Rainer on Leadership

Sam interviews Todd Brown and Isaac Brown of Brown Church Development Group. A growing number of church leaders, architects, and donors are reconsidering what sacred space should look like. In this episode, we explore the rise of the hyper-traditionalist movement in church architecture—a revival of classical, Gothic, Romanesque, Byzantine, and other historic styles that aim to communicate permanence, beauty, and theological depth. While this movement is still niche in North America, it is more than an aesthetic preference. It reflects a broader conviction that church buildings should feel unmistakably sacred rather than utilitarian or disposable. Resources: Filament Bible Tyndale House Publishers Upward Soccer Upward Sports Brown Church Development Group How Your Building Shapes Your Ministry: The Baptist T – When Building Design Limits Ministry Church Equip The Hope Initiative Church Answers Platinum Membership FREE Research Report! New Surprising Insights Episode Sponsors: <a href="https://sites.tyndale.com/filamentbible/?utm_campaign=

In this episode, Josh and Sam use a striking metaphor to talk about church health: fault lines and tsunamis. Just like unseen shifts beneath the ocean floor can trigger devastating waves, hidden weaknesses inside a church can quietly build until the damage is sudden and overwhelming. The good news? Fault lines can be repaired before disaster strikes. The call for leaders is simple: face reality now, simplify ministry, refocus on mission, and deal with issues while they’re still manageable. Denial accelerates decline. Ignoring problems doesn’t protect a church—it allows issues to compound until they’re unmanageable. Complexity kills focus. Too many committees, programs, and meetings exhaust members and leave no energy for outreach or mission. There is no “silver bullet.” A perfect pastor or nostalgic return to a past era won’t fix systemic issues; health requires intentional change. Evangelism must be intentional. Churches can’t rely on transfers or biological growth—conversion growth through gospel engagement is essential. Staffing models must evolve. Hiring structures from 20 years ago don’t fit today’s realities; bi-vocational, flexible, and virtual roles are often wiser. Doctrine matters more than ever. Drift from core biblical truths weakens conviction and identity, even in churches that call themselves evangelical. Toxicity must be confronted quickly. One unchecked toxic person can drive away pastors, volunteers, and entire segments of the congregation. Deferred maintenance creates financial crises. Ignored facility issues eventually demand expensive repairs that struggling churches can’t afford. Groups are the glue of church health. Small groups and classes build connection, increase commitment, and foster service; without them, people drift. Resources: <span style="

In this episode, we break down Ryan Burge’s demographic analysis of American Protestant churches and the uncomfortable math behind membership decline. Using age-distribution data across major denominations, Burge argues many churches aren’t stable—they’re simply being “buoyed by the Baby Boomers.” With modal ages in the late 60s, shrinking numbers of young adults, and fewer children in the pipeline, many groups are approaching a demographic tipping point. Decline won’t be gradual; it will feel slow and then sudden. Unless leaders plan now, some denominations could lose 30–50% of their adult members over the next couple of decades. The message is clear: this isn’t a theological or programmatic problem. It’s an actuarial problem, and the clock is already ticking. Boomers are masking the decline. Many denominations have 40–50% of their adults in the Baby Boomer generation—double their share in the general population—temporarily propping up attendance and finances. The modal age tells the real story. In several groups, the most common age is late 60s, signaling that large segments of active members will age out almost simultaneously. Young adults are disappearing. The share of people ages 18–40 has dropped sharply across both mainline and evangelical traditions, meaning fewer families, fewer children, and fewer future replacements. Decline will be gradual—then sudden. Projections show some denominations losing 30% of adults within 15 years and half within two decades, making early, incremental adjustments far wiser than emergency cuts later. See Ryan Burge’s article on this subject for more information. Resources: Upward Sports Brown Church Development Group <a href="https://www.graphsaboutreligion.com/p/when-are-half-yo

In this episode, Josh and Sam address a widespread reality in many churches: bloated membership rolls and shrinking attendance. Across North America, millions of names remain on church rolls even though those people haven’t attended in months… or years. In some cases, membership lists are four or five times larger than actual weekly worship attendance. The result? Confusion, unhealthy metrics, and weakened accountability. A growing number of congregations are rethinking the issue: clarifying expectations, tightening processes, and distinguishing between truly inactive members and those with legitimate life circumstances. Most churches do nothing about inactive members. Annual recommitment once looked promising, but it is not practical. Few churches pursue intentional follow-up to reconnect inactive members. The “inactive member” category is being reconsidered as an oxymoron. Legitimate absences deserve intentional care. Front-end membership classes clarify expectations through a good onboarding process. High inactivity often signals deeper health issues. Resources: Doctor of Ministry, The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary Church Equip FREE Research Report! New Surprising Insights Church Answers Central The Hope Initiative Episode Sponsors: <a href="https://www.sbts.edu/degree-programs/doctor-of-ministry/?utm_medium=podcast&utm_source=church

For decades, 11:00 a.m. was the “sacred hour” of church life—the assumed, unquestioned start time for Sunday worship. But that era is fading fast. In this episode, Thom and Sam unpack the data and on-the-ground observations showing how churches are rethinking when they gather. From earlier services to multiple options to non-Sunday gatherings, flexibility is replacing tradition. What once served an agrarian culture no longer fits modern family rhythms. Growing churches are adapting their schedules to remove barriers and create more on-ramps for attendance. The 11:00 a.m. “sacred hour” is no longer dominant. A majority of churches no longer treat 11:00 as the default worship time, signaling a major cultural shift. Multiple services are becoming the norm. What used to be a megachurch strategy is now common across churches of all sizes to increase capacity and accessibility. Earlier services are growing fast. Start times between 8:00 a.m. and 8:30 a.m. are increasing, especially appealing to empty nesters and early risers. Mid-morning still wins. The most popular start window remains 9:30–10:30 a.m. Non-Sunday primary services are slowly rising. While not exploding in growth, weekday or alternative-day services are steadily becoming more common. Concurrent services will increase with multisite trends. Video teaching or multiple communicators allow churches to host overlapping services, maximizing space and reach. Fewer “worship wars” over timing. Churches are becoming more flexible and pragmatic, focusing less on tradition and more on what best serves their community. Resources: Brown Church Development Group Upward Soccer Upward Sports <a href="https://churc

When a crisis hits a church, the first few hours can either build trust or break it. In this episode, Sam interviews crisis communication expert Amy Whitfield and walks through what to say (and not say) immediately after a church crisis. We talk about the first statement, the first 24 hours, and the common missteps that unintentionally escalate confusion, fear, or anger. Amy offers practical language that pastors and church leaders can actually use, along with guardrails for accuracy and accountability, especially when facts are still developing. The first hour: In the immediate aftermath of a church crisis, what are the non-negotiables that should be communicated right away, and what absolutely should not be said yet? A “first statement” framework: If you could hand pastors a fill-in-the-blank template for the first public statement (to the church and community), what would the structure include? When facts are unclear: How do you balance speed and accuracy when information is incomplete or changing, especially without sounding evasive or minimizing? Mistakes churches commonly make: What are the top 3 communication errors you see churches make in the first 24–48 hours that create long-term damage (even when leaders mean well)? Audience-specific messaging: How should communication differ for (a) the congregation, (b) affected families/victims, (c) volunteers/staff, and (d) media/social media—without sounding inconsistent? Resources: Doctor of Ministry, The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary Church Equip Amy Whitfield – [email protected] Michael Best <a href="https://churchanswers.com/new-surprising-insights-how-the-unchurched-really-feel-ab

Churches that are laser-focused on these five commitments tend to experience a continuous cycle of healthy church growth, while churches that allow the urgency of the moment to distract them from these commitments tend to experience decline. Thom and Sam discuss the new book, Crucial Commitments. Radical Prayer Frequent Attendance Ongoing Groups Simple Giving Outward Movement Resources: Faith in Motion Upward Sports Brown Church Development Group Church Equip “Crucial Commitments” by Thom S. Rainer (affiliate link) Know Your Church The Hope Initiative Good News Neighbors Toolkit Church Answers Platinum Membership FREE Research Report! New Surprising Insights Episode Sponsors: <img loadi

Josh and Sam discuss what makes an ideal church member from the pastor’s perspective. They pull some descriptions from some of their favorite members and talk about what they love about them. Be present, often. Regular attendance is a huge show of support. Pastors take notice. Pray regularly for the church and let the pastor know via text. Offer genuine encouragement. Send thank-you notes, handwritten letters, or positive feedback about their sermons. But don’t be saccharine with the compliments. Serve willingly. Volunteer your time and talents to meet needs within the church, especially with tasks few people want to do, such as helping with setup or cleaning. Don’t be the silent supportive majority when things get a little tough. Challenge any gossip that could harm the church. Give consistently. Provide financial support to the ministry. Be a loyal friend. Stand by your pastor, especially during difficult times, and maintain confidentiality. Resources: Doctor of Ministry, The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary Church Equip FREE Research Report! New Surprising Insights Church Answers Central The Hope Initiative Episode Sponsors: <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone wp-image-866831 s

While some church power struggles stem from bad actors, a more common cause is blurred lines. In this episode, Thom and Sam tackle one of the most common sources of church dysfunction: confusion between what the board should do and what the staff should do. The term “board” could refer to an elder board, church council, deacons, or lay leadership. The point here is not ecclesiology but rather how a church operates functionally. When boards drift into operations or staff drift into governance, frustration follows. But when roles are clear, trust increases, decisions accelerate, and the mission stays front and center. We use “board member” and “trustee” synonymously, but there are some technical distinctions. Trustees have more legal and fiduciary responsibilities. Board members tend to have more spiritual governance and directional leadership. A single governing board composed solely of non-members is a warning sign. Most dysfunction comes from role confusion. Boards govern and guard; staff lead and execute. Before budgets and policies, board members must live lives worth imitating. Character precedes competency. Encouragement and accountability go together. Healthy boards don’t just “check” the Lead Pastor—they actively support, pray for, and strengthen them. Boards protect mission and vision, not manage ministry. Strategy execution belongs to the staff. Major shifts in direction are the board’s responsibility. Boards handle big decisions, not daily details. Annual budgets, land, and facilities are board responsibilities; operations are not. One point of accountability. Only the senior pastor should report to the board. Everyone else reports to the pastor. This keeps leadership clean and prevents internal politics. Resources: Brown Church Development Group <span style="font-w

Josh and Sam have a little fun and pull back the curtain on some personal quirks of pastors. We become meteorologists on Saturday night. We jam to music that isn’t Christian. No, we don’t want to come to your wedding rehearsal. We form friendships with people who have the same interests that aren’t church-related (sports, hobbies, etc.) We can tune out when you give a really long explanation about something trivial. We think while we preach, and it can get weird. We know we should ask for a raise, but we rarely do. Resources: Doctor of Ministry, The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary Church Equip FREE Research Report! New Surprising Insights Church Answers Central The Hope Initiative Episode Sponsors: <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone wp-image-866831 size-medium" src="https://churchanswers.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/SBTS_RealSolutions_0426-768x192.jpg" alt="The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary" width="768" height="192" srcset="https://churchanswers.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/SBTS_RealSolutions_0426-768x192.jpg 768w, https://churchanswers.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/SBTS_RealSolutions_0426-400x100.jpg 400w, https://churchanswers.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/SBT

Institutional trust has collapsed nationwide across all age groups, but Gen Z is entering adulthood at historically low levels of trust toward institutions and toward other people. Yet there is a surprising glimmer of hope when it comes to religious institutions. Compared to Millennials, Gen Z shows slightly more openness to trusting the church, suggesting the story is not over. On this edition of The Burge Report, we discuss what pastors and churches can do to build bridges with Gen Z. Gen Z is the loneliest, most cautious, and least trusting generation in American history. Institutional trust has collapsed across society, and Gen Z is inheriting the steepest baseline of distrust yet. Despite cultural distrust, Gen Z shows slightly more openness to trusting organized religion than Millennials. Churches can rebuild credibility through transparency, accessibility, and humility. Resources: Upward Sports HelpFinder Bible Inspire Bible for Kids Tyndale House Publishers “When Are Half Your Members Going to be Dead?” by Ryan Burge “The Myth of a Gen Z Revival: What the Data Actually Says About Faith Among Young Adults” by Ryan Burge Ryan Burge <a href="https://amzn.to/3LD7

Many Christians feel uneasy simply throwing away a damaged or worn Bible. While there are no official rules, Josh and Sam discuss several thoughtful and reverent ways to handle a copy of Scripture that has served its purpose. Reverent Burial One historic approach—rooted in Jewish tradition—is burial. Christians may wrap the Bible, pray a short prayer of gratitude, and bury it in a meaningful place. This option is especially fitting for highly sentimental or family Bibles. Respectful Burning Like the respectful retirement of a worn American flag, burning can be done reverently and privately as a symbolic act of release, not destruction. Done prayerfully and safely, it reminds us that while the physical pages fade, God’s Word endures forever. Recycling or Repurposing Since a Bible is still a printed book physically, recycling is an appropriate and environmentally responsible option. Removing non-paper materials and offering a prayer of thanks recognizes both stewardship and reverence. Some even repurpose covers or materials as keepsakes. Donation or “Second-Life” Uses If the Bible is still usable, donation may give it a second life in someone else’s hands. Even severely worn Bibles can sometimes be used for artwork or display of readable portions, allowing Scripture to continue encouraging others. Resources: Doctor of Ministry, The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary Church Equip “How You Should Discard an Old, Worn-Out Bible” by Sam Rainer FREE Research Report! New Surprising Insights Church Answers Central</

Ministry today and in the future will necessitate more co-vocational pastors and church leaders. What about full-time pastors who need to supplement their income? A side job may relieve financial pressure, expand skills, and create meaningful community connections outside the church. However, it can also be a distraction and create divided attention. Upsides Greater financial stability can increase pastor tenure Broader community engagement can enhance the church’s reputation Increased skill development and creativity can bring church operations up to date More exposure in the workplace means increased opportunities for the gospel  Downsides Potential distractions could mean critical issues go unaddressed Pastors may experience time strain and fatigue A lack of clarity with the arrangement might prompt congregational trust concerns There is a greater risk of blurred priorities and burnout Resources: Inspire Bible for Kids Tyndale House Publishers Upward Running Upward Sports Church Growth Services Church Answers Platinum Membership FREE Research Report! New Surprising Insights <a href="ht

On this episode, Josh and Sam discuss some critical functions of their work as pastors that are not included in the typical church job description. Guard the doctrine of the church. Proactively hunt wolves. Field inquiries about business recommendations. Navigate community and internal church politics. Be ready to respond to questions about random YouTube videos people watch. Engage the media in a way that elevates the reputation of the church. Be knowledgeable about local infrastructure changes impacting the church. Resources: Doctor of Ministry, The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary Church Equip FREE Research Report! New Surprising Insights Church Answers Central The Hope Initiative Episode Sponsors: <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone wp-image-866831 size-medium" src="https://churchanswers.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/SBTS_RealSolutions_0426-768x192.jpg" alt="The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary" width="768" height="192" srcset="https://churchanswers.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/SBTS_RealSolutions_0426-768x192.jpg 768w, https://churchanswers.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/SBTS_RealSolutions_0426-400x100.jpg 400w, https://churchanswers.com/wp-co

Churches rarely maintain success in a single ministry for 25 years, but one church has figured it out. In this episode, Sam sits down with Upward Sports Ambassador Donnie Sisk from First Baptist Church Pelham in Pelham, Alabama. For more than 25 years, Donnie has used sports ministry—especially basketball—to connect with families and share the gospel. His church now hosts a thriving league with over 170 players, creating a strong bridge to the community. Recently, Donnie added pickleball, discovering that its smaller, more relational format opens the door to deeper conversations and intentional discipleship. Donnie shares how recreation can move beyond programs and become a powerful pathway for outreach, relationships, and life change. Resources: Upward Sports Inspire Bible for Kids Tyndale House Publishers First Baptist Church, Pelham, AL Church Answers Platinum Membership FREE Research Report! New Surprising Insights The Hope Initiative Episode Sponsors: <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone wp-image-867362 size-medium" src="https://churchanswers.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/Launch-or-Grow-Your-Sports-Ministry-Banner-768x192.png" alt="Upward Launch Or Grow Your Sports Ministry" width="768" height="192" srcset="https://churchanswers.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/Launch-or-Grow-Your-Sports-Ministry-Banner-768x192.png 768w, https://churchanswers.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/Launch-or-Grow-Your-Sports-Ministry-Banner-400x100.png 400w, https://churchanswers.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/Launch-or-Grow-Your-Sports-Ministry-Banner-

Josh and Sam have a personal conversation about the ways they are intentionally working to keep their marriages healthy. Relationships often fail because of unmet expectations. Success as a pastor is not the same as being a successful spouse or parent. The “Top Ten” list idea: Let your spouse tell you what’s best. The big question: Do you tell your spouse a lot about church happenings or not? The “First Lady” of the church: Good thing or not? Friends in the church: Helpful or dangerous? Resources: Doctor of Ministry, The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary Church Equip “Right from the Start” by Lisa Frisbie and David Frisbie (affiliate link) FREE Research Report! New Surprising Insights Church Answers Central The Hope Initiative Episode Sponsors: <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone wp-image-866831 size-medium" src="https://churchanswers.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/SBTS_RealSolutions_0426-768x192.jpg" alt="The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary" width="768" height="192" srcset="https://churchanswers.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/SBTS_RealSolutions_0426-768x192.jpg 768w, https://church

Though there have certainly been more difficult times in the course of church history for pastors, leading a church today is much tougher than it was 20 and 30 years ago. There have been some demographic and cultural shifts that reflect this reality. But some of the challenges can only be understood in the context of spiritual warfare. On this episode, Thom and Sam discuss six reasons why pastors must be more courageous today. Biblical values are not normative in culture today. The position of pastor is no longer held in high esteem in many communities. Church critics can be vicious. Social media has an amplifying effect. With streaming widely available, anyone can quickly compare your preaching to other, more well-known pastors. The best church leaders say no to the good so they can say yes to the best. But those who receive a “no” don’t often receive it well. Church leadership is spiritual warfare. Predators and wolves abound. Resources: Inspire Bible for Kids Tyndale House Publishers Upward Running Upward Sports Are Church Members Cussing More Today Than in the Past? Church Answers Platinum Membership FREE Research Report! New Surprising Insights <span st

In this tongue-in-cheek episode, Josh and Sam discuss their top annoyances as pastors. Everyone has their pet peeves, and the co-hosts share theirs. Ask a gotcha theological question right before or after the worship service. Demand an urgent counseling session, then no-show. Post a long and negative diatribe on social media about the church without first addressing your concern with leadership. Without approval, use the church bulletin boards or other communication channels to promote another church’s ministries. Just disappear one Sunday and never return after serving faithfully for a season. Compare your pastor’s preaching to a YouTube personality or a well-known celebrity pastor. Resources: Doctor of Ministry, The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary Church Equip FREE Research Report! New Surprising Insights Church Answers Central The Hope Initiative Episode Sponsors: <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone wp-image-866831 size-medium" src="https://churchanswers.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/SBTS_RealSolutions_0426-768x192.jpg" alt="The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary" width="768" height="192" srcset="https://churchanswers.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/SBTS_RealSolutions_0426-768x192.jpg 768w, https://churchanswers.com/wp-content/uploads/20

In this episode, Ryan Burge and Sam examine newly released national survey data that reveal a significant shift in how young adults understand and report gender identity. Drawing on high-quality data from the Cooperative Election Study, the research shows a clear and statistically meaningful decline in the share of 18–22-year-olds identifying as transgender since 2020, with similar downward trends appearing across older age cohorts as well. While 2020 appears to be a high-water mark, likely shaped by unique social and cultural conditions during the pandemic, subsequent years show a “snap back” toward a lower baseline. The discussion also explores how transgender identification intersects with politics, education, and religiosity, noting substantial declines among young Democrats and among religious young adults. For church leaders, this episode offers an important reminder: cultural narratives move quickly, but long-term ministry requires patience, clarity, and compassion. Understanding real data, rather than headlines, helps churches respond with both truth and grace. Transgender identification among young adults has declined sharply since 2020. The drop appears across political, educational, and age groups—not just Gen Z. Religion remains a significant factor, with religious young adults reporting much lower identification. Churches should ground their responses in careful data, not cultural panic or assumptions. Resources: Brown Church Development Group Upward Sports “The Sharp Decline in Transgender Identification Among Young Adults” by Ryan Burge Graphs About Religion <a href="https://amzn.t

Lead pastors often provide management oversight of staff. But should they know what church staff give to the church? Josh and Sam break down the arguments on both sides, examine potential safeguards, and discuss how church culture and pastoral character shape the best approach. Start with three key areas: What is your policy (staff requirement or not)? What are the longstanding accepted practices? What is outlined in the personnel manual or employee handbook? There are strong arguments both for and against giving visibility. Supporters emphasize pastoral care, spiritual insight, and better discernment, while critics highlight the dangers of favoritism, privacy concerns, and compromised motivation. Pastoral character and church culture matter. The same policy can be healthy in one church and harmful in another, depending on trust levels, leadership integrity, and communication patterns. Best practices: Weekly reports are overkill (and paranoid). An annual check is adequate for most churches. If you are the lead pastor, what is the motivation? Curiosity or care? Do you want to be helpful, or do you want to use the information as leadership leverage? Good middle ground: Have the financial bookkeeper share whether a pattern of faithfulness is present or trends are moving in the wrong direction without sharing specific amounts. Resources: Doctor of Ministry, The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary FREE Research Report! New Surprising Insights Church Answers Central The Hope Initiative

How does a church grow without relying on people transferring from other congregations? Thom and Sam take a dive into this topic. What happened to the culture of invitation? The cancellation of outreach programs 30 years ago. The lack of new equipping mechanisms in the church. Many churches have lived off the remnants of cultural Christianity for the last three decades. Transfer growth is more common than other forms of growth. An increasingly polarized and insular society. What growing churches actually do: Focus on conversion growth rather than transfer growth. Create consistent rhythms for outreach (seasonal campaigns, not one-offs). Build a fun and encouraging culture — joy motivates more than guilt. Equip people to make inviting normal, not awkward. Set clear expectations for members through your membership class. Systematize follow-up with guests through trackers or outreach teams. Pray intentionally for opportunities with neighbors. Resources: Upward Running Upward Sports Brown Church Development Group Ryan Burge “The Anxious Generation” by Jonathan Haidt (affiliate link) <

One of the biggest mistakes church leaders can make is assuming that abuse won’t happen in their churches. The belief that “it can’t happen here” is dangerously naïve. Any organization that works with children and other vulnerable individuals can be a target for predators. Satan specifically aims to attack churches and seeks to harm children and vulnerable people. Josh and Sam discuss this very important topic of safety. What makes your church a target? Churches gather often. Churches welcome everyone. Churches are high-trust environments. Churches want new people to attend. Churches rarely do security checks. Typical areas of vulnerability in a church: Trusting someone when warning signs are present. Giving authority to a leader without accountability. Systems involving too few people. Places without security, guidance, or upkeep. Making exceptions for well-known congregants or leaders. Resources: Doctor of Ministry, The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary FREE Research Report! New Surprising Insights Church Answers Central The Hope Initiative Episode Sponsors: <a href="https://www.sbts.edu/degree-programs/doctor-of-ministry/?utm_medium=podcast

If your church cares about reaching the next generation, there’s an upstream strategy that strengthens every part of ministry: investing in marriages. Children’s and youth ministries matter deeply, but without discipling the parents who shape the spiritual culture of the home, churches often work harder than they need to. When marriages grow in grace, stability fills the home, volunteers serve with joy, teens show up more open, and the entire church experiences deeper unity. Brad Rhoads of Grace Marriage joins Sam on this episode. They explore why marriage discipleship isn’t just another ministry. It’s the source that feeds every other stream of church life, creating a generational ripple effect of gospel impact. Marriage discipleship strengthens every other ministry. Healthy marriages create healthy homes, and healthy homes produce secure kids, engaged teens, joyful volunteers, and unified congregations. Family ministry works best when all three legs are strong. Children’s ministry, youth ministry, and marriage ministry form a three-legged foundation of discipleship. Remove one, and the others struggle to carry the weight. Investing in marriages is an upstream strategy. By pouring into couples at the source, churches fuel the entire discipleship ecosystem rather than constantly trying to fix symptoms downstream. Marriage ministry can become a movement, not a program. When churches intentionally help couples grow and connect, they build a culture where relationships thrive. Resources: Brown Church Development Group Upward Sports Grace Marriage – FREE eBook, “Discipling Marriages” Unbelievable: 72% of Churches Have No Marriage Ministry!</

Are aging churches a real problem? The US population has a median age of 39 years old. Most denominations have a median age of congregants close to 60 years old. Josh and Sam discuss why churches are a generation older than their surrounding communities. What are the implications of the aging trend in churches? An inherent generation gap exists between the church and the community. Many churches may feel “outdated” due to this age disparity. Older isn’t necessarily worse, and younger isn’t inherently better, but churches are more likely to grow through younger generations than older ones. The older the church, the more challenging it becomes to connect with the next generation. Hiring a younger pastor is not a silver bullet solution. Resources: Doctor of Ministry, The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary Know Your Community Graphs about Religion FREE Research Report! New Surprising Insights Church Answers Central The Hope Initiative Episode Sponsors: <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone wp-image-857499 size-medium" src="https://churchanswers.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Church-Answers_July_800-x-200_2-768x192.png" alt="The Southern Baptist Theolo

Big events can be a way for churches to reach people, but they often fail to draw people back once the event is done. Thom and Sam unpack what it actually takes to turn community events into gospel opportunities. Friendliness is not the same as connection. Relationships form when members sit with guests, ask questions, follow up, and invite people into their lives, not just back to a program. Evangelism cannot be outsourced to the pastor or the event. Many churches assume that hosting something big equals outreach, but true evangelism happens when everyday believers share their faith through conversations and personal invitations. Events fail when they aren’t tied to the church’s mission. A crowd is not a win by itself. Impact happens when members understand why the event exists, pray intentionally, and connect the gathering to the church’s disciple-making purpose. A great event is only the beginning. The barbeque might open the door, but mission-minded churches walk through it, engaging people one-on-one, building bridges, and helping guests take real next steps toward Christ and the church. Check out Thom’s article on this subject. Resources: Upward Running Upward Sports Brown Church Development Group “Why Guests Don’t Come to Your Church After a Big Event” by Thom S. Rainer Church Answers Platinum Membership <a href="https://chur

Josh and Sam talk about the rising tide of gambling addiction in the U.S., fueled by the explosion of online betting and sports wagering. With millions of adults and youth affected, and billions lost in social and personal costs, the issue is quickly becoming a pastoral and congregational challenge. This episode highlights the scope of the crisis, why it’s escalating, and how the church can respond with clarity, compassion, and practical care. The stats are not good. Gambling disorder affects far more people than many pastors realize. Two to four million adults in the U.S. will experience a lifetime gambling disorder, and another five to nine million wrestle with subclinical issues. In any given year, 2.5 million Americans will battle severe gambling problems. The financial fallout is staggering: an estimated $14 billion in social costs each year. What’s especially alarming is the rapid emergence of online gambling and sports betting, now woven into American entertainment. Help-seeking is tragically low. Even though gambling carries one of the highest suicide attempt rates of any addiction, only about 8% seek formal help. Preaching: It’s time to use the pulpit to address the problem. Benevolence: Some of the best uses of church benevolent funds are to help with counseling services for those who are addicted. Accountability: The structure you use to aid those with pornography addictions should also be utilized for gambling addictions. Resources: Chaney & Associates Doctor of Ministry, The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary FREE Research Report! New Surprising Insights

While big cities often dominate attention and resources, it is the small towns and rural communities where congregations are disappearing fastest and where the church’s presence is most at risk. Thom and Sam explore why revitalizing and supporting small churches is essential for the future of Christian witness and how these congregations uniquely embody relational, community-anchoring ministry that larger models simply cannot replicate. Small towns are the real American norm and a massive mission field. With 76% of incorporated places under 5,000 people, the typical American community is small. When churches disappear from these towns, entire regions lose access to a local gospel witness. Megachurches cannot reach small places, but small churches can. Large churches thrive in metropolitan areas, but they cannot physically plant themselves in every rural community. Healthy small churches are the only sustainable model for local ministry in these contexts. Small churches provide deeply personal, relational ministry. In a culture starved for authentic connection, small congregations offer high-touch community, intentional discipleship, and pastoral care that mirrors the early church. Strengthening small churches strengthens whole communities. Rural churches act as social glue—anchoring identity, compassion, and moral grounding. Investing in them produces exponential impact, often influencing entire counties. Check out Thom’s article on this subject. Resources: Brown Church Development Group Upward Sports Church Growth Services Wesley Biblical Seminary <a href="ht

Josh and Sam tackle a growing and uncomfortable reality for pastors: what to do when one of your own church members becomes an online troll. The cohosts explore how to discern genuine critics from disruptive trolls, protect your church’s unity and safety, and lead with grace even when someone is trying to provoke you publicly. Document before you act. Screenshot everything and keep a clean record, especially if the behavior escalates into harassment or requires legal counsel. Discern the source and intent. Trolls seek reaction, critics seek clarity. Many online agitators are former members, hurting individuals, or people seeking attention rather than constructive conversation. Control the platform with confidence. Ignoring, deleting, or blocking is often the wisest decision. You are not obligated to host destructive behavior on church channels. Move conversations offline, not into the spotlight. When the troll is a known member, shift the interaction to private, pastoral spaces—phone, video, or in person—where accountability and empathy are possible. Lead with grace but prioritize safety. Respond with brief, gospel-centered statements (or silence when appropriate) while protecting staff, volunteers, and the church from threats or instability. Stay focused on ministry, not online battles. Don’t waste energy on endless debates. Keep the mission central, uphold Christian values, and shepherd the church toward unity rather than distraction. The goal is not to “win” online but to model Christlike character and redirect the conversation toward spiritual health and relational restoration. Resources: Doctor of Ministry, The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary Chaney & Associates <a href="https://churchanswers.com/new

Only one denomination in the United States has grown consistently. Drawing from nearly fifty years of data, Ryan Burge’s analysis shows a denomination that has not only maintained stability but also demonstrated resilience, growth, and demographic vitality. From membership and attendance trends to conversion inflows and racial diversity, the Assemblies of God presents a statistical profile that is almost entirely positive, even after the shock of COVID-19. While many traditions wrestle with long-term decline, the Assemblies of God appears poised for continued strength. Long-Term Growth Is Real and Remarkably Steady. Since 1975, the Assemblies of God has experienced consistent 2–3% annual membership growth, rising to over 3 million people today. Even after a significant pandemic-related dip, membership has returned near pre-COVID levels, demonstrating organizational resilience.  Attendance Is Rebounding Faster Than Expected. Worship attendance nearly doubled from the 1970s to the mid-2010s, then dropped sharply in 2020. But since 2021, the rebound has been strong. Current projections show the AG could completely erase the COVID-era attendance gap by 2029 or 2030—an almost unheard-of recovery curve among U.S. denominations.  Conversions Have Surged to Near-Historic Highs. Water baptisms and Spirit baptisms all spiked post-2020. In 2024 alone, the Assemblies of God reported roughly 530,000 new additions, one of the highest totals in their recorded history. Water baptisms alone jumped from 94,000 to 169,000, about 3,250 every weekend nationwide.  The AG Now Mirrors the Racial Makeup of the U.S. The Assemblies of God has become one of the most ethnically diverse denominations in the nation. As of 2024, only 55% of members are White, while Hispanic representation has risen to 23%, and Black membership to 11%. Statistically, the racial composition of the AG now almost perfectly matches that of the United States as a whole. Resources: Upward Running Upward Sports</a

Is the strength of our prayer life really measured in minutes? And what if shorter, consistent rhythms of prayer throughout the day lead to a more sustainable, joyful connection with God? In this episode, Josh and Sam explore how pastors and church leaders can cultivate a meaningful prayer life without tying their spiritual health to a stopwatch. You need a plan. Prayer rarely happens by accident. Both pastors and laypeople benefit from creating intentional rhythms that keep them focused and consistent. More minutes ≠ more maturity. Time spent praying matters, but the total number of minutes isn’t the ultimate measure of spiritual depth. Short prayers count. Multiple 10–15 minute prayer windows throughout the day can be as spiritually rich as a single uninterrupted hour. Frequency fuels depth. Regular, brief conversations with God make those extended times of prayer more natural, more meaningful, and something you look forward to. Resources: Chaney & Associates Doctor of Ministry, The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary FREE Research Report! New Surprising Insights Church Answers Central The Hope Initiative Episode Sponsors: <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone wp-image-820632 size-medium" src="https://churchanswers.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/0201_BannerAd_rev-768x192.jpg" alt="" width="768" height="192" srcset="https://churchanswers.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/0201_BannerA

Thom and Sam interview Dr. Andy Miller, the president of Wesley Biblical Seminary, to explore what every potential seminary student needs to consider before enrolling. While seminary can provide clarity and theological depth, it is not a magic formula for ministry success. This discussion breaks down the practical steps every prospective student should consider. Seminary helps, but it isn’t essential. A degree on the wall doesn’t make a minister, but seminary education can enhance the discipleship that happens in the local church.  Real-world experience enhances seminary education. Working in a secular job helps future pastors serve congregants who face workplace pressures every day.  Seminary should not be limited to vocational church staff. A well-educated church is better equipped to make multiplying disciples.  Seminary does not replace serving in a local church. You can’t book-learn your way into becoming a good pastor. Begin ministering immediately.  Know your financial limits and avoid debt. Ministry brings spiritual reward, not financial abundance. Entering ministry with heavy student loans is a burden that will follow you for years. Work while studying, take classes slowly if needed, and never sabotage future ministry freedom with unnecessary debt.  Choose the right track and the toughest professors. Pick a degree aligned with your calling, take the shortest path necessary, and intentionally enroll with the most challenging professors. Fewer rigorous classes will shape you far more than padding a degree with easy electives. A lower GPA is a small price to pay for a sharper mind and stronger preparation. Resources: HelpFinder Bible Tyndale House Publisher

Most nonprofit organizations have clear visibility into donor activity: who gives, how often, and how much. But churches often treat data on giving very differently. Should pastors know who is giving in their churches? Josh and Sam take a fresh look at this sensitive and often misunderstood topic. Giving patterns reveal discipleship shifts. Changes in a member’s giving habits often signal that something significant is happening in their life—spiritually, financially, or relationally. Church giving has declined partly because pastors don’t ask. Many pastors feel uncomfortable talking about money, which leads to missed opportunities for teaching generosity and inviting people into mission. Most pushback about pastoral visibility comes from non-givers and low-givers. The loudest objections often come from those who are least invested financially. Recognize the different levels of visibility. Visibility isn’t binary. Pastors can have access in full, in summary, or through designated leaders. Understanding the spectrum helps churches choose wisely. Acknowledge that the giving landscape has changed. Donations to nonprofits continue to grow while giving to churches continues to decline. Understanding this trend is essential for effective discipleship and stewardship. Avoid placing non-giving or low-giving individuals into leadership roles. Leaders should model generosity. When they don’t, it creates credibility gaps and weakens the stewardship culture of the church. Develop a healthy system for expressing gratitude. Churches should have a process for thanking givers appropriately without showing favoritism. Resources: Chaney & Associates Doctor of Ministry, The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary <a href="https://churchanswers.com/new-surprising-insights-how-the-un

In this episode, Thom and Sam shine a light on a trend few church leaders see: the silent exodus of senior adults. While much attention is given to reaching Millennials and Gen Z, an equally significant group is slowly drifting away: older adults who once formed the backbone of many congregations. Their departure isn’t loud or dramatic. It’s subtle: an empty pew, a missing volunteer, a longtime member who quietly stops attending. The impact is profound. Seniors are often the most faithful givers, steady volunteers, and prayer warriors. Losing them weakens the church both spiritually and practically. Research from Gallup and Pew reveals a marked decrease in weekly church attendance among adults over 65. The decline isn’t isolated. It’s a national trend impacting churches of all sizes, especially small congregations that rely heavily on seniors. Mobility issues, health challenges, the loss of peers, and shifting church priorities all contribute to disengagement. Churches can reverse this trend through practical care (transportation, visits, tech help), intergenerational ministry, visible leadership roles, and sermons that speak directly to senior concerns. When seniors are valued and included, the entire church grows stronger. Take a deeper dive into this subject. Resources: Upward Running Upward Sports HelpFinder Bible Tyndale House Publishers C

Josh and Sam discuss the best way to handle Super Bowl Sunday. Should churches say anything about it? Play into the day with gimmicks to increase attendance? What’s the best approach? There is nothing wrong with using cultural events in the church. But what do you say in the worship service? Gimmicks can fall flat and be self-defeating. Since the Super Bowl is in the evening, it could be a high-attendance Sunday. Most people do not travel that weekend. Don’t show the game at church. Most will want to host others in their homes. Plan a more upbeat service to capture the mood of most people. Resources: Chaney & Associates Doctor of Ministry, The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary FREE Research Report! New Surprising Insights Church Answers Central The Hope Initiative Episode Sponsors: <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone wp-image-820632 size-medium" src="https://churchanswers.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/0201_BannerAd_rev-768x192.jpg" alt="" width="768" height="192" srcset="https://churchanswers.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/0201_BannerAd_rev-768x192.jpg 768w, https://churchanswers.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/0201_BannerAd_rev-1024x256.jpg 1024w, https://churchanswers.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/0201_BannerAd_rev-1536x384.jpg 1536w, https://churchanswers.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/0201_BannerAd_rev-400x100.jpg 400w, https://churchanswers.com/

A surprisingly high number of churchgoers attend because someone simply invited them. In this episode, Sam and Thom unpack why 60% might be the most overlooked and powerful number in church outreach today. This statistic comes from Grey Matter Research and Infinity Concepts, which recently asked more than 1,000 American evangelical Protestants about their church experiences. The Strength of the Personal Invitation Inviting Is Evangelism 101 Churches That Embrace Invitation Culture Grow Action Steps to Encourage More Invites Resources: HelpFinder Bible Tyndale House Publishers Upward Sports Brown Church Development Group Invite Your One Good News Neighbor Toolkit Church Answers Platinum Membership FREE Research Report! New Surprising Insights The Hope Initiative Episode Sponsors: <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone wp-image-863866 size-medium" src="https://churchanswers.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/12.25_HelpFinder_Bible_800x200_1-768x192.png" alt="HelpFinder Bible" width

In this episode, Josh and Sam explore what happens when a church becomes discouraged and how God restores hope in a congregation that feels stuck, tired, or overwhelmed. Discouragement drains energy, distorts reality, and slowly turns a church inward. Encouragement is both spiritual and strategic. It starts with leaders who refuse to catastrophize and instead cast vision. Pessimists predict failure. Realists describe what is. But optimistic, faith-filled leaders show what could be. Return to reality. Discouragement distorts reality. Discouraged churches often slide into emotional fog: overgeneralizing, catastrophizing, and believing “nothing works.” Celebrate faithfulness, not just fruit. God measures obedience before outcomes. Celebrate effort, not just results. Faithfulness is success in God’s eyes. Clarify the next step. Overwhelmed churches often need a simple starting point. Choose one six-month initiative to build confidence and momentum. Focus on one major emphasis every six months, building one mid-term success on top of another. Take a deeper dive in this Church Answers article. Resources: “Leadership in a Chaotic World” by Dr. Andrew Walker, Dr. Justin Irving, and Dr. Jeremy Pierre Doctor of Ministry, The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary Chaney & Associates “Ten Practical Ways to Encourage a Discouraged Church” by Sam Rainer <a href="https://churchanswers.com/new-surprising-insights-how-the-unchurched

In 2006, Simple Church encouraged churches to streamline programming, clarify discipleship pathways, and focus on moving people toward spiritual maturity rather than filling calendars with activities. The book had a significant impact, shaping how thousands of pastors thought about ministry systems and structure. Nearly two decades later, Thom and Sam take a fresh look: What principles stood the test of time? What challenges emerged in practice? And how should churches apply Simple Church today in a ministry landscape that’s more complex, digital, and post-pandemic than ever? Churches never attain the ideal, but the process is what makes the book impactful. Simplicity does not mean minimalism. Cutting programs without replacing them with relational pathways can lead to disengagement. Alignment requires ongoing work. A church may simplify in one season but drift back into complexity over time. Continual evaluation is essential. Culture must change, not just calendars. The biggest challenge wasn’t restructuring programs. It was reshaping the mindset of members who equated activity with spiritual growth. Resources: Upward Running Upward Sports Rooted “Simple Church: Returning to God’s Process for Making Disciples” by Thom S. Rainer and Eric Geiger (affiliate link) Certification in Simple Church Ministry

Letting a staff member go is one of the hardest leadership moments a pastor will ever face. Churches are relational environments, and employment decisions are deeply personal. But there are times when releasing someone is the most loving, wise, and responsible step—for the staff member, for the team, and for the health of the church. In this episode, Josh and Sam talk through how to navigate this complex process with clarity, compassion, and integrity. Always follow your polity and bylaws, no exceptions. Don’t delay the inevitable. Don’t pawn off the difficult conversation to someone else. And have the conversation in person. Document, document, document. Show the maximum amount of care and grace you can. Communicate to the church only what needs to be known, but don’t hide behind polity. Resources: “Leadership in a Chaotic World” by Dr. Andrew Walker, Dr. Justin Irving, and Dr. Jeremy Pierre Doctor of Ministry, The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary Chaney & Associates FREE Research Report! New Surprising Insights Church Answers Central The Hope Initiative Episode Sponsors: <a href="https://www.sbts.edu/leadership-chaotic-world/?utm_medium=display&utm_source=church_answers&utm_campaign=ebook_lead

In this episode, we look at Ryan Burge’s latest analysis showing how the modern Democratic coalition is being pulled apart by widening religious divides. While Republicans continue to draw support from a largely Christian voter base, Democrats now include two groups with opposite religious profiles: highly secular white voters and deeply religious voters of color. This creates major messaging and policy tensions within the party, tensions that didn’t exist at the same scale in earlier decades. 1. White Democrats Have Become Majority Non-Religious White Democrats shifted dramatically from being majority Christian in 2008 to majority non-religious in 2024, a complete reversal in just 16 years. This is the most secular major voting bloc in American politics today.  2. Democrats of Color Remain Significantly More Religious Black, Hispanic, and Asian Democrats attend church more often, place higher importance on religion, and are more likely to identify as Christian. Their religious profile mirrors the “average American” much more closely than white Democrats do.  3. These Religious Differences Create Major Ideological Splits Non-religious white Democrats take far more progressive positions than religious Democrats of color, leading to internal policy conflicts.  4. Democrats Cannot Build a Winning Strategy on Secular Voters Alone With the U.S. still roughly 60% Christian, Democrats risk alienating either secular whites or religious voters of color, depending on how they frame their messaging. Resources: Rooted Upward Sports “The Democrats Have a Religious Problem” by Ryan Burge Graphs About Religion “The Vanishing Church: How the Hollowing Out of Moderate Congre

As churches grow, leaders often reach a tipping point where the senior pastor can no longer carry the full weight of vision, preaching, pastoral care, administration, staff oversight, and organizational leadership. That’s when the question arises: Is it time to hire an Executive Pastor? In this episode, Josh and Sam unpack what an Executive Pastor actually does, why this role has become more common across church sizes, and how to know whether your church is ready for one. Capacity is the trigger, not attendance: The need for an XP has more to do with complexity than church size. Some churches need one at 250 people; others may not need one until 1,000. Administrative strain is the warning light: When ministries are growing but communication, processes, and staff coordination are breaking down, the church is entering the “organizational gap” that an XP is designed to close. Is the senior pastor ready to let go? Sometimes, the biggest issue is the difficulties top leaders have delegating to an executive pastor. Room exists in the personnel budget: Some churches hire part-time, while others wait until they can afford full-time. Resources: “Leadership in a Chaotic World” by Dr. Andrew Walker, Dr. Justin Irving, and Dr. Jeremy Pierre Doctor of Ministry, The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary Chaney & Associates “Simple Church: Returning to God’s Process for Making Disciples” by Thom S. Rainer and Eric Geiger (affiliate link) <sp

Many are tired of online worship. What happened? When the pandemic forced churches online, digital worship seemed like the future. Congregations grew virtually, and pastors reached audiences they never imagined. But five years later, that momentum has faded. The church is discovering what technology can—and cannot—do for worship. On this episode, Thom and Sam explore why online engagement has declined and how churches can find balance between digital convenience and in-person community. The Hype Has Faded: What began as a lifeline during lockdowns has lost its luster. Most believers now prefer in-person worship, with digital participation falling sharply since 2020. Screens Can’t Replicate Sanctuaries: True worship is embodied—voices, presence, and shared experience matter. A livestream delivers content but not community. Distraction Undermines Devotion: At-home worship competes with countless interruptions, reducing focus and engagement compared to gathered worship. Convenience Leads to Complacency: Online access makes participation easy, but it also weakens commitment and volunteerism. Digital Should Supplement, Not Substitute: Online tools still serve a purpose for the sick, travelers, and seekers, but they should point people back to the gathered church, not replace it. Resources: Upward Running Upward Sports Rooted Church Growth Services “Bridges of God: A Study in the Strategy of Missions” by Donald McGavran (affiliate link) “Revival of the Analog Church” by Thom S. Rainer – coming soon! <a href="https://

Every pastor has seen it. Churches splitting hairs over things that don’t matter. Beard length. Carpet color. Playground equipment. These disputes may sound absurd, but they reveal something much deeper. Small conflicts are rarely about what they seem. Beneath the surface, emotions, control, and trust are at play. In this episode, Josh and Sam explore why trivial fights erupt in churches, what they reveal about church health, and how leaders can keep the small stuff from becoming spiritual landmines. Personal Identity Intertwined with Church Identity: Churches are deeply tied to people’s sense of community and spiritual identity. Even small changes can feel like a threat to “who we are” as a church family, or “who I am” as a person, so people defend the status quo passionately. Emotional Over-Investment in Traditions: Even small church customs can symbolize cherished memories, identity, or heritage—making change feel like a personal loss. Low-Trust Environments Amplify Small Problems: When trust is lacking, every decision feels suspect. Minor disagreements can quickly spiral into major divisions. The “Last Straw” Effect Is Real: Years of frustration can erupt over a minor issue simply because it’s safer to fight about carpet than about long-term dysfunction. Displaced Conflict: Members may have personal frustrations (marital issues, work stress, health concerns) that they subconsciously project onto church matters. The church becomes the arena where unrelated tension spills over. The enemy doesn’t need major theological heresy to divide a church, just unaddressed, unchecked minor conflicts that slowly erode unity. Resources: “Leadership in a Chaotic World” by Dr. Andrew Walker, Dr. Justin Irving, and Dr. Jeremy Pierre <span style="font-weight: 40

Church attendance is both a helpful tool and a potential trap. Numbers can reveal momentum, but they can also distort priorities if leaders focus on counting heads instead of making disciples. In this episode, Thom and Sam unpack the healthy and unhealthy ways to measure worship attendance, and how pastors can move from chasing growth to cultivating spiritual health. Attendance Can Help or Hurt: Measuring attendance isn’t wrong; it depends on how it’s used. Healthy leaders use it to foster connection and track discipleship, not as a scoreboard. Healthy Metrics Drive Momentum: Lead metrics (such as invitations or follow-ups) are more powerful than lag metrics (such as attendance numbers). Focus on what your people do, not just what the results show. Consistency Beats Flash: Regular attendance and steady rhythms of worship build deeper discipleship than occasional big Sundays. Presence Over Performance: Attendance still matters, but presence matters more: engagement, community, and spiritual growth. Churches grow best when they prioritize people, not numbers. Track the numbers, but don’t make them THE priority. Resources: Rooted Upward Sports Brown Church Development Group Religious People Are Happier (And the Data Proves It) Church Answers Platinum Membership FREE Research Report! New Surprising

Most New Year’s resolutions focus inward on personal growth, habits, and goals. On this episode, Josh and Sam challenge church leaders to flip the script on traditional resolutions by making them about the people you serve, not yourself. Instead of trying to become a better version of you, resolve to make those around you better. Serve First: True leadership begins with serving others. When pastors lead by serving their teams and congregations, they model sacrifice for the mission—not self-interest. Simplify Work: Complexity drains energy. Great leaders take on extra work themselves to make ministry simpler and clearer for their people. Release Problems: Not every problem can be solved. Wise leaders discern which issues to release rather than forcing solutions that frustrate followers. Yield Preferences: Humble leaders don’t confuse personal preferences with vision. They invite others into the process and build collective ownership of direction. Recognize Pride: Pride is leadership’s silent destroyer. Healthy pastors set up accountability to keep their humility in check and protect the church from ego-driven decisions. Leadership isn’t about control. It’s about stewardship. This year, make resolutions that elevate those you lead, not just yourself. Resources: “Leadership in a Chaotic World” by Dr. Andrew Walker, Dr. Justin Irving, and Dr. Jeremy Pierre Doctor of Ministry, The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary Chaney & Associates <a href="https://churchanswers.com/new-surprising-insights-how-the-

Nearly five years after COVID-19 lockdowns, the research reveals surprising truths about how Americans engage with church online and what that means for pastors and ministry leaders. While 91% of churches now livestream services, only about 14% of Americans watch weekly. Most online viewers are also in-person attenders, meaning livestreams tend to serve already-committed believers rather than reaching the unchurched. The dream of a large “online-only” congregation just doesn’t match the numbers. In this episode of the Burge Report, Ryan, Thom, and Sam give their key takeaways. Online worship is supplemental, not a substitute. Attendance in person is still twice as common as online viewing. Most online participants also attend in person. About 60% of weekly online viewers are regular churchgoers. Younger generations aren’t tuning in. Digital natives born in the 2000s are no more likely to watch church online than those born in the 1980s. Traditions matter. Black Protestants are the only major group with higher online than in-person attendance, while Catholics overwhelmingly reject online Mass. Commitment correlates with presence. Online-only attenders are less devout overall, and livestream participation doesn’t lead to membership growth like in-person worship does. The bottom line: livestreams are valuable tools, but real discipleship still happens when people gather, serve, and worship together in person. Resources: The One Year Bible Tyndale House Publishers Upward Running Upward Sports <a h

The week after Christmas—those quiet days between December 26 and New Year’s—is often the lightest week of the year for pastors. After weeks of preparing Advent services, coordinating Christmas Eve worship, managing volunteers, and caring for members in a season that’s both joyful and emotionally draining, pastors finally exhale. This week isn’t about laziness; it’s about recovery. The adrenaline of December ministry fades, the calendar clears, and the phone stops ringing. Even the most active church members are traveling, resting, or spending time with family. For once, the pastor doesn’t have to be “on.” Josh and Sam discuss why this week is so light and so important. The Pace Finally Slows. Christmas is one of the busiest seasons in ministry. Extra services, rehearsals, and events fill the calendar. The week after gives pastors a rare moment to breathe. Fewer Expectations. Meetings are paused, and most church programs are taking a break. There’s little pressure to perform or produce, allowing for mental and spiritual rest. Reflection and Renewal. Many pastors use this time to reflect on the past year (what worked, what didn’t) and pray about vision and direction for the next one. It’s a built-in Sabbath for the soul. Family and Faith Reconnect. Ministry often demands long hours away from home. This quiet week lets pastors be fully present with their families, remembering that before they shepherd others, they’re called to nurture their own household of faith. Resources: Doctor of Ministry, The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary Chaney & Associates Church Answers University <span st

Thom and Sam dive into Ryan Burge’s latest analysis of the 2023–2024 Pew Religious Landscape Survey, which asked nearly 37,000 Americans a simple question: “How happy are you with your life these days?” The results reveal one of the clearest and most consistent findings in social science. Religious people report being happier than non-religious people. While happiness is complex and influenced by many factors, the data shows that both religious belonging (identifying with a faith) and religious behavior (attending worship in person) are strongly correlated with higher life satisfaction. Online worship, while somewhat beneficial, doesn’t have the same impact as being physically present in a faith community. In-Person Worship Boosts Happiness. Those who attend religious services weekly or more are nearly twice as likely to report being “very happy” as those who never attend. The most frequent attenders—about 8% of the population—are the happiest group by far. Online Worship Helps, But Less So. Watching services online provides a slight happiness bump, but it’s no substitute for in-person connection. The data shows little difference in happiness between non-attenders and online-only participants. Faith Matters Most for Younger Generations. Millennials and older members of Gen Z who attend church weekly are about twice as likely to report being “very happy” compared to their non-religious peers. The “happiness gap” is strongest among these younger cohorts. The Relationship Persists Across Politics and Age. Even when controlling for ideology and age, religious people (liberal, moderate, or conservative) consistently report higher happiness levels than non-religious individuals. The takeaway is simple but profound: faithful community and consistent worship participation are powerful predictors of well-being. Or, as Dr. Burge puts it, “Highly active religious people are happier than non-religious people. There’s no other way to spin this data.” Resources: <a href="http://www

Churches help prepare couples for marriage and rescue them when things fall apart, but what happens in between? That middle space—the “fine zone”—is where most couples slowly drift while everyone assumes they’re okay. The truth is, fine isn’t faithfulness. It’s fatigue. And most churches don’t have a plan for discipling marriages before they reach the breaking point. Sam interviews Brad Rhoads of Grace Marriage to find out more. Grace Marriage is helping churches change that by creating pathways for ongoing marriage discipleship, not just crisis care. The Marriage Gap Is Real. Most couples aren’t falling apart; they’re simply drifting apart. Without ongoing discipleship, “fine” becomes the silent decline that weakens families and churches. Marriage Ministry Needs a Reframe. Seventy-two percent of churches have no structured marriage ministry. It’s not about adding another program; it’s about treating marriage discipleship like children’s or youth ministry: regular, intentional, and mission-critical. Healthy Marriages Multiply Health Everywhere. When couples grow in grace, it transforms their homes, strengthens the church, and becomes a powerful witness to the watching world. The bottom line: Don’t just pray for marriages, disciple them. When churches invest in marriage health, everything else begins to thrive. Resources: Doctor of Ministry, The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary Chaney & Associates Grace Marriage – FREE eBook, “Discipling Marriages” <a href="https://churc

For decades, seminaries have promoted the ideal—full-time, on-campus study in a traditional academic setting. But for most adults pursuing ministry training, that ideal simply isn’t practical. New research reveals a clear tension between what people would love to do and what they can realistically manage. Theological education thrives when schools position themselves as a bridge between the ideal and the practical, maintaining depth and quality while removing unnecessary barriers. Sam interviews Dr. Andy Miller, from Wesley Biblical Seminary, about four key points shaping the future of seminary enrollment. Flexibility is essential. Students want fully online programs with strong asynchronous options so they can study on their own schedule and pace. Fewer than one in ten prefer entirely in-person classes. Timeline matters. Adult learners, most over 30 and many over 45, are looking for clear, accelerated paths to completion. Programs that respect their time with realistic workloads and transfer credits stand out. Affordability is non-negotiable. Half of respondents said cost is a major barrier. Creative financial solutions like payment plans and scholarships are key. The church connection. Theological education isn’t just about degrees; it’s about equipping people in the pews for ministry. By understanding what’s practical for lay leaders and pastors alike, seminaries can better serve the mission of the church. The takeaway: the future of theological education belongs to schools that meet students where they are—flexible, focused, and financially accessible—while staying deeply rooted in the mission of preparing faithful leaders for the church. Resources: The One Year Bible <span style="font-wei

In this follow-up episode, we examine the other side of the conversation—the rise of big-box church architecture. Often found in converted retail spaces or new multipurpose campuses, these designs emphasize functionality, flexibility, and accessibility. They reflect a different theology of space, one that prioritizes mission, efficiency, and comfort over formality. Sam interviews Todd Brown and Isaac Brown of Brown Church Development Group. Function over Form. Big-box churches maximize every square foot, using open floor plans for worship, community events, and ministries throughout the week. Accessibility and Affordability. These buildings are cost-effective, quick to build or repurpose, and often located in high-traffic areas with ample parking, making them easy to find and attend. Welcoming and Familiar. The casual, “non-churchy” feel can help visitors relax and engage, especially those intimidated by traditional sanctuaries. Mission-Driven Flexibility. By prioritizing multipurpose use, big-box churches embody a missional posture, meeting people where they are and serving communities in practical ways. In the end, architecture isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s about mission. Whether it’s a stained-glass cathedral or a repurposed warehouse, the real question is: Does this space help people encounter Christ and His church? Resources: Doctor of Ministry, The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary Chaney & Associates Brown Church Development Group Should Churches Look Churchy? The Advantages of Traditional Architecture </u