Revitalize and Replant

 Christ is always present with His church.  How does Christ’s presence visible in your church?  How do you encourage the people in your church to repent when they sin against God?   Resources:  Flickering Lamps by Henry & Richard Blackaby 

How has your congregation sought to find out what Jesus wants your church to do?  What one ministry in our church could only have been developed because God showed us how to do it?  Is your church focused only on your own ministry, or are you kingdom-focused?  Resources:  Flickering Lamps by Henry & Richard Blackaby 

Why was your church founded?  How is the church different now than when it was founded?  How does your church glorify God?  In what ways is your church making disciples?  What are some sins for which your church needs to repent?  Resources:  Flickering Lamps by Henry & Richard Blackaby 

Sign 1: The commute  Sign 2: Worn out ministries  Sign 3: Declining ministry funds for children and students  Sign 4: The pastoral parade  Sign 5: The aging facility 

We are thrilled to welcome the President of the Southern Baptist Convention, Bart Barber, to discuss the importance of revitalization, particularly in smaller, rural, churches. Episode Highlights: Small rural churches have great value for the Kingdom of God. Jesus has a plan for every church. Over half of the churches in the SBC average less than 50 people on Sunday morning. Resources mentioned in this podcast: Reclaiming Glory by Mark Clifton

1. The church boldly confronted the traps of tradition. 2. Leadership developed a clear and compelling vision 3. Leadership communicated a sense of urgency 4. The pastor was willing to endure a season of intense criticism 5. The leadership of the church was willing to let go of members

The church stopped blaming past experiences or outside circumstances.  The pastor formed an alliance of key influencers in the church.  The influencers made a commitment to pray daily for revitalization.  The church made a commitment to look like the community.

1. Will I be a continuous learner? 2. Will I be content? 3. Will I be Jesus’ example in my community? 4. Will I take care of my family?

1. Will I pray daily for my church, her members, and my own leadership? 2. Will I see this opportunity as a mission field? 3. Will I make a commitment for the long haul? 4. Will I love my critics and those who leave the church? Resources mentioned in this episode: Biblical Church Revitalization by Brian Croft

Willingness to Confront  Confront over theology  Confront over sin  Confront over methodology  Confront over personality  Resources mentioned in this podcast:  Anatomy of a Revived Church by Thom Rainer