Revitalize and Replant

Pastors leading church revitalizations face spiritual warfare, long turnaround times, leader fatigue, member reluctance to change, departures of good people, and challenges in becoming accepted as their pastors.

In this episode, Mark Clifton, Mark Hallock, and Dan Hurst discuss an article from Jim Eliff on how to make baptisms more meaningful and exciting. Consider bringing the congregation forward and as near as reasonable to the baptistery when you baptize. Print nice invitations for the baptism with the name of the one to be immersed. Always include the testimony of the one being baptized. If a son or daughter of godly parent(s) is being baptized, allow them to speak about their child’s conversion also. If a father wishes to be in baptismal pool with a son or daughter, this is possible. If your church is smaller (or even larger, if you can work it out), it is certainly possible to baptize in a location other than the church building. During the baptism, ask for the church’s faithful commitment to the new believer. Baptize as often as possible. It is important to teach on baptism. Resources related to this podcast: Thoughts on Improving Baptisms

In this episode, Mark Clifton, Mark Hallock, and Dan Hurst discuss the importance of a statement of faith for a local church. Your church needs a statement of faith. A statement of faith provides clarity about what your church believes on important issues. The statement of faith provides a boundary for leaders in your church. A church’s statement of faith is always subservient to Scripture. Resources related to this podcast: How We Use Our Statement of Faith by Christ Fellowship Elders

In this episode, Mark Clifton, Mark Hallock, and Dan Hurst discuss some characteristics that are necessary in the life of a deacon. Deacons understand the sacrifice of Christ to be the foundation of their own sacrifice. Deacons understand the cost of living out sacrificial service. Deacons strive to first lead sacrificially at home. Deacons understand their sacrifice to be a source of joy. Resources related to this podcast: Joyful Sacrifice: How the Best Deacons Live and Lead

In this episode, Mark Clifton, Mark Hallock, and Dan Hurst discuss an article from Peter Krol on conflict resolution within the church body, based on Acts 2:42-47. Priority #1: Devotion to the Word of God Priority #2: Devotion to One Another Priority #3: Devotion to God’s Presence Priority #4: Devotion to Radical Generosity Priority #5: Devotion to Reaching the Spiritually Lost Resources relate to this podcast: Mark Hallock sermon

Experts discuss 7 steps for conflict resolution in churches using biblical principles from Philippians, emphasizing joy, gentleness, and finding common ground with antagonists. Learn to guard your heart with God's peace and practice conflict resolution by emulating good role models.

The podcast explores the importance of abiding in Christ to avoid burnout in ministry. It discusses finding true rest in Jesus, facing challenges with strength, and staying connected despite distractions. The analogy of believers as branches of the true vine is used to emphasize the need to deepen one's relationship with Christ to bear fruit and prevent burnout.

In this episode, Mark Clifton and Mark Hallock discuss an article from Christian Communicators Worldwide about how you and your church can have more effective prayer meetings. Plan to pray. Listen to the prayers of others instead of planning what you are going to pray next. Don’t monopolize the prayer meeting. When leading group prayer, be sure the people know what to expect. If you break down into small groups, somebody might need to take the lead of each group. Resources mentioned in this episode: Better Prayer Meetings and Prayer Groups by Steve Burchett

Experienced church leaders Mark Clifton and Mark Hallock explore strategies for handling unfair criticism from church members. They discuss responses to common hurtful remarks like 'You couldn't preach your way out of a paper bag' and 'I'm leaving because it's too cold in here.' The podcast emphasizes the importance of humility, grace, and responding with love to unjust critiques.

Discussion on the upcoming law amendment in the Southern Baptist Convention, the importance of treating each other with love and grace during conflicts, understanding the significance of the 'pastor' title, debating the proposed law amendment on women in pastoral roles, and navigating the challenges and potential consequences of a law amendment.