Josh and Sam have a personal conversation about the ways they are intentionally working to keep their marriages healthy.

1. 1. Relationships often fail because of unmet expectations.
   2. Success as a pastor is not the same as being a successful spouse or parent.
   3. The “Top Ten” list idea: Let your spouse tell you what’s best.
   4. The big question: Do you tell your spouse a lot about church happenings or not?
   5. The “First Lady” of the church: Good thing or not?
   6. 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:

Ministry isn’t theoretical. It comes with complex challenges that demand wisdom and clarity.

The Doctor of Ministry at Southern Seminary is designed to help you address those challenges head-on.

You’ll bring a pressing issue from your church into the program and, under the guidance of trusted faculty, develop a biblically grounded plan you can implement in your context.

This is theological depth applied directly to preaching, leadership, counseling, and shepherding.

If you want solutions anchored in God’s Word and built for your church, learn more at sbts.edu/dmin.

• • Ministry brings complex challenges. The DMin at Southern helps you address them with clarity and conviction.
  • Bring a pressing issue from your church into the program and leave with a plan ready to implement.
  • Study under faculty who are trusted scholars and faithful church leaders.
  • Apply theological depth directly to your ministry context.
  • Build a network of peers who share your calling and understand your challenges.
  • Learn more at sbts.edu/dmin

The post What We’re Doing as Pastors to Keep Our Marriages Healthy appeared first on Church Answers.

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.

1. 1. Biblical values are not normative in culture today.
   2. The position of pastor is no longer held in high esteem in many communities.
   3. Church critics can be vicious. Social media has an amplifying effect.
   4. With streaming widely available, anyone can quickly compare your preaching to other, more well-known pastors.
   5. 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.
   6. 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

• The Hope Initiative

Episode Sponsors:

Inspire kids’ creativity, Bible reading, and love for God with the new Inspire Bible for Kids!

It’s the latest Bible in the bestselling Inspire Bible line, and it’s packed with activities for boys and girls ages seven to twelve.

Whether on their own or together with family, Inspire Bible for Kids invites boys and girls to meaningfully engage with each other and God’s Word.

There are over 400 ready-to-color line-art illustrations, wide margins for creativity, devotional readings and trivia questions, journaling prompts, memory verse prompts, fun facts—and more—all to bring God’s Word to life for young hearts!

Inspire the kids in your life with the activity-packed Inspire Bible for Kids!

Discover more at www.InspireBibleforKids.com.

Upward Running for Your Small Group

• Turn your small group into a community on the move! Upward Running helps adults go from the couch to completing a 5K together. You provide the run coach, and we’ll equip them with training plans, resources, and support to lead well. It’s a fun, healthy way to grow relationships, encourage one another, and experience fitness and fellowship together.
• Learn more at Upward.org/Runcoach.

The post Six Reasons Pastors Must Be More Courageous Today appeared first on Church Answers.

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.

1. 1. Ask a gotcha theological question right before or after the worship service.
   2. Demand an urgent counseling session, then no-show.
   3. Post a long and negative diatribe on social media about the church without first addressing your concern with leadership.
   4. Without approval, use the church bulletin boards or other communication channels to promote another church’s ministries.
   5. Just disappear one Sunday and never return after serving faithfully for a season.
   6. 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:

Ministry isn’t theoretical. It comes with complex challenges that demand wisdom and clarity.

The Doctor of Ministry at Southern Seminary is designed to help you address those challenges head-on.

You’ll bring a pressing issue from your church into the program and, under the guidance of trusted faculty, develop a biblically grounded plan you can implement in your context.

This is theological depth applied directly to preaching, leadership, counseling, and shepherding.

If you want solutions anchored in God’s Word and built for your church, learn more at sbts.edu/dmin.

• • Ministry brings complex challenges. The DMin at Southern helps you address them with clarity and conviction.
  • Bring a pressing issue from your church into the program and leave with a plan ready to implement.
  • Study under faculty who are trusted scholars and faithful church leaders.
  • Apply theological depth directly to your ministry context.
  • Build a network of peers who share your calling and understand your challenges.
  • Learn more at sbts.edu/dmin

The post The Top Ways to Annoy Your Pastor appeared first on Church Answers.

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.

1. 1. Transgender identification among young adults has declined sharply since 2020.
   2. The drop appears across political, educational, and age groups—not just Gen Z.
   3. Religion remains a significant factor, with religious young adults reporting much lower identification.
   4. 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

• “The Vanishing Church: How the Hollowing Out of Moderate Congregations Is Hurting Democracy, Faith, and Us” by Ryan Burge (affiliate link)

• Church Answers Platinum Membership

• FREE Research Report! New Surprising Insights

• The Hope Initiative

Episode Sponsors:

Most churches aren’t short on vision—they’re stuck on what to do next.

Facility decisions can feel overwhelming, expensive, and risky… Too often, buildings end up working against the ministry instead of for it.

That’s where Brown Church Development Group comes in… They are the Church Facility Experts.

They’ve helped hundreds of churches across the United States find facility solutions that actually fit their ministry style, budget, and long-term plans. From feasibility studies and master planning to architecture and construction, they’re a true one-stop shop for all your church facility needs.

Brown Church Development Group helps churches avoid costly mistakes, gain clarity, and move forward with confidence—without the guesswork.

Whether you’re improving an existing facility or building something new, Brown Church Development Group can help you know exactly what to do next.

• • Proven experience helping churches nationwide.
  • Facility solutions that fit your ministry vision, budget, and long-term growth.
  • A true one stop shop for church facility needs.

Bring the Game to Your Church

• From basketball and cheerleading to soccer, flag football, volleyball, baseball, adult running—and now pickleball for middle and high schoolers—Upward Sports offers leagues for every interest and age. Flexible and family-friendly, these experiences give your church the tools to engage your community, connect families, and create lasting memories. As the world’s largest Christian youth sports organization, partnering with over 1,800 churches nationwide, Upward Sports is ready to help you launch a first-class, organized, and intentional league.
• Learn more at www.Upward.org/ChurchAnswers.

The post The Burge Report: The Latest Data on Transgender Young Adults and the Church appeared first on Church Answers.

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.

1. 1. 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?
   2. 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.
   3. 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.
   4. Best practices: Weekly reports are overkill (and paranoid). An annual check is adequate for most churches.
   5. 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?
   6. 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

Episode Sponsors:

The Doctor of Ministry at Southern Seminary is designed to strengthen both you and your church.

You’ll bring a real challenge from your ministry into the program—and through trusted faculty mentorship and applied theological study, you’ll develop a biblically grounded, practical plan that equips you to implement lasting change in your church.

This is theological scholarship applied where it matters most: your local ministry.

• • Study under faculty mentors who are both scholars and seasoned ministry leaders.
  • Sharpen your thinking, deepen your theology, and lead with clarity.
  • Build a network of peers who share your calling and understand your challenges.

Learn how at sbts.edu/dmin.

The post Tithing Or Not: Should Lead Pastors Know What Church Staff Give? appeared first on Church Answers.

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?

1. 1. The cancellation of outreach programs 30 years ago.
   2. The lack of new equipping mechanisms in the church.
   3. Many churches have lived off the remnants of cultural Christianity for the last three decades.
   4. Transfer growth is more common than other forms of growth.
   5. An increasingly polarized and insular society.

What growing churches actually do:

1. 1. Focus on conversion growth rather than transfer growth.
   2. Create consistent rhythms for outreach (seasonal campaigns, not one-offs).
   3. Build a fun and encouraging culture — joy motivates more than guilt.
   4. Equip people to make inviting normal, not awkward.
   5. Set clear expectations for members through your membership class.
   6. Systematize follow-up with guests through trackers or outreach teams.
   7. 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)

• “The Anxious Generation Goes to Church” by Thom S. Rainer (affiliate link)

• The Hope Initiative

• “7 Basics of Belonging: The Meaning of Church Membership” by Sam Rainer (affiliate link)

• The Complete Membership Class Toolkit

• Church Answers Platinum Membership

• FREE Research Report! New Surprising Insights

Episode Sponsors:

Upward Running for Your Small Group

• Turn your small group into a community on the move! Upward Running helps adults go from the couch to completing a 5K together. You provide the run coach, and we’ll equip them with training plans, resources, and support to lead well. It’s a fun, healthy way to grow relationships, encourage one another, and experience fitness and fellowship together.
• Learn more at Upward.org/Runcoach.

Facilities shouldn’t slow ministry down—but for many churches, they do.

Facility decisions can feel overwhelming, expensive, and risky… Too often, buildings end up working against the ministry instead of for it.

That’s where Brown Church Development Group comes in… They are the Church Facility Experts.

They’ve helped hundreds of churches across the United States find facility solutions that actually fit their ministry style, budget, and long-term plans. From feasibility studies and master planning to architecture and construction, they’re a true one-stop shop for all your church facility needs.

Brown Church Development Group helps churches avoid costly mistakes, gain clarity, and move forward with confidence—without the guesswork.

Whether you’re improving an existing facility or building something new, Brown Church Development Group can help you know exactly what to do next.

• • Proven experience helping churches nationwide.
  • Facility solutions that fit your ministry vision, budget, and long-term growth.
  • A true one stop shop for church facility needs.

The post What Growing Churches Actually Do to Reach and Keep People appeared first on Church Answers.

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:

The Doctor of Ministry at Southern Seminary is designed to strengthen both you and your church.

You’ll bring a real challenge from your ministry into the program—and through trusted faculty mentorship and applied theological study, you’ll develop a biblically grounded, practical plan that equips you to implement lasting change in your church.

This is theological scholarship applied where it matters most: your local ministry.

• • Study under faculty mentors who are both scholars and seasoned ministry leaders.
  • Sharpen your thinking, deepen your theology, and lead with clarity.
  • Build a network of peers who share your calling and understand your challenges.

Learn how at sbts.edu/dmin.

The post Churches Are Targets for Predators (Here’s Why) appeared first on Church Answers.

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.

1. 1. Marriage discipleship strengthens every other ministry. Healthy marriages create healthy homes, and healthy homes produce secure kids, engaged teens, joyful volunteers, and unified congregations.
   2. 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.
   3. 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.
   4. 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!

• Church Answers Platinum Membership

• FREE Research Report! New Surprising Insights

• The Hope Initiative

Episode Sponsors:

If your church building feels like it’s holding ministry back, you’re not alone.

Facility decisions can feel overwhelming, expensive, and risky… Too often, buildings end up working against the ministry instead of for it.

That’s where Brown Church Development Group comes in… They are the Church Facility Experts.

They’ve helped hundreds of churches across the United States find facility solutions that actually fit their ministry style, budget, and long-term plans. From feasibility studies and master planning to architecture and construction, they’re a true one-stop shop for all your church facility needs.

Brown Church Development Group helps churches avoid costly mistakes, gain clarity, and move forward with confidence—without the guesswork.

Whether you’re improving an existing facility or building something new, Brown Church Development Group can help you know exactly what to do next.

• • Proven experience helping churches nationwide.
  • Facility solutions that fit your ministry vision, budget, and long-term growth.
  • A true one stop shop for church facility needs.

Bring the Game to Your Church

• From basketball and cheerleading to soccer, flag football, volleyball, baseball, adult running—and now pickleball for middle and high schoolers—Upward Sports offers leagues for every interest and age. Flexible and family-friendly, these experiences give your church the tools to engage your community, connect families, and create lasting memories. As the world’s largest Christian youth sports organization, partnering with over 1,800 churches nationwide, Upward Sports is ready to help you launch a first-class, organized, and intentional league.
• Learn more at www.Upward.org/ChurchAnswers.

The post Marriage Discipleship Is the Missing Piece in Family Ministry appeared first on Church Answers.

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?

1. 1. An inherent generation gap exists between the church and the community.
   2. Many churches may feel “outdated” due to this age disparity.
   3. Older isn’t necessarily worse, and younger isn’t inherently better, but churches are more likely to grow through younger generations than older ones.
   4. The older the church, the more challenging it becomes to connect with the next generation.
   5. 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:

The Doctor of Ministry at Southern Seminary is designed to strengthen both you and your church.

You’ll bring a real challenge from your ministry into the program—and through trusted faculty mentorship and applied theological study, you’ll develop a biblically grounded, practical plan that equips you to implement lasting change in your church.

This is theological scholarship applied where it matters most: your local ministry.

• • Study under faculty mentors who are both scholars and seasoned ministry leaders.
  • Sharpen your thinking, deepen your theology, and lead with clarity.
  • Build a network of peers who share your calling and understand your challenges.

Learn how at sbts.edu/dmin.

The post Why Churches Are MUCH Older Now… appeared first on Church Answers.

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.

1. 1. 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.
   2. 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.
   3. 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.
   4. 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

• FREE Research Report! New Surprising Insights

• The Hope Initiative

Episode Sponsors:

Upward Running for Your Small Group

• Turn your small group into a community on the move! Upward Running helps adults go from the couch to completing a 5K together. You provide the run coach, and we’ll equip them with training plans, resources, and support to lead well. It’s a fun, healthy way to grow relationships, encourage one another, and experience fitness and fellowship together.
• Learn more at Upward.org/Runcoach.

One wrong facility decision can cost a church years of momentum and millions of dollars.

Facility decisions can feel overwhelming, expensive, and risky… Too often, buildings end up working against the ministry instead of for it.

That’s where Brown Church Development Group comes in… They are the Church Facility Experts.

They’ve helped hundreds of churches across the United States find facility solutions that actually fit their ministry style, budget, and long-term plans. From feasibility studies and master planning to architecture and construction, they’re a true one-stop shop for all your church facility needs.

Brown Church Development Group helps churches avoid costly mistakes, gain clarity, and move forward with confidence—without the guesswork.

Whether you’re improving an existing facility or building something new, Brown Church Development Group can help you know exactly what to do next.

• • Proven experience helping churches nationwide.
  • Facility solutions that fit your ministry vision, budget, and long-term growth.
  • A true one stop shop for church facility needs.

The post Why Guests Don’t Come Back to Church After a Big Ministry Event appeared first on Church Answers.

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.

1. 1. 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.
   2. The financial fallout is staggering: an estimated $14 billion in social costs each year.
   3. What’s especially alarming is the rapid emergence of online gambling and sports betting, now woven into American entertainment.
   4. 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.
   5. Preaching: It’s time to use the pulpit to address the problem.
   6. Benevolence: Some of the best uses of church benevolent funds are to help with counseling services for those who are addicted.
   7. 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

• Church Answers Central

• The Hope Initiative

Episode Sponsors:

Lead Your Church. We’ll Handle the Numbers. 

• • We have decades of experience serving churches across the country. 
  • We’re church accountants who speak your language and understand your mission.
  • Gain clear financial insights to guide your ministry decisions with confidence. 
  • Tailored solutions for churches of every size and stage. 
  • Smart tools that save time and simplify finances so you can focus on ministry. 

Stewardship matters. Your time is precious. We help with both. 

Learn more today at chaneyassociates.com/churchanswers

The Doctor of Ministry at Southern Seminary is designed to strengthen both you and your church.

You’ll bring a real challenge from your ministry into the program—and through trusted faculty mentorship and applied theological study, you’ll develop a biblically grounded, practical plan that equips you to implement lasting change in your church.

This is theological scholarship applied where it matters most: your local ministry.

• • Study under faculty mentors who are both scholars and seasoned ministry leaders.
  • Sharpen your thinking, deepen your theology, and lead with clarity.
  • Build a network of peers who share your calling and understand your challenges.

Learn how at sbts.edu/dmin.

The post America’s Gambling Problem and the Church appeared first on Church Answers.

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.

1. 1. 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.
   2. 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.
   3. 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.
   4. 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

• “The Urgent Need for Smaller Churches” by Thom S. Rainer

• Church Answers Platinum Membership

• FREE Research Report! New Surprising Insights

• The Hope Initiative

Episode Sponsors:

A church building should be your greatest ministry tool… not your biggest headache.

Facility decisions can feel overwhelming, expensive, and risky… Too often, buildings end up working against the ministry instead of for it.

That’s where Brown Church Development Group comes in… They are the Church Facility Experts.

They’ve helped hundreds of churches across the United States find facility solutions that actually fit their ministry style, budget, and long-term plans. From feasibility studies and master planning to architecture and construction, they’re a true one-stop shop for all your church facility needs.

Brown Church Development Group helps churches avoid costly mistakes, gain clarity, and move forward with confidence—without the guesswork.

Whether you’re improving an existing facility or building something new, Brown Church Development Group can help you know exactly what to do next.

• • Proven experience helping churches nationwide.
  • Facility solutions that fit your ministry vision, budget, and long-term growth.
  • A true one stop shop for church facility needs.

Bring the Game to Your Church

• From basketball and cheerleading to soccer, flag football, volleyball, baseball, adult running—and now pickleball for middle and high schoolers—Upward Sports offers leagues for every interest and age. Flexible and family-friendly, these experiences give your church the tools to engage your community, connect families, and create lasting memories. As the world’s largest Christian youth sports organization, partnering with over 1,800 churches nationwide, Upward Sports is ready to help you launch a first-class, organized, and intentional league.
• Learn more at www.Upward.org/ChurchAnswers.

The post Why Small Churches Matter More Than Ever appeared first on Church Answers.

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.

1. 1. Document before you act. Screenshot everything and keep a clean record, especially if the behavior escalates into harassment or requires legal counsel.
   2. 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.
   3. 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.
   4. 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.
   5. 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.
   6. 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

• FREE Research Report! New Surprising Insights

• Church Answers Central

• The Hope Initiative

Episode Sponsors:

The Doctor of Ministry at Southern Seminary is designed to strengthen both you and your church.

You’ll bring a real challenge from your ministry into the program—and through trusted faculty mentorship and applied theological study, you’ll develop a biblically grounded, practical plan that equips you to implement lasting change in your church.

This is theological scholarship applied where it matters most: your local ministry.

• • Study under faculty mentors who are both scholars and seasoned ministry leaders.
  • Sharpen your thinking, deepen your theology, and lead with clarity.
  • Build a network of peers who share your calling and understand your challenges.

Learn how at sbts.edu/dmin.

Lead Your Church. We’ll Handle the Numbers. 

• • We have decades of experience serving churches across the country. 
  • We’re church accountants who speak your language and understand your mission.
  • Gain clear financial insights to guide your ministry decisions with confidence. 
  • Tailored solutions for churches of every size and stage. 
  • Smart tools that save time and simplify finances so you can focus on ministry. 

Stewardship matters. Your time is precious. We help with both. 

Learn more today at chaneyassociates.com/churchanswers

The post When Church Members Become Online Trolls: What Pastors Should Do appeared first on Church Answers.

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.

1. 1. 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. 
   2. 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. 
   3. 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. 
   4. 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

• HelpFinder Bible

• Tyndale House Publishers

• Ryan Burge

• “The Vanishing Church: How the Hollowing Out of Moderate Congregations Is Hurting Democracy, Faith, and Us” by Ryan Burge (affiliate link)

• Church Answers Platinum Membership

• FREE Research Report! New Surprising Insights

• The Hope Initiative

Episode Sponsors:

Upward Running for Your Small Group

• Turn your small group into a community on the move! Upward Running helps adults go from the couch to completing a 5K together. You provide the run coach, and we’ll equip them with training plans, resources, and support to lead well. It’s a fun, healthy way to grow relationships, encourage one another, and experience fitness and fellowship together.
• Learn more at Upward.org/Runcoach.

As ministry leaders, you are walking with people through anxiety, grief, conflict, and big questions every week. The HelpFinder Bible is a simple, practical tool to help you point them to Scripture quickly and confidently.

Its unique HelpFinder Index includes more than 100 life topics—so whether someone is struggling with stress, relationships, or doubt, you can turn straight to relevant verses, helpful notes, and God’s promises that speak to their situation.

It is great for counseling, discipleship, or small groups, and there is even a built-in discussion guide to spark meaningful conversations.

Equip your church with a resource that makes it easier to find God’s answers—right when they need them most. Check out HelpFinderBible.com.

The post The Burge Report: The Assemblies of God: Why This Denomination Is Defying Gravity appeared first on Church Answers.

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.

1. 1. You need a plan. Prayer rarely happens by accident. Both pastors and laypeople benefit from creating intentional rhythms that keep them focused and consistent.
   2. More minutes ≠ more maturity. Time spent praying matters, but the total number of minutes isn’t the ultimate measure of spiritual depth.
   3. Short prayers count. Multiple 10–15 minute prayer windows throughout the day can be as spiritually rich as a single uninterrupted hour.
   4. 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:

Lead Your Church. We’ll Handle the Numbers. 

• • We have decades of experience serving churches across the country. 
  • We’re church accountants who speak your language and understand your mission.
  • Gain clear financial insights to guide your ministry decisions with confidence. 
  • Tailored solutions for churches of every size and stage. 
  • Smart tools that save time and simplify finances so you can focus on ministry. 

Stewardship matters. Your time is precious. We help with both. 

Learn more today at chaneyassociates.com/churchanswers

The Doctor of Ministry at Southern Seminary is designed to strengthen both you and your church.

You’ll bring a real challenge from your ministry into the program—and through trusted faculty mentorship and applied theological study, you’ll develop a biblically grounded, practical plan that equips you to implement lasting change in your church.

This is theological scholarship applied where it matters most: your local ministry.

• • Study under faculty mentors who are both scholars and seasoned ministry leaders.
  • Sharpen your thinking, deepen your theology, and lead with clarity.
  • Build a network of peers who share your calling and understand your challenges.

Learn how at sbts.edu/dmin.

The post How Long Should a Pastor Pray Each Day? appeared first on Church Answers.

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.

1. 1. 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. 
   2. Real-world experience enhances seminary education. Working in a secular job helps future pastors serve congregants who face workplace pressures every day. 
   3. Seminary should not be limited to vocational church staff. A well-educated church is better equipped to make multiplying disciples. 
   4. Seminary does not replace serving in a local church. You can’t book-learn your way into becoming a good pastor. Begin ministering immediately. 
   5. 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. 
   6. 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 Publishers

• Upward Sports

• Wesley Biblical Seminary

• Learn more about the bridge program at Wesley Biblical Seminary

• Church Answers Platinum Membership

• FREE Research Report! New Surprising Insights

• The Hope Initiative

Episode Sponsors:

As ministry leaders, you are walking with people through anxiety, grief, conflict, and big questions every week. The HelpFinder Bible is a simple, practical tool to help you point them to Scripture quickly and confidently.

Its unique HelpFinder Index includes more than 100 life topics—so whether someone is struggling with stress, relationships, or doubt, you can turn straight to relevant verses, helpful notes, and God’s promises that speak to their situation.

It is great for counseling, discipleship, or small groups, and there is even a built-in discussion guide to spark meaningful conversations.

Equip your church with a resource that makes it easier to find God’s answers—right when they need them most. Check out HelpFinderBible.com.

Bring the Game to Your Church

• From basketball and cheerleading to soccer, flag football, volleyball, baseball, adult running—and now pickleball for middle and high schoolers—Upward Sports offers leagues for every interest and age. Flexible and family-friendly, these experiences give your church the tools to engage your community, connect families, and create lasting memories. As the world’s largest Christian youth sports organization, partnering with over 1,800 churches nationwide, Upward Sports is ready to help you launch a first-class, organized, and intentional league.
• Learn more at www.Upward.org/ChurchAnswers.

The post Before You Enroll: What You Need to Know About Seminary appeared first on Church Answers.

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.

1. 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.
2. 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.
3. Most pushback about pastoral visibility comes from non-givers and low-givers. The loudest objections often come from those who are least invested financially.
4. 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.
5. 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.
6. 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.
7. 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

• FREE Research Report! New Surprising Insights

• Church Answers Central

• The Hope Initiative

Episode Sponsors:

Lead Your Church. We’ll Handle the Numbers. 

• • We have decades of experience serving churches across the country. 
  • We’re church accountants who speak your language and understand your mission.
  • Gain clear financial insights to guide your ministry decisions with confidence. 
  • Tailored solutions for churches of every size and stage. 
  • Smart tools that save time and simplify finances so you can focus on ministry. 

Stewardship matters. Your time is precious. We help with both. 

Learn more today at chaneyassociates.com/churchanswers

The Doctor of Ministry at Southern Seminary is designed to strengthen both you and your church.

You’ll bring a real challenge from your ministry into the program—and through trusted faculty mentorship and applied theological study, you’ll develop a biblically grounded, practical plan that equips you to implement lasting change in your church.

This is theological scholarship applied where it matters most: your local ministry.

• • Study under faculty mentors who are both scholars and seasoned ministry leaders.
  • Sharpen your thinking, deepen your theology, and lead with clarity.
  • Build a network of peers who share your calling and understand your challenges.

Learn how at sbts.edu/dmin.

The post Should the Pastor Know How Much People Give to the Church? appeared first on Church Answers.

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.

1. 1. 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.
   2. 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.
   3. Mobility issues, health challenges, the loss of peers, and shifting church priorities all contribute to disengagement.
   4. 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

• Church Growth Services

• “The Silent Exodus of Senior Adults” by Thom S. Rainer

• Ryan Burge

• Church Answers Platinum Membership

• FREE Research Report! New Surprising Insights

• The Hope Initiative

Episode Sponsors:

Upward Running for Your Small Group

• Turn your small group into a community on the move! Upward Running helps adults go from the couch to completing a 5K together. You provide the run coach, and we’ll equip them with training plans, resources, and support to lead well. It’s a fun, healthy way to grow relationships, encourage one another, and experience fitness and fellowship together.
• Learn more at Upward.org/Runcoach.

As ministry leaders, you are walking with people through anxiety, grief, conflict, and big questions every week. The HelpFinder Bible is a simple, practical tool to help you point them to Scripture quickly and confidently.

Its unique HelpFinder Index includes more than 100 life topics—so whether someone is struggling with stress, relationships, or doubt, you can turn straight to relevant verses, helpful notes, and God’s promises that speak to their situation.

It is great for counseling, discipleship, or small groups, and there is even a built-in discussion guide to spark meaningful conversations.

Equip your church with a resource that makes it easier to find God’s answers—right when they need them most. Check out HelpFinderBible.com.

The post The Silent Exodus of Senior Adults (What’s Happening in Churches?) appeared first on Church Answers.

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?

1. 1. There is nothing wrong with using cultural events in the church. But what do you say in the worship service?
   2. Gimmicks can fall flat and be self-defeating.
   3. Since the Super Bowl is in the evening, it could be a high-attendance Sunday. Most people do not travel that weekend.
   4. Don’t show the game at church. Most will want to host others in their homes.
   5. 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:

Lead Your Church. We’ll Handle the Numbers. 

• • We have decades of experience serving churches across the country. 
  • We’re church accountants who speak your language and understand your mission.
  • Gain clear financial insights to guide your ministry decisions with confidence. 
  • Tailored solutions for churches of every size and stage. 
  • Smart tools that save time and simplify finances so you can focus on ministry. 

Stewardship matters. Your time is precious. We help with both. 

Learn more today at chaneyassociates.com/churchanswers

The Doctor of Ministry at Southern Seminary is designed to strengthen both you and your church.

You’ll bring a real challenge from your ministry into the program—and through trusted faculty mentorship and applied theological study, you’ll develop a biblically grounded, practical plan that equips you to implement lasting change in your church.

This is theological scholarship applied where it matters most: your local ministry.

• • Study under faculty mentors who are both scholars and seasoned ministry leaders.
  • Sharpen your thinking, deepen your theology, and lead with clarity.
  • Build a network of peers who share your calling and understand your challenges.

Learn how at sbts.edu/dmin.

The post Should Churches Acknowledge Super Bowl Sunday? appeared first on Church Answers.

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.

1. 1. The Strength of the Personal Invitation
   2. Inviting Is Evangelism 101
   3. Churches That Embrace Invitation Culture Grow
   4. 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:

As ministry leaders, you are walking with people through anxiety, grief, conflict, and big questions every week. The HelpFinder Bible is a simple, practical tool to help you point them to Scripture quickly and confidently.

Its unique HelpFinder Index includes more than 100 life topics—so whether someone is struggling with stress, relationships, or doubt, you can turn straight to relevant verses, helpful notes, and God’s promises that speak to their situation.

It is great for counseling, discipleship, or small groups, and there is even a built-in discussion guide to spark meaningful conversations.

Equip your church with a resource that makes it easier to find God’s answers—right when they need them most. Check out HelpFinderBible.com.

Bring the Game to Your Church

• From basketball and cheerleading to soccer, flag football, volleyball, baseball, adult running—and now pickleball for middle and high schoolers—Upward Sports offers leagues for every interest and age. Flexible and family-friendly, these experiences give your church the tools to engage your community, connect families, and create lasting memories. As the world’s largest Christian youth sports organization, partnering with over 1,800 churches nationwide, Upward Sports is ready to help you launch a first-class, organized, and intentional league.
• Learn more at www.Upward.org/ChurchAnswers.

The post The Church Number: 60% The Power of a Personal Invitation appeared first on Church Answers.

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.

1. 1. Return to reality. Discouragement distorts reality. Discouraged churches often slide into emotional fog: overgeneralizing, catastrophizing, and believing “nothing works.”
   2. Celebrate faithfulness, not just fruit. God measures obedience before outcomes. Celebrate effort, not just results. Faithfulness is success in God’s eyes.
   3. 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

• FREE Research Report! New Surprising Insights

• Church Answers Central

• The Hope Initiative

Episode Sponsors:

If you’re feeling the weight of leadership in today’s unstable world, you’re not alone.

Southern Seminary is offering a free ebook called Leadership in a Chaotic World—written by trusted faculty to equip pastors with biblical clarity, character, and conviction.

It’s a short, practical guide from Dr. Andrew Walker, Dr. Justin Irving, and Dr. Jeremy Pierre to help you lead well in the midst of cultural pressure, spiritual fatigue, and ministry complexity.

Download it for free.

Lead Your Church. We’ll Handle the Numbers. 

• • We have decades of experience serving churches across the country. 
  • We’re church accountants who speak your language and understand your mission.
  • Gain clear financial insights to guide your ministry decisions with confidence. 
  • Tailored solutions for churches of every size and stage. 
  • Smart tools that save time and simplify finances so you can focus on ministry. 

Stewardship matters. Your time is precious. We help with both. 

Learn more today at chaneyassociates.com/churchanswers

The post The Best Ways to Encourage a Discouraged Church (Your Next Three Steps) appeared first on Church Answers.

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?

1. 1. Churches never attain the ideal, but the process is what makes the book impactful.
   2. Simplicity does not mean minimalism. Cutting programs without replacing them with relational pathways can lead to disengagement.
   3. Alignment requires ongoing work.
   4. A church may simplify in one season but drift back into complexity over time. Continual evaluation is essential.
   5. Culture must change, not just calendars.
   6. 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

• Church Answers Platinum Membership

• FREE Research Report! New Surprising Insights

• The Hope Initiative

Episode Sponsors:

Upward Running for Your Small Group

• Turn your small group into a community on the move! Upward Running helps adults go from the couch to completing a 5K together. You provide the run coach, and we’ll equip them with training plans, resources, and support to lead well. It’s a fun, healthy way to grow relationships, encourage one another, and experience fitness and fellowship together.
• Learn more at Upward.org/Runcoach.

• The Rooted experience can help you create a discipleship culture that connects your people and leads to ongoing life change in Jesus. Rooted is…
  • A proven plan for helping people connect to God, their church, and their purpose
  • A sustainable way to launch groups
  • An approach to discipleship that helps people step out of their comfort zones and experience life-changing rhythms of discipleship
  • An opportunity to change the culture of your church
• Visit experiencerooted.com/churchanswers for free resources to help you learn more, including the What is Rooted? video and a free download of the Rooted experience framework and Rooted Workbook sample.

The post Revisiting Simple Church: What Worked, What Didn’t appeared first on Church Answers.

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.

1. 1. Always follow your polity and bylaws, no exceptions.
   2. Don’t delay the inevitable.
   3. Don’t pawn off the difficult conversation to someone else. And have the conversation in person.
   4. Document, document, document.
   5. Show the maximum amount of care and grace you can.
   6. 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:

If you’re feeling the weight of leadership in today’s unstable world, you’re not alone.

Southern Seminary is offering a free ebook called Leadership in a Chaotic World—written by trusted faculty to equip pastors with biblical clarity, character, and conviction.

It’s a short, practical guide from Dr. Andrew Walker, Dr. Justin Irving, and Dr. Jeremy Pierre to help you lead well in the midst of cultural pressure, spiritual fatigue, and ministry complexity.

Download it for free.

Lead Your Church. We’ll Handle the Numbers. 

• • We have decades of experience serving churches across the country. 
  • We’re church accountants who speak your language and understand your mission.
  • Gain clear financial insights to guide your ministry decisions with confidence. 
  • Tailored solutions for churches of every size and stage. 
  • Smart tools that save time and simplify finances so you can focus on ministry. 

Stewardship matters. Your time is precious. We help with both. 

Learn more today at chaneyassociates.com/churchanswers

The post How Do You Fire a Church Employee? appeared first on Church Answers.

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 Congregations Is Hurting Democracy, Faith, and Us” by Ryan Burge (affiliate link)

• “Summer for the Gods: The Scopes Trial and America’s Continuing Debate Over Science and Religion” by Edward Larson (affiliate link)

• Church Answers Platinum Membership

• FREE Research Report! New Surprising Insights

• The Hope Initiative

Episode Sponsors:

• The Rooted experience can help you create a discipleship culture that connects your people and leads to ongoing life change in Jesus. Rooted is…
  • A proven plan for helping people connect to God, their church, and their purpose
  • A sustainable way to launch groups
  • An approach to discipleship that helps people step out of their comfort zones and experience life-changing rhythms of discipleship
  • An opportunity to change the culture of your church
• Visit experiencerooted.com/churchanswers for free resources to help you learn more, including the What is Rooted? video and a free download of the Rooted experience framework and Rooted Workbook sample.

2026 – New Year, Greater Family Impact

A new year is the perfect time to dream bigger, reach farther, and make an even greater impact in your community. Upward Sports isn’t just about the game—it’s about bringing the whole family together.

• • As you plan for 2026, imagine creating experiences that connect kids, parents, and grandparents in a fun, welcoming environment. From cheering on the sidelines to hitting the court or field, every sport is an opportunity to build relationships, strengthen community, and share your church’s message of care and connection.
  • Whether it’s basketball, soccer, flag football, cheerleading, volleyball, baseball, pickleball, or even adult running, Upward Sports equips your church to reach families right in the heart of your neighborhood. All it takes is one passionate leader and a church ready to turn this new year into greater impact.
  • Start today at Upward.org/ChurchAnswers

The post The Burge Report: The Democrats Have a Religion Problem (Does It Matter?) appeared first on Church Answers.

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.

1. 1. 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.
   2. 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.
   3. Is the senior pastor ready to let go? Sometimes, the biggest issue is the difficulties top leaders have delegating to an executive pastor.
   4. 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)

• FREE Research Report! New Surprising Insights

• Church Answers Central

• The Hope Initiative

Episode Sponsors:

If you’re feeling the weight of leadership in today’s unstable world, you’re not alone.

Southern Seminary is offering a free ebook called Leadership in a Chaotic World—written by trusted faculty to equip pastors with biblical clarity, character, and conviction.

It’s a short, practical guide from Dr. Andrew Walker, Dr. Justin Irving, and Dr. Jeremy Pierre to help you lead well in the midst of cultural pressure, spiritual fatigue, and ministry complexity.

Download it for free.

Lead Your Church. We’ll Handle the Numbers. 

• • We have decades of experience serving churches across the country. 
  • We’re church accountants who speak your language and understand your mission.
  • Gain clear financial insights to guide your ministry decisions with confidence. 
  • Tailored solutions for churches of every size and stage. 
  • Smart tools that save time and simplify finances so you can focus on ministry. 

Stewardship matters. Your time is precious. We help with both. 

Learn more today at chaneyassociates.com/churchanswers

The post When Should a Church Hire an Executive Pastor? appeared first on Church Answers.

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.

1. 1. 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.
   2. Screens Can’t Replicate Sanctuaries: True worship is embodied—voices, presence, and shared experience matter. A livestream delivers content but not community.
   3. Distraction Undermines Devotion: At-home worship competes with countless interruptions, reducing focus and engagement compared to gathered worship.
   4. Convenience Leads to Complacency: Online access makes participation easy, but it also weakens commitment and volunteerism.
   5. 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!

• Church Answers Platinum Membership

• FREE Research Report! New Surprising Insights

• The Hope Initiative

Episode Sponsors:

Upward Running for Your Small Group

• Turn your small group into a community on the move! Upward Running helps adults go from the couch to completing a 5K together. You provide the run coach, and we’ll equip them with training plans, resources, and support to lead well. It’s a fun, healthy way to grow relationships, encourage one another, and experience fitness and fellowship together.
• Learn more at Upward.org/Runcoach.

• The Rooted experience can help you create a discipleship culture that connects your people and leads to ongoing life change in Jesus. Rooted is…
  • A proven plan for helping people connect to God, their church, and their purpose
  • A sustainable way to launch groups
  • An approach to discipleship that helps people step out of their comfort zones and experience life-changing rhythms of discipleship
  • An opportunity to change the culture of your church
• Visit experiencerooted.com/churchanswers for free resources to help you learn more, including the What is Rooted? video and a free download of the Rooted experience framework and Rooted Workbook sample.

The post Digital Worship Fatigue: Why Online Church Can’t Replace the In-Person Gathering appeared first on Church Answers.

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.

1. 1. 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.
   2. Emotional Over-Investment in Traditions: Even small church customs can symbolize cherished memories, identity, or heritage—making change feel like a personal loss.
   3. Low-Trust Environments Amplify Small Problems: When trust is lacking, every decision feels suspect. Minor disagreements can quickly spiral into major divisions.
   4. 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.
   5. 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

• Doctor of Ministry, The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary

• Chaney & Associates

• FREE Research Report! New Surprising Insights

• Church Answers Central

• The Hope Initiative

Episode Sponsors:

If you’re feeling the weight of leadership in today’s unstable world, you’re not alone.

Southern Seminary is offering a free ebook called Leadership in a Chaotic World—written by trusted faculty to equip pastors with biblical clarity, character, and conviction.

It’s a short, practical guide from Dr. Andrew Walker, Dr. Justin Irving, and Dr. Jeremy Pierre to help you lead well in the midst of cultural pressure, spiritual fatigue, and ministry complexity.

Download it for free.

Lead Your Church. We’ll Handle the Numbers. 

• • We have decades of experience serving churches across the country. 
  • We’re church accountants who speak your language and understand your mission.
  • Gain clear financial insights to guide your ministry decisions with confidence. 
  • Tailored solutions for churches of every size and stage. 
  • Smart tools that save time and simplify finances so you can focus on ministry. 

Stewardship matters. Your time is precious. We help with both. 

Learn more today at chaneyassociates.com/churchanswers

The post Church Conflict: Five Common Ways Small Fights Turn into Big Problems appeared first on Church Answers.

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.

1. 1. 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.
   2. 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.
   3. Consistency Beats Flash: Regular attendance and steady rhythms of worship build deeper discipleship than occasional big Sundays.
   4. 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 Insights

• The Hope Initiative

Episode Sponsors:

• The Rooted experience can help you create a discipleship culture that connects your people and leads to ongoing life change in Jesus. Rooted is…
  • A proven plan for helping people connect to God, their church, and their purpose
  • A sustainable way to launch groups
  • An approach to discipleship that helps people step out of their comfort zones and experience life-changing rhythms of discipleship
  • An opportunity to change the culture of your church
• Visit experiencerooted.com/churchanswers for free resources to help you learn more, including the What is Rooted? video and a free download of the Rooted experience framework and Rooted Workbook sample.

2026 – New Year, Greater Family Impact

A new year is the perfect time to dream bigger, reach farther, and make an even greater impact in your community. Upward Sports isn’t just about the game—it’s about bringing the whole family together.

• • As you plan for 2026, imagine creating experiences that connect kids, parents, and grandparents in a fun, welcoming environment. From cheering on the sidelines to hitting the court or field, every sport is an opportunity to build relationships, strengthen community, and share your church’s message of care and connection.
  • Whether it’s basketball, soccer, flag football, cheerleading, volleyball, baseball, pickleball, or even adult running, Upward Sports equips your church to reach families right in the heart of your neighborhood. All it takes is one passionate leader and a church ready to turn this new year into greater impact.
  • Start today at Upward.org/ChurchAnswers

The post Does Counting Church Worship Attendance Still Make Sense? appeared first on Church Answers.

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.

1. 1. 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.
   2. Simplify Work: Complexity drains energy. Great leaders take on extra work themselves to make ministry simpler and clearer for their people.
   3. Release Problems: Not every problem can be solved. Wise leaders discern which issues to release rather than forcing solutions that frustrate followers.
   4. Yield Preferences: Humble leaders don’t confuse personal preferences with vision. They invite others into the process and build collective ownership of direction.
   5. 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

• FREE Research Report! New Surprising Insights

• Church Answers Central

• The Hope Initiative

Episode Sponsors:

If you’re feeling the weight of leadership in today’s unstable world, you’re not alone.

Southern Seminary is offering a free ebook called Leadership in a Chaotic World—written by trusted faculty to equip pastors with biblical clarity, character, and conviction.

It’s a short, practical guide from Dr. Andrew Walker, Dr. Justin Irving, and Dr. Jeremy Pierre to help you lead well in the midst of cultural pressure, spiritual fatigue, and ministry complexity.

Download it for free.

Lead Your Church. We’ll Handle the Numbers. 

• • We have decades of experience serving churches across the country. 
  • We’re church accountants who speak your language and understand your mission.
  • Gain clear financial insights to guide your ministry decisions with confidence. 
  • Tailored solutions for churches of every size and stage. 
  • Smart tools that save time and simplify finances so you can focus on ministry. 

Stewardship matters. Your time is precious. We help with both. 

Learn more today at chaneyassociates.com/churchanswers

The post Five Pastoral New Year’s Resolutions that Aren’t About You appeared first on Church Answers.

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.

1. 1. Online worship is supplemental, not a substitute. Attendance in person is still twice as common as online viewing.
   2. Most online participants also attend in person. About 60% of weekly online viewers are regular churchgoers.
   3. 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.
   4. Traditions matter. Black Protestants are the only major group with higher online than in-person attendance, while Catholics overwhelmingly reject online Mass.
   5. 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

• Ryan Burge

• Church Answers Platinum Membership

• FREE Research Report! New Surprising Insights

• The Hope Initiative

Episode Sponsors:

There is something powerful about walking through the Bible at the same time. When everyone is reading the same Scripture each day, conversations change. Hearts open. People feel connected—not just to God, but to each other.

One Year Bibles are designed to guide readers through the entire Bible in 365 days.

• • It is one reading a day, and by the end of the year, you will have gone through the entire Bible together—one body, moving in one direction, through one story.
  • It is more than a reading plan. It is a way to build unity, deepen discipleship, and create shared momentum to know God and each other more.
  • Perfect for small groups, Bible studies, Sunday School classes, and other connection points.

Find a One Year Bible for your community at TheOneYearBible.com.

Upward Running for Your Small Group

• Turn your small group into a community on the move! Upward Running helps adults go from the couch to completing a 5K together. You provide the run coach, and we’ll equip them with training plans, resources, and support to lead well. It’s a fun, healthy way to grow relationships, encourage one another, and experience fitness and fellowship together.
• Learn more at Upward.org/Runcoach.

The post The Burge Report: Who’s Really Watching Online Church? appeared first on Church Answers.

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.

1. 1. 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.
   2. 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.
   3. 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.
   4. 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

• FREE Research Report! New Surprising Insights

• Church Answers Central

• The Hope Initiative

Episode Sponsors:

The Doctor of Ministry at Southern Seminary is designed to strengthen both you and your church.

You’ll bring a real challenge from your ministry into the program—and through trusted faculty mentorship and applied theological study, you’ll develop a biblically grounded, practical plan that equips you to implement lasting change in your church.

This is theological scholarship applied where it matters most: your local ministry.

• • Study under faculty mentors who are both scholars and seasoned ministry leaders.
  • Sharpen your thinking, deepen your theology, and lead with clarity.
  • Build a network of peers who share your calling and understand your challenges.

Learn how at sbts.edu/dmin.

Lead Your Church. We’ll Handle the Numbers. 

• • We have decades of experience serving churches across the country. 
  • We’re church accountants who speak your language and understand your mission.
  • Gain clear financial insights to guide your ministry decisions with confidence. 
  • Tailored solutions for churches of every size and stage. 
  • Smart tools that save time and simplify finances so you can focus on ministry. 

Stewardship matters. Your time is precious. We help with both. 

Learn more today at chaneyassociates.com/churchanswers

The post After the Christmas Chaos: The Lightest Work Week of the Year for Pastors appeared first on Church Answers.

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.

1. 1. 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.
   2. 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.
   3. 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.
   4. 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:

• Upward Sports

• The One Year Bible

• Tyndale House Publishers

• Church Growth Services

• “Religious People Are Happier Than Non-Religious People” by Ryan Burge

• “The Real Facts About Online Church: Who Watches, Who Doesn’t” by Ryan Burge

• “Revival of the Analog Church” by Thom S. Rainer – coming soon!

• “Bowling Alone” by Robert Putnam (affiliate link)

• Church Answers Platinum Membership

• FREE Research Report! New Surprising Insights

• The Hope Initiative

Episode Sponsors:

2026 – New Year, Greater Family Impact

A new year is the perfect time to dream bigger, reach farther, and make an even greater impact in your community. Upward Sports isn’t just about the game—it’s about bringing the whole family together.

• • As you plan for 2026, imagine creating experiences that connect kids, parents, and grandparents in a fun, welcoming environment. From cheering on the sidelines to hitting the court or field, every sport is an opportunity to build relationships, strengthen community, and share your church’s message of care and connection.
  • Whether it’s basketball, soccer, flag football, cheerleading, volleyball, baseball, pickleball, or even adult running, Upward Sports equips your church to reach families right in the heart of your neighborhood. All it takes is one passionate leader and a church ready to turn this new year into greater impact.
  • Start today at Upward.org/ChurchAnswers

There is something powerful about walking through the Bible at the same time. When everyone is reading the same Scripture each day, conversations change. Hearts open. People feel connected—not just to God, but to each other.

One Year Bibles are designed to guide readers through the entire Bible in 365 days.

• • It is one reading a day, and by the end of the year, you will have gone through the entire Bible together—one body, moving in one direction, through one story.
  • It is more than a reading plan. It is a way to build unity, deepen discipleship, and create shared momentum to know God and each other more.
  • Perfect for small groups, Bible studies, Sunday School classes, and other connection points.

Find a One Year Bible for your community at TheOneYearBible.com.

The post Religious People Are Happier (And the Data Proves It) appeared first on Church Answers.

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.

1. 1. 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.
   2. 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.
   3. 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”

• Church Answers Central

• The Hope Initiative

• FREE Research Report! New Surprising Insights

Episode Sponsors:

The Doctor of Ministry at Southern Seminary is designed to strengthen both you and your church.

You’ll bring a real challenge from your ministry into the program—and through trusted faculty mentorship and applied theological study, you’ll develop a biblically grounded, practical plan that equips you to implement lasting change in your church.

This is theological scholarship applied where it matters most: your local ministry.

• • Study under faculty mentors who are both scholars and seasoned ministry leaders.
  • Sharpen your thinking, deepen your theology, and lead with clarity.
  • Build a network of peers who share your calling and understand your challenges.

Learn how at sbts.edu/dmin.

Lead Your Church. We’ll Handle the Numbers. 

• • We have decades of experience serving churches across the country. 
  • We’re church accountants who speak your language and understand your mission.
  • Gain clear financial insights to guide your ministry decisions with confidence. 
  • Tailored solutions for churches of every size and stage. 
  • Smart tools that save time and simplify finances so you can focus on ministry. 

Stewardship matters. Your time is precious. We help with both. 

Learn more today at chaneyassociates.com/churchanswers

The post Unbelievable: 72% of Churches Have No Marriage Ministry! appeared first on Church Answers.

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.

1. 1. 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.
   2. 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.
   3. Affordability is non-negotiable. Half of respondents said cost is a major barrier. Creative financial solutions like payment plans and scholarships are key.
   4. 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

• Tyndale House Publishers

• Upward Sports

• Wesley Biblical Seminary

• Church Answers Platinum Membership

• FREE Research Report! New Surprising Insights

• The Hope Initiative

Episode Sponsors:

There is something powerful about walking through the Bible at the same time. When everyone is reading the same Scripture each day, conversations change. Hearts open. People feel connected—not just to God, but to each other.

One Year Bibles are designed to guide readers through the entire Bible in 365 days.

• • It is one reading a day, and by the end of the year, you will have gone through the entire Bible together—one body, moving in one direction, through one story.
  • It is more than a reading plan. It is a way to build unity, deepen discipleship, and create shared momentum to know God and each other more.
  • Perfect for small groups, Bible studies, Sunday School classes, and other connection points.

Find a One Year Bible for your community at TheOneYearBible.com.

Bring the Game to Your Church

• From basketball and cheerleading to soccer, flag football, volleyball, baseball, adult running—and now pickleball for middle and high schoolers—Upward Sports offers leagues for every interest and age. Flexible and family-friendly, these experiences give your church the tools to engage your community, connect families, and create lasting memories. As the world’s largest Christian youth sports organization, partnering with over 1,800 churches nationwide, Upward Sports is ready to help you launch a first-class, organized, and intentional league.
• Learn more at www.Upward.org/ChurchAnswers.

The post NEW Research: What Really Matters in Theological Education? appeared first on Church Answers.

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.

1. 1. Function over Form. Big-box churches maximize every square foot, using open floor plans for worship, community events, and ministries throughout the week.
   2. 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.
   3. Welcoming and Familiar. The casual, “non-churchy” feel can help visitors relax and engage, especially those intimidated by traditional sanctuaries.
   4. 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

• FREE Research Report! New Surprising Insights

• Church Answers Central

• The Hope Initiative

Episode Sponsors:

The Doctor of Ministry at Southern Seminary is designed to strengthen both you and your church.

You’ll bring a real challenge from your ministry into the program—and through trusted faculty mentorship and applied theological study, you’ll develop a biblically grounded, practical plan that equips you to implement lasting change in your church.

This is theological scholarship applied where it matters most: your local ministry.

• • Study under faculty mentors who are both scholars and seasoned ministry leaders.
  • Sharpen your thinking, deepen your theology, and lead with clarity.
  • Build a network of peers who share your calling and understand your challenges.

Learn how at sbts.edu/dmin.

Lead Your Church. We’ll Handle the Numbers. 

• • We have decades of experience serving churches across the country. 
  • We’re church accountants who speak your language and understand your mission.
  • Gain clear financial insights to guide your ministry decisions with confidence. 
  • Tailored solutions for churches of every size and stage. 
  • Smart tools that save time and simplify finances so you can focus on ministry. 

Stewardship matters. Your time is precious. We help with both. 

Learn more today at chaneyassociates.com/churchanswers

The post Non-Churchy Looking Churches: The Advantages of Big-Box Church Architecture appeared first on Church Answers.

In this episode, we explore why traditional church architecture still resonates deeply with people, even those who rarely attend church. A recent research project found that 90% of Americans want church buildings to be “easily identifiable.” Sam interviews Todd Brown and Isaac Brown of Brown Church Development Group to find out more.

1. 1. Architecture Communicates Theology. Traditional designs (soaring ceilings, stained glass, and symbolic layouts) visually proclaim the transcendence and holiness of God.
   2. Sacred Space Inspires Reverence. Beautiful, enduring architecture invites worshipers to look upward and inward, fostering awe and contemplative worship.
   3. Connection to History. Traditional spaces remind congregations they are part of a story stretching back centuries, anchoring believers in continuity and shared faith.
   4. Beauty as Outreach. Research suggests that even the unchurched and younger generations are drawn to “churchy” spaces. The timeless beauty of sacred architecture can serve as a quiet invitation to explore the gospel.

Traditional architecture has always been more than just design; it’s a visual theology. It shapes how people encounter God and community.

Resources:

• Upward Running

• Upward Sports

• The One Year Bible

• Tyndale House Publishers

• Brown Church Development Group

• Non-Churchy Looking Churches: The Advantages of Big-Box Church Architecture

• Church Answers Platinum Membership

• FREE Research Report! New Surprising Insights

• The Hope Initiative

Episode Sponsors:

Upward Running for Your Small Group

• Turn your small group into a community on the move! Upward Running helps adults go from the couch to completing a 5K together. You provide the run coach, and we’ll equip them with training plans, resources, and support to lead well. It’s a fun, healthy way to grow relationships, encourage one another, and experience fitness and fellowship together.
• Learn more at Upward.org/Runcoach.

There is something powerful about walking through the Bible at the same time. When everyone is reading the same Scripture each day, conversations change. Hearts open. People feel connected—not just to God, but to each other.

One Year Bibles are designed to guide readers through the entire Bible in 365 days.

• • It is one reading a day, and by the end of the year, you will have gone through the entire Bible together—one body, moving in one direction, through one story.
  • It is more than a reading plan. It is a way to build unity, deepen discipleship, and create shared momentum to know God and each other more.
  • Perfect for small groups, Bible studies, Sunday School classes, and other connection points.

Find a One Year Bible for your community at TheOneYearBible.com.

The post Should Churches Look Churchy? The Advantages of Traditional Architecture appeared first on Church Answers.

When a major donor or key financial supporter leaves a church, it can feel personal, unsettling, and even threatening to the ministry’s stability. But pastoral leadership during this moment matters immensely. On this episode, Josh and Sam walk through the practical steps pastors should take when the church’s largest giver steps away.

There is a 15% to 30% annual “churn rate” in just about every church. At some point, the biggest giver will be the one who exits.

1. 1. Don’t panic. But work quickly.
   2. Understand the reason why the key giver is leaving.
   3. Should you work to retain the key giver or not?
   4. Don’t take anything personally. Focus on fixing any potential problems.
   5. Understand the impact on your cash flow.
   6. What is the pattern of their giving: weekly, annually, or monthly?
   7. Do you need to make mid-year budget changes?
   8. Use your polity to your advantage.
   9. Communicate clearly with your church and allow others to fill the gaps.
   10. Trust God’s provision above anything else.

Resources:

• Doctor of Ministry, The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary

• Chaney & Associates

• Church Answers University

• FREE Research Report! New Surprising Insights

• Church Answers Central

• The Hope Initiative

Episode Sponsors:

The Doctor of Ministry at Southern Seminary is designed to strengthen both you and your church.

You’ll bring a real challenge from your ministry into the program—and through trusted faculty mentorship and applied theological study, you’ll develop a biblically grounded, practical plan that equips you to implement lasting change in your church.

This is theological scholarship applied where it matters most: your local ministry.

• • Study under faculty mentors who are both scholars and seasoned ministry leaders.
  • Sharpen your thinking, deepen your theology, and lead with clarity.
  • Build a network of peers who share your calling and understand your challenges.

Learn how at sbts.edu/dmin.

Lead Your Church. We’ll Handle the Numbers. 

• • We have decades of experience serving churches across the country. 
  • We’re church accountants who speak your language and understand your mission.
  • Gain clear financial insights to guide your ministry decisions with confidence. 
  • Tailored solutions for churches of every size and stage. 
  • Smart tools that save time and simplify finances so you can focus on ministry. 

Stewardship matters. Your time is precious. We help with both. 

Learn more today at chaneyassociates.com/churchanswers

The post How to Handle Losing Your Church’s Biggest Financial Supporter appeared first on Church Answers.

God has done something remarkable at First Baptist Church in Caldwell, NJ. They have limited space and limited parking. However, through Upward Sports, the church has developed a large outreach ministry within the community. Hundreds of children participate, and the church is reaching people from diverse backgrounds. Sam interviews Pastor Travis Clark to reveal exactly what happened.

Resources:

• The One Year Bible

• Tyndale House Publishers

• Upward Sports

• First Baptist Church (Caldwell, NJ)

• Church Answers Platinum Membership

• FREE Research Report! New Surprising Insights

• The Hope Initiative

Episode Sponsors:

There is something powerful about walking through the Bible at the same time. When everyone is reading the same Scripture each day, conversations change. Hearts open. People feel connected—not just to God, but to each other.

One Year Bibles are designed to guide readers through the entire Bible in 365 days.

• • It is one reading a day, and by the end of the year, you will have gone through the entire Bible together—one body, moving in one direction, through one story.
  • It is more than a reading plan. It is a way to build unity, deepen discipleship, and create shared momentum to know God and each other more.
  • Perfect for small groups, Bible studies, Sunday School classes, and other connection points.

Find a One Year Bible for your community at TheOneYearBible.com.

2026 – New Year, Greater Family Impact

A new year is the perfect time to dream bigger, reach farther, and make an even greater impact in your community. Upward Sports isn’t just about the game—it’s about bringing the whole family together.

• • As you plan for 2026, imagine creating experiences that connect kids, parents, and grandparents in a fun, welcoming environment. From cheering on the sidelines to hitting the court or field, every sport is an opportunity to build relationships, strengthen community, and share your church’s message of care and connection.
  • Whether it’s basketball, soccer, flag football, cheerleading, volleyball, baseball, pickleball, or even adult running, Upward Sports equips your church to reach families right in the heart of your neighborhood. All it takes is one passionate leader and a church ready to turn this new year into greater impact.
  • Start today at Upward.org/ChurchAnswers

The post Small-Church Breakout Growth: The Incredible Story of First Baptist Caldwell, NJ appeared first on Church Answers.

Most of the time, church hopping for convenience (better music, cooler programs, or a coffee bar) reveals more about our consumer culture than about spiritual growth. But Sam and Josh explain that there are also good, biblical, and even necessary reasons to leave one church for another.

1. 1. Geography – When you move to a new city or neighborhood, find and commit to a local church where you can serve and be known.
   2. Theology – If your church changes its beliefs, or you come to hold different convictions, it may be wise to join a congregation that aligns with your understanding of Scripture.
   3. Family – Families grow stronger when they worship together. Whether it’s a blended family or aging parents moving in, unity in one church matters.
   4. Abandonment – Sadly, some believers are pushed out or mistreated. If that happens, seeking a healthy, gospel-centered church is not wrong. It’s healing.
   5. Life Stage – As life changes, so can your church needs. Proximity, health, or family rhythms can make another congregation the better fit.

Leaving a church should never be casual, but sometimes, it’s faithful. In this episode, the co-hosts remind everyone that the goal isn’t to chase comfort but to stay rooted where God can use you and your family for kingdom growth.

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

• Join Platinum for 1-on-1 and group coaching with Sam. Email sam@churchanswers.com

• FREE Research Report! New Surprising Insights

• Church Answers Central

• The Hope Initiative

Episode Sponsors:

If you’re feeling the weight of leadership in today’s unstable world, you’re not alone.

Southern Seminary is offering a free ebook called Leadership in a Chaotic World—written by trusted faculty to equip pastors with biblical clarity, character, and conviction.

It’s a short, practical guide from Dr. Andrew Walker, Dr. Justin Irving, and Dr. Jeremy Pierre to help you lead well in the midst of cultural pressure, spiritual fatigue, and ministry complexity.

Download it for free.

The post Why You Should Leave Your Church (A Pastor’s Perspective) appeared first on Church Answers.

In this episode, Sam and Ryan Burge discuss how pastors become pastors. Using data from the National Survey of Religious Leaders, the cohosts reveal that clergy often come to ministry through winding, unconventional paths—many after careers in other fields. Far from being single-focused, pastors frequently juggle multiple responsibilities: leading congregations, working as chaplains, and even holding non-ministry jobs. The numbers reveal both the beauty and burden of this calling: most clergy work 50+ hours a week, with a quarter clocking over 60. Yet despite financial pressures and demanding schedules, these leaders remain deeply committed to serving their communities and churches.

1. 1. Unconventional Paths to Ministry: Two-thirds of clergy had another career before entering ministry, highlighting that few go directly from Bible college or seminary into full-time leadership.
   2. Rising Through the Ranks: About a quarter of clergy were already on staff at their congregation before becoming the senior leader, and one in five began as lay members before stepping into paid roles.
   3. Bi-Vocational Realities: Nearly one-third of clergy hold outside jobs, often out of financial necessity. Others serve multiple congregations or work as chaplains in hospitals, schools, prisons, or nursing homes.
   4. The Income Factor: Clergy earning under $50,000 per year are much more likely to seek outside work, but once they cross that threshold, side jobs drop dramatically as full-time ministry with benefits becomes possible.
   5. The Heavy Workload: On average, clergy work 47–50 hours a week across all roles, and a significant share—about 25%—report working 60 hours or more.

Resources:

• Rooted

• Upward Sports

• “The Many Jobs of a Religious Leader” by Ryan Burge

• Ryan Burge

• Church Answers Platinum Membership

• FREE Research Report! New Surprising Insights

• The Hope Initiative

Episode Sponsors:

• The Rooted experience can help you create a discipleship culture that connects your people and leads to ongoing life change in Jesus. Rooted is…
  • A proven plan for helping people connect to God, their church, and their purpose
  • A sustainable way to launch groups
  • An approach to discipleship that helps people step out of their comfort zones and experience life-changing rhythms of discipleship
  • An opportunity to change the culture of your church
• Visit experiencerooted.com/churchanswers for free resources to help you learn more, including the What is Rooted? video and a free download of the Rooted experience framework and Rooted Workbook sample.

Start Preparing Now for 2026! Sports that Bring People Together.

• Start preparing now for 2026 with sports that bring people together! As you look ahead to what’s next in your ministry, consider creating an outreach strategy that offers a warm invitation to the whole family—using sports as that natural and powerful invite. Whether it’s basketball, soccer, flag football, cheerleading, volleyball, baseball, pickleball, or even running for adults, Upward Sports is ready to equip your church to reach families right in the heart of your community. All it takes is one passionate leader and a church ready to make an impact.
• Learn more at www.Upward.org/ChurchAnswers.

The post The Burge Report: How Do Pastors Actually End Up in Ministry? appeared first on Church Answers.

One of the more painful aspects of ministry is losing church members. Sometimes these departures are for good reasons, like moving to another town or planting a church. More often than not, pastors struggle with the reasons why people leave. Josh and Sam discuss why pastors experience pain with the loss of members, and they explore some ways to cope with the accompanying sadness.

1. 1. When people leave the church, it feels personal because it often is.
   2. Most pastors genuinely love their church members, even the difficult ones.
   3. The time invested in people can feel like a waste when they leave for petty reasons.
   4. Morale often drops when well-known people exit.
   5. Pastors fear others will follow the lead of those who left.

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

• Join Platinum for 1-on-1 and group coaching with Sam. Email sam@churchanswers.com

• FREE Research Report! New Surprising Insights

• Church Answers Central

• The Hope Initiative

Episode Sponsors:

If you’re feeling the weight of leadership in today’s unstable world, you’re not alone.

Southern Seminary is offering a free ebook called Leadership in a Chaotic World—written by trusted faculty to equip pastors with biblical clarity, character, and conviction.

It’s a short, practical guide from Dr. Andrew Walker, Dr. Justin Irving, and Dr. Jeremy Pierre to help you lead well in the midst of cultural pressure, spiritual fatigue, and ministry complexity.

Download it for free.

The post The Top Reasons Why It’s Painful for Pastors to Lose Church Members appeared first on Church Answers.

In this episode, Sam interviews Tim Byer, pastor of FAITH in Glen Burnie, MD, to hear how his congregation is making a real impact in their community. Pastor Tim shares the story of how his church began using VisitorReach, a tool designed to connect churches with first-time guests and neighbors. What started as a simple outreach effort has become a powerful way to build relationships, welcome new families, and share the hope of Christ in Baltimore.

Resources:

• Rooted

• Upward Sports

• Upward Running

• FAITH

• VisitorReach

• Church Answers Platinum Membership

• FREE Research Report! New Surprising Insights

• The Hope Initiative

Episode Sponsors:

• The Rooted experience can help you create a discipleship culture that connects your people and leads to ongoing life change in Jesus. Rooted is…
  • A proven plan for helping people connect to God, their church, and their purpose
  • A sustainable way to launch groups
  • An approach to discipleship that helps people step out of their comfort zones and experience life-changing rhythms of discipleship
  • An opportunity to change the culture of your church
• Visit experiencerooted.com/churchanswers for free resources to help you learn more, including the What is Rooted? video and a free download of the Rooted experience framework and Rooted Workbook sample.

Upward Running for Adults: Your Church’s Next Step in Outreach

• Offer a 5K Challenge for adults at your church (engage your adults in 2026): Inspire your congregation and engage your community with a meaningful running ministry. Upward provides:
  • Tailored training plans to help your runner or walkers move from the couch to completing a 5k.
  • Access to the new RunClub app for tracking progress and building community.
  • A fully customizable program that fits your church’s timeline — all led by your run coach who will be fully equipped with the Upward Running materials to lead.
• Simple to Start: With just one passionate leader and no facility needed, your church parking lot can become the starting line for life transformation.
• Build Stronger Connections: Use running to foster relationships, promote healthy habits, and grow spiritually while expanding your church’s impact.
• Upward Sports is ready to help you start this at your church: Visit Upward.org/Runcoach to get started today!

The post An Entrepreneurial-Minded Pastor in an Established Church: The Unique Story of a Baltimore Congregation appeared first on Church Answers.

In this episode, Sam interviews Michael Kelley of the Rooted Network. They discuss three essentials that every great small group leader should consistently practice. These simple but powerful habits can transform any group into a place of authentic community and spiritual growth.

1. 1. Guide more than lecture: By listening well and encouraging dialogue, small group leaders can create environments where people are more engaged.
   2. Share group responsibilities: Assign key weekly tasks to people in the group: hospitality, food, follow-up, prayer, service projects. When everyone has ownership, development and growth in the group occurs more quickly.
   3. Leverage the before and after time: Life-changing conversations often happen in the margins, before and after the meeting. Wise leaders show up early, stay late, and invest in those relational moments.

Check out this Rooted article from Chad Cronin.

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

• “3 Essential Practices of Every Great Small Group Leader” by Chad Cronin

• FREE Research Report! New Surprising Insights

• Church Answers Central

• The Hope Initiative

Episode Sponsors:

If you’re feeling the weight of leadership in today’s unstable world, you’re not alone.

Southern Seminary is offering a free ebook called Leadership in a Chaotic World—written by trusted faculty to equip pastors with biblical clarity, character, and conviction.

It’s a short, practical guide from Dr. Andrew Walker, Dr. Justin Irving, and Dr. Jeremy Pierre to help you lead well in the midst of cultural pressure, spiritual fatigue, and ministry complexity.

Download it for free.

The post Three Things Every Church Small Group Leader Should Be Doing appeared first on Church Answers.

The reality is that growing generosity doesn’t require a big program or complex strategy. It requires simplicity. Specifically, one simple principle: communicate, communicate, communicate, communicate. Mike Stadelmayer of Church Growth Services joins Sam on the show to discuss some simple ways you can grow generosity in your church.

1. 1. Communicate Gratitude — Say thank you often. Express genuine appreciation for your congregation’s giving, whether you’re over or under budget. Gratitude inspires faithfulness.
   2. Communicate Ministry Impact — Tell stories of ministries that exist because of generosity. Connect giving to tangible outcomes in the life of your church.
   3. Communicate Life Change — Highlight stories of transformation: a salvation, a restored marriage, a person helped. These moments show the spiritual return on investment.
   4. Communicate the Word — Ground every message in Scripture. Follow Paul’s example of thanking, encouraging, and celebrating believers for their faithfulness and impact.

The bottom line: you don’t need a new committee or a glossy campaign. Just keep it simple, keep it biblical, and keep communicating. Generosity grows when gratitude and stories flow freely.

Resources:

• Rooted

• Upward Sports

• Church Growth Services

• Brown Church Development Group

• Church Answers Platinum Membership

• FREE Research Report! New Surprising Insights

• The Hope Initiative

Episode Sponsors:

• The Rooted experience can help you create a discipleship culture that connects your people and leads to ongoing life change in Jesus. Rooted is…
  • A proven plan for helping people connect to God, their church, and their purpose
  • A sustainable way to launch groups
  • An approach to discipleship that helps people step out of their comfort zones and experience life-changing rhythms of discipleship
  • An opportunity to change the culture of your church
• Visit experiencerooted.com/churchanswers for free resources to help you learn more, including the What is Rooted? video and a free download of the Rooted experience framework and Rooted Workbook sample.

Start Preparing Now for 2026! Sports that Bring People Together.

• Start preparing now for 2026 with sports that bring people together! As you look ahead to what’s next in your ministry, consider creating an outreach strategy that offers a warm invitation to the whole family—using sports as that natural and powerful invite. Whether it’s basketball, soccer, flag football, cheerleading, volleyball, baseball, pickleball, or even running for adults, Upward Sports is ready to equip your church to reach families right in the heart of your community. All it takes is one passionate leader and a church ready to make an impact.
• Learn more at www.Upward.org/ChurchAnswers.

The post How to Grow Generosity in Your Church (Without Making It Complicated) appeared first on Church Answers.

Why don’t unchurched people attend church? It’s not because they’re mad or too busy. The top reason is simple: they just don’t see the point. Indifference is the enemy of engagement. In today’s episode, Josh and Sam share why that’s actually good news—and how the combination of spiritual conviction and a personal invitation can break through the apathy.

1. 1. Don’t argue with indifference—disrupt it with love and presence.
   2. Personal invitations still work and remain the #1 reason people attend.
   3. Start with a relationship, not a program.
   4. Pray for spiritual openness—then act on it with intentionality.

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

• Join Platinum for 1-on-1 and group coaching with Sam. Email sam@churchanswers.com

• FREE Research Report! New Surprising Insights

• Church Answers Central

• The Hope Initiative

Episode Sponsors:

If you’re feeling the weight of leadership in today’s unstable world, you’re not alone.

Southern Seminary is offering a free ebook called Leadership in a Chaotic World—written by trusted faculty to equip pastors with biblical clarity, character, and conviction.

It’s a short, practical guide from Dr. Andrew Walker, Dr. Justin Irving, and Dr. Jeremy Pierre to help you lead well in the midst of cultural pressure, spiritual fatigue, and ministry complexity.

Download it for free.

The post The Unchurched Are Not Angry with You (But They Are Indifferent) appeared first on Church Answers.

Since 2000, one of the most reliable sources of data on congregations in America has been the Faith Communities Today study, often referred to as FACT. It’s been conducted every five years, with the most recent survey in 2023 representing tens of thousands of congregations across every major faith tradition.

The FACT research gives us a clear picture of what the ‘typical’ church looks like over time. And here’s one of the most striking trends: in 2000, the median church in America had 137 people in attendance at weekly worship services. By 2023, that number had dropped to just 60. Today, Sam and Thom will talk about what that shift means for pastors, leaders, and the future of congregations.

Resources:

• Rooted

• Upward Sports

• Upward Running

• FACT 2023 Summary Reports

• “The Surprising Return of the Neighborhood Church: Discover How Your Church Is Primed to Reach Your Neighbors” by Sam Rainer (affiliate link)

• Church Answers Platinum Membership

• FREE Research Report! New Surprising Insights

• The Hope Initiative

Episode Sponsors:

• The Rooted experience can help you create a discipleship culture that connects your people and leads to ongoing life change in Jesus. Rooted is…
  • A proven plan for helping people connect to God, their church, and their purpose
  • A sustainable way to launch groups
  • An approach to discipleship that helps people step out of their comfort zones and experience life-changing rhythms of discipleship
  • An opportunity to change the culture of your church
• Visit experiencerooted.com/churchanswers for free resources to help you learn more, including the What is Rooted? video and a free download of the Rooted experience framework and Rooted Workbook sample.

Upward Running for Adults: Your Church’s Next Step in Outreach

• Offer a 5K Challenge for adults at your church (engage your adults in 2026): Inspire your congregation and engage your community with a meaningful running ministry. Upward provides:
  • Tailored training plans to help your runner or walkers move from the couch to completing a 5k.
  • Access to the new RunClub app for tracking progress and building community.
  • A fully customizable program that fits your church’s timeline — all led by your run coach who will be fully equipped with the Upward Running materials to lead.
• Simple to Start: With just one passionate leader and no facility needed, your church parking lot can become the starting line for life transformation.
• Build Stronger Connections: Use running to foster relationships, promote healthy habits, and grow spiritually while expanding your church’s impact.
• Upward Sports is ready to help you start this at your church: Visit Upward.org/Runcoach to get started today!

The post The Church Number: From 137 to 60 The Shrinking Median Church in America (2000–2023) appeared first on Church Answers.

Sam interviews Tim Cool of Smart Church Solutions to dig into a hidden but pressing crisis facing many North American churches: deferred maintenance. Too often, churches delay costly but necessary facility repairs until the problems become overwhelming. This pattern of neglect can saddle pastors with impossible burdens and even push congregations toward closure. Yet, church buildings remain vital assets for kingdom work, providing gathering spaces, anchoring communities, and making ministry possible. We’ll explore both the challenges of sticker shock and practical strategies for churches to get ahead of the curve—budgeting wisely, prioritizing projects, and cultivating generosity that keeps facilities vibrant for generations.

• • The Hidden Cost of Delay: Deferred maintenance is often ignored until it becomes catastrophic. Sticker shock from million-dollar HVAC replacements or six-figure roof repairs can cripple a congregation’s future.
  • Facilities as Kingdom Assets: Church buildings aren’t just expenses; they’re strategic tools for ministry. Their visibility, accessibility, and welcoming environment play a direct role in evangelism and discipleship.
  • The Pastor’s Burden: Neglected campuses can wear pastors down, distracting them from ministry and overwhelming them with constant facility crises.
  • Practical Solutions Churches Can Implement: Create a budget line for deferred maintenance, prioritize projects quarterly, use surpluses strategically, and celebrate visible progress to inspire generosity.
  • The Role of Ongoing Generosity: Encourage members to give consistently to a building fund, alongside the operating budget and missions giving, to sustain the church’s facilities long term.

Resources:

• Doctor of Ministry, The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary

• Smart Church Solutions

• Smart Church Solutions, Resources

• “Facility Management Devotional: A Year-Long Practical Guide” by Tim Cool, Nathan Parr, and Patrick Hart (affiliate link)

• FREE Research Report! New Surprising Insights

• Church Answers Central

• The Hope Initiative

Episode Sponsors:

The Doctor of Ministry at Southern Seminary is designed to strengthen both you and your church.

You’ll bring a real challenge from your ministry into the program—and through trusted faculty mentorship and applied theological study, you’ll develop a biblically grounded, practical plan that equips you to implement lasting change in your church.

This is theological scholarship applied where it matters most: your local ministry.

• • Study under faculty mentors who are both scholars and seasoned ministry leaders.
  • Sharpen your thinking, deepen your theology, and lead with clarity.
  • Build a network of peers who share your calling and understand your challenges.

Learn how at sbts.edu/dmin.

Looking for a better way to manage your church or school facilities?

eSPACE is the leading facility management software built specifically for churches.

It helps you schedule events, manage work orders, and track assets – all in one place.

You can even automate things like HVAC and door access to save time and money.

Trusted by over 1,250 organizations – including some of the largest churches in the country.

If you’re tired of spreadsheets, sticky notes, or last-minute maintenance emergencies, it’s time to check out eSPACE.

Learn more and book a personalized demo at smartchurchsolutions.com/rainer/.

The post Many Churches Face Future Sticker Shock with Deferred Maintenance appeared first on Church Answers.

Sam and Ryan Burge take a deep dive into the Presbyterian Church in America (PCA), unpacking the denomination’s unique growth patterns, size distribution, and robust recordkeeping. They explore surprising statistics on membership trends, baptisms, and church finances—revealing why some PCA congregations thrive while others remain stagnant. The co-hosts highlight key takeaways for understanding both the strengths and challenges of one of America’s most data-rich evangelical denominations.

1. 1. High Data Compliance and Transparency – Nearly 90% of PCA churches submitted membership and financial data within the last three years, making their statistics unusually reliable compared to other denominations.
   2. Outsized Influence – The PCA has a significant presence on social media and a large-scale influence on evangelical Christians through their pastors and leaders (e.g., Tim Keller).
   3. Strong Growth but Uneven Distribution – While the PCA adds 1.5–2% to its membership rolls annually, growth is concentrated in larger churches, with many smaller congregations stagnant or declining.
   4. Predominantly Small to Mid-Sized Churches – The median PCA church has 117 members, and roughly 75% have 250 or fewer, mirroring national church size trends.
   5. Mixed Baptism Trends – About one-third of PCA churches had zero adult baptisms last year, and nearly half had fewer than three infant baptisms, signaling challenges in evangelism and retention.
   6. Financial Realities – Church income strongly correlates with size, averaging about $3,500 in additional annual income per new member, but with notable outliers in both wealth and scarcity.

Resources:

• Upward Sports

• Upward Sports: Pickleball

• Life Application Study Bible

• Church Connect

• Tyndale House Publishers

• “A Deep Dive into the Presbyterian Church in America” by Ryan Burge

• Ryan Burge

• “The American Religious Landscape” by Ryan Burge (affiliate link)

• Church Answers Platinum Membership

• FREE Research Report! New Surprising Insights

• The Hope Initiative

Episode Sponsors:

A Variety of Sports for Every Church. From basketball, cheerleading, soccer, flag football, volleyball, and baseball to running for adults — and now pickleball — Upward Sports offers flexible league options to fit your church’s unique needs.

Exciting News: Did you hear? Pickleball is the newest offering – Claim your TWO free net sets, while supplies last! Launched in April, pickleball is perfect for middle and high schoolers — easy to learn, quick to set up, and highly engaging. Whether you prefer a traditional league or a flexible practice-and-play format, Upward Sports is here to guide you. Plus, to help you get started, Upward is offering two free Pickleball Net Sets when you create your league. But act fast — only 200 sets are available! Schedule your call today and build a purposeful pickleball ministry in your community. Learn more at www.Upward.org/Pickleball where you can access an equipment list, court dimensions, and more.

Be the Neighborhood Church. Want to create a welcoming space for families? Upward Sports provides a first-class, well-organized, and fun league experience. As a self-sustaining ministry, any church — big or small — can get started. Customize your outreach ministry today.

Learn more at www.Upward.org/ChurchAnswers.

Experience profound transformation as you encounter God through the pages of the Life Application Study Bible. Bible engagement is not just about knowing Scripture; it’s about living it out! The Life Application Study Bible deepens your connection with God and inspires a transformed life through a growing relationship with Christ.

Crafted by dedicated scholars and pastors, the Life Application Study Bible is filled with thousands of study resources that increase understanding so you can experience Scripture’s life-changing power. For readers from nine to ninety and beyond, the Life Application Study Bible is designed to help you find true heart transformation.

Learn more here.

The post The Burge Report: The Biggest Little Denomination: The Presbyterian Church in America (PCA) appeared first on Church Answers.

Many pastors and church leaders face a common challenge: how to develop an effective communications strategy when you don’t have a big team to help you. Julie Masson, church communications expert, joins Sam on the show to discuss a simple, repeatable approach to managing church communications without burning out. You’ll learn how to build a messaging calendar around the predictable rhythms of church life—like Easter, Christmas, and the fall ministry launch—and how that calendar can help you stay ahead, reduce stress, and communicate with clarity and consistency. With this plan, you will hear fewer comments like “I didn’t hear about that” and more comments like “thanks for letting me know.”

Resources:

• Smart Church Solutions

• Doctor of Ministry, The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary

• Julie Masson

• FREE Research Report! New Surprising Insights

• Church Answers Central

• The Hope Initiative

Episode Sponsors:

Looking for a better way to manage your church or school facilities?

eSPACE is the leading facility management software built specifically for churches.

It helps you schedule events, manage work orders, and track assets – all in one place.

You can even automate things like HVAC and door access to save time and money.

Trusted by over 1,250 organizations – including some of the largest churches in the country.

If you’re tired of spreadsheets, sticky notes, or last-minute maintenance emergencies, it’s time to check out eSPACE.

Learn more and book a personalized demo at smartchurchsolutions.com/rainer/.

The Doctor of Ministry at Southern Seminary is designed to strengthen both you and your church.

You’ll bring a real challenge from your ministry into the program—and through trusted faculty mentorship and applied theological study, you’ll develop a biblically grounded, practical plan that equips you to implement lasting change in your church.

This is theological scholarship applied where it matters most: your local ministry.

• • Study under faculty mentors who are both scholars and seasoned ministry leaders.
  • Sharpen your thinking, deepen your theology, and lead with clarity.
  • Build a network of peers who share your calling and understand your challenges.

Learn how at sbts.edu/dmin.

The post The One-Person Church Communication Plan (That Actually Works) appeared first on Church Answers.

Sam welcomes Amanda Jass to the Rainer on Leadership podcast. Amanda serves as the general editor for the NLT GO Bible and is a gifted writer, editor, illustrator, and encourager. She has a passion for creating content for all ages, with a special focus on resources for kids and families.

• • Why is it important for multiple generations to read God’s Word together?
  • In a time when generations often seem at odds, how can churches model a better way?
  • How can the New Living Translation and resources like the GO Bible help foster multigenerational relationships?
  • Children’s ministry is sometimes viewed as “less than” or simply something we have to do. How can we change that perception—and why does it matter?
  • Why is it important to model Bible reading and study for kids, and what are the benefits of doing it in community?

Resources:

• Kids GO Bible

• Amanda Jass

• Life Application Study Bible

• Church Connect

• Tyndale House Publishers

• Upward Sports

• Upward Sports: Pickleball

• Church Answers Platinum Membership

• FREE Research Report! New Surprising Insights

• The Hope Initiative

Episode Sponsors:

Experience profound transformation as you encounter God through the pages of the Life Application Study Bible. Bible engagement is not just about knowing Scripture; it’s about living it out! The Life Application Study Bible deepens your connection with God and inspires a transformed life through a growing relationship with Christ.

Crafted by dedicated scholars and pastors, the Life Application Study Bible is filled with thousands of study resources that increase understanding so you can experience Scripture’s life-changing power. For readers from nine to ninety and beyond, the Life Application Study Bible is designed to help you find true heart transformation.

Learn more here.

Start Preparing Now for 2026! Looking ahead to what’s next in your ministry? Create an outreach strategy that includes a warm invite for the whole family – use sports as that invite. Whether it’s basketball, soccer, flag football, cheerleading, volleyball, baseball, pickleball, or running for adults, Upward Sports is ready to support your church in reaching families right in the heart of your community. All you need is access to a gym or field and one passionate leader — Upward will support you with the rest.

A Variety of Sports for Every Church. From basketball, cheerleading, soccer, flag football, volleyball, and baseball to running for adults — and now pickleball — Upward Sports offers flexible league options to fit your church’s unique needs.

Exciting News: Did you hear? Pickleball is the newest offering – Claim your TWO free net sets, while supplies last! Launched in April, pickleball is perfect for middle and high schoolers — easy to learn, quick to set up, and highly engaging. Whether you prefer a traditional league or a flexible practice-and-play format, Upward Sports is here to guide you. Plus, to help you get started, Upward is offering two free Pickleball Net Sets when you create your league. But act fast — only 200 sets are available! Schedule your call today and build a purposeful pickleball ministry in your community. Learn more at www.Upward.org/Pickleball where you can access an equipment list, court dimensions, and more.

Be the Neighborhood Church. Want to create a welcoming space for families? Upward Sports provides a first-class, well-organized, and fun league experience. As a self-sustaining ministry, any church — big or small — can get started. Customize your outreach ministry today.

Learn more at www.Upward.org/ChurchAnswers.

The post How to Get Families in Your Church to Read the Bible Together appeared first on Church Answers.

• • Nursery workers
  • People rolling off of teams or committees
  • First-time givers (and longtime faith givers)
  • Custodians and those who help clean the facility
  • Small group leaders
  • Staff spouses

Resources:

• Doctor of Ministry, The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary

• Smart Church Solutions

• FREE Research Report! New Surprising Insights

• Church Answers Central

• The Hope Initiative

Episode Sponsors:

The Doctor of Ministry at Southern Seminary is designed to strengthen both you and your church.

You’ll bring a real challenge from your ministry into the program—and through trusted faculty mentorship and applied theological study, you’ll develop a biblically grounded, practical plan that equips you to implement lasting change in your church.

This is theological scholarship applied where it matters most: your local ministry.

• • Study under faculty mentors who are both scholars and seasoned ministry leaders.
  • Sharpen your thinking, deepen your theology, and lead with clarity.
  • Build a network of peers who share your calling and understand your challenges.

Learn how at sbts.edu/dmin.

Looking for a better way to manage your church or school facilities?

eSPACE is the leading facility management software built specifically for churches.

It helps you schedule events, manage work orders, and track assets – all in one place.

You can even automate things like HVAC and door access to save time and money.

Trusted by over 1,250 organizations – including some of the largest churches in the country.

If you’re tired of spreadsheets, sticky notes, or last-minute maintenance emergencies, it’s time to check out eSPACE.

Learn more and book a personalized demo at smartchurchsolutions.com/rainer/.

The post The Least Appreciated People in Your Church (And What To Do About It) appeared first on Church Answers.

Thom and Sam welcome David Green, founder and CEO of Hobby Lobby, and Bill High, CEO of Legacy Stone, to the Rainer on Leadership podcast. Hobby Lobby employs 50,000 people at 1,000 stores in 48 states and grosses nearly $8 billion a year.

Author of The Legacy Life, Leadership Not by the Book, and The Leader’s Devotional, Green received the World Changer award and the Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year Award. David, his wife, Barbara, and their children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren all live in Oklahoma City.

Legacy Stone is a ministry dedicated to helping families thrive today and for generations to come. A former attorney, Bill also founded one of the largest charitable foundations in the country where they facilitated more than $6 billion in gifts. He has consulted with families on a global basis on the subject of family legacy. A recognized speaker and teacher, he is the author and coauthor of several books, including Leadership Not by the Book. He lives with his wife, Brooke, in the Kansas City area.

Resources:

• “The Legacy Life: Leading Your Family to Make a Difference for Eternity” by David Green and Bill High (affiliate link)

• “Leadership Not by the Book: 12 Unconventional Principles to Drive Incredible Results” by David Green and Bill High (affiliate link)

• “The Leader’s Devotional: 90 Days of Biblical Wisdom for Honoring God in All You Do” by David Green and Bill High (affiliate link)

• Upward Sports

• Upward Sports: Pickleball

• Life Application Study Bible

• Church Connect

• Tyndale House Publishers

• Church Answers Platinum Membership

• FREE Research Report! New Surprising Insights

• The Hope Initiative

Episode Sponsors:

A Variety of Sports for Every Church. From basketball, cheerleading, soccer, flag football, volleyball, and baseball to running for adults — and now pickleball — Upward Sports offers flexible league options to fit your church’s unique needs.

Exciting News: Did you hear? Pickleball is the newest offering – Claim your TWO free net sets, while supplies last! Launched in April, pickleball is perfect for middle and high schoolers — easy to learn, quick to set up, and highly engaging. Whether you prefer a traditional league or a flexible practice-and-play format, Upward Sports is here to guide you. Plus, to help you get started, Upward is offering two free Pickleball Net Sets when you create your league. But act fast — only 200 sets are available! Schedule your call today and build a purposeful pickleball ministry in your community. Learn more at www.Upward.org/Pickleball where you can access an equipment list, court dimensions, and more.

Be the Neighborhood Church. Want to create a welcoming space for families? Upward Sports provides a first-class, well-organized, and fun league experience. As a self-sustaining ministry, any church — big or small — can get started. Customize your outreach ministry today.

Learn more at www.Upward.org/ChurchAnswers.

Experience profound transformation as you encounter God through the pages of the Life Application Study Bible. Bible engagement is not just about knowing Scripture; it’s about living it out! The Life Application Study Bible deepens your connection with God and inspires a transformed life through a growing relationship with Christ.

Crafted by dedicated scholars and pastors, the Life Application Study Bible is filled with thousands of study resources that increase understanding so you can experience Scripture’s life-changing power. For readers from nine to ninety and beyond, the Life Application Study Bible is designed to help you find true heart transformation.

Learn more here.

The post The Legacy Life with David Green, Founder and CEO of Hobby Lobby, and Bill High, CEO of Legacy Stone appeared first on Church Answers.

In this episode, Josh and Sam explore five practical ways pastors can use AI to improve their sermon prep. How should you balance being efficient with being ethical? If you’ve ever stared at a rough draft and thought, “Something’s off,” this episode will give you new ways to sharpen your message and preach with clarity.

1. 1. Use AI for stylistic feedback, not content.
   2. Refine complex points that your church may not grasp.
   3. Suggest places to shorten the word count and sermon length.
   4. Give insight into the tone of the message.
   5. Identify areas that could be controversial or perceived wrongly.

Resources:

• Smart Church Solutions

• Doctor of Ministry, The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary

• FREE Research Report! New Surprising Insights

• Church Answers Central

• The Hope Initiative

Episode Sponsors:

Looking for a better way to manage your church or school facilities?

eSPACE is the leading facility management software built specifically for churches.

It helps you schedule events, manage work orders, and track assets – all in one place.

You can even automate things like HVAC and door access to save time and money.

Trusted by over 1,250 organizations – including some of the largest churches in the country.

If you’re tired of spreadsheets, sticky notes, or last-minute maintenance emergencies, it’s time to check out eSPACE.

Learn more and book a personalized demo at smartchurchsolutions.com/rainer/.

The Doctor of Ministry at Southern Seminary is designed to strengthen both you and your church.

You’ll bring a real challenge from your ministry into the program—and through trusted faculty mentorship and applied theological study, you’ll develop a biblically grounded, practical plan that equips you to implement lasting change in your church.

This is theological scholarship applied where it matters most: your local ministry.

• • Study under faculty mentors who are both scholars and seasoned ministry leaders.
  • Sharpen your thinking, deepen your theology, and lead with clarity.
  • Build a network of peers who share your calling and understand your challenges.

Learn how at sbts.edu/dmin.

The post How We’re Using AI in Sermon Prep Ethically and Efficiently appeared first on Church Answers.

Most unchurched people have some past connection to church—often from childhood. Our research found that 63% of the unchurched used to attend regularly. Their current indifference isn’t based on ignorance; it’s often rooted in real, past experiences. This means our efforts to reach them aren’t starting from zero. In this episode, Thom and Sam unpack what it means to engage the “dechurched”—those who’ve drifted away—and why this group might be more receptive than you think.

1. 1. Assume familiarity, not hostility, when engaging the unchurched.
   2. Past church experiences—good or bad—shape current attitudes.
   3. Holiday services are key re-entry points for many dechurched people.
   4. Reaching the unchurched begins by rebuilding broken or neglected bridges.

Resources:

• Life Application Study Bible

• Church Connect

• Tyndale House Publishers

• Upward Sports

• Upward Sports: Pickleball

• “The Anxious Generation Goes to Church” by Thom S. Rainer (affiliate link)

• Good News Neighbors Toolkit

• Invite Your One

• Church Answers Platinum Membership

• FREE Research Report! New Surprising Insights

• The Hope Initiative

Episode Sponsors:

Experience profound transformation as you encounter God through the pages of the Life Application Study Bible. Bible engagement is not just about knowing Scripture; it’s about living it out! The Life Application Study Bible deepens your connection with God and inspires a transformed life through a growing relationship with Christ.

Crafted by dedicated scholars and pastors, the Life Application Study Bible is filled with thousands of study resources that increase understanding so you can experience Scripture’s life-changing power. For readers from nine to ninety and beyond, the Life Application Study Bible is designed to help you find true heart transformation.

Learn more here.

Start Preparing Now for 2026! Looking ahead to what’s next in your ministry? Create an outreach strategy that includes a warm invite for the whole family – use sports as that invite. Whether it’s basketball, soccer, flag football, cheerleading, volleyball, baseball, pickleball, or running for adults, Upward Sports is ready to support your church in reaching families right in the heart of your community. All you need is access to a gym or field and one passionate leader — Upward will support you with the rest.

A Variety of Sports for Every Church. From basketball, cheerleading, soccer, flag football, volleyball, and baseball to running for adults — and now pickleball — Upward Sports offers flexible league options to fit your church’s unique needs.

Exciting News: Did you hear? Pickleball is the newest offering – Claim your TWO free net sets, while supplies last! Launched in April, pickleball is perfect for middle and high schoolers — easy to learn, quick to set up, and highly engaging. Whether you prefer a traditional league or a flexible practice-and-play format, Upward Sports is here to guide you. Plus, to help you get started, Upward is offering two free Pickleball Net Sets when you create your league. But act fast — only 200 sets are available! Schedule your call today and build a purposeful pickleball ministry in your community. Learn more at www.Upward.org/Pickleball where you can access an equipment list, court dimensions, and more.

Be the Neighborhood Church. Want to create a welcoming space for families? Upward Sports provides a first-class, well-organized, and fun league experience. As a self-sustaining ministry, any church — big or small — can get started. Customize your outreach ministry today.

Learn more at www.Upward.org/ChurchAnswers.

The post The Unknown Connection Most Unchurched Have with the Church appeared first on Church Answers.

It’s easy to focus on what is right in front of you—the fires, the squeaky wheel, the pop-in visit. However, a pure reactive management style does not help a church move forward. Josh and Sam discuss some meetings that take initiative but will pay many dividends.

1. 1. Work on the work
   2. Sermon series overview with your team
   3. The low-maintenance influencer
   4. Monthly to-do checklist with key leaders
   5. Personal counseling
   6. Sermon prep at least one quarter ahead

Resources:

• Doctor of Ministry, The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary

• Smart Church Solutions

• FREE Research Report! New Surprising Insights

• Church Answers Central

• The Hope Initiative

Episode Sponsors:

The Doctor of Ministry at Southern Seminary is designed to strengthen both you and your church.

You’ll bring a real challenge from your ministry into the program—and through trusted faculty mentorship and applied theological study, you’ll develop a biblically grounded, practical plan that equips you to implement lasting change in your church.

This is theological scholarship applied where it matters most: your local ministry.

• • Study under faculty mentors who are both scholars and seasoned ministry leaders.
  • Sharpen your thinking, deepen your theology, and lead with clarity.
  • Build a network of peers who share your calling and understand your challenges.

Learn how at sbts.edu/dmin.

Looking for a better way to manage your church or school facilities?

eSPACE is the leading facility management software built specifically for churches.

It helps you schedule events, manage work orders, and track assets – all in one place.

You can even automate things like HVAC and door access to save time and money.

Trusted by over 1,250 organizations – including some of the largest churches in the country.

If you’re tired of spreadsheets, sticky notes, or last-minute maintenance emergencies, it’s time to check out eSPACE.

Learn more and book a personalized demo at smartchurchsolutions.com/rainer/.

The post Six Essential Pastoral Meetings No One is Scheduling For You appeared first on Church Answers.

From diapers to dating, parenting never stops presenting hard questions. But today’s concern is different: Gen Z teens are experiencing a full-blown collapse in social connection. Dating is down. Friend time is down. Jobs are down. According to Monitoring the Future, the percentage of antisocial high school seniors quintupled from 3.5% in 1995 to nearly 16% in 2022. But here’s the twist: the one group that remained more socially engaged? Teens who attend church monthly. In today’s episode, Ryan, Thom, and Sam unpack the surprising role of religion in keeping kids socially healthy—and what churches can do to help.

1. 1. Regular church attendance gives teens built-in opportunities for face-to-face connection.
   2. Youth groups and church events can fill the relational gaps left by declining extracurriculars and jobs.
   3. Churchgoing teens are less likely to be socially isolated across multiple categories.
   4. Don’t over-program—create organic spaces where teens can talk, laugh, and serve together.
   5. Equip parents with language and tools to balance screen time and real time.
   6. View your youth ministry as a key contributor to emotional and social development, not just spiritual growth.

Resources:

• Rooted

• Upward Sports

• Upward Sports: Pickleball

• “High School Students Are Growing Incredibly Anti-Social” by Ryan Burge

• Ryan Burge

• “The Anxious Generation Goes to Church” by Thom S. Rainer (affiliate link)

• “The American Religious Landscape” by Ryan Burge (affiliate link)

• Church Answers Platinum Membership

• FREE Research Report! New Surprising Insights

• The Hope Initiative

Episode Sponsors:

• The Rooted experience can help you create a discipleship culture that connects your people and leads to ongoing life change in Jesus. Rooted is…
  • A proven plan for helping people connect to God, their church, and their purpose
  • A sustainable way to launch groups
  • An approach to discipleship that helps people step out of their comfort zones and experience life-changing rhythms of discipleship
  • An opportunity to change the culture of your church
• Visit experiencerooted.com/churchanswers for free resources to help you learn more, including the What is Rooted? video and a free download of the Rooted experience framework and Rooted Workbook sample.

The Power of Partnership. Upward Sports is the world’s largest Christian youth sports organization, empowering local churches to use sports as a dynamic connection tool to engage their communities.

Start Preparing Now for 2026! Looking ahead to what’s next in your ministry? Create an outreach strategy that includes a warm invite for the whole family – use sports as that invite. Whether it’s basketball, soccer, flag football, cheerleading, volleyball, baseball, pickleball, or running for adults, Upward Sports is ready to support your church in reaching families right in the heart of your community. All you need is access to a gym or field and one passionate leader — Upward will support you with the rest.

A Variety of Sports for Every Church. From basketball, cheerleading, soccer, flag football, volleyball, and baseball to running for adults — and now pickleball — Upward Sports offers flexible league options to fit your church’s unique needs.

Exciting News: Did you hear? Pickleball is the newest offering – Claim your TWO free net sets, while supplies last! Launched in April, pickleball is perfect for middle and high schoolers — easy to learn, quick to set up, and highly engaging. Whether you prefer a traditional league or a flexible practice-and-play format, Upward Sports is here to guide you. Plus, to help you get started, Upward is offering two free Pickleball Net Sets when you create your league. But act fast — only 200 sets are available! Schedule your call today and build a purposeful pickleball ministry in your community. Learn more at www.Upward.org/Pickleball where you can access an equipment list, court dimensions, and more.

Be the Neighborhood Church. Want to create a welcoming space for families? Upward Sports provides a first-class, well-organized, and fun league experience. As a self-sustaining ministry, any church — big or small — can get started. Customize your outreach ministry today.

Learn more at www.Upward.org/ChurchAnswers.

The post The Burge Report: The Kids Aren’t Alright—And Church Student Ministry Might Actually Help appeared first on Church Answers.

Doctrine, expectations, and high standards do not scare people away from church. Confusion is the main enemy. According to Church Answers Research, over 60% of unchurched people agree or strongly agree that churches are confusing for outsiders—and shockingly, 60% of churchgoers say the same.

1. 1. Higher confusion and lower trust levels mean the unchurched have doubts about raising their families and discovering their talents in the context of the church.
   2. While attendees overwhelmingly believe the church is a good place to raise families (85%) and discover their talents (75%), the unchurched do not share the same perception. Only 44% of the unchurched agree or strongly agree the church is a good place to raise families.
   3. Additionally, only 29% of the unchurched agree or strongly agree that the church is a good place to discover and grow their talents.

Both groups recognize that what happens inside the church often lacks clarity and accessibility. In this episode, Josh and Sam talk about how confusion creates distance—and how simple clarity can bring people closer to faith and community.

1. 1. Clarity is kindness—explain everything, assume nothing.
   2. Offer a regular membership class that covers belief, belonging, and behavior.
   3. Use simple language in your worship services, signage, and bulletins to make things understandable.
   4. Include a clear doctrinal overview—don’t hide what you believe or expect.
   5. Set realistic expectations for involvement early to avoid consumerism.
   6. Regularly evaluate your communication with unchurched people in mind—not just insiders.

Resources:

• Smart Church Solutions

• The Revitalization at Shadowbrook Church

• Doctor of Educational Ministry, The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary

• FREE Research Report! New Surprising Insights

• Church Answers Platinum Membership

• The Hope Initiative

Episode Sponsors:

Looking for a better way to manage your church or school facilities?

eSPACE is the leading facility management software built specifically for churches.

It helps you schedule events, manage work orders, and track assets – all in one place.

You can even automate things like HVAC and door access to save time and money.

Trusted by over 1,250 organizations – including some of the largest churches in the country.

If you’re tired of spreadsheets, sticky notes, or last-minute maintenance emergencies, it’s time to check out eSPACE.

Learn more and book a personalized demo at smartchurchsolutions.com/rainer/.

Shadowbrook Church members in Suwanee, Georgia, have rediscovered their first love–serving Christ and loving others. 

But during Jerrod Rumley’s first two years as pastor, he was shepherding a divided congregation. 

• • A small number of members seemed better suited for sharing gossip than the gospel.
  • Older and younger members had relegated the Great Commission to the church staff. 
  • Gen-Xers were comfortable in a congregation that placed few demands upon them. 
  • Others were busy meeting community needs–yet seldom shared the gospel.

Rumley needed guidance to unify his splintered congregation. 

He knew exactly where to turn.

Go to SBTS.edu/Unified to read about the steps Shadowbrook’s pastor took to erase barriers and revive the church’s passion for evangelism and discipleship. 

Those same steps are available to you, and it begins at SBTS.edu/Unified.

The post What Really Scares People Away from Church appeared first on Church Answers.

Most churches miss this front door, not because of a lack of awareness but because of a lack of effort. Over half of the unchurched believe church could be a great place to make friends, but nearly 60% say it’s too intimidating to visit alone. That’s a huge opportunity. Today’s episode highlights how friendship, follow-up, and one key ingredient—an invitation—can lower the barrier and open the door for gospel conversations. Thom and Sam discuss some key takeaways from their new research.

1. 1. Don’t just invite—offer to sit with them.
   2. Make your church more relational than institutional.
   3. Hospitality teams should focus on emotional comfort, not just logistics.
   4. Friendship often precedes faith; prioritize connection over conversion.

Resources:

• Upward Running

• Rooted

• “Opening the front door: Worship and church growth” by James Emery White (affiliate link)

• “Surprising Insights from the Unchurched and Proven Ways to Reach Them” by Thom S. Rainer (affiliate link)

• Brown Church Development Group

• Church Growth Services: Get your free campaign capacity analysis!

• Church Answers Platinum Membership

• FREE Research Report! New Surprising Insights

• The Hope Initiative

Episode Sponsors:

Upward Running for Adults: Your Church’s Next Step in Outreach

• Offer a 5K Challenge: Inspire your congregation and engage your community with a meaningful running ministry. Upward provides:
  • Tailored training plans to help your runner or walkers move from the couch to completing a 5k.
  • Access to the new RunClub app for tracking progress and building community.
  • A fully customizable program that fits your church’s timeline — all led by your run coach who will be fully equipped with the Upward Running materials to lead.
• Simple to Start: With just one passionate leader and no facility needed, your church parking lot can become the starting line for life transformation.
• Build Stronger Connections: Use running to foster relationships, promote healthy habits, and grow spiritually while expanding your church’s impact.
• Upward is Here for You: Ready to bring Upward Running to your church? Visit Upward.org/Runcoach to get started today!

• The Rooted experience can help you create a discipleship culture that connects your people and leads to ongoing life change in Jesus. Rooted is…
  • A proven plan for helping people connect to God, their church, and their purpose
  • A sustainable way to launch groups
  • An approach to discipleship that helps people step out of their comfort zones and experience life-changing rhythms of discipleship
  • An opportunity to change the culture of your church
• Visit experiencerooted.com/churchanswers for free resources to help you learn more, including the What is Rooted? video and a free download of the Rooted experience framework and Rooted Workbook sample.

The post The Big Front Door for Guests Just About Every Church Misses appeared first on Church Answers.

Sam talks with worship leaders Tara Banks and Nate Davis about building thriving, long-lasting worship ministries. Together, they unpack how to develop leaders who excel both on stage and in organization, create healthy pipelines for team recruitment and onboarding, and refine systems that support excellence in worship. With decades of ministry insight, Tara and Nate share practical steps for sustaining your own leadership while fostering teams that are united, prepared, and spiritually vibrant.

Tara is a worship pastor and has served at Seacoast Church for 32 years. She is married with two boys, author of two books, and loves to see worship leaders step into their full potential.

Nate has served the local church for 24 years as a worship pastor, songwriter, creative, and a builder of spaces for soul care. He’s married with four children and is passionate about helping leaders live well so they can lead well and leave a legacy that lasts.

Resources:

• The Revitalization at Shadowbrook Church

• Doctor of Educational Ministry, The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary

• Smart Church Solutions

• The Worship Dept.

• Church Answers Platinum Membership

• FREE Research Report! New Surprising Insights

• The Hope Initiative

Episode Sponsors:

Shadowbrook Church members in Suwanee, Georgia, have rediscovered their first love–serving Christ and loving others. 

But during Jerrod Rumley’s first two years as pastor, he was shepherding a divided congregation. 

• • A small number of members seemed better suited for sharing gossip than the gospel.
  • Older and younger members had relegated the Great Commission to the church staff. 
  • Gen-Xers were comfortable in a congregation that placed few demands upon them. 
  • Others were busy meeting community needs–yet seldom shared the gospel.

Rumley needed guidance to unify his splintered congregation. 

He knew exactly where to turn.

Go to SBTS.edu/Unified to read about the steps Shadowbrook’s pastor took to erase barriers and revive the church’s passion for evangelism and discipleship. 

Those same steps are available to you, and it begins at SBTS.edu/Unified.

Looking for a better way to manage your church or school facilities?

eSPACE is the leading facility management software built specifically for churches.

It helps you schedule events, manage work orders, and track assets – all in one place.

You can even automate things like HVAC and door access to save time and money.

Trusted by over 1,250 organizations – including some of the largest churches in the country.

If you’re tired of spreadsheets, sticky notes, or last-minute maintenance emergencies, it’s time to check out eSPACE.

Learn more and book a personalized demo at smartchurchsolutions.com/rainer/.

The post Building a Worship Ministry that Excels On and Off the Stage appeared first on Church Answers.

If you’ve ever heard someone say, “I just don’t get anything out of that study,” you’re not alone. In today’s episode, Sam interviews Michael Kelley, Executive Director of the Rooted Network, and they dive into the top six frustrations people have with church curriculum.

1. 1. It’s too shallow.
   2. It’s not relatable.
   3. It’s poorly written.
   4. It’s not our church doctrine.
   5. It’s too long.
   6. It’s boring.

These gripes aren’t just personal preferences; they signal that our discipleship strategy might need a tune-up. Good curriculum doesn’t just inform—it transforms. We talk about how to shift from frustration to fruitfulness.

• • Vet curriculum for theological depth and clarity—don’t settle for fluff just because it’s popular.
  • Choose studies that directly address real-life challenges your people are facing right now.
  • Test studies with small pilot groups to catch weak spots in content or delivery before full rollout.

Resources:

• Rooted

• Upward Sports

• Upward Sports: Pickleball

• Church Answers Platinum Membership

• FREE Research Report! New Surprising Insights

• The Hope Initiative

Episode Sponsors:

• The Rooted experience can help you create a discipleship culture that connects your people and leads to ongoing life change in Jesus. Rooted is…
  • A proven plan for helping people connect to God, their church, and their purpose
  • A sustainable way to launch groups
  • An approach to discipleship that helps people step out of their comfort zones and experience life-changing rhythms of discipleship
  • An opportunity to change the culture of your church
• Visit experiencerooted.com/churchanswers for free resources to help you learn more, including the What is Rooted? video and a free download of the Rooted experience framework and Rooted Workbook sample.

The Power of Partnership. Upward Sports is the world’s largest Christian youth sports organization, empowering local churches to use sports as a dynamic connection tool to engage their communities.

Start Preparing Now for 2026! Looking ahead to what’s next in your ministry? Create an outreach strategy that includes a warm invite for the whole family – use sports as that invite. Whether it’s basketball, soccer, flag football, cheerleading, volleyball, baseball, pickleball, or running for adults, Upward Sports is ready to support your church in reaching families right in the heart of your community. All you need is access to a gym or field and one passionate leader — Upward will support you with the rest.

A Variety of Sports for Every Church. From basketball, cheerleading, soccer, flag football, volleyball, and baseball to running for adults — and now pickleball — Upward Sports offers flexible league options to fit your church’s unique needs.

Exciting News: Did you hear? Pickleball is the newest offering – Claim your TWO free net sets, while supplies last! Launched in April, pickleball is perfect for middle and high schoolers — easy to learn, quick to set up, and highly engaging. Whether you prefer a traditional league or a flexible practice-and-play format, Upward Sports is here to guide you. Plus, to help you get started, Upward is offering two free Pickleball Net Sets when you create your league. But act fast — only 200 sets are available! Schedule your call today and build a purposeful pickleball ministry in your community. Learn more at www.Upward.org/Pickleball where you can access an equipment list, court dimensions, and more.

Be the Neighborhood Church. Want to create a welcoming space for families? Upward Sports provides a first-class, well-organized, and fun league experience. As a self-sustaining ministry, any church — big or small — can get started. Customize your outreach ministry today.

Learn more at www.Upward.org/ChurchAnswers.

The post The Top 6 Gripes About Church Curriculum (and What to Do About Them) appeared first on Church Answers.

Here’s a shocker: The unchurched think the church is more relevant than many regular attenders do. But they don’t trust it. While 81% of churchgoers trust their church, only 30% of the unchurched say the same. The dichotomy is fascinating:

1. 1. Churched people: I trust the church, but believe it’s irrelevant today.
   2. Unchurched people: The church is still relevant, but not trustworthy.

In this episode, Josh and Sam explore how insularity and public scandals have eroded trust—and what your church can do to rebuild it without compromising the gospel.

1. 1. Relevance isn’t your problem—trust is.
   2. Authentic relationships rebuild trust faster than polished presentations.
   3. Be present in your community beyond Sunday mornings.
   4. Your church’s public witness matters more than ever in a skeptical culture.

Resources:

• Smart Church Solutions

• The Revitalization at Shadowbrook Church

• Doctor of Educational Ministry, The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary

• FREE Research Report! New Surprising Insights

• Church Answers Platinum Membership

• The Hope Initiative

Episode Sponsors:

Looking for a better way to manage your church or school facilities?

eSPACE is the leading facility management software built specifically for churches.

It helps you schedule events, manage work orders, and track assets – all in one place.

You can even automate things like HVAC and door access to save time and money.

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If you’re tired of spreadsheets, sticky notes, or last-minute maintenance emergencies, it’s time to check out eSPACE.

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Shadowbrook Church members in Suwanee, Georgia, have rediscovered their first love–serving Christ and loving others. 

But during Jerrod Rumley’s first two years as pastor, he was shepherding a divided congregation. 

• • A small number of members seemed better suited for sharing gossip than the gospel.
  • Older and younger members had relegated the Great Commission to the church staff. 
  • Gen-Xers were comfortable in a congregation that placed few demands upon them. 
  • Others were busy meeting community needs–yet seldom shared the gospel.

Rumley needed guidance to unify his splintered congregation. 

He knew exactly where to turn.

Go to SBTS.edu/Unified to read about the steps Shadowbrook’s pastor took to erase barriers and revive the church’s passion for evangelism and discipleship. 

Those same steps are available to you, and it begins at SBTS.edu/Unified.

The post The Trust Gap: Why Outsiders Won’t Step Inside Your Church appeared first on Church Answers.

In this episode, Thom and Sam dive into five compelling reasons churches should still prioritize reaching Baby Boomers. Despite cultural shifts, Boomers remain a vital part of many communities—and churches. They’re often more open to spiritual conversations, have time and resources to invest in ministry, and bring deep life experience that can benefit younger generations. Boomers still matter, and your church can more effectively reach and disciple them.

1. 1. Boomer Nones are declining (from 28% to 24% in one year).
   2. Boomers will likely be a significant portion of the church’s volunteer base.
   3. Boomers will likely be higher givers.
   4. Boomers’ life expectancy is close to 90 years old.
   5. Boomers can lead the way in legacy giving.

Source: Ryan Burge, “Religion in 2024: The Plateau Is Real.” Graphs about Religion. Burge uses the data from The Cooperative Election Study, 2008 to 2024.

Resources:

• Upward Running

• Rooted

• Church Growth Services: Get your free campaign capacity analysis!

• “Religion in 2024: The Plateau Is Real” by Ryan Burge

• Ryan Burge

• Church Answers Platinum Membership

• FREE Research Report! New Surprising Insights

• The Hope Initiative

Episode Sponsors:

Upward Running for Adults: Your Church’s Next Step in Outreach

• Offer a 5K Challenge: Inspire your congregation and engage your community with a meaningful running ministry. Upward provides:
  • Tailored training plans to help your runner or walkers move from the couch to completing a 5k.
  • Access to the new RunClub app for tracking progress and building community.
  • A fully customizable program that fits your church’s timeline — all led by your run coach who will be fully equipped with the Upward Running materials to lead.
• Simple to Start: With just one passionate leader and no facility needed, your church parking lot can become the starting line for life transformation.
• Build Stronger Connections: Use running to foster relationships, promote healthy habits, and grow spiritually while expanding your church’s impact.
• Upward is Here for You: Ready to bring Upward Running to your church? Visit Upward.org/Runcoach to get started today!

• The Rooted experience can help you create a discipleship culture that connects your people and leads to ongoing life change in Jesus. Rooted is…
  • A proven plan for helping people connect to God, their church, and their purpose
  • A sustainable way to launch groups
  • An approach to discipleship that helps people step out of their comfort zones and experience life-changing rhythms of discipleship
  • An opportunity to change the culture of your church
• Visit experiencerooted.com/churchanswers for free resources to help you learn more, including the What is Rooted? video and a free download of the Rooted experience framework and Rooted Workbook sample.

The post Five Reasons Churches Should Still Try to Reach Boomers appeared first on Church Answers.

In this episode, we explore realistic 1–2 year objectives for small-church revitalization—practical steps that can create lasting momentum without overwhelming your congregation. We unpack three key priorities:

1. 1. Presence, by launching a quarterly outreach emphasis to build visibility in your community.
   2. Power, by uniting your church through an intentional prayer focus woven into worship.
   3. Precision, by concentrating efforts on one or two strategic community hubs where families already gather, such as local schools.

Rev. Chad Brooks rejoins the show with Josh and Sam to discuss how these focused, attainable goals can help small churches make meaningful progress while laying a foundation for long-term health and growth.

Resources:

• The Revitalization at Shadowbrook Church

• Doctor of Educational Ministry, The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary

• Smart Church Solutions

• “Is My Church Healthy?: Understanding the Vitality Matrix for Congregational Change” by Chad Brooks (affiliate link)

• Church Answers Platinum Membership

• FREE Research Report! New Surprising Insights

• The Hope Initiative

Episode Sponsors:

Shadowbrook Church members in Suwanee, Georgia, have rediscovered their first love–serving Christ and loving others. 

But during Jerrod Rumley’s first two years as pastor, he was shepherding a divided congregation. 

• • A small number of members seemed better suited for sharing gossip than the gospel.
  • Older and younger members had relegated the Great Commission to the church staff. 
  • Gen-Xers were comfortable in a congregation that placed few demands upon them. 
  • Others were busy meeting community needs–yet seldom shared the gospel.