The Carey Nieuwhof Leadership Podcast CNLP 765 | The Real Difference Between Growing and Declining Churches: Thom Rainer on What Reaches The Anxious Generation
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Nov 6, 2025 Thom Rainer, a church researcher and former CEO of Lifeway Christian Resources, dives into the contrasting behaviors of growing and declining churches. He highlights the importance of outwardly focused events for growth and how personal invitations significantly boost attendance. Rainer also discusses the challenges faced by the Anxious Generation and emphasizes the need for churches to create a welcoming atmosphere. With insights on why unchurched individuals often view churches more positively than insiders, Rainer offers a fresh perspective on outreach and engagement strategies.
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Attendance Signals Spiritual Movement
- Church attendance is a meaningful sign of discipleship even if attendance alone doesn't equal salvation.
- Returning attendance signals people moving into accountability within a body of believers.
Three Outreaches Predict Growth
- Churches with at least three outwardly focused events per year correlate strongly with growth and Gen Z engagement.
- Doing repeated intentional outreach creates invitations that Gen Z is waiting to receive.
Make Outreach Intentional And Prayerful
- Plan at least three intentionally designed outreach activities each year, not passive 'invite Sunday' moments.
- Make each outreach prayerful, targeted, and staffed to convert community contact into church connection.
