Revitalize and Replant

Mark Clifton, a church dynamics expert, Mark Hallock, who focuses on interpersonal issues, and Brittany Rust, an author on church strategies, tackle the challenge of dealing with difficult people in church. They share practical tips like expecting conflict, staying calm, and responding with kindness to cranky individuals. The trio emphasizes the importance of humility, taking breaks, and using prayer to address grievances. Their insights draw on biblical principles to promote harmony and joy within church communities.

Mark Clifton and Mark Hallock discuss an article from Lifeway Research on some simple, yet effective, ways to care for the widows in your church. Stay connected Say you are sorry for their loss Call and ask specific questions Refer to their husband’s acts or words – serious or humorous Invite them to anything Accept that they are where they are Walk the talk Resources related to this podcast: “7 Ways to Care for Widows in Your Church” by Miriam Neff

Mark Clifton and Mark Hallock discuss what faithful deacons do in the life of a local church. Deacons are the lead servants of a church. Deacons joyfully assist the pastor(s). Deacons facilitate God-honoring worship. Deacons help the poor, broken, and needy. Deacons mobilize others to serve. Resources related to this podcast: On Being a Deacon by Jim Noble, Scott Thistlethwaite, Phil Von Kaenel, and Mark Hallock

Mark Clifton, a noted speaker on church leadership, and Mark Hallock, a contributor on deaconship, dive deep into the essential qualities of faithful deacons. They discuss the importance of genuine love for the Lord and people, emphasizing humility, flexibility, and sacrifice as key traits. Listeners are treated to personal stories that showcase the vital role deacons play in church revitalization. The conversation sets up a thoughtful exploration of how these qualities can shape effective church leadership and community support.

Clint Pressley, the President of the Southern Baptist Convention, discusses the vital role of normative-sized churches, often overlooked yet crucial to the Convention. He candidly shares the challenges faced by small church pastors, like loneliness and operational struggles, emphasizing the need for community support. The conversation takes a lighter turn with personal stories about music, football, and their shared love for barbecue. They also reflect on navigating loss and hope in ministry, tying it all back to the importance of revitalization and cooperation.

Mark Clifton and Mark Hallock discuss four priorities of pastors who shepherd their people well. Shepherd-pastors know their people. Shepherd-pastors feed their people. Shepherd-pastors lead their people. Shepherd-pastors protect their people. Resources related to this podcast: “Shepherding is a Two-Way Street” by Mark Hallock “5 Ways to be a Faithful, Healthy Church Member” by Mark Hallock The Priorities of a Shepherd-Pastor by Mark Hallock

Mark Clifton, a seasoned church leadership expert, and Mark Hallock, advocate for vibrant church communities, share invaluable insights on shepherding congregations. They emphasize the importance of personal connections, like remembering members' names. The duo outlines five key principles for healthy church membership: regular attendance, deep engagement, unity, faithful service, and continual grace. Listeners learn that effective shepherding involves intentional relationships and regular communication, promoting a nurturing and vibrant church environment.

In this episode, Mark Clifton and Mark Hallock toss some questions back and forth about revitalization. Here are some highlights: The importance of winning the hearts of your people. The importance of serving your community without expecting anything in return. Getting people to agree to a change and getting them to believe in a change are two different things. The importance of humility in pastoral leadership. Dealing with mistakes and regret in pastoral leadership.

Mark Clifton, an expert on church revitalization, and Mark Hallock, a seasoned leader in ministry, dive into the pressing issues of declining churches. They discuss how denial can exacerbate problems, forsake future generations, and lead to costly regrets for leaders. The conversation highlights the dangers of complacency and comfort becoming an idol. They emphasize that churches must confront uncomfortable truths, embrace change, and prioritize accountability to revitalize their mission and relationship with the community.

In this episode, Mark Clifton and Mark Hallock discuss an article from Barna research group about why some millennials are staying connected in a local church. Make room for meaningful relationships Teach cultural discernment Make reverse mentoring a priority Embrace the potency of vocational discipleship Facilitate connection with Jesus Resources related to this podcast: “5 Reasons Millennials Stay Connected to Church” by Barna Research