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Despite the tough reality many congregations face today, I remain an obnoxious optimist as we move into 2019. This month, I received an email about a church that I thought was headed for closure. Through a series of God-blessed events, the church has turned the corner and will remain a presence in the community.
That one anecdote has been a common theme for so many congregations. Namely, the idea that there is hope.
Still working
God is not done with us yet. And here are 10 reasons why I think that is true:
1. More church leaders are admitting their churches are struggling. On the surface, this reason seems more like a cause for pessimism. I don’t see it that way. You can’t begin to get healthy until you admit you are not healthy. It is a vital first step.
2. Churches are increasingly connecting with their communities. They are breaking out of their “holy huddles” and becoming a witness and a positive presence in the neighborhoods and towns where God has placed them.
3. There is significant evidence of greater Great Commission obedience. We recently conducted a survey of 1,700 church leaders. The number one area where they are seeking to improve is evangelism and outward focus.
4. Toxic church behavior is less tolerated. Many churches struggle because issues such as bullying and toxic leadership are swept under the rug. I recently spoke with a pastor who was celebrating the reality that we talk about these issues openly and frankly.
5. Church revitalization has become a major movement. This one reason excites me beyond measure. Such is the reason I created the non-profit organization, Revitalize Network. I wanted a place where we could connect and help one another.
6. More young pastors feel called to lead a church revitalization. Related to the revitalization movement is the incredible number of young leaders who are and will lead churches toward revitalization.
7. More church leaders are seeking coaching and consultations. I love the humility and vulnerability I see with these leaders. They seek God’s wisdom and call on others to help their churches move forward. I know.
8. Churches are working together toward fulfilling the Great Commission. There are so many areas where we can work together, even if we come from different denominations or non-denominational churches. For three decades many of our churches and church leaders have criticized and fought each other. More than ever today, we realize we are on the same team.
9. Church planting and church revitalization are not perceived to be either/or. We need both. We must have both. They are each critically important. I love the dual emphasis that is taking place.
10. The multi-site and multi-venue movement is entering an era of growth and maturity. Because of this movement, existing congregations are finding new opportunities for Great Commission growth. Because of this movement, fewer churches will close their doors.
Thrilling days ahead
These are exciting days to be a church leader and church member. While we don’t deny the reality of struggling churches, we embrace the excitement about God’s work in so many congregations.
I really believe it: 2019 will be an incredible year for thousands of churches.
I can’t wait to see what God will do.
Photo source: istock
 | Thom S. Rainer is the founder and CEO of Church Answers, and online community and resource for church leaders. Prior to founding Church Answers, Rainer served as president and CEO of LifeWay Christian Resources. Before coming to LifeWay, he served at The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary for twelve years where he was the founding dean of the Billy Graham School of Missions and Evangelism. He is a 1977 graduate of the University of Alabama and earned his Master of Divinity and Ph.D. degrees from The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary. Learn More » |
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