Where should I start? We get that a lot from pastors wanting to lead revitalization in their churches. Today we cover nine questions to ask yourself before you begin.
Today’s Listener Question:
FROM TIM
Our church is in the beginning phases of revitalization. We will be taking the next month to cast and explain the vision and some of its implications to our congregation. Do you have any advice as we get started?
Episode Highlights:
- It’s easy to pray for those who like us, but we’re called to pray for those who don’t like us as well.
- If you’re going into a revitalization effort, you and your family need to be committed for the long haul.
- If you’re not willing to commit for the long haul to a church revitalization effort, then don’t go.
- Long-term leadership is vitally needed in most churches.
- You have to make an intentional decision to be a continual learner. It doesn’t happen by accident.
- Revitalization needs to take place with people who love the community and want to be in the community.
The nine questions you should ask before leading revitalization are:
- Will I pray daily for my church, her members, and my own leadership?
- Will I see this opportunity as a mission field?
- Will I make a commitment for the long haul?
- Will I love my critics and those who leave the church?
- Will I be persistent?
- Will I be a continuous learner?
- Will I be content?
- Will I be an incarnational example in my community?
- Will I take care of my family?
Resources mentioned in this episode include:
- ChurchReplanters.com
- ChurchAnswers.com
- Percept Group Demographic Studies
- 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.
