Revitalization takes thick skin to avoid the discouragements and criticisms. Today, we discuss five common criticisms and how to handle them.
Today’s Listener Question:
FROM BRETT
I hear you speak a lot about conflict. What are some keys to keep in mind as you deal with conflict and the hard work that comes during a replant or revitalization?
Episode Highlights:
- The ubiquitous presence of criticism has made it both easier to take and to ignore criticism.
- You have to love Jesus more than you love the things in your church.
- If you’re looking to revitalize a church, you need spousal perseverance. Your spouse has to be all-in.
- You can’t serve in the pastorate while in isolation. You need people pouring into your life in the ministry.
The five reasons we discuss are:
- Church members will criticize you as you lead change.
- Family and friends may think you are crazy.
- You probably won’t get much recognition for your work.
- Peers may have a condescending attitude toward you.
- You may not be perceived to be as cool as a church planter.
Resources mentioned in this episode include:
- ChurchReplanters.com
- ChurchAnswers.com
- Replanter Assessment
- Find more resources at the Revitalize & Replant page at ThomRainer.com
Revitalize & Replant is sponsored by the North American Mission Board and ChurchReplanters.com. More than 10% of churches in North America are at risk of closing and the North American Mission Board is committed to reversing this trend by decreasing the death rate of existing churches while simultaneously increasing the birth rate of new churches. To learn more about what it means to become a replanting pastor or to explore resources for replanting and revitalization in your own church, visit ChurchReplanters.com.
Submit Your Question:
Do you have a question about church revitalization or replanting for us to use on the podcast? Visit the podcast page to submit your question. If we use it on the show, you’ll get a copy of Autopsy of a Deceased Church and Reclaiming Glory.
