Though counterintuitive, some declining churches start to appreciate their pastors more. This dynamic is usually unhealthy, but not always. Thom and Sam discuss what they see in these situations. What was once unheard of has not become more common.

• • In certain situations, churches must shrink before they become healthier and grow. In these cases, the church is supporting a pastor through a difficult transition season.
  • In other situations, declining churches like how the pastor can give them more personal attention and cater the church to their preferences.
  • A greater portion of churches are in decline, so this phenomenon is becoming more common.
  • Smaller is never a good long-term goal.
  • Making disciples the way God designed requires an outward emphasis.
  • Making disciples with an inward focus usually kills a church.

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