church and fulfill the Great Commission. The school offers more than 40 different degree programs, including the new Master of Arts in Church Revitalization in partnership with Church Answers and the Revitalization Network. This 37-hour degree is designed to help students move established churches from flatlining to flourishing.
Learn about this program and more by visiting sebts.edu. Where are you going? Southeastern will help you get there.
Today marks the release of Dr. Thom Rainer’s new book, The Post Quarantine Church: Six Urgent Challenges and Opportunities That Will Determine the Future of Your Congregation. Dr. Rainer’s new book provides timely insight into our new reality and answers to questions church leaders have when looking to the future.
Why did you write The Post-Quarantine Church?
How did you make your conclusions?
What is the greatest challenge for post-quarantine churches?
After months of disruption, many of us are seeking to re-set and make Bible study a part of our daily plan. Tyndale is introducing the Filament Bible Collection, which brings inspiration together with innovation in a way that may forever change the way we read the Bible.This assortment of beautiful, portable Bibles comes with the Filament App, providing digital access to study notes, devotions, videos and worship music for the page you’re reading. Learn more at www.filamentbibles,com.
The mission at Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary is to glorify the Lord Jesus Christ by equipping students to serve the church and fulfill the Great Commission. The school offers more than 40 different degree programs, including the new Master of Arts in Church Revitalization in partnership with Church Answers and the Revitalization Network. This 37-hour degree is designed to help students move established churches from flatlining to flourishing.
Learn about this program and more by visiting sebts.edu. Where are you going? Southeastern will help you get there.
After months of disruption, many of us are seeking to re-set and make Bible study a part of our daily plan. Tyndale is introducing the Filament Bible Collection, which brings inspiration together with innovation in a way that may forever change the way we read the Bible.This assortment of beautiful, portable Bibles comes with the Filament App, providing digital access to study notes, devotions, videos and worship music for the page you’re reading. Learn more at www.filamentbibles,com.
The mission at Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary is to glorify the Lord Jesus Christ by equipping students to serve the church and fulfill the Great Commission. The school offers more than 40 different degree programs, including the new Master of Arts in Church Revitalization in partnership with Church Answers and the Revitalization Network. This 37-hour degree is designed to help students move established churches from flatlining to flourishing.
Learn about this program and more by visiting sebts.edu. Where are you going? Southeastern will help you get there.
Learning to Love and Lead the Different, the Difficult, & Everyone Else: an interview with Adam Weber
Aug 25, 2020
Adam Weber is the founder and lead pastor of Embrace, a multi-site church based out of Sioux Falls, South Dakota. Author of Talking With God and Love Has A Name, he also hosts a podcast called The Conversation. Adam still cheers for the Cincinnati Bengals but no longer drives a Rambler. He’s married to his wife, Becky, and has four kids: Hudson, Wilson, Grayson, & Anderson. He also has seven chickens, two dogs, & three fish, but what he really wants is a sheep.
Love has a Name: Learning to Love the Different, the Difficult, & Everyone Else is now available. What prompted Adam to write this book?
In a culture that seems more polarized by the day, how do we love the difficult, different, and downright hard-to-love people we come in contact with everyday?
What does love look like when people disagree with you in a polarized world?
What are some ways pastors and church leaders can lead with love, especially during a challenging season?
One way to assist your church members to bridge the racial divide is through the Tyndale House Publishers’ Friendship Challenge. The Friendship Challenge is a practical 6-week program for individuals or groups to pursue racial reconciliation. The Friendship Challenge consists of a book and online videos to help you or your church heal racial division. For information go to https://www.tyndale.com/sites/thefriendshipchallenge/
Episode Sponsors
Tyndale recently launched a new website, tyndalechurchconnect.com/. The site supports church leaders with helpful content and resources from some of the world’s most trusted pastors and authors. You’ll find videos, study guides and book excerpts, along with some of Tyndale’s newest and most popular books and Bibles for churches and church leaders. Visit tyndalechurchconnect.com/ and sign up for the Church Connect e-newsletter to receive regular Church Connect updates by email. You can also learn how to get a free digital preview of my upcoming book, The Post-Quarantine Church—due to release in September.
The mission at Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary is to glorify the Lord Jesus Christ by equipping students to serve the church and fulfill the Great Commission. The school offers more than 40 different degree programs, including the new Master of Arts in Church Revitalization in partnership with Church Answers and the Revitalization Network. This 37-hour degree is designed to help students move established churches from flatlining to flourishing.
Learn about this program and more by visiting sebts.edu. Where are you going? Southeastern will help you get there.
COVID 19 Design Impacts: An Interview with Tim Songster
Aug 18, 2020
Tim Songster, CEO of Cosco & Associates, joins Thom and Sam to discuss COVID-19 and your church building. Tim shares great insights for understanding how building usage and church space design is changing during the pandemic.
How has COVID 19 changed the way your clients are using their buildings?
What immediate and maybe obvious things are churches you are working with adding to their facilities due to COVID 19?
What changes do you see coming in the design of various church spaces because of pandemics like COVID 19?
One way to assist your church members to bridge the racial divide is through the Tyndale House Publishers’ Friendship Challenge. The Friendship Challenge is a practical 6-week program for individuals or groups to pursue racial reconciliation. The Friendship Challenge consists of a book and online videos to help you or your church heal racial division. For information go to https://www.tyndale.com/sites/thefriendshipchallenge/
Episode Sponsors
Tyndale recently launched a new website, tyndalechurchconnect.com/. The site supports church leaders with helpful content and resources from some of the world’s most trusted pastors and authors. You’ll find videos, study guides and book excerpts, along with some of Tyndale’s newest and most popular books and Bibles for churches and church leaders. Visit tyndalechurchconnect.com/ and sign up for the Church Connect e-newsletter to receive regular Church Connect updates by email. You can also learn how to get a free digital preview of my upcoming book, The Post-Quarantine Church—due to release in September.
The mission at Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary is to glorify the Lord Jesus Christ by equipping students to serve the church and fulfill the Great Commission. The school offers more than 40 different degree programs, including the new Master of Arts in Church Revitalization in partnership with Church Answers and the Revitalization Network. This 37-hour degree is designed to help students move established churches from flatlining to flourishing.
Learn about this program and more by visiting sebts.edu. Where are you going? Southeastern will help you get there.
How to Re-engage Church Members Who Dropped Out During the Pandemic
Aug 11, 2020
The number of people who have dropped out during the pandemic is a highly relevant topic for church leaders. A lot of leaders are wondering where these people have gone and more importantly, how to re-engage with these church members.
Tyndale recently launched a new website, tyndalechurchconnect.com/. The site supports church leaders with helpful content and resources from some of the world’s most trusted pastors and authors. You’ll find videos, study guides and book excerpts, along with some of Tyndale’s newest and most popular books and Bibles for churches and church leaders. Visit tyndalechurchconnect.com/ and sign up for the Church Connect e-newsletter to receive regular Church Connect updates by email. You can also learn how to get a free digital preview of my upcoming book, The Post-Quarantine Church—due to release in September.
The mission at Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary is to glorify the Lord Jesus Christ by equipping students to serve the church and fulfill the Great Commission. The school offers more than 40 different degree programs, including the new Master of Arts in Church Revitalization in partnership with Church Answers and the Revitalization Network. This 37-hour degree is designed to help students move established churches from flatlining to flourishing.
Learn about this program and more by visiting sebts.edu. Where are you going? Southeastern will help you get there.
Growing Healthy Churches Together: Tyndale House Publishers and Church Answers
Aug 04, 2020
On today’s episode of Rainer on Leadership, Ron Beers joins us to discuss the new ministry partnership with Tyndale House Publishers and Church Answers.
Ron Beers has worked at Tyndale House Publishers since 1987, serving as editorial director for books and Bibles, as well as editor-in-chief; he currently serves as senior vice president and group publisher. He has written or co-written more than 30 books. Ron was involved in the creation of the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, and he has been a member of the Central Bible Translation Committee since 1988. Ron was also the creator and general editor of The Life Application Study Bible. He has been happily married since 1979 and has three grown children and seven grandchildren.
Tyndale recently launched a new website, tyndalechurchconnect.com/. The site supports church leaders with helpful content and resources from some of the world’s most trusted pastors and authors. You’ll find videos, study guides and book excerpts, along with some of Tyndale’s newest and most popular books and Bibles for churches and church leaders. Visit tyndalechurchconnect.com/ and sign up for the Church Connect e-newsletter to receive regular Church Connect updates by email. You can also learn how to get a free digital preview of my upcoming book, The Post-Quarantine Church—due to release in September.
The mission at Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary is to glorify the Lord Jesus Christ by equipping students to serve the church and fulfill the Great Commission. The school offers more than 40 different degree programs, including the new Master of Arts in Church Revitalization in partnership with Church Answers and the Revitalization Network. This 37-hour degree is designed to help students move established churches from flatlining to flourishing.
Learn about this program and more by visiting sebts.edu. Where are you going? Southeastern will help you get there.
Four Warning Signs Stress is Beginning to Impair Your Leadership
Jul 28, 2020
Stress free leadership does not exist. There are times when stress can become a problem. How do you know when stress is impacting you negatively? Today’s episode unpacks four warning signs stress is beginning to impair your leadership.
The questions of others are viewed as attacks
You take the mistakes of others as a personal letdown
Withdrawal is more about escape than spiritual retreat
The mission at Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary is to glorify the Lord Jesus Christ by equipping students to serve the church and fulfill the Great Commission. The school offers more than 40 different degree programs, including the new Master of Arts in Church Revitalization in partnership with Church Answers and the Revitalization Network. This 37-hour degree is designed to help students move established churches from flatlining to flourishing.
Learn about this program and more by visiting sebts.edu. Where are you going? Southeastern will help you get there.
Five Ways to Honor the Past While Not Losing the Future
Jul 21, 2020
History is important. A key part of developing a strong vision for the future is having a good understanding of the past. In today’s episode, Thom and Sam share five ways to honor your church’s past while not losing the future.
Have a genuine love for the history of your church
Celebrate the parts of the past that support the vision
Tell the story of past change efforts with a positive perspective
The mission at Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary is to glorify the Lord Jesus Christ by equipping students to serve the church and fulfill the Great Commission. The school offers more than 40 different degree programs, including the new Master of Arts in Church Revitalization in partnership with Church Answers and the Revitalization Network. This 37-hour degree is designed to help students move established churches from flatlining to flourishing.
Learn about this program and more by visiting sebts.edu. Where are you going? Southeastern will help you get there.
People are Addicted to Outrage: Four Ways to Walk a Better Path – An Interview with Ed Stetzer
Jul 14, 2020
Ed Stetzer is a professor and dean at Wheaton College who also serves as Executive Director of the Wheaton College Billy Graham Center. Stetzer has planted, revitalized, and pastored churches, trained pastors and church planters on six continents, has earned two master’s degrees and two doctorates, and has written hundreds of articles and a dozen books. He joins us today to talk about why people are addicted to outrage and four ways to walk a better path.
Your book Christians in the Age of Outrage: How to Bring Our Best When the World Is at Its Worst in 2018. What prompted you to write the book at that time?
Describe what you are seeing in today’s culture as it applies to outrage. How can Christians help rather than contribute to the problem?
Explain the four ways you describe to walk a better path are: being empathetic, responding with humility, seeing people as image bearing, and being sacrificial.
How can pastors and others in ministry help lead their members to choose a better path?
The mission at Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary is to glorify the Lord Jesus Christ by equipping students to serve the church and fulfill the Great Commission. The school offers more than 40 different degree programs, including the new Master of Arts in Church Revitalization in partnership with Church Answers and the Revitalization Network. This 37-hour degree is designed to help students move established churches from flatlining to flourishing.
Learn about this program and more by visiting sebts.edu. Where are you going? Southeastern will help you get there.
The mission at Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary is to glorify the Lord Jesus Christ by equipping students to serve the church and fulfill the Great Commission. The school offers more than 40 different degree programs, including the new Master of Arts in Church Revitalization in partnership with Church Answers and the Revitalization Network. This 37-hour degree is designed to help students move established churches from flatlining to flourishing.
Learn about this program and more by visiting sebts.edu. Where are you going? Southeastern will help you get there.
The mission at Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary is to glorify the Lord Jesus Christ by equipping students to serve the church and fulfill the Great Commission. The school offers more than 40 different degree programs, including the new Master of Arts in Church Revitalization in partnership with Church Answers and the Revitalization Network. This 37-hour degree is designed to help students move established churches from flatlining to flourishing.
Learn about this program and more by visiting sebts.edu. Where are you going? Southeastern will help you get there.
Understanding the 64% Factor: What If Everyone Showed Up at Church at the Same Time?
Jun 23, 2020
What would happen if everyone showed up at church at the same time? The Rainer on Leadership team will tackle this question and help us understand the 64% factor.
Description:
Understanding the meaning of the 64% factor
Breaking the cycle of lower expectations
Dealing with the oft-repeated statement, “The church is the people, not a building.”
Being willing to make the changes to give everyone an opportunity to participate in gathered worship.
The mission at Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary is to glorify the Lord Jesus Christ by equipping students to serve the church and fulfill the Great Commission. The school offers more than 40 different degree programs, including the new Master of Arts in Church Revitalization in partnership with Church Answers and the Revitalization Network. This 37-hour degree is designed to help students move established churches from flatlining to flourishing.
Learn about this program and more by visiting sebts.edu. Where are you going? Southeastern will help you get there.
Listening and Praying Forward During a Time of Racial Reconciliation: An Interview with Pastor Tyrone Barnette
Jun 16, 2020
Today’s special guest is Pastor Tyrone Barnette. Pastor Barnette shares with us how to listen and pray during a time of racial reconciliation. We are thankful for his ministry and wisdom during this important time of building unity.
Pastor Tyrone Barnette is the founder and senior pastor of Peace Baptist Church in Decatur, Georgia. The church was founded in 1993 in Pastor Barnette’s home, and has grown greatly since then, to over 3,000 members with an average of about 1,200 people attending on Sundays.
Pastor Barnette has preached the Gospel around the world, including Brazil and parts of Africa (where he helped build five churches and saw more than a thousand people give their lives to Christ). He’s also been to South Africa and formed partnerships with several churches there.
Tyrone has been married to his wife, Tabitha, for over 30 years. They have three wonderful children and one granddaughter.
Description:
How are you personally engaging?
How are you engaging your church?
What are the prayers you have for your community?
What is the best way for pastors to engage the topic?
What would you like to communicate that isn’t being heard?
Episode Sponsors
The mission at Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary is to glorify the Lord Jesus Christ by equipping students to serve the church and fulfill the Great Commission. The school offers more than 40 different degree programs, including the new Master of Arts in Church Revitalization in partnership with Church Answers and the Revitalization Network. This 37-hour degree is designed to help students move established churches from flatlining to flourishing.
Learn about this program and more by visiting sebts.edu. Where are you going? Southeastern will help you get there.
The Five Most Common Ways Churches Are Adding Space for Social Distancing
Jun 09, 2020
Churches are slowly beginning to reopen and are desiring to be responsible and safe. Listen in as we discuss the five most common ways churches are adding space for social distancing.
They already have space, but they are providing new seating patterns.
They are adding overflow rooms.
They are adding Sunday morning services.
They are adding services other than Sunday morning.
The mission at Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary is to glorify the Lord Jesus Christ by equipping students to serve the church and fulfill the Great Commission. The school offers more than 40 different degree programs, including the new Master of Arts in Church Revitalization in partnership with Church Answers and the Revitalization Network. This 37-hour degree is designed to help students move established churches from flatlining to flourishing.
Learn about this program and more by visiting sebts.edu. Where are you going? Southeastern will help you get there.
Five Ways Your Church Facility Is a Tool for Ministry
Jun 02, 2020
You may have heard it a time or two; the church is the people, not the building. But today, we are talking about the building and five ways your church facility is a tool for ministry.
It is still the primary place for the gathered church.
You likely have a lot of unused space during the week.
One room can make a huge difference.
Many neighborhoods do not have a community center.
The mission at Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary is to glorify the Lord Jesus Christ by equipping students to serve the church and fulfill the Great Commission. The school offers more than 40 different degree programs, including the new Master of Arts in Church Revitalization in partnership with Church Answers and the Revitalization Network. This 37-hour degree is designed to help students move established churches from flatlining to flourishing.
Learn about this program and more by visiting sebts.edu. Where are you going? Southeastern will help you get there.
Why Church Leaders Have an Incredible Window of Opportunity
May 26, 2020
At ChurchAnswers.com we have been walking with many church leaders who desire to open the window of opportunity presented as a result of the pandemic. Thom and Kevin Spratt discuss several reasons why church leaders have an incredible opportunity ahead of them.
Why Church Leaders Have an Incredible Window of Opportunity
Change has been a constant during the pandemic.
Your church members have been exposed to a variety of churches.
Church members likely have a new sense of what really matters.
You as a leader have learned to lead through change better.
The mission at Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary is to glorify the Lord Jesus Christ by equipping students to serve the church and fulfill the Great Commission. The school offers more than 40 different degree programs, including the new Master of Arts in Church Revitalization in partnership with Church Answers and the Revitalization Network. This 37-hour degree is designed to help students move established churches from flatlining to flourishing.
Learn about this program and more by visiting sebts.edu. Where are you going? Southeastern will help you get there.
How to be a positive influence in the negative world of social media – An interview with New York Times bestselling author John Eldredge
May 22, 2020
Social media is a helpful tool for ministry but also a black hole for negativity. New York Times bestselling author John Eldredge joins us today to share strategies for being a positive influence in the negative world of social media.
Highlights:
John Eldredge is a bestselling author, a counselor, and a teacher. He is also president of Ransomed Heart, a ministry devoted to helping people discover the heart of God, recover their own hearts in God’s love, and learn to live in God’s kingdom. John and his wife, Stasi, live near Colorado Springs, Colorado.
The average American checks their phone 80 times a day; 70 percent keep it within reach while they sleep. In a culture constantly barraged by information at a frantic pace, it’s no wonder people feel numb and burnt out. In his new book, Get Your Life Back: Everyday Practices for a World Gone Mad (Nelson Books, Feb. 11, 2020), New York Times bestselling author John Eldredge provides readers with simple, ready-to-implement practices to regain control of their lives and heal their souls.
The mission at Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary is to glorify the Lord Jesus Christ by equipping students to serve the church and fulfill the Great Commission. The school offers more than 40 different degree programs, including the new Master of Arts in Church Revitalization in partnership with Church Answers and the Revitalization Network. This 37-hour degree is designed to help students move established churches from flatlining to flourishing.
Learn about this program and more by visiting sebts.edu. Where are you going? Southeastern will help you get there.
Old Tech and New Tech Solutions You Should Keep Doing as You Return to In-Person Services
May 19, 2020
From making phone calls and writing letters to online giving and virtual discipleship, as we return to in-person services, there are many strategies your church should keep doing. Thom and Sam discuss many of these strategies and their benefits on today’s episode of Rainer on Leadership.
The mission at Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary is to glorify the Lord Jesus Christ by equipping students to serve the church and fulfill the Great Commission. The school offers more than 40 different degree programs, including the new Master of Arts in Church Revitalization in partnership with Church Answers and the Revitalization Network. This 37-hour degree is designed to help students move established churches from flatlining to flourishing.
Learn about this program and more by visiting sebts.edu. Where are you going? Southeastern will help you get there.
How to Make Worship Services BETTER Right Now – An interview with Jordan Richmond
May 15, 2020
Today we welcome Jordan Richmond, worship pastor at West Bradenton Baptist Church. We discuss practical ways leaders can make worship services better right now. Jordan has been married to Heather for 14 years and they’ve led worship together for all of it. They have 4 children.
How to Make Worship Services BETTER Right Now
Check-in with your people personally.
Dig into technical areas where you need to improve
The mission at Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary is to glorify the Lord Jesus Christ by equipping students to serve the church and fulfill the Great Commission. The school offers more than 40 different degree programs, including the new Master of Arts in Church Revitalization in partnership with Church Answers and the Revitalization Network. This 37-hour degree is designed to help students move established churches from flatlining to flourishing.
Learn about this program and more by visiting sebts.edu. Where are you going? Southeastern will help you get there.
Repurposing Your Church During the Pandemic- An Interview with Mike Glenn
May 12, 2020
What does it mean to repurpose your church? What would it look like to repurpose during this time of change within the church. Guest Pastor Mike Glenn visits with Thom and Sam to discuss this new opportunity for your church.
Let’s begin with definitions. What does it mean to repurpose a church?
How has this issue become more obvious and important during the pandemic?
How would you distinguish repurposing from revitalization?
What are some practical steps churches can take right now?
The mission at Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary is to glorify the Lord Jesus Christ by equipping students to serve the church and fulfill the Great Commission. The school offers more than 40 different degree programs, including the new Master of Arts in Church Revitalization in partnership with Church Answers and the Revitalization Network. This 37-hour degree is designed to help students move established churches from flatlining to flourishing.
Learn about this program and more by visiting sebts.edu. Where are you going? Southeastern will help you get there.
Happy Mother’s Day with the Rainer Wives
May 08, 2020
We are incredibly thankful for the mothers in all our lives and are excited to celebrate the mothers in our lives. This very special episode of Rainer on Leadership features the wisdom and grace of the Rainer wives.
The mission at Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary is to glorify the Lord Jesus Christ by equipping students to serve the church and fulfill the Great Commission. The school offers more than 40 different degree programs, including the new Master of Arts in Church Revitalization in partnership with Church Answers and the Revitalization Network. This 37-hour degree is designed to help students move established churches from flatlining to flourishing.
Learn about this program and more by visiting sebts.edu. Where are you going? Southeastern will help you get there.
Seven Ways to Be A Better Servant Leader for Your Church
May 05, 2020
Today’s leadership lesson handles the common topic of servant leadership but with a different perspective. These seven ways to be a better servant leader for your church will hit home for many listeners.
Take the initiative with hurting people.
Offer genuine apologies.
Do not speak ill of others publicly.
Seek out real accountability.
Give sacrificially to your church.
Be the first to give up your personal preferences.
The mission at Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary is to glorify the Lord Jesus Christ by equipping students to serve the church and fulfill the Great Commission. The school offers more than 40 different degree programs, including the new Master of Arts in Church Revitalization in partnership with Church Answers and the Revitalization Network. This 37-hour degree is designed to help students move established churches from flatlining to flourishing.
Learn about this program and more by visiting sebts.edu. Where are you going? Southeastern will help you get there.
Creating a Financial Plan for Your Church During the Outbreak
May 01, 2020
Let’s talk finance and having a plan. Creating a financial plan for your church during this season raises many questions for pastors. Church leaders need to embrace this critical step as they lead during uncertain times.
Do best-case, expected-case, and worst-case scenario planning
Use any current-year cash surpluses first
Consider receiving funding from the CARES Act
Cut every unneeded budget line item to zero
Avoid dipping into a line of credit if at all possible
Expect and plan for a recession after the pandemic ends
Being a good steward and neighbor may mean keeping as many employed as possible
The mission at Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary is to glorify the Lord Jesus Christ by equipping students to serve the church and fulfill the Great Commission. The school offers more than 40 different degree programs, including the new Master of Arts in Church Revitalization in partnership with Church Answers and the Revitalization Network. This 37-hour degree is designed to help students move established churches from flatlining to flourishing.
Learn about this program and more by visiting sebts.edu. Where are you going? Southeastern will help you get there.
The Temporary Normal including a Post-Coronavirus Facility Reopening Checklist from Smart Church Solutions
Apr 28, 2020
In this edition of Rainer on Leadership, Thom and Sam interview Tim Cool, founder and chief solutions officer of Smart Church Solutions. Tim shares his checklist for reopening your facilities in the post-coronavirus world.
What do you see remaining the same when churches return to in-person services?
What are some of the major changes you expect?
Why should a church even worry about getting ready to return to its facilities?
The mission at Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary is to glorify the Lord Jesus Christ by equipping students to serve the church and fulfill the Great Commission. The school offers more than 40 different degree programs, including the new Master of Arts in Church Revitalization in partnership with Church Answers and the Revitalization Network. This 37-hour degree is designed to help students move established churches from flatlining to flourishing.
Learn about this program and more by visiting sebts.edu. Where are you going? Southeastern will help you get there.
Five Hard Things Churches Must Do Right Now
Apr 24, 2020
This season of isolation and social distancing has forced churches around the country to make hard decisions without an idea of what the other side holds. Listen in as Thom and Sam discuss the questions and best practices pastors are talking about right now on Church Answers and the five hard things churches must do right now.
Hit the reset button, not the pause button.
Keep as many employed as possible.
Experiment creatively
Stop complaining… now and forever.
Comply with the government’s request not to gather
The mission at Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary is to glorify the Lord Jesus Christ by equipping students to serve the church and fulfill the Great Commission. The school offers more than 40 different degree programs, including the new Master of Arts in Church Revitalization in partnership with Church Answers and the Revitalization Network. This 37-hour degree is designed to help students move established churches from flatlining to flourishing.
Learn about this program and more by visiting sebts.edu. Where are you going? Southeastern will help you get there.
Why Your Church Must Move to Both Digital AND Automated Giving Immediately (Interview with Jess Rainer)
Apr 21, 2020
In a time when most churches are holding virtual services, Thom and Sam speak with Jess Rainer regarding best practices and benefits in moving to both digital and automated giving immediately.
What are the definitions of automated giving and digital giving?
Talk about how these methods of giving have been a blessing for your church.
Help us to understand why these methods of giving are important not only for the pandemic. but for the future.
How would you recommend a church leader encourage a senior adult to automated giving? Why might this path be easier than the typical digital giving channels?
The mission at Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary is to glorify the Lord Jesus Christ by equipping students to serve the church and fulfill the Great Commission. The school offers more than 40 different degree programs, including the new Master of Arts in Church Revitalization in partnership with Church Answers and the Revitalization Network. This 37-hour degree is designed to help students move established churches from flatlining to flourishing.
Learn about this program and more by visiting sebts.edu. Where are you going? Southeastern will help you get there.
What Churches Are Learning in the Digital World
Apr 17, 2020
The current crisis has disrupted the normal practices of almost every church in America. From streaming services to digital giving, church leaders are learning quickly about the digital world and the creative ways technology is reaching people with the gospel.
Digital giving is a lot more important than they realized.
Senior adults adapt well to digital services for a season.
Short-term classes and studies do well in the digital world.
Personnel costs can be reduced in the digital world.
Prayer ministries are thriving in the digital world.
The mission at Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary is to glorify the Lord Jesus Christ by equipping students to serve the church and fulfill the Great Commission. The school offers more than 40 different degree programs, including the new Master of Arts in Church Revitalization in partnership with Church Answers and the Revitalization Network. This 37-hour degree is designed to help students move established churches from flatlining to flourishing.
Learn about this program and more by visiting sebts.edu. Where are you going? Southeastern will help you get there.
“Why Are Christians Reluctant to Talk about Earning Money?” An Interview with Art Rainer, promoting his new book, Find More Money
Apr 14, 2020
There are those out there who need to focus on expenses and creating a budget. But there is another segment struggling to figure out how to create more income. Thom and Sam talk with Art Rainer about his new book, Find More Money, and why Christians are reluctant to talk about earning money?
Why are Christians reluctant to talk about earning money?
What do most Christian financial experts write and talk about?
What are some reasons people need to find more money?
What is a side gig?
What are some of your experiences helping people find more money?
The mission at Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary is to glorify the Lord Jesus Christ by equipping students to serve the church and fulfill the Great Commission. The school offers more than 40 different degree programs, including the new Master of Arts in Church Revitalization in partnership with Church Answers and the Revitalization Network. This 37-hour degree is designed to help students move established churches from flatlining to flourishing.
Learn about this program and more by visiting sebts.edu. Where are you going? Southeastern will help you get there.
Keeping Your Spirits Up When Your World is Down
Apr 10, 2020
Our listeners are waiting to return to in-person gatherings. But on this Good Friday, the Church Answers team wants to provide hope and encouragement by providing some helpful tips to keep your spirits up during this very difficult time in history.
It’s understandable if you’re struggling right now.
Be intentional about taking a break to do something you enjoy.
The mission at Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary is to glorify the Lord Jesus Christ by equipping students to serve the church and fulfill the Great Commission. The school offers more than 40 different degree programs, including the new Master of Arts in Church Revitalization in partnership with Church Answers and the Revitalization Network. This 37-hour degree is designed to help students move established churches from flatlining to flourishing.
Learn about this program and more by visiting sebts.edu. Where are you going? Southeastern will help you get there.
The Vision-Driven Leader: An Interview with Michael Hyatt
Apr 07, 2020
Vision is more than a mission and much more than core values. Clarity birthed from a strong vision is imperative to the success of any leader. Today’s special guest, Michael Hyatt, founder and CEO of Michael Hyatt & Co. and author of The Vision-Driver Leader, shares his personal story of discovering his need for a strong vision and desire to equip leaders of today and tomorrow in this critical area.
Highlights:
I love hearing your story about your transition from a corporate CEO to a platform leader and now to the founder and CEO of your own leadership development company. How did your visionary leadership change for each of these organizations?
Why do many vision statements not work?
What are some of the obstacles that keep a leader from creating a compelling vision? How do you overcome them?
What are some characteristics of an inspiring vision script?
Why is The Vision Driven Leader important for you as you equip leaders?
Vanderbloemen has been serving churches for nine years, but did you know that Vanderbloemen also serves Christian schools, nonprofits, and Christian businesses? So if you’re listening, and you know a Christian school, nonprofit, or values-based business that is hiring, contact our friends at Vanderbloemen for your staffing needs.
The mission at Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary is to glorify the Lord Jesus Christ by equipping students to serve the church and fulfill the Great Commission. The school offers more than 40 different degree programs, including the new Master of Arts in Church Revitalization in partnership with Church Answers and the Revitalization Network. This 37-hour degree is designed to help students move established churches from flatlining to flourishing.
Learn about this program and more by visiting sebts.edu. Where are you going? Southeastern will help you get there.
Leading The Church When You Doubt Yourself
Apr 03, 2020
If you are a pastor you are going to have seasons of doubt during leadership. Disruption can cause added stress and make leaders question their decisions. So how do we answer this universal question? How do you lead when you doubt yourself?
Vanderbloemen has been serving churches for nine years, but did you know that Vanderbloemen also serves Christian schools, nonprofits, and Christian businesses? So if you’re listening, and you know a Christian school, nonprofit, or values-based business that is hiring, contact our friends at Vanderbloemen for your staffing needs.
The mission at Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary is to glorify the Lord Jesus Christ by equipping students to serve the church and fulfill the Great Commission. The school offers more than 40 different degree programs, including the new Master of Arts in Church Revitalization in partnership with Church Answers and the Revitalization Network. This 37-hour degree is designed to help students move established churches from flatlining to flourishing.
Learn about this program and more by visiting sebts.edu. Where are you going? Southeastern will help you get there.
Leading Your Church When So Much Is Unknown
Mar 31, 2020
Every article dealing with the Coronavirus is a rehash of what everyone knows; we are in turbulent times. For leaders it is crucial to lead well even when so much is unknown. Thom and Sam discuss some best practices and how to shepherd your people during times of uncertainty.
Highlights:
Fear is an overriding emotion, especially when a lot of unknowns exist.
Above all, pray to the Sovereign Creator.
Let your church’s legacy and past remind people of your resiliency.
Vanderbloemen has been serving churches for nine years, but did you know that Vanderbloemen also serves Christian schools, nonprofits, and Christian businesses? So if you’re listening, and you know a Christian school, nonprofit, or values-based business that is hiring, contact our friends at Vanderbloemen for your staffing needs.
The mission at Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary is to glorify the Lord Jesus Christ by equipping students to serve the church and fulfill the Great Commission. The school offers more than 40 different degree programs, including the new Master of Arts in Church Revitalization in partnership with Church Answers and the Revitalization Network. This 37-hour degree is designed to help students move established churches from flatlining to flourishing.
Learn about this program and more by visiting sebts.edu. Where are you going? Southeastern will help you get there.
What do you think when you hear the word disrupted? When you’re thinking of that word it can be negative, but the reality is that the greatest movements in the church have occurred due to disruption. In today’s episode, Thom and Sam discuss many of the positive aspects of disruption within the church.
Highlights:
Disruption, properly understood, can be a good thing.
Many churches are declining and dying because they have not been disrupted.
An older example of disruption: multi-site
A current example of disruption: churches partnering with businesses for revenue.
Disruption is ultimately change leadership and has to be treated as such.
Vanderbloemen has been serving churches for nine years, but did you know that Vanderbloemen also serves Christian schools, nonprofits, and Christian businesses? So if you’re listening, and you know a Christian school, nonprofit, or values-based business that is hiring, contact our friends at Vanderbloemen for your staffing needs.
The mission at Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary is to glorify the Lord Jesus Christ by equipping students to serve the church and fulfill the Great Commission. The school offers more than 40 different degree programs, including the new Master of Arts in Church Revitalization in partnership with Church Answers and the Revitalization Network. This 37-hour degree is designed to help students move established churches from flatlining to flourishing.
Learn about this program and more by visiting sebts.edu. Where are you going? Southeastern will help you get there.
Speaking and Preaching to a Virtual Audience
Mar 24, 2020
The COVID-19 crisis has led churches to adopt a completely virtual format. These new platforms require pastors and leaders to evaluate and transform their normal styles of communicating with their audience. Thom and Sam give tips and best practices for speaking and preaching during this new era of gathering on today’s episode which was recorded from a Facebook Live event held last week.
Vanderbloemen has been serving churches for nine years, but did you know that Vanderbloemen also serves Christian schools, nonprofits, and Christian businesses? So if you’re listening, and you know a Christian school, nonprofit, or values-based business that is hiring, contact our friends at Vanderbloemen for your staffing needs.
The mission at Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary is to glorify the Lord Jesus Christ by equipping students to serve the church and fulfill the Great Commission. The school offers more than 40 different degree programs, including the new Master of Arts in Church Revitalization in partnership with Church Answers and the Revitalization Network. This 37-hour degree is designed to help students move established churches from flatlining to flourishing.
Learn about this program and more by visiting sebts.edu. Where are you going? Southeastern will help you get there.
Preparing Your Family for a Ministry Transition
Mar 20, 2020
You are thinking about making a ministry transition. Maybe you will be visiting the church soon or perhaps the church has already called you to this new opportunity. Hopefully, you have already begun to think about your family. Thom and Sam discuss best practices and things to consider when preparing your family for a ministry transition.
Highlights:
Your spouse has the trump card
Shield your younger children as much as possible
Include your older children as much as possible
Keep ties to family friends
Build excitement for the new ministry and location
Vanderbloemen has been serving churches for nine years, but did you know that Vanderbloemen also serves Christian schools, nonprofits, and Christian businesses? So if you’re listening, and you know a Christian school, nonprofit, or values-based business that is hiring, contact our friends at Vanderbloemen for your staffing needs.
The mission at Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary is to glorify the Lord Jesus Christ by equipping students to serve the church and fulfill the Great Commission. The school offers more than 40 different degree programs, including the new Master of Arts in Church Revitalization in partnership with Church Answers and the Revitalization Network. This 37-hour degree is designed to help students move established churches from flatlining to flourishing.
Learn about this program and more by visiting sebts.edu. Where are you going? Southeastern will help you get there.
When thinking about writing and publishing a book there are a lot of questions. What’s the reason for writing, what should the process look like, and what are my publishing options are just a few of the questions Thom, Sam, and Jess Rainer answer on today’s Rainer on Leadership episode.g others.
Highlights:
Why should you publish a book?
What are the different options to publishing a book?
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Vanderbloemen has been serving churches for nine years, but did you know that Vanderbloemen also serves Christian schools, nonprofits, and Christian businesses? So if you’re listening, and you know a Christian school, nonprofit, or values-based business that is hiring, contact our friends at Vanderbloemen for your staffing needs.
The mission at Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary is to glorify the Lord Jesus Christ by equipping students to serve the church and fulfill the Great Commission. The school offers more than 40 different degree programs, including the new Master of Arts in Church Revitalization in partnership with Church Answers and the Revitalization Network. This 37-hour degree is designed to help students move established churches from flatlining to flourishing.
Learn about this program and more by visiting sebts.edu. Where are you going? Southeastern will help you get there.
Why Joy is So Effective (and Underestimated) When Leading Others – Interview with Josh Teis
Mar 13, 2020
In today’s episode we talk with Josh Teis, pastor of Southern Hills located in Las Vegas Josh Teis. Along with an incredible church, Josh has also initiated an incredible movement called Idea Network. Idea Network and Josh are very much defined by the joy they exude. Thom and Sam talk with Josh about why joy is so effective and underestimated when leading others.
Highlights:
How do you maintain high levels of joy while shepherding?
How does joy show people the right direction?
Why is laughter a good leadership tool?
How does a leader’s joy affect the culture of the church?
Vanderbloemen has been serving churches for nine years, but did you know that Vanderbloemen also serves Christian schools, nonprofits, and Christian businesses? So if you’re listening, and you know a Christian school, nonprofit, or values-based business that is hiring, contact our friends at Vanderbloemen for your staffing needs.
The mission at Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary is to glorify the Lord Jesus Christ by equipping students to serve the church and fulfill the Great Commission. The school offers more than 40 different degree programs, including the new Master of Arts in Church Revitalization in partnership with Church Answers and the Revitalization Network. This 37-hour degree is designed to help students move established churches from flatlining to flourishing.
Learn about this program and more by visiting sebts.edu. Where are you going? Southeastern will help you get there.
Which Methods of Personal Communication Work Best in the Church?
Mar 10, 2020
It is a common question asked by church leaders, especially pastors. What are some of the ways in which I can communicate interpersonally within the church to individuals or small groups who need to hear specific messages? Thom and Sam will be discussing which methods of personal communication work best in the church.
Highlights:
Personal communication is with individuals or small groups.
In-person communication is the most intimate and memorable.
Phone calls are important when both tone and content are necessary.
Use email when documentation is needed.
Text messages are good for communicating quickly but not for assigning tasks.
Letters are formal and should be utilized more positively than negatively.
Social media is the least effective form of personal communication.
Pay attention to new collaborative methods of communication, like Slack and Trello.
Vanderbloemen has been serving churches for nine years, but did you know that Vanderbloemen also serves Christian schools, nonprofits, and Christian businesses? So if you’re listening, and you know a Christian school, nonprofit, or values-based business that is hiring, contact our friends at Vanderbloemen for your staffing needs.
The mission at Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary is to glorify the Lord Jesus Christ by equipping students to serve the church and fulfill the Great Commission. The school offers more than 40 different degree programs, including the new Master of Arts in Church Revitalization in partnership with Church Answers and the Revitalization Network. This 37-hour degree is designed to help students move established churches from flatlining to flourishing.
Learn about this program and more by visiting sebts.edu. Where are you going? Southeastern will help you get there.
Why Do Different Worship Services Seem to Have Different Levels of Energy?
Mar 06, 2020
Churches with different types of worship services have probably felt the difference. Music, attendance, and personalities are big factors in creating energy within a worship service. In today’s episode, Thom and Sam evaluate several reasons why services may differ in levels of energy.
Highlights:
Yes, music is a factor.
Total attendance is a factor.
Seating can dramatically affect energy.
Time of day is sometimes a factor.
Probably the personalities of the people can be a major factor.
Vanderbloemen has been serving churches for nine years, but did you know that Vanderbloemen also serves Christian schools, nonprofits, and Christian businesses? So if you’re listening, and you know a Christian school, nonprofit, or values-based business that is hiring, contact our friends at Vanderbloemen for your staffing needs.
The mission at Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary is to glorify the Lord Jesus Christ by equipping students to serve the church and fulfill the Great Commission. The school offers more than 40 different degree programs, including the new Master of Arts in Church Revitalization in partnership with Church Answers and the Revitalization Network. This 37-hour degree is designed to help students move established churches from flatlining to flourishing.
Learn about this program and more by visiting sebts.edu. Where are you going? Southeastern will help you get there.
How Long Should Church Staff Members Stay after They Announce Their Resignations?
Mar 03, 2020
There are many reasons a staff member may announce their resignation. There are an equal amount of questions as to how long the staff member should stay after they announce their resignation. Thom and Sam discuss this important question and share their thoughts about how to approach this situation.
Highlights:
It depends.
Retirements are usually different than resignations.
The reason for the departure is a big factor.
Resources for the interim period are factors as well.
Vanderbloemen has been serving churches for nine years, but did you know that Vanderbloemen also serves Christian schools, nonprofits, and Christian businesses? So if you’re listening, and you know a Christian school, nonprofit, or values-based business that is hiring, contact our friends at Vanderbloemen for your staffing needs.
The mission at Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary is to glorify the Lord Jesus Christ by equipping students to serve the church and fulfill the Great Commission. The school offers more than 40 different degree programs, including the new Master of Arts in Church Revitalization in partnership with Church Answers and the Revitalization Network. This 37-hour degree is designed to help students move established churches from flatlining to flourishing.
Learn about this program and more by visiting sebts.edu. Where are you going? Southeastern will help you get there.
How Church Leaders Deal with Gossip in the Church
Feb 28, 2020
Gossip is an issue dealt with in scripture and a habit Christians are mandated not to take part in, but is unfortunately still a problem leaders deal with on a consistent basis. How do leaders deal with gossip in the church? Sam and Thom discuss common practices of church leaders who deal with gossip in the church and what we can learn from them.
Highlights:
Most leaders do nothing at all.
Some leaders have a designated person or persons to deal directly with the gossiper.
It is rare for the pastor to confront the gossiper directly.
Increasing numbers of churches are addressing it in a church covenant.
Vanderbloemen has been serving churches for nine years, but did you know that Vanderbloemen also serves Christian schools, nonprofits, and Christian businesses? So if you’re listening, and you know a Christian school, nonprofit, or values-based business that is hiring, contact our friends at Vanderbloemen for your staffing needs.
The mission at Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary is to glorify the Lord Jesus Christ by equipping students to serve the church and fulfill the Great Commission. The school offers more than 40 different degree programs, including the new Master of Arts in Church Revitalization in partnership with Church Answers and the Revitalization Network. This 37-hour degree is designed to help students move established churches from flatlining to flourishing.
Learn about this program and more by visiting sebts.edu. Where are you going? Southeastern will help you get there.
Four Major Changes in Preaching the Past Decade
Feb 25, 2020
You may feel like an expert on the topic of preaching, but we often don’t evaluate the changes taking place in the world of preaching. We will focus on four major changes to preaching within the past decade and the reason behind these changes.
Highlights:
More churches have multiple preachers/teachers.
More churches expect preachers to preach in different venues or sites.
Fewer churches expect preachers to preach two or more different sermons each week.
More preachers are largely done preparing their sermons by Wednesday or Thursday.
Vanderbloemen has been serving churches for nine years, but did you know that Vanderbloemen also serves Christian schools, nonprofits, and Christian businesses? So if you’re listening, and you know a Christian school, nonprofit, or values-based business that is hiring, contact our friends at Vanderbloemen for your staffing needs.
The mission at Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary is to glorify the Lord Jesus Christ by equipping students to serve the church and fulfill the Great Commission. The school offers more than 40 different degree programs, including the new Master of Arts in Church Revitalization in partnership with Church Answers and the Revitalization Network. This 37-hour degree is designed to help students move established churches from flatlining to flourishing.
Learn about this program and more by visiting sebts.edu. Where are you going? Southeastern will help you get there.
Interview with Vance Pitman on the topic of his new book, Unburdened: Stop Living for Jesus So Jesus Can Live through You
Feb 21, 2020
Vance Pitman is one of our favorite leaders. We are excited to share our recent interview with Vance as he shares his journey and the story behind his powerful new book, “Unburdened: Stop Living for Jesus So Jesus Can Live through You.”
Bio:
Vance Pitman is the pastor of Hope Church in Las Vegas, Nevada, a church he planted in 2001. He speaks across America and around the world to inspire people to join in God’s eternal, redemptive mission of making disciples and multiplying the church among every tribe, tongue, people, and nation. He lives outside Las Vegas, Nevada, with his family.
Highlights:
How did an Alabama boy end up in Las Vegas?
Every book has a story behind it. What is your story about Unburdened?
Why do so many Christians work so hard and get so tired trying to live for Jesus?
You emphasize relationships as being key to following Jesus. Expand on that.
What are some other key points that a reader will take away from Unburdened?
Vanderbloemen has been serving churches for nine years, but did you know that Vanderbloemen also serves Christian schools, nonprofits, and Christian businesses? So if you’re listening, and you know a Christian school, nonprofit, or values-based business that is hiring, contact our friends at Vanderbloemen for your staffing needs.
The mission at Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary is to glorify the Lord Jesus Christ by equipping students to serve the church and fulfill the Great Commission. The school offers more than 40 different degree programs, including the new Master of Arts in Church Revitalization in partnership with Church Answers and the Revitalization Network. This 37-hour degree is designed to help students move established churches from flatlining to flourishing.
Learn about this program and more by visiting sebts.edu. Where are you going? Southeastern will help you get there.
To say we are excited about this new report is an understatement. Church Answers now offers an incredible demographic and psychographic report known as Know Your Community. A basic name for this incredible resource which will help you reach and love your community. Listen in as Thom and Sam discuss the report, how it was created, and why it is an important resource for your church and its future growth.
Highlights:
It’s hard to reach your community if you don’t know your community.
It’s easier to love your community if you know your community.
The call to lead a church is a call the shepherd the community.
Perceived demographics are often different than actual demographics.
Vanderbloemen has been serving churches for nine years, but did you know that Vanderbloemen also serves Christian schools, nonprofits, and Christian businesses? So if you’re listening, and you know a Christian school, nonprofit, or values-based business that is hiring, contact our friends at Vanderbloemen for your staffing needs.
The mission at Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary is to glorify the Lord Jesus Christ by equipping students to serve the church and fulfill the Great Commission. The school offers more than 40 different degree programs, including the new Master of Arts in Church Revitalization in partnership with Church Answers and the Revitalization Network. This 37-hour degree is designed to help students move established churches from flatlining to flourishing.
Learn about this program and more by visiting sebts.edu. Where are you going? Southeastern will help you get there.
How to Respond When Church Members Hold Key Leadership Positions But Don’t Attend Faithfully
Feb 14, 2020
The issue at hand is sensitive, but we want to provide clarity on best practices. How do you respond to key leaders who don’t attend church faithfully? Listen in as Thom and Sam provide five options for how to address this area of concern.
Highlights:
Option 1: Do nothing (and watch things get worse).
Option 2: Discover the reason behind the infrequent attendance.
Option 3: Address the issue one-on-one with the person.
Option 4: Reset the criteria for leadership in the policies or bylaws.
Vanderbloemen has been serving churches for nine years, but did you know that Vanderbloemen also serves Christian schools, nonprofits, and Christian businesses? So if you’re listening, and you know a Christian school, nonprofit, or values-based business that is hiring, contact our friends at Vanderbloemen for your staffing needs.
The mission at Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary is to glorify the Lord Jesus Christ by equipping students to serve the church and fulfill the Great Commission. The school offers more than 40 different degree programs, including the new Master of Arts in Church Revitalization in partnership with Church Answers and the Revitalization Network. This 37-hour degree is designed to help students move established churches from flatlining to flourishing.
Learn about this program and more by visiting sebts.edu. Where are you going? Southeastern will help you get there.
Where Many Americans Find Meaning in Life and How It Affects Your Church
Feb 11, 2020
Where do you find meaning in life? Family, career, your faith? Thom and Sam dive into current data from Pew Research to discover where many Americans find meaning in life and how it practically applies to your church.
Highlights:
Family (40% in closed-ended questions, 69% in open-ended questions). Some churches compete with culture; other churches complement culture.
Religious faith (20% and 20%). Churches should recognize the intensity of this issue for those who find meaning here.
Careers (4% and 34%). It’s important, but it’s not close to being the most important.
Vanderbloemen has been serving churches for nine years, but did you know that Vanderbloemen also serves Christian schools, nonprofits, and Christian businesses? So if you’re listening, and you know a Christian school, nonprofit, or values-based business that is hiring, contact our friends at Vanderbloemen for your staffing needs.
The mission at Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary is to glorify the Lord Jesus Christ by equipping students to serve the church and fulfill the Great Commission. The school offers more than 40 different degree programs, including the new Master of Arts in Church Revitalization in partnership with Church Answers and the Revitalization Network. This 37-hour degree is designed to help students move established churches from flatlining to flourishing.
Learn about this program and more by visiting sebts.edu. Where are you going? Southeastern will help you get there.
Should Pastoral Candidates’ Identities Be Kept Confidential until They Are Formally Presented to the Church? Point/Counterpoint
Feb 07, 2020
We think this episode is unique because of its specificity. Over the course of today’s episode of Rainer on Leadership, Thom and Sam debate the pros and cons of keeping pastoral candidates’ identities confidential until being formally presented.
Highlights:
No. The congregation can’t make an informed decision if they are told at the last minute.
Yes. The current church of the pastoral candidate will be stressed and in limbo until a decision is made.
No. If the call is meant to be, God will protect the candidate and the candidate’s church.
Yes. If the call of the pastor fails, the pastor may effectively have no church.
Vanderbloemen has been serving churches for nine years, but did you know that Vanderbloemen also serves Christian schools, nonprofits, and Christian businesses? So if you’re listening, and you know a Christian school, nonprofit, or values-based business that is hiring, contact our friends at Vanderbloemen for your staffing needs.
The mission at Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary is to glorify the Lord Jesus Christ by equipping students to serve the church and fulfill the Great Commission. The school offers more than 40 different degree programs, including the new Master of Arts in Church Revitalization in partnership with Church Answers and the Revitalization Network. This 37-hour degree is designed to help students move established churches from flatlining to flourishing.
Learn about this program and more by visiting sebts.edu. Where are you going? Southeastern will help you get there.
A Tool to Give You an Idea Where Your Church Is Headed in the Future
Feb 04, 2020
Chuck Lawless from the Church Answers team joins us to talk about an exciting new tool created by Southeastern Seminary. The Church Future Indicator is a free tool everyone will want to get ahold of. The tool is helpful and gives great insight into where your church is headed.
Highlights:
A tool meant to be a motivator, not a discourager
The need for churches to face reality
The need for churches to have hope and solutions
Hint #1: The Primacy of Prayer
Hint #2: The Great Commission Is Still Great
Other Highlights:
A church cannot turnaround until they are ready to face reality.
The Church Future Indicator tool helps churches see hope for the future.
Praying churches are led by praying pastors.
It is a sin to be good when God has called us to be great.
Vanderbloemen has been serving churches for nine years, but did you know that Vanderbloemen also serves Christian schools, nonprofits, and Christian businesses? So if you’re listening, and you know a Christian school, nonprofit, or values-based business that is hiring, contact our friends at Vanderbloemen for your staffing needs.
The mission at Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary is to glorify the Lord Jesus Christ by equipping students to serve the church and fulfill the Great Commission. The school offers more than 40 different degree programs, including the new Master of Arts in Church Revitalization in partnership with Church Answers and the Revitalization Network. This 37-hour degree is designed to help students move established churches from flatlining to flourishing.
Learn about this program and more by visiting sebts.edu. Where are you going? Southeastern will help you get there.
Three More Trends for Churches in 2020
Jan 31, 2020
Thom and Sam continue their conversation from episode #610 examining major trends churches can anticipate and prepare for in the coming year. While some of these trends will seem familiar, others will be new with the hope all will be informative and helpful for church growth.
Highlights:
Evangelism will return to its rightful place of importance and priority.
Fewer pastors and church staff members will be compensated full-time wages.
Fewer churches will align exclusively with denominations.
Other Highlights:
Churches will return to the basics and the call to the Great Commission.
There are a number of pastors choosing to become marketplace vocational, staying within the context of community businesses and ministering part-time for the church.
Contract work is a great opportunity for those who believe they may be called to ministry.
As the gig economy grows, the number of full-time staff members will decrease.
Many churches will identify with multiple organizations, networks, and denominations.
Vanderbloemen has been serving churches for nine years, but did you know that Vanderbloemen also serves Christian schools, nonprofits, and Christian businesses? So if you’re listening, and you know a Christian school, nonprofit, or values-based business that is hiring, contact our friends at Vanderbloemen for your staffing needs.
The mission at Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary is to glorify the Lord Jesus Christ by equipping students to serve the church and fulfill the Great Commission. The school offers more than 40 different degree programs, including the new Master of Arts in Church Revitalization in partnership with Church Answers and the Revitalization Network. This 37-hour degree is designed to help students move established churches from flatlining to flourishing.
Learn about this program and more by visiting sebts.edu. Where are you going? Southeastern will help you get there.
We are one month into 2020 and there is much we can learn about anticipated trends and how churches can begin to connect the dots and prepare for the future. While some trends you will expect, others will be new and our hope is that these four trends will be informative.
Highlights:
Worship sizes will grow significantly smaller.
There will be a significant increase in the number of worship services offered at times other than Sunday morning.
Church facilities will undergo dramatic transformation.
Attendance will become a greater emphasis.
Other Highlights:
While average weekly attendance in worship will grow smaller this trend does not infer lower overall attendance.
The conversation among pastors is moving from size of worship space to quantity of worship opportunities.
Thursday evening worship services may become a popular choice for creating a new service time.
As churches build smaller worship space they will often times concurrently build larger community and common space.
Vanderbloemen has been serving churches for nine years, but did you know that Vanderbloemen also serves Christian schools, nonprofits, and Christian businesses? So if you’re listening, and you know a Christian school, nonprofit, or values-based business that is hiring, contact our friends at Vanderbloemen for your staffing needs.
The mission at Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary is to glorify the Lord Jesus Christ by equipping students to serve the church and fulfill the Great Commission. The school offers more than 40 different degree programs, including the new Master of Arts in Church Revitalization in partnership with Church Answers and the Revitalization Network. This 37-hour degree is designed to help students move established churches from flatlining to flourishing.
Learn about this program and more by visiting sebts.edu. Where are you going? Southeastern will help you get there.
The Most Significant Single Changes in Turnaround Churches: Five Examples
Jan 24, 2020
Using research gleaned from the successes of turnaround churches, Thom and Sam reveal the five most significant single changes made by a turnaround church.
Highlights:
Concerted and intentional corporate prayer
A pastor-led outward focus
Necessary subtractions
A movement of focus
A pastoral commitment to stay
Other highlights:
Prayer is a key element in helping move your church from a negative tone to a positive tone.
Expecting your church to turnaround without prayer is an improper expectation.
Churches which are human centered are doomed for failure.
The church is not supposed to be a cafeteria for church members.
Turnaround in the church is usually not going to occur with a series of short-term pastors.
Vanderbloemen has been serving churches for nine years, but did you know that Vanderbloemen also serves Christian schools, nonprofits, and Christian businesses? So if you’re listening, and you know a Christian school, nonprofit, or values-based business that is hiring, contact our friends at Vanderbloemen for your staffing needs.
The mission at Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary is to glorify the Lord Jesus Christ by equipping students to serve the church and fulfill the Great Commission. The school offers more than 40 different degree programs, including the new Master of Arts in Church Revitalization in partnership with Church Answers and the Revitalization Network. This 37-hour degree is designed to help students move established churches from flatlining to flourishing.
Learn about this program and more by visiting sebts.edu. Where are you going? Southeastern will help you get there.
Four Lessons Pastors of Struggling Churches Are Learning from Each Other
Jan 21, 2020
If you can afford Netflix you can afford an online community where pastors can come together regularly at Church Answers Central. Today’s post comes from the blessing of pastors who have decided to focus on each other and four lessons they have learned from each other.
Vanderbloemen has been serving churches for nine years, but did you know that Vanderbloemen also serves Christian schools, nonprofits, and Christian businesses? So if you’re listening, and you know a Christian school, nonprofit, or values-based business that is hiring, contact our friends at Vanderbloemen for your staffing needs.
The mission at Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary is to glorify the Lord Jesus Christ by equipping students to serve the church and fulfill the Great Commission. The school offers more than 40 different degree programs, including the new Master of Arts in Church Revitalization in partnership with Church Answers and the Revitalization Network. This 37-hour degree is designed to help students move established churches from flatlining to flourishing.
Learn about this program and more by visiting sebts.edu. Where are you going? Southeastern will help you get there.
Conducting a Funeral for a Newborn or Still Born Baby
Jan 17, 2020
Our hope and prayer is for you to never need this podcast but our goal is to help leaders and prepare them for a variety of difficult situations. Today’s episode is sobering but helpful in giving guidance when faced with an extreme tragedy for families.
Highlights:
It is nothing less than the loss of a child.
Assurance and comfort are key for the parents and other loved ones.
The service should be a God-honoring traditional funeral.
The funeral should be the beginning point of ministry to the parents.
Vanderbloemen has been serving churches for nine years, but did you know that Vanderbloemen also serves Christian schools, nonprofits, and Christian businesses? So if you’re listening, and you know a Christian school, nonprofit, or values-based business that is hiring, contact our friends at Vanderbloemen for your staffing needs.
The mission at Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary is to glorify the Lord Jesus Christ by equipping students to serve the church and fulfill the Great Commission. The school offers more than 40 different degree programs, including the new Master of Arts in Church Revitalization in partnership with Church Answers and the Revitalization Network. This 37-hour degree is designed to help students move established churches from flatlining to flourishing.
Learn about this program and more by visiting sebts.edu. Where are you going? Southeastern will help you get there.
While the thought of church bylaws may not interest you at first, what you don’t know about the complicated nature of church governing may very well lead to trouble. In today’s episode, Thom and Sam unpack why church bylaws exist and four signs of bad church bylaws.
Highlights:
When the bylaws are too complex and wieldy
When the bylaws are largely reactionary
When the bylaws are more “stop signs” than guides
When the bylaws are dated, particularly with important legal changes
Other highlights:
If your church bylaws are exciting then they are likely problematic.
Church bylaws are meant to reflect your current practices, not dictate what you are supposed to do.
Church bylaws should be proactive, not reactive.
As a leader, you must be an expert on your church bylaws.
Church bylaws should be exhaustively reviewed every three years.
Vanderbloemen has been serving churches for nine years, but did you know that Vanderbloemen also serves Christian schools, nonprofits, and Christian businesses? So if you’re listening, and you know a Christian school, nonprofit, or values-based business that is hiring, contact our friends at Vanderbloemen for your staffing needs.
The mission at Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary is to glorify the Lord Jesus Christ by equipping students to serve the church and fulfill the Great Commission. The school offers more than 40 different degree programs, including the new Master of Arts in Church Revitalization in partnership with Church Answers and the Revitalization Network. This 37-hour degree is designed to help students move established churches from flatlining to flourishing.
Learn about this program and more by visiting sebts.edu. Where are you going? Southeastern will help you get there.
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