Do you want to lead change in your church? If you do, you will need to build allies and supporters to work alongside you. Jess and Thom share the five most common sources to build an eager coalition.

• • Chemistry
  • Position
  • Influence
  • Expertise 
  • Leadership

Resources:

• Wesley Biblical Seminary, Master of Ministry

• Church Answers University

• “Who Moved My Pulpit?: Leading Change in the Church” by Thom S. Rainer – New edition coming soon!

• Five Types of Unmovable Church Members

• “Leading Change” by John Kotter (affiliate link)

• “Who Moved My Cheese?” by Spencer Johnson (affiliate link)

• Church Equip

• The Hope Initiative

• Church Answers Central

• FREE Research Report: New Surprising Insights

Episode Sponsor:

Ready to take the next step in your ministry calling but don’t want to spend the next five years in school?

At Wesley Biblical Seminary, we’re excited about our new Master of Ministry, a 37-credit-hour graduate degree for pastors and Christian leaders that provides a solid foundation in biblical and theological studies and can be completed in as little as two years.

• • You’ll strengthen your ability to study the Bible, improve your preaching, teaching, and leadership skills, and learn to think theologically.
  • What’s great about this degree program is, if you like what you’re learning and decide to pursue the more comprehensive Master of Divinity degree, all your courses in the Master of Ministry will transfer up.
  • Classes are affordable and offered live online—so you get the benefit of real interaction with your professors and classmates, while still enjoying the flexibility of working from home on your own schedule.
  • Learn more and apply today at wbs.edu/mm.

Want to save even more time and money?

Right now, you can get nine hours of credit towards the Master of Ministry for any Church Answers University certificate program that you complete—a savings of $4,500. Learn more at wbs.edu/cau.

The post How to Build an Eager Coalition for Change in Your Church appeared first on Church Answers.

Change is a challenge in any organization and especially in churches. Jess and Thom discuss the five types of church members who resist change the most.

1. 1. The Deniers
   2. The Entitled
   3. The Blamers
   4. The Critics
   5. The Confused

Resources:

• Wesley Biblical Seminary, Master of Ministry

• Church Answers University

• “Who Moved My Pulpit?: Leading Change in the Church” by Thom S. Rainer – New edition coming soon!

• How to Build an Eager Coalition for Change in Your Church

• “I Am a Church Member: Discovering the Attitude that Makes the Difference” by Thom S. Rainer (affiliate link)

• “I Will: Nine Traits of the Outwardly Focused Christian” by Thom S. Rainer (affiliate link)

• “Crucial Commitments” by Thom S. Rainer (affiliate link)

• Church Equip

• The Hope Initiative

• Church Answers Central

• FREE Research Report: New Surprising Insights

Episode Sponsor:

Ready to take the next step in your ministry calling but don’t want to spend the next five years in school?

At Wesley Biblical Seminary, we’re excited about our new Master of Ministry, a 37-credit-hour graduate degree for pastors and Christian leaders that provides a solid foundation in biblical and theological studies and can be completed in as little as two years.

• • You’ll strengthen your ability to study the Bible, improve your preaching, teaching, and leadership skills, and learn to think theologically.
  • What’s great about this degree program is, if you like what you’re learning and decide to pursue the more comprehensive Master of Divinity degree, all your courses in the Master of Ministry will transfer up.
  • Classes are affordable and offered live online—so you get the benefit of real interaction with your professors and classmates, while still enjoying the flexibility of working from home on your own schedule.
  • Learn more and apply today at wbs.edu/mm.

Want to save even more time and money?

Right now, you can get nine hours of credit towards the Master of Ministry for any Church Answers University certificate program that you complete—a savings of $4,500. Learn more at wbs.edu/cau.

The post Five Types of Unmovable Church Members appeared first on Church Answers.

It is the outlier denomination. It is the denomination that is young, while the others are decidedly older. Why is this youthfulness taking place? Join Jess and Thom as they talk with Dr. Eddie Moody, Executive Director of the National Association of Free Will Baptists, about this phenomenon. You will be amazed, encouraged. and informed!

Resources:

• Wesley Biblical Seminary, Master of Ministry

• Church Answers University

• Dr. Eddie Moody, National Association of Free Will Baptists

• Two Denominations That Are Surprisingly Young

• Ryan Burge

• “When Are Half Your Members Going to be Dead?” by Ryan Burge

• “The Revival of the Analog Church” by Thom S. Rainer (affiliate link)

• Church Answers Platinum Membership

• Know Your Community

• The Hope Initiative

• FREE Research Report: New Surprising Insights

Episode Sponsor:

Ready to take the next step in your ministry calling but don’t want to spend the next five years in school?

At Wesley Biblical Seminary, we’re excited about our new Master of Ministry, a 37-credit-hour graduate degree for pastors and Christian leaders that provides a solid foundation in biblical and theological studies and can be completed in as little as two years.

• • You’ll strengthen your ability to study the Bible, improve your preaching, teaching, and leadership skills, and learn to think theologically.
  • What’s great about this degree program is, if you like what you’re learning and decide to pursue the more comprehensive Master of Divinity degree, all your courses in the Master of Ministry will transfer up.
  • Classes are affordable and offered live online—so you get the benefit of real interaction with your professors and classmates, while still enjoying the flexibility of working from home on your own schedule.
  • Learn more and apply today at wbs.edu/mm.

Want to save even more time and money?

Right now, you can get nine hours of credit towards the Master of Ministry for any Church Answers University certificate program that you complete—a savings of $4,500. Learn more at wbs.edu/cau.

The post Why Are Free Will Baptist Church Members So Young? An Interview with Dr. Eddie Moody appeared first on Church Answers.

Not all traditions are bad, but some can hinder the work of the church. Jess and Thom share the most common church traditions based on an extensive survey, and why they can be difficult to change.

7. Church building

8. Specific rooms in the church 

9. Business meeting 

10. Staff positions

Resources:

• Wesley Biblical Seminary

• Learn more about the bridge program at Wesley Biblical Seminary

• Church Answers University

• “Anatomy of a Revived Church: Seven Findings about How Congregations Avoided Death” by Thom S. Rainer (affiliate link)

• “Autopsy of a Deceased Church: 12 Ways to Keep Yours Alive” by Thom S. Rainer (affiliate link)

• The Top 10 Immovable Traditions in Churches (Part 1)

• The Top 10 Immovable Traditions in Churches (Part 2)

• The Hope Initiative

• Church Answers Central

• FREE Research Report: New Surprising Insights

Episode Sponsor:

• Wesley Biblical Seminary is focused on developing trusted leaders for faithful churches.
  • They offer certificates, bachelor’s degrees, master’s degrees, and doctoral degrees.
  • Since 1974 WBS has been faithfully fulfilling its mission.
• Fully committed to the inerrancy of Scripture and the transforming power of the Holy Spirit.
• Flexible online format that fits your schedule.
• Equipping men and women called by God.
• An array of programs to help you take the next step. You can do it!
• If you’d like to learn more, visit Wesley Biblical Seminary.

The post The Top 10 Immovable Traditions in Many Churches (Part 3) appeared first on Church Answers.

Not all traditions are bad, but some can hinder the work of the church. Jess and Thom share the most common church traditions based on an extensive survey, and why they can be difficult to change.

4. The roles of the pastor

5. The roles and functions of committees

6. Ministry and programs

Resources:

• Wesley Biblical Seminary

• Learn more about the bridge program at Wesley Biblical Seminary

• Church Answers University

• “Anatomy of a Revived Church: Seven Findings about How Congregations Avoided Death” by Thom S. Rainer (affiliate link)

• “Autopsy of a Deceased Church: 12 Ways to Keep Yours Alive” by Thom S. Rainer (affiliate link)

• The Top 10 Immovable Traditions in Churches (Part 1)

• The Top 10 Immovable Traditions in Many Churches (Part 3)

• The Hope Initiative

• Church Answers Central

• FREE Research Report: New Surprising Insights

Episode Sponsor:

• Wesley Biblical Seminary is focused on developing trusted leaders for faithful churches.
  • They offer certificates, bachelor’s degrees, master’s degrees, and doctoral degrees.
  • Since 1974 WBS has been faithfully fulfilling its mission.
• Fully committed to the inerrancy of Scripture and the transforming power of the Holy Spirit.
• Flexible online format that fits your schedule.
• Equipping men and women called by God.
• An array of programs to help you take the next step. You can do it!
• If you’d like to learn more, visit Wesley Biblical Seminary.

The post The Top 10 Immovable Traditions in Many Churches (Part 2) appeared first on Church Answers.

Not all traditions are bad, but some can hinder the work of the church. Jess and Thom share the most common church traditions based on an extensive survey, and why they can be difficult to change.

1. Worship music and style

2. Order of worship service

3. Times of worship services

Resources:

• Wesley Biblical Seminary

• Learn more about the bridge program at Wesley Biblical Seminary

• Church Answers University

• “Anatomy of a Revived Church: Seven Findings about How Congregations Avoided Death” by Thom S. Rainer (affiliate link)

• “Autopsy of a Deceased Church: 12 Ways to Keep Yours Alive” by Thom S. Rainer (affiliate link)

• The Top 10 Immovable Traditions in Churches (Part 2)

• The Top 10 Immovable Traditions in Many Churches (Part 3)

• The Hope Initiative

• Church Answers Central

• FREE Research Report: New Surprising Insights

Episode Sponsor:

• Wesley Biblical Seminary is focused on developing trusted leaders for faithful churches.
  • They offer certificates, bachelor’s degrees, master’s degrees, and doctoral degrees.
  • Since 1974 WBS has been faithfully fulfilling its mission.
• Fully committed to the inerrancy of Scripture and the transforming power of the Holy Spirit.
• Flexible online format that fits your schedule.
• Equipping men and women called by God.
• An array of programs to help you take the next step. You can do it!
• If you’d like to learn more, visit Wesley Biblical Seminary.

The post The Top 10 Immovable Traditions in Many Churches (Part 1) appeared first on Church Answers.

In the previous podcast, Jess and Thom examined the aging and dying denominations. In this podcast, they discuss the two youngest denominations.

Resources:

• Wesley Biblical Seminary

• Learn more about the bridge program at Wesley Biblical Seminary

• Church Answers University

• Ryan Burge

• “When Are Half Your Members Going to be Dead?” by Ryan Burge

• Denominations That Are on Red Alert for Rapid Decline

• “Autopsy of a Deceased Church: 12 Ways to Keep Yours Alive” by Thom S. Rainer (affiliate link)

• Dr. Eddie Moody, Free Will Baptists

• Creating a Culture of Evangelism in Your Church: An Interview with Jeff Cranston

• Church Answers Central

• The Hope Initiative

• FREE Research Report: New Surprising Insights

Episode Sponsor:

• Wesley Biblical Seminary is focused on developing trusted leaders for faithful churches.
  • They offer certificates, bachelor’s degrees, master’s degrees, and doctoral degrees.
  • Since 1974 WBS has been faithfully fulfilling its mission.
• Fully committed to the inerrancy of Scripture and the transforming power of the Holy Spirit.
• Flexible online format that fits your schedule.
• Equipping men and women called by God.
• An array of programs to help you take the next step. You can do it!
• If you’d like to learn more, visit Wesley Biblical Seminary.

The post Two Denominations That Are Surprisingly Young appeared first on Church Answers.

Using a recent study by Ryan Burge, Jess and Thom examine the sobering reality of demographic decline in two groups: the Southern Baptist Convention and non-denominational evangelical churches.

• • It’s about Baby Boomers and demographics.
  • All mainline denominations are in a demographic freefall. 
  • The Southern Baptist Convention is declining, but it’s about to get worse.
  • The modal age of SBC church members is 62. For the U.S., the modal age is 35.
  • Just 6% of SBC adults are under 30, the same as among Episcopalians.
  • The greater freefall is less than 10 years away.

Resources:

• Wesley Biblical Seminary

• Learn more about the bridge program at Wesley Biblical Seminary

• Church Answers University

• Ryan Burge

• Two Denominations That Are Surprisingly Young

• “Why Conservative Churches Are Growing” by Dean Kelley (affiliate link)

• Know Your Community

• Invite Your One

• The Hope Initiative

• Church Answers Central

• FREE Research Report: New Surprising Insights

Episode Sponsor:

• Wesley Biblical Seminary is focused on developing trusted leaders for faithful churches.
  • They offer certificates, bachelor’s degrees, master’s degrees, and doctoral degrees.
  • Since 1974 WBS has been faithfully fulfilling its mission.
• Fully committed to the inerrancy of Scripture and the transforming power of the Holy Spirit.
• Flexible online format that fits your schedule.
• Equipping men and women called by God.
• An array of programs to help you take the next step. You can do it!
• If you’d like to learn more, visit Wesley Biblical Seminary.

The post Denominations That Are on Red Alert for Rapid Decline appeared first on Church Answers.

Thom and Jess interview Pastor Jeff Cranston, Lowcountry Community Church, about creating a culture of evangelism.

Resources:

• Wesley Biblical Seminary

• Learn more about the bridge program at Wesley Biblical Seminary

• Church Answers University

• Lowcountry Community Church

• Kitchen Table Theology Podcast

• Reaching Senior Adults for Christ: An Interview with Jeff Cranston

• The Hope Initiative

• Church Answers Central

• FREE Research Report: New Surprising Insights

Episode Sponsor:

• Wesley Biblical Seminary is focused on developing trusted leaders for faithful churches.
  • They offer certificates, bachelor’s degrees, master’s degrees, and doctoral degrees.
  • Since 1974 WBS has been faithfully fulfilling its mission.
• Fully committed to the inerrancy of Scripture and the transforming power of the Holy Spirit.
• Flexible online format that fits your schedule.
• Equipping men and women called by God.
• An array of programs to help you take the next step. You can do it!
• If you’d like to learn more, visit Wesley Biblical Seminary.

The post Creating a Culture of Evangelism in Your Church: An Interview with Jeff Cranston appeared first on Church Answers.

Thom and Jess welcome Pastor Jeff Cranston from Lowcountry Community Church in South Carolina.

Resources:

• Wesley Biblical Seminary

• Learn more about the bridge program at Wesley Biblical Seminary

• Church Answers University

• Lowcountry Community Church

• Kitchen Table Theology Podcast

• Creating a Culture of Evangelism in Your Church: An Interview with Jeff Cranston

• “What Types of Invitations Are Most Effective to Get People to Come to Church?” by Thom S. Rainer

• The Hope Initiative

• Church Answers Central

• FREE Research Report: New Surprising Insights

Episode Sponsor:

• Wesley Biblical Seminary is focused on developing trusted leaders for faithful churches.
  • They offer certificates, bachelor’s degrees, master’s degrees, and doctoral degrees.
  • Since 1974 WBS has been faithfully fulfilling its mission.
• Fully committed to the inerrancy of Scripture and the transforming power of the Holy Spirit.
• Flexible online format that fits your schedule.
• Equipping men and women called by God.
• An array of programs to help you take the next step. You can do it!
• If you’d like to learn more, visit Wesley Biblical Seminary.

The post Reaching Senior Adults for Christ: An Interview with Jeff Cranston appeared first on Church Answers.

Why Death Is Coming Soon to Many Churches (and How to Prevent It)

Church Answers researcher Ryan Burge recently released a stunning and sobering report on the ages of congregants of various denominations. It’s not a pretty picture. Many churches will soon die or become moribund because of one simple factor: their church members are dying and not being replaced. Jess and Thom examine four aspects of this demographic decline and death.

Resources:

• Wesley Biblical Seminary

• Learn more about the bridge program at Wesley Biblical Seminary

• Church Answers University

• Ryan Burge

• “When Are Half Your Members Going to be Dead?” by Ryan Burge

• “Gradually… Then Suddenly”: Why Church Decline Is About to Accelerate

• When the Average Age Lies: The Demographic Tipping Point

• The Iron Law of Church Growth: No Young Adults, No Future

• “Who Moved My Pulpit?: Leading Change in the Church” by Thom S. Rainer (affiliate link)

• Church Answers Central

• The Hope Initiative

• FREE Research Report: New Surprising Insights

Episode Sponsor:

• Wesley Biblical Seminary is focused on developing trusted leaders for faithful churches.
  • They offer certificates, bachelor’s degrees, master’s degrees, and doctoral degrees.
  • Since 1974 WBS has been faithfully fulfilling its mission.
• Fully committed to the inerrancy of Scripture and the transforming power of the Holy Spirit.
• Flexible online format that fits your schedule.
• Equipping men and women called by God.
• An array of programs to help you take the next step. You can do it!
• If you’d like to learn more, visit Wesley Biblical Seminary.

The post Planned Surgery or Emergency Amputation: Leading with Courage appeared first on Church Answers.

Why Death Is Coming Soon to Many Churches (and How to Prevent It)

Church Answers researcher Ryan Burge recently released a stunning and sobering report on the ages of congregants of various denominations. It’s not a pretty picture. Many churches will soon die or become moribund because of one simple factor: their church members are dying and not being replaced. Jess and Thom examine four aspects of this demographic decline and death.

Resources:

• Wesley Biblical Seminary

• Learn more about the bridge program at Wesley Biblical Seminary

• Church Answers University

• Ryan Burge

• “When Are Half Your Members Going to be Dead?” by Ryan Burge

• “Gradually… Then Suddenly”: Why Church Decline Is About to Accelerate

• When the Average Age Lies: The Demographic Tipping Point

• Planned Surgery or Emergency Amputation: Leading with Courage

• Tyrone Barnette, Peace Baptist Church

• Church Answers Central

• The Hope Initiative

• FREE Research Report: New Surprising Insights

Episode Sponsor:

• Wesley Biblical Seminary is focused on developing trusted leaders for faithful churches.
  • They offer certificates, bachelor’s degrees, master’s degrees, and doctoral degrees.
  • Since 1974 WBS has been faithfully fulfilling its mission.
• Fully committed to the inerrancy of Scripture and the transforming power of the Holy Spirit.
• Flexible online format that fits your schedule.
• Equipping men and women called by God.
• An array of programs to help you take the next step. You can do it!
• If you’d like to learn more, visit Wesley Biblical Seminary.

The post The Iron Law of Church Growth: No Young Adults, No Future appeared first on Church Answers.

Why Death Is Coming Soon to Many Churches (and How to Prevent It)

Church Answers researcher Ryan Burge recently released a stunning and sobering report on the ages of congregants of various denominations. It’s not a pretty picture. Many churches will soon die or become moribund because of one simple factor: their church members are dying and not being replaced. Jess and Thom examine four aspects of this demographic decline and death.

Resources:

• Wesley Biblical Seminary

• Learn more about the bridge program at Wesley Biblical Seminary

• Finally! Seminary Training for Co-vocational Church Leaders: An Interview with Andy Miller

• Church Answers University

• Ryan Burge

• “When Are Half Your Members Going to be Dead?” by Ryan Burge

• “Gradually… Then Suddenly”: Why Church Decline Is About to Accelerate

• The Iron Law of Church Growth: No Young Adults, No Future

• Planned Surgery or Emergency Amputation: Leading with Courage

• “The Pig and the Python: How to Prosper from the Aging Baby Boom” by David Cork (affiliate link)

• Church Answers Central

• The Hope Initiative

• FREE Research Report: New Surprising Insights

Episode Sponsor:

• Wesley Biblical Seminary is focused on developing trusted leaders for faithful churches.
  • They offer certificates, bachelor’s degrees, master’s degrees, and doctoral degrees.
  • Since 1974 WBS has been faithfully fulfilling its mission.
• Fully committed to the inerrancy of Scripture and the transforming power of the Holy Spirit.
• Flexible online format that fits your schedule.
• Equipping men and women called by God.
• An array of programs to help you take the next step. You can do it!
• If you’d like to learn more, visit Wesley Biblical Seminary.

The post When the Average Age Lies: The Demographic Tipping Point appeared first on Church Answers.

Why Death Is Coming Soon to Many Churches (and How to Prevent It)

Church Answers researcher Ryan Burge recently released a stunning and sobering report on the ages of congregants of various denominations. It’s not a pretty picture. Many churches will soon die or become moribund because of one simple factor: their church members are dying and not being replaced. Jess and Thom examine four aspects of this demographic decline and death.

Resources:

• Wesley Biblical Seminary

• Learn more about the bridge program at Wesley Biblical Seminary

• Church Answers University

• Ryan Burge

• “When Are Half Your Members Going to be Dead?” by Ryan Burge

• When the Average Age Lies: The Demographic Tipping Point

• The Iron Law of Church Growth: No Young Adults, No Future

• Planned Surgery or Emergency Amputation: Leading with Courage

• “To Dream Again: How to Help Your Church Come Alive” by Robert Dale (affiliate link)

• Church Answers Central

• The Hope Initiative

• FREE Research Report: New Surprising Insights

Episode Sponsor:

• Wesley Biblical Seminary is focused on developing trusted leaders for faithful churches.
  • They offer certificates, bachelor’s degrees, master’s degrees, and doctoral degrees.
  • Since 1974 WBS has been faithfully fulfilling its mission.
• Fully committed to the inerrancy of Scripture and the transforming power of the Holy Spirit.
• Flexible online format that fits your schedule.
• Equipping men and women called by God.
• An array of programs to help you take the next step. You can do it!
• If you’d like to learn more, visit Wesley Biblical Seminary.

The post “Gradually… Then Suddenly”: Why Church Decline Is About to Accelerate appeared first on Church Answers.

Thom and Jess share how many pastors have lower take-home pay even though their stated pay has not decreased.

• • The ongoing saga of housing allowances
  • Failure to ask for a Social Security offset
  • Missing the mileage
  • Ignoring inflation

Resources:

• Wesley Biblical Seminary

• Learn more about the bridge program at Wesley Biblical Seminary

• Church Answers University

• Church Answers Central

• “The Minister’s Salary” by Art Rainer (affiliate link)

• “Housing Allowance for Ministers: Made Easy” by Art Rainer (affiliate link)

• The Hope Initiative

• FREE Research Report: New Surprising Insights

Episode Sponsor:

• Wesley Biblical Seminary is focused on developing trusted leaders for faithful churches.
  • They offer certificates, bachelor’s degrees, master’s degrees, and doctoral degrees.
  • Since 1974 WBS has been faithfully fulfilling its mission.
• Fully committed to the inerrancy of Scripture and the transforming power of the Holy Spirit.
• Flexible online format that fits your schedule.
• Equipping men and women called by God.
• An array of programs to help you take the next step. You can do it!
• If you’d like to learn more, visit Wesley Biblical Seminary.

The post How Pastors Are Taking Pay Cuts without Taking Pay Cuts appeared first on Church Answers.

For most churches, the position of church bookkeeper or treasurer is a volunteer role. While there are many qualified volunteers, this position is too often held by someone who is not. Thom and Jess share four real-life stories about the problem some bookkeepers have created for churches and pastors.

1. 1. The miscategorization story.
   2. The “it’s not income” story.
   3. The housing allowance story.
   4. The mad treasurer story.

Resources:

• Wesley Biblical Seminary

• Learn more about the bridge program at Wesley Biblical Seminary

• Church Answers University

• Chaney & Associates

• Church Answers Central

• “The Minister’s Salary” by Art Rainer (affiliate link)

• “Housing Allowance for Ministers: Made Easy” by Art Rainer (affiliate link)

• The Hope Initiative

• FREE Research Report: New Surprising Insights

Episode Sponsor:

• Wesley Biblical Seminary is focused on developing trusted leaders for faithful churches.
  • They offer certificates, bachelor’s degrees, master’s degrees, and doctoral degrees.
  • Since 1974 WBS has been faithfully fulfilling its mission.
• Fully committed to the inerrancy of Scripture and the transforming power of the Holy Spirit.
• Flexible online format that fits your schedule.
• Equipping men and women called by God.
• An array of programs to help you take the next step. You can do it!
• If you’d like to learn more, visit Wesley Biblical Seminary.

The post Four Real Stories about How Church Bookkeepers Messed Up appeared first on Church Answers.

In part one, Thom and Jess focused on questions that reveal inner wiring and emotional maturity. In part two, the focus shifts to longevity, mission alignment, and team health.

These questions don’t just help you hire well. They help you avoid pain—for the church, the staff member, and their family.

6. How do you personally measure ministry success when numbers are flat?

7. What kind of leadership do you struggle to follow?

8. What have former supervisors tried to gently correct in you?

9. How do you guard your spiritual health during busy seasons of ministry?

10. What would make you leave a church quickly—and why?

Resources:

• Wesley Biblical Seminary

• Learn more about the bridge program at Wesley Biblical Seminary

• Church Answers University

• 10 Often Overlooked Questions Churches Should Ask Before Hiring Staff – Part 1

• The Hope Initiative

• Church Answers Membership

• FREE Research Report: New Surprising Insights

Episode Sponsor:

• Wesley Biblical Seminary is focused on developing trusted leaders for faithful churches.
  • They offer certificates, bachelor’s degrees, master’s degrees, and doctoral degrees.
  • Since 1974 WBS has been faithfully fulfilling its mission.
• Fully committed to the inerrancy of Scripture and the transforming power of the Holy Spirit.
• Flexible online format that fits your schedule.
• Equipping men and women called by God.
• An array of programs to help you take the next step. You can do it!
• If you’d like to learn more, visit Wesley Biblical Seminary.

The post 10 Often Overlooked Questions Churches Should Ask Before Hiring Staff – Part 2 appeared first on Church Answers.

Most churches spend weeks crafting job descriptions and reviewing résumés. Very few ask the right questions.

Today, Thom and Jess argue that hiring mistakes in churches rarely come from a lack of talent. They come from overlooked questions—questions that reveal heart, alignment, resilience, and long-term fit.

This is part one of a two-part conversation on 10 often overlooked questions every church should ask before hiring its next staff member.

1. What energizes you outside of your formal job responsibilities?

2. What kind of church culture brings out your worst tendencies?

3. How do you typically respond when your ideas are not chosen?

4. What patterns have followed you from one ministry role to the next?

5. What would frustrate you the most about serving in an unhealthy church?

Resources:

• Wesley Biblical Seminary

• Learn more about the bridge program at Wesley Biblical Seminary

• Church Answers University

• 10 Often Overlooked Questions Churches Should Ask Before Hiring Staff – Part 2

• The Hope Initiative

• Church Answers Membership

• FREE Research Report: New Surprising Insights

Episode Sponsor:

• Wesley Biblical Seminary is focused on developing trusted leaders for faithful churches.
  • They offer certificates, bachelor’s degrees, master’s degrees, and doctoral degrees.
  • Since 1974 WBS has been faithfully fulfilling its mission.
• Fully committed to the inerrancy of Scripture and the transforming power of the Holy Spirit.
• Flexible online format that fits your schedule.
• Equipping men and women called by God.
• An array of programs to help you take the next step. You can do it!
• If you’d like to learn more, visit Wesley Biblical Seminary.

The post 10 Often Overlooked Questions Churches Should Ask Before Hiring Staff – Part 1 appeared first on Church Answers.

Thom and Jess are joined by Todd Brown and Isaac Brown of Brown Church Development Group, who are “The Church Facility Experts.” In this two-part series, we discuss the five myths of church building and why they cost churches millions.

• • Myth #1: “If We Build It, They Will Come”
  • Myth #2: “This Is a One-Time Project”
  • Myth #3: “The Cheapest Option Is the Most Faithful”
  • Myth #4: “Our Building Should Be Designed by Committee”
  • Myth #5: “This Is Mainly a Construction Problem”

Resources:

• Wesley Biblical Seminary

• Learn more about the bridge program at Wesley Biblical Seminary

• Church Answers University

• Brown Church Development Group

• The 5 Myths of Church Building (and Why They Cost Churches Millions) – Part 1

• The Hope Initiative

• Church Answers Membership

• FREE Research Report: New Surprising Insights

Episode Sponsor:

• Wesley Biblical Seminary is focused on developing trusted leaders for faithful churches.
  • They offer certificates, bachelor’s degrees, master’s degrees, and doctoral degrees.
  • Since 1974 WBS has been faithfully fulfilling its mission.
• Fully committed to the inerrancy of Scripture and the transforming power of the Holy Spirit.
• Flexible online format that fits your schedule.
• Equipping men and women called by God.
• An array of programs to help you take the next step. You can do it!
• If you’d like to learn more, visit Wesley Biblical Seminary.

The post The 5 Myths of Church Building (and Why They Cost Churches Millions) – Part 2 appeared first on Church Answers.

Thom and Jess are joined by Todd Brown and Isaac Brown of Brown Church Development Group, who are “The Church Facility Experts.” In this two-part series, we discuss the five myths of church building and why they cost churches millions.

• • Myth #1: “If We Build It, They Will Come”
  • Myth #2: “This Is a One-Time Project”
  • Myth #3: “The Cheapest Option Is the Most Faithful”
  • Myth #4: “Our Building Should Be Designed by Committee”
  • Myth #5: “This Is Mainly a Construction Problem”

Resources:

• Wesley Biblical Seminary

• Learn more about the bridge program at Wesley Biblical Seminary

• Church Answers University

• Brown Church Development Group

• The 5 Myths of Church Building (and Why They Cost Churches Millions) – Part 2

• Upward Sports

• The Hope Initiative

• Church Answers Membership

• FREE Research Report: New Surprising Insights

Episode Sponsor:

• Wesley Biblical Seminary is focused on developing trusted leaders for faithful churches.
  • They offer certificates, bachelor’s degrees, master’s degrees, and doctoral degrees.
  • Since 1974 WBS has been faithfully fulfilling its mission.
• Fully committed to the inerrancy of Scripture and the transforming power of the Holy Spirit.
• Flexible online format that fits your schedule.
• Equipping men and women called by God.
• An array of programs to help you take the next step. You can do it!
• If you’d like to learn more, visit Wesley Biblical Seminary.

The post The 5 Myths of Church Building (and Why They Cost Churches Millions) – Part 1 appeared first on Church Answers.

Dr. Andy Miller joins Thom and Jess to share the story of Wesley Biblical Seminary.

Resources:

• Wesley Biblical Seminary

• Learn more about the bridge program at Wesley Biblical Seminary

• Finally! Seminary Training for Co-vocational Church Leaders: An Interview with Andy Miller

• Church Answers University

• The Hope Initiative

• Church Answers Membership

• FREE Research Report: New Surprising Insights

Episode Sponsor:

• Wesley Biblical Seminary is focused on developing trusted leaders for faithful churches.
  • They offer certificates, bachelor’s degrees, master’s degrees, and doctoral degrees.
  • Since 1974 WBS has been faithfully fulfilling its mission.
• Fully committed to the inerrancy of Scripture and the transforming power of the Holy Spirit.
• Flexible online format that fits your schedule.
• Equipping men and women called by God.
• An array of programs to help you take the next step. You can do it!
• If you’d like to learn more, visit Wesley Biblical Seminary.

The post From Near Closure to Incredible Growth: The Story of Wesley Biblical Seminary – An Interview with Andy Miller appeared first on Church Answers.

Thom and Jess interview Dr. Andy Miller, the president of Wesley Biblical Seminary, about seminary training for co-vocational church leaders.

Resources:

• Wesley Biblical Seminary

• Learn more about the bridge program at Wesley Biblical Seminary

• From Near Closure to Incredible Growth: The Story of Wesley Biblical Seminary – An Interview with Andy Miller

• Church Answers University

• The Hope Initiative

• Church Answers Membership

• FREE Research Report: New Surprising Insights

Episode Sponsor:

• Wesley Biblical Seminary is focused on developing trusted leaders for faithful churches.
  • They offer certificates, bachelor’s degrees, master’s degrees, and doctoral degrees.
  • Since 1974 WBS has been faithfully fulfilling its mission.
• Fully committed to the inerrancy of Scripture and the transforming power of the Holy Spirit.
• Flexible online format that fits your schedule.
• Equipping men and women called by God.
• An array of programs to help you take the next step. You can do it!
• If you’d like to learn more, visit Wesley Biblical Seminary.

The post Finally! Seminary Training for Co-vocational Church Leaders: An Interview with Andy Miller appeared first on Church Answers.

What if a first-time guest experienced your church the way a customer experiences Amazon? No confusion. No friction. No wasted steps. Just clarity, care, and consistency.

This episode is not about turning the church into a corporation. It’s about learning from an organization that obsesses over people, removes barriers relentlessly, and improves every system on purpose.

Today, Thom and Jess ask a simple but uncomfortable question: If Amazon ran your church for one year, what would actually change?

1. 1. Every Guest Path Would Be Mapped and Measured.
   2. Friction Would Be Treated as the Enemy of Mission.
   3. Feedback Would Be Immediate, Normalized, and Valued.
   4. Leaders Would Be Accountable for the Entire Experience, Not Just Their Silo.

Resources:

• Wesley Biblical Seminary

• Learn more about the bridge program at Wesley Biblical Seminary

• Church Answers University

• The Hope Initiative

• Church Answers Membership

• FREE Research Report: New Surprising Insights

Episode Sponsor:

• Wesley Biblical Seminary is focused on developing trusted leaders for faithful churches.
  • They offer certificates, bachelor’s degrees, master’s degrees, and doctoral degrees.
  • Since 1974 WBS has been faithfully fulfilling its mission.
• Fully committed to the inerrancy of Scripture and the transforming power of the Holy Spirit.
• Flexible online format that fits your schedule.
• Equipping men and women called by God.
• An array of programs to help you take the next step. You can do it!
• If you’d like to learn more, visit Wesley Biblical Seminary.

The post If Amazon Ran Your Church: What Would Change in 12 Months? appeared first on Church Answers.

Thom and Jess welcome John Wentz, the president of Alpha USA, to The Church Answers Podcast.

Resources:

• Wesley Biblical Seminary

• Learn more about the bridge program at Wesley Biblical Seminary

• Church Answers University

• Alpha

• The Hope Initiative

• Church Answers Membership

• FREE Research Report: New Surprising Insights

Episode Sponsor:

• Wesley Biblical Seminary is focused on developing trusted leaders for faithful churches.
  • They offer certificates, bachelor’s degrees, master’s degrees, and doctoral degrees.
  • Since 1974 WBS has been faithfully fulfilling its mission.
• Fully committed to the inerrancy of Scripture and the transforming power of the Holy Spirit.
• Flexible online format that fits your schedule.
• Equipping men and women called by God.
• An array of programs to help you take the next step. You can do it!
• If you’d like to learn more, visit Wesley Biblical Seminary.

The post How Alpha Is Impacting Churches in the United States appeared first on Church Answers.

Thom and Jess look at seven key traits of long-term pastors.

1. 1. Deep emotional resilience
   2. Consistent relational investment in members and leaders
   3. Adaptability in leadership and ministry methods
   4. Commitment to long-term vision rather than quick wins
   5. Strong personal spiritual disciplines
   6. Healthy boundaries with work, family, and rest
   7. Willingness to navigate change without losing hope

Resources:

• Wesley Biblical Seminary

• Learn more about the bridge program at Wesley Biblical Seminary

• Church Answers University

• Top Seven Reasons a Pastor Chooses to Go to a Church

• Top Seven Reasons a Pastor Chooses to Leave a Church

• “Evangelism in the Early Church” by Michael Green (affiliate link)

• “Spiritual Disciplines for the Christian Life” by Donald S. Whitney (affiliate link)

• The Hope Initiative

• Church Answers Membership

• FREE Research Report: New Surprising Insights

Episode Sponsor:

• Wesley Biblical Seminary is focused on developing trusted leaders for faithful churches.
  • They offer certificates, bachelor’s degrees, master’s degrees, and doctoral degrees.
  • Since 1974 WBS has been faithfully fulfilling its mission.
• Fully committed to the inerrancy of Scripture and the transforming power of the Holy Spirit.
• Flexible online format that fits your schedule.
• Equipping men and women called by God.
• An array of programs to help you take the next step. You can do it!
• If you’d like to learn more, visit Wesley Biblical Seminary.

The post Top Seven Traits of Pastors Who Stay at a Church for at Least 15 Years appeared first on Church Answers.

Jess and Thom share the top seven reasons pastors told us they felt led to leave a church.

1. 1. Persistent conflict or toxic leadership culture
   2. Loss of alignment between pastor and congregation
   3. Burnout or unsustainable workload
   4. Lack of support from key lay leaders
   5. Family stress or personal health concerns
   6. Better vocational or ministry fit elsewhere
   7. Financial instability or compensation issues

Resources:

• Wesley Biblical Seminary

• Learn more about the bridge program at Wesley Biblical Seminary

• Church Answers University

• Top Seven Reasons a Pastor Chooses to Go to a Church

• Top Seven Traits of Pastors Who Stay at a Church for at Least 15 Years

• “To Dream Again: How to Help Your Church Come Alive” by Robert Dale (affiliate link)

• “Eating the Elephant: Leading the Established Church to Growth” by Thom S. Rainer (affiliate link)

• The Hope Initiative

• Church Answers Membership

• FREE Research Report: New Surprising Insights

Episode Sponsor:

• Wesley Biblical Seminary is focused on developing trusted leaders for faithful churches.
  • They offer certificates, bachelor’s degrees, master’s degrees, and doctoral degrees.
  • Since 1974 WBS has been faithfully fulfilling its mission.
• Fully committed to the inerrancy of Scripture and the transforming power of the Holy Spirit.
• Flexible online format that fits your schedule.
• Equipping men and women called by God.
• An array of programs to help you take the next step. You can do it!
• If you’d like to learn more, visit Wesley Biblical Seminary.

The post Top Seven Reasons a Pastor Chooses to Leave a Church appeared first on Church Answers.

Jess and Thom share the top seven reasons pastors choose to go to a church.

1. 1. Clear sense of calling and alignment with the church’s mission
   2. Healthy search process with transparent expectations
   3. Strong relational connection with key leaders
   4. Perceived openness to change and growth
   5. Community fit for the pastor’s family
   6. Financial and structural stability
   7. Opportunities to use and develop gifts

Resources:

• Wesley Biblical Seminary

• Upward Running

• Top Seven Reasons a Pastor Chooses to Leave a Church

• Top Seven Traits of Pastors Who Stay at a Church for at Least 15 Years

• The Hope Initiative

• Church Answers Membership

• FREE Research Report: New Surprising Insights

Episode Sponsor:

• Wesley Biblical Seminary is focused on developing trusted leaders for faithful churches.
  • They offer certificates, bachelor’s degrees, master’s degrees, and doctoral degrees.
  • Since 1974 WBS has been faithfully fulfilling its mission.
• Fully committed to the inerrancy of Scripture and the transforming power of the Holy Spirit.
• Flexible online format that fits your schedule.
• Equipping men and women called by God.
• An array of programs to help you take the next step. You can do it!
• If you’d like to learn more, visit Wesley Biblical Seminary.

New Year, New Goals with Upward Running

It’s a new year—time for new fitness goals! Upward Running gives your church a fun and effective way to reach adults in your congregation and community. Offer a 5K Challenge that promotes both spiritual and fitness growth, helping participants build relationships, encourage one another, and experience health and wellness together. With Upward Running, your small group or adult ministry can engage adults in a meaningful, active, and relational way.

Learn more at Upward.org/Runcoach.

The post Top Seven Reasons a Pastor Chooses to Go to a Church appeared first on Church Answers.

The Enemy seeks to destroy. He loathes evangelism and will do anything he can to hinder church members from sharing the gospel. Jess and Thom share five of his most common tactics.

1. 1. He seeks to keep churches too busy to be evangelistic.
   2. He seeks to create conflict and disunity.
   3. He seeks to keep members from reading their Bibles.
   4. He seeks to keep members from praying.
   5. He seeks to sow doubts about the truth of Scripture.

Resources:

• Wesley Biblical Seminary

• Upward Running

• The Hope Initiative

• Church Answers Membership

• FREE Research Report: New Surprising Insights

Episode Sponsor:

• Wesley Biblical Seminary is focused on developing trusted leaders for faithful churches.
  • They offer certificates, bachelor’s degrees, master’s degrees, and doctoral degrees.
  • Since 1974 WBS has been faithfully fulfilling its mission.
• Fully committed to the inerrancy of Scripture and the transforming power of the Holy Spirit.
• Flexible online format that fits your schedule.
• Equipping men and women called by God.
• An array of programs to help you take the next step. You can do it!
• If you’d like to learn more, visit Wesley Biblical Seminary.

New Year, New Goals with Upward Running

It’s a new year—time for new fitness goals! Upward Running gives your church a fun and effective way to reach adults in your congregation and community. Offer a 5K Challenge that promotes both spiritual and fitness growth, helping participants build relationships, encourage one another, and experience health and wellness together. With Upward Running, your small group or adult ministry can engage adults in a meaningful, active, and relational way.

Learn more at Upward.org/Runcoach.

The post How Satan Attempts to Hinder Churches from Being Evangelistic appeared first on Church Answers.

Thom knows this person well, because he is one. He and Jess dive into how church leaders can best understand and utilize introverts in the church.

1. 1. Their spiritual impact often grows under the radar.
   2. Introverts influence through depth, not volume.
   3. Quiet leaders create stability in chaotic seasons.
   4. Listening is their primary leadership tool.
   5. They build trust through presence, not platform.

Resources:

• Wesley Biblical Seminary

• Upward Sports

• The Hope Initiative

• Church Answers Membership

• FREE Research Report: New Surprising Insights

Episode Sponsor:

• Wesley Biblical Seminary is focused on developing trusted leaders for faithful churches.
  • They offer certificates, bachelor’s degrees, master’s degrees, and doctoral degrees.
  • Since 1974 WBS has been faithfully fulfilling its mission.
• Fully committed to the inerrancy of Scripture and the transforming power of the Holy Spirit.
• Flexible online format that fits your schedule.
• Equipping men and women called by God.
• An array of programs to help you take the next step. You can do it!
• If you’d like to learn more, visit Wesley Biblical Seminary.

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 Quiet Power of the Church Introvert: Why the Most Influential People in Your Church May Be the Least Noticeable appeared first on Church Answers.

Thom and Jess continue to examine the largest unchurched group in America, the U3s. In this episode, the Rainers provide some highly practical ways to reach them.

1. 1. Create “Low-Commitment First Steps” Instead of Full Programs
   2. Develop a “Friendship First” Culture in the Church
   3. Offer Practical Help in Areas of Everyday Stress
   4. Strengthen Digital Front Doors
   5. Equip Members to Make Gentle, Personal Invitations

Resources:

• Wesley Biblical Seminary

• Upward Sports

• The Rainer Scale of Unchurched Receptivity

• 8 Money Milestones

• The Hope Initiative

• Church Answers Membership

• FREE Research Report: New Surprising Insights

Episode Sponsor:

• Wesley Biblical Seminary is focused on developing trusted leaders for faithful churches.
  • They offer certificates, bachelor’s degrees, master’s degrees, and doctoral degrees.
  • Since 1974 WBS has been faithfully fulfilling its mission.
• Fully committed to the inerrancy of Scripture and the transforming power of the Holy Spirit.
• Flexible online format that fits your schedule.
• Equipping men and women called by God.
• An array of programs to help you take the next step. You can do it!
• If you’d like to learn more, visit Wesley Biblical Seminary.

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 How Churches Can Reach the Largest Unchurched Group in the United States appeared first on Church Answers.

There are 30 to 35 million unchurched people in the United States, whom we call “the U3s.” Thom and Jess describe this unreached field and examine its key traits.

1. 1. They Are Spiritually Apathetic, Not Spiritually Resistant
   2. They Live in a Life-First, Faith-Optional Rhythm
   3. They Carry No Strong Church Identity (Positive or Negative)
   4. They Respond Best to Trusting Relationships, Not Institutions
   5. They Are the Largest Unchurched Segment

Resources:

• Wesley Biblical Seminary

• Upward Running

• The Hope Initiative

• Church Answers Membership

• FREE Research Report: New Surprising Insights

Episode Sponsor:

• Wesley Biblical Seminary is focused on developing trusted leaders for faithful churches.
  • They offer certificates, bachelor’s degrees, master’s degrees, and doctoral degrees.
  • Since 1974 WBS has been faithfully fulfilling its mission.
• Fully committed to the inerrancy of Scripture and the transforming power of the Holy Spirit.
• Flexible online format that fits your schedule.
• Equipping men and women called by God.
• An array of programs to help you take the next step. You can do it!
• If you’d like to learn more, visit Wesley Biblical Seminary.

New Year, New Goals with Upward Running

It’s a new year—time for new fitness goals! Upward Running gives your church a fun and effective way to reach adults in your congregation and community. Offer a 5K Challenge that promotes both spiritual and fitness growth, helping participants build relationships, encourage one another, and experience health and wellness together. With Upward Running, your small group or adult ministry can engage adults in a meaningful, active, and relational way.

Learn more at Upward.org/Runcoach.

The post The Largest Unchurched Group in the U.S. (and You’ve Never Heard of Them) appeared first on Church Answers.

The Rainer Scale helps churches understand how open an unchurched person is to the gospel, to spiritual conversation, and to attending church. It is not a judgment of spiritual worth, but a practical tool for identifying likely openness.

• • U1 — Highly Receptive
  • U2 — Moderately Receptive
  • U3 — Neutral / Passive
  • U4 — Resistant
  • U5 — Highly Resistant

Resources:

• Wesley Biblical Seminary

• Upward Running

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

• “The Unchurched Next Door” by Thom S. Rainer (affiliate link)

• The Unchurched Report – coming in 2026!

• The Hope Initiative

• Church Answers Membership

• FREE Research Report: New Surprising Insights

Episode Sponsor:

• Wesley Biblical Seminary is focused on developing trusted leaders for faithful churches.
  • They offer certificates, bachelor’s degrees, master’s degrees, and doctoral degrees.
  • Since 1974 WBS has been faithfully fulfilling its mission.
• Fully committed to the inerrancy of Scripture and the transforming power of the Holy Spirit.
• Flexible online format that fits your schedule.
• Equipping men and women called by God.
• An array of programs to help you take the next step. You can do it!
• If you’d like to learn more, visit Wesley Biblical Seminary.

New Year, New Goals with Upward Running

It’s a new year—time for new fitness goals! Upward Running gives your church a fun and effective way to reach adults in your congregation and community. Offer a 5K Challenge that promotes both spiritual and fitness growth, helping participants build relationships, encourage one another, and experience health and wellness together. With Upward Running, your small group or adult ministry can engage adults in a meaningful, active, and relational way.

Learn more at Upward.org/Runcoach.

The post The Rainer Scale of Unchurched Receptivity appeared first on Church Answers.

Thom and Jess conclude the “Future Church” series with an episode that puts church size into perspective. In an age when many pastors feel pressure to grow larger, the reality is that most congregations are small—and that’s not a problem. This episode explores what the data actually reveals about church attendance, why most churches are smaller than we think, and how leaders can find encouragement no matter the numbers.

1. 1. The Median Church Averages 65 in Worship Attendance
   2. Two-Thirds of All Churches Are Under 100 in Attendance
   3.  A Church of 150 Is in the Top 15%
   4. Only 10% of Churches Average 500 or More in Attendance

Resources:

• Wesley Biblical Seminary

• Upward Sports

• Future Church Series – Episode 1: The Microchurch

• Future Church Series – Episode 2: The Economics of the Future Church

• Future Church Series – Episode 3: Trends in Evangelism in the Local Church

• Future Church Series – Episode 4: Making Evangelism Visible

• Future Church Series – Episode 5: The Rise of Four New Co-Vocational Church Staff

• The Hope Initiative

• Church Answers Membership

• FREE Research Report: New Surprising Insights

Episode Sponsor:

• Wesley Biblical Seminary is focused on developing trusted leaders for faithful churches.
  • They offer certificates, bachelor’s degrees, master’s degrees, and doctoral degrees.
  • Since 1974 WBS has been faithfully fulfilling its mission.
• Fully committed to the inerrancy of Scripture and the transforming power of the Holy Spirit.
• Flexible online format that fits your schedule.
• Equipping men and women called by God.
• An array of programs to help you take the next step. You can do it!
• If you’d like to learn more, visit Wesley Biblical Seminary.

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 Future Church Series – Episode 6: What Is the Size of the Typical Church in the Future? appeared first on Church Answers.

Thom and Jess continue the “Future Church” series with an episode on how church staffing is changing in this new era of ministry.

Churches are smaller, leaner, and more focused than ever. Budgets are tighter, but opportunities for mission are wider. The result is a new kind of church staff—leaders who serve both inside and outside the church, combining pastoral calling with marketplace skills.

In this conversation, Thom and Jess introduce four co-vocational roles that are shaping the staff structure of the future church.

1. 1. Co-Vocational Executive Pastor
   2. Co-Vocational Welcome Ministry Director
   3. Co-Vocational Community Partnership Director
   4. Co-Vocational Generosity and Legacy Director

Resources:

• Wesley Biblical Seminary

• Upward Sports

• Future Church Series – Episode 1: The Microchurch

• Future Church Series – Episode 2: The Economics of the Future Church

• Future Church Series – Episode 3: Trends in Evangelism in the Local Church

• Future Church Series – Episode 4: Making Evangelism Visible

• Future Church Series – Episode 6: What Is the Size of the Typical Church in the Future?

• Bi-Vocational Co-Vocational Certification

• My Church Staff: Guest Services and Stewardship

• The Hope Initiative

• Church Answers Membership

• FREE Research Report: New Surprising Insights

Episode Sponsor:

• Wesley Biblical Seminary is focused on developing trusted leaders for faithful churches.
  • They offer certificates, bachelor’s degrees, master’s degrees, and doctoral degrees.
  • Since 1974 WBS has been faithfully fulfilling its mission.
• Fully committed to the inerrancy of Scripture and the transforming power of the Holy Spirit.
• Flexible online format that fits your schedule.
• Equipping men and women called by God.
• An array of programs to help you take the next step. You can do it!
• If you’d like to learn more, visit Wesley Biblical Seminary.

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 Future Church Series – Episode 5: The Rise of Four New Co-Vocational Church Staff appeared first on Church Answers.

The Rainers continue the 6-part series called “The Future Church.” Over the next episodes, we’ll explore how the landscape of ministry is changing—and how leaders can prepare with wisdom, courage, and hope.

Thom and Jess discuss how churches are making evangelism more than a slogan or a sermon topic—how to make it visible, tangible, and celebrated in the life of the congregation. Most believers genuinely want to share their faith, but they often need reminders, encouragement, and creative ways to stay focused on the mission. In this episode, Thom and Jess offer four practical ideas any church can implement to highlight the importance of evangelism every week.

Resources:

• Wesley Biblical Seminary

• Upward Sports

• Future Church Series – Episode 1: The Microchurch

• Future Church Series – Episode 2: The Economics of the Future Church

• Future Church Series – Episode 3: Trends in Evangelism in the Local Church

• Future Church Series – Episode 5: The Rise of Four New Co-Vocational Church Staff

• Future Church Series – Episode 6: What Is the Size of the Typical Church in the Future?

• The Hope Initiative

• Church Answers Membership

• FREE Research Report: New Surprising Insights

Episode Sponsor:

• Wesley Biblical Seminary is focused on developing trusted leaders for faithful churches.
  • They offer certificates, bachelor’s degrees, master’s degrees, and doctoral degrees.
  • Since 1974 WBS has been faithfully fulfilling its mission.
• Fully committed to the inerrancy of Scripture and the transforming power of the Holy Spirit.
• Flexible online format that fits your schedule.
• Equipping men and women called by God.
• An array of programs to help you take the next step. You can do it!
• If you’d like to learn more, visit Wesley Biblical Seminary.

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 Future Church Series – Episode 4: Making Evangelism Visible appeared first on Church Answers.

Thom and Jess continue the “Future Church” series with an episode focused on one of the most important—and most misunderstood—topics in today’s congregations: evangelism.

The way people come to faith is changing, and so are the methods churches use to share the gospel. Attendance patterns are different. Communities are more skeptical of institutions. And more often than not, the first place someone encounters the church is online, not in person. In this conversation, the Rainers look at how evangelism is evolving, why it still matters deeply, and four major trends shaping how local churches reach people today.

Resources:

• Wesley Biblical Seminary

• Upward Sports

• Future Church Series – Episode 1: The Microchurch

• Future Church Series – Episode 2: The Economics of the Future Church

• Future Church Series – Episode 4: Making Evangelism Visible

• Future Church Series – Episode 5: The Rise of Four New Co-Vocational Church Staff

• Future Church Series – Episode 6: What Is the Size of the Typical Church in the Future?

• “Why Guests Don’t Come to Your Church After a Big Event” by Thom S. Rainer

• The Hope Initiative

• Church Answers Membership

• FREE Research Report: New Surprising Insights

Episode Sponsor:

• Wesley Biblical Seminary is focused on developing trusted leaders for faithful churches.
  • They offer certificates, bachelor’s degrees, master’s degrees, and doctoral degrees.
  • Since 1974 WBS has been faithfully fulfilling its mission.
• Fully committed to the inerrancy of Scripture and the transforming power of the Holy Spirit.
• Flexible online format that fits your schedule.
• Equipping men and women called by God.
• An array of programs to help you take the next step. You can do it!
• If you’d like to learn more, visit Wesley Biblical Seminary.

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 Future Church Series – Episode 3: Trends in Evangelism in the Local Church appeared first on Church Answers.

Welcome back to The Church Answers Podcast and to our ongoing series called “The Future Church.” In each episode, Thom and Jess unpack the shifts shaping tomorrow’s congregations—and how pastors and leaders can prepare today.

In this episode, we’re looking at a subject every church feels: money. The financial landscape of ministry is changing rapidly. Attendance patterns have shifted, giving habits have evolved, and the next generation is thinking about generosity in completely new ways.

So, what will funding look like for the future church? Thom and Jess explore four emerging models that are helping churches stay healthy and mission-focused in a changing economy.

Resources:

• Wesley Biblical Seminary

• Upward Sports

• Future Church Series – Episode 1: The Microchurch

• Future Church Series – Episode 3: Trends in Evangelism in the Local Church

• Future Church Series – Episode 4: Making Evangelism Visible

• Future Church Series – Episode 5: The Rise of Four New Co-Vocational Church Staff

• Future Church Series – Episode 6: What Is the Size of the Typical Church in the Future?

• The Hope Initiative

• Church Answers Membership

• FREE Research Report: New Surprising Insights

Episode Sponsor:

• Wesley Biblical Seminary is focused on developing trusted leaders for faithful churches.
  • They offer certificates, bachelor’s degrees, master’s degrees, and doctoral degrees.
  • Since 1974 WBS has been faithfully fulfilling its mission.
• Fully committed to the inerrancy of Scripture and the transforming power of the Holy Spirit.
• Flexible online format that fits your schedule.
• Equipping men and women called by God.
• An array of programs to help you take the next step. You can do it!
• If you’d like to learn more, visit Wesley Biblical Seminary.

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 Future Church Series – Episode 2: The Economics of the Future Church appeared first on Church Answers.

Welcome to a brand-new series on The Church Answers Podcast called “The Future Church.” Over the next six episodes, we’ll explore how the landscape of ministry is changing—and how leaders can prepare with wisdom, courage, and hope.

In this first episode, Thom and Jess begin by looking at one of the most intriguing movements shaping the future: the rise of the microchurch. This small, mission-driven model is gaining traction across the United States and around the world. What exactly is a microchurch, how is it structured, and why is it so different from other forms of church? Let’s find out.

Resources:

• Wesley Biblical Seminary

• Upward Sports

• Future Church Series – Episode 2: The Economics of the Future Church

• Future Church Series – Episode 3: Trends in Evangelism in the Local Church

• Future Church Series – Episode 4: Making Evangelism Visible

• Future Church Series – Episode 5: The Rise of Four New Co-Vocational Church Staff

• Future Church Series – Episode 6: What Is the Size of the Typical Church in the Future?

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

• The Hope Initiative

• Church Answers Membership

• FREE Research Report: New Surprising Insights

Episode Sponsor:

• Wesley Biblical Seminary is focused on developing trusted leaders for faithful churches.
  • They offer certificates, bachelor’s degrees, master’s degrees, and doctoral degrees.
  • Since 1974 WBS has been faithfully fulfilling its mission.
• Fully committed to the inerrancy of Scripture and the transforming power of the Holy Spirit.
• Flexible online format that fits your schedule.
• Equipping men and women called by God.
• An array of programs to help you take the next step. You can do it!
• If you’d like to learn more, visit Wesley Biblical Seminary.

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 Future Church Series – Episode 1: The Microchurch appeared first on Church Answers.

Jess interviews Thom in this fascinating behind-the-scenes look at Church Answers. They examine the evolution of resources from the company’s inception to the present day.

Resources:

• Wesley Biblical Seminary

• Upward Running

• What in the World Does Church Answers Really Do? Part 1: The Consultation Foundation

• Church Answers Membership

• The Hope Initiative

• FREE Research Report: New Surprising Insights

Episode Sponsor:

• Wesley Biblical Seminary is focused on developing trusted leaders for faithful churches.
  • They offer certificates, bachelor’s degrees, master’s degrees, and doctoral degrees.
  • Since 1974 WBS has been faithfully fulfilling its mission.
• Fully committed to the inerrancy of Scripture and the transforming power of the Holy Spirit.
• Flexible online format that fits your schedule.
• Equipping men and women called by God.
• An array of programs to help you take the next step. You can do it!
• If you’d like to learn more, visit Wesley Biblical Seminary.

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 What in the World Does Church Answers Really Do? Part 2: The Local Church Partner Grows appeared first on Church Answers.

Jess interviews Thom in this fascinating behind-the-scenes look at Church Answers. How did Church Answers begin? What is its primary thrust? Who is a part of Church Answers?

Resources:

• Wesley Biblical Seminary

• Upward Running

• What in the World Does Church Answers Really Do? Part 2: The Local Church Partner Grows

• Craft Book Publishing

• “Bridges of God: A Study in the Strategy of Missions” by Donald McGavran (affiliate link)

• Church Growth Services

• Brown Church Development Group

• Chaney & Associates

• Church Answers Membership

• The Hope Initiative

• FREE Research Report: New Surprising Insights

Episode Sponsor:

• Wesley Biblical Seminary is focused on developing trusted leaders for faithful churches.
  • They offer certificates, bachelor’s degrees, master’s degrees, and doctoral degrees.
  • Since 1974 WBS has been faithfully fulfilling its mission.
• Fully committed to the inerrancy of Scripture and the transforming power of the Holy Spirit.
• Flexible online format that fits your schedule.
• Equipping men and women called by God.
• An array of programs to help you take the next step. You can do it!
• If you’d like to learn more, visit Wesley Biblical Seminary.

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 What in the World Does Church Answers Really Do? Part 1: The Consultation Foundation appeared first on Church Answers.

It would not be a surprise if over one-half of your church members need personal financial counseling. Jess and Thom interview Art Rainer, president of Christian Money Solutions, to find out how you can help those church members.

Resources:

• Wesley Biblical Seminary

• Upward Sports

• Christian Money Solutions

• 8 Money Milestones + The Money Challenge Bundle

• Certified Christian Financial Counselor (CERTCFC®) Program

• Christian Money Help

• The Hope Initiative

• Church Answers Membership

• FREE Research Report: New Surprising Insights

Episode Sponsor:

• Wesley Biblical Seminary is focused on developing trusted leaders for faithful churches.
  • They offer certificates, bachelor’s degrees, master’s degrees, and doctoral degrees.
  • Since 1974 WBS has been faithfully fulfilling its mission.
• Fully committed to the inerrancy of Scripture and the transforming power of the Holy Spirit.
• Flexible online format that fits your schedule.
• Equipping men and women called by God.
• An array of programs to help you take the next step. You can do it!
• If you’d like to learn more, visit Wesley Biblical Seminary.

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 Financial Counseling for Your Church Members: An Interview with Art Rainer appeared first on Church Answers.

How can I lead my church toward greater generosity? We hear that question often. Thom and Jess interview Art Rainer, president of Christian Money Solutions, to get some highly practical advice.

Resources:

• Wesley Biblical Seminary

• Upward Sports

• Christian Money Solutions

• 8 Money Milestones + The Money Challenge Bundle

• The Hope Initiative

• Church Answers Membership

• FREE Research Report: New Surprising Insights

Episode Sponsor:

• Wesley Biblical Seminary is focused on developing trusted leaders for faithful churches.
  • They offer certificates, bachelor’s degrees, master’s degrees, and doctoral degrees.
  • Since 1974 WBS has been faithfully fulfilling its mission.
• Fully committed to the inerrancy of Scripture and the transforming power of the Holy Spirit.
• Flexible online format that fits your schedule.
• Equipping men and women called by God.
• An array of programs to help you take the next step. You can do it!
• If you’d like to learn more, visit Wesley Biblical Seminary.

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 Jumpstart Your Stewardship: An Interview with Art Rainer appeared first on Church Answers.

In this conversation, Jess and Thom discuss the fleeting nature of digital influence. Algorithms shift, platforms fade, and online visibility is temporary. What happens when your church—or your ministry—disappears from the feed? This episode explores how to build something lasting in a world designed to forget.

1. 1. Digital Decay: Why every online platform eventually buries even the best content.
   2. Presence Over Platform: How personal relationships still outlast digital reach.
   3. Legacy Leadership: Building ministries that endure beyond algorithms and branding trends.
   4. The Return to Analog: Why the most future-proof ministry may look a lot like the first-century church.

Resources:

• Wesley Biblical Seminary

• Upward Running

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

• “The Millennials: How We Missed the Largest Living Generation — and Why It’s Not Late” by Thom S. Rainer and Jess W. Rainer – coming soon!

• The Hope Initiative

• Church Answers Membership

• FREE Research Report: New Surprising Insights

Episode Sponsor:

• Wesley Biblical Seminary is focused on developing trusted leaders for faithful churches.
  • They offer certificates, bachelor’s degrees, master’s degrees, and doctoral degrees.
  • Since 1974 WBS has been faithfully fulfilling its mission.
• Fully committed to the inerrancy of Scripture and the transforming power of the Holy Spirit.
• Flexible online format that fits your schedule.
• Equipping men and women called by God.
• An array of programs to help you take the next step. You can do it!
• If you’d like to learn more, visit Wesley Biblical Seminary.

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 When the Digital World Forgets You — Building Ministry That Outlasts the Algorithm appeared first on Church Answers.

Thom and Jess tackle the growing challenge of polarization inside and outside the church. As cultural extremes grow louder, pastors often find themselves without a safe “middle ground.” How can church leaders stay faithful, gracious, and clear in such an environment?

1. 1. The Vanishing Middle: Why neutrality no longer works in today’s polarized culture.
   2. Conviction Without Combustion: How to hold strong beliefs while leading with empathy.
   3. Discipleship Over Debate: Why spiritual formation must replace social-media formation.
   4. Rebuilding Trust: Ways pastors can model calm clarity in a chaotic world.

Resources:

• Wesley Biblical Seminary

• Upward Running

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

• The Hope Initiative

• Church Answers Membership

• FREE Research Report: New Surprising Insights

Episode Sponsor:

• Wesley Biblical Seminary is focused on developing trusted leaders for faithful churches.
  • They offer certificates, bachelor’s degrees, master’s degrees, and doctoral degrees.
  • Since 1974 WBS has been faithfully fulfilling its mission.
• Fully committed to the inerrancy of Scripture and the transforming power of the Holy Spirit.
• Flexible online format that fits your schedule.
• Equipping men and women called by God.
• An array of programs to help you take the next step. You can do it!
• If you’d like to learn more, visit Wesley Biblical Seminary.

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 Death of the Middle — How Polarization Is Reshaping Church Leadership appeared first on Church Answers.

Keith and Kristyn Getty recently released The Sing! Hymnal. This publication is a major development in worship music and hymnody. Jess and Thom speak with Keith Getty about its creation and importance. Here are some of the questions they asked him.

• • The hymnal includes hundreds of liturgical readings and psalm pairings. Why was it important for you to add these elements alongside the music?
  • Background stories accompany many hymns. How do these narratives enrich the way a congregation sings and understands these hymns?
  • What would you tell pastors considering adding this hymnal to their churches?
  • How can the hymnal be used beyond the Sunday morning worship experience?

Resources:

• Wesley Biblical Seminary

• Upward Sports

• Why the New Hymnal from the Gettys Is So Important: An Interview with Keith Getty (Part 1)

• The Sing! Hymnal

• Getty Music

• The Hope Initiative

• Church Answers Membership

• FREE Research Report: New Surprising Insights

Episode Sponsor:

• Wesley Biblical Seminary is focused on developing trusted leaders for faithful churches.
  • They offer certificates, bachelor’s degrees, master’s degrees, and doctoral degrees.
  • Since 1974 WBS has been faithfully fulfilling its mission.
• Fully committed to the inerrancy of Scripture and the transforming power of the Holy Spirit.
• Flexible online format that fits your schedule.
• Equipping men and women called by God.
• An array of programs to help you take the next step. You can do it!
• If you’d like to learn more, visit Wesley Biblical Seminary.

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.

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 Why the New Hymnal from the Gettys Is So Important: An Interview with Keith Getty (Part 2) appeared first on Church Answers.

Keith and Kristyn Getty recently released The Sing! Hymnal. This publication is a major development in worship music and hymnody. Jess and Thom speak with Keith Getty about its creation and importance. Here are some of the questions they asked him.

• • What has been happening with the Gettys other than the new hymnal?
  • Why did you and Kristyn decide to create this hymnal? What was your central vision?
  • A stated goal of the hymnal is to bridge generation gaps. Do you feel you accomplished that goal?
  • With nearly 500 hymns included, what guiding principles determined which songs made it into the hymnal?

Resources:

• Wesley Biblical Seminary

• Upward Sports

• Why the New Hymnal from the Gettys Is So Important: An Interview with Keith Getty (Part 2)

• The Sing! Hymnal

• Getty Music

• The Hope Initiative

• Church Answers Membership

• FREE Research Report: New Surprising Insights

Episode Sponsor:

• Wesley Biblical Seminary is focused on developing trusted leaders for faithful churches.
  • They offer certificates, bachelor’s degrees, master’s degrees, and doctoral degrees.
  • Since 1974 WBS has been faithfully fulfilling its mission.
• Fully committed to the inerrancy of Scripture and the transforming power of the Holy Spirit.
• Flexible online format that fits your schedule.
• Equipping men and women called by God.
• An array of programs to help you take the next step. You can do it!
• If you’d like to learn more, visit Wesley Biblical Seminary.

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.

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 Why the New Hymnal from the Gettys Is So Important: An Interview with Keith Getty (Part 1) appeared first on Church Answers.

Jess and Thom explore how the humble farmers market might hold surprising lessons for church life. In a world drawn to authenticity and community, what if the local church functioned more like a neighborhood market — relational, participatory, and grounded in place?

Resources:

• Wesley Biblical Seminary

• Upward Sports

• Upward Sports: Pickleball

• The Hope Initiative

• Church Answers Membership

• FREE Research Report: New Surprising Insights

Episode Sponsor:

• Wesley Biblical Seminary is focused on developing trusted leaders for faithful churches.
  • They offer certificates, bachelor’s degrees, master’s degrees, and doctoral degrees.
  • Since 1974 WBS has been faithfully fulfilling its mission.
• Fully committed to the inerrancy of Scripture and the transforming power of the Holy Spirit.
• Flexible online format that fits your schedule.
• Equipping men and women called by God.
• An array of programs to help you take the next step. You can do it!
• If you’d like to learn more, visit Wesley Biblical Seminary.

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.

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.

The post What Churches Can Learn from Farmers Markets appeared first on Church Answers.

In this episode, Thom and Jess examine one of the more unusual findings from the 2023 Faith Communities Today (FACT) study. The survey reveals a noticeable gap in pastors aged 46 to 50. We’ll explore why this age bracket is underrepresented, what factors may have shaped this trend, and what it means for the future of pastoral leadership.

Resources:

• Wesley Biblical Seminary

• Upward Sports

• Upward Sports: Pickleball

• FACT 2023 Summary Reports

• The Hope Initiative

• Church Answers Membership

• FREE Research Report: New Surprising Insights

Episode Sponsor:

• Wesley Biblical Seminary is focused on developing trusted leaders for faithful churches.
  • They offer certificates, bachelor’s degrees, master’s degrees, and doctoral degrees.
  • Since 1974 WBS has been faithfully fulfilling its mission.
• Fully committed to the inerrancy of Scripture and the transforming power of the Holy Spirit.
• Flexible online format that fits your schedule.
• Equipping men and women called by God.
• An array of programs to help you take the next step. You can do it!
• If you’d like to learn more, visit Wesley Biblical Seminary.

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.

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.

The post The Church Number: 46 to 50: The Missing Generation — Why Pastors Ages 46–50 Are Underrepresented appeared first on Church Answers.

In this episode, Thom discusses an encouraging statistic from the 2023 Faith Communities Today (FACT) study. Despite the challenges of shrinking attendance, financial strain, and cultural headwinds, nearly three out of four congregations still report a positive outlook on their future. What fuels this optimism, and what does it mean for church leaders?

Resources:

• Wesley Biblical Seminary

• Upward Sports

• FACT 2023 Summary Reports

• Ryan Burge

• “Autopsy of a Deceased Church: 12 Ways to Keep Yours Alive” by Thom S. Rainer (affiliate link)

• The Hope Initiative

• Church Answers Membership

• FREE Research Report: New Surprising Insights

Episode Sponsor:

• Wesley Biblical Seminary is focused on developing trusted leaders for faithful churches.
  • They offer certificates, bachelor’s degrees, master’s degrees, and doctoral degrees.
  • Since 1974 WBS has been faithfully fulfilling its mission.
• Fully committed to the inerrancy of Scripture and the transforming power of the Holy Spirit.
• Flexible online format that fits your schedule.
• Equipping men and women called by God.
• An array of programs to help you take the next step. You can do it!
• If you’d like to learn more, visit Wesley Biblical Seminary.

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 Church Number: 73.7% — Churches That Have a Positive Outlook on the Future appeared first on Church Answers.

Thom talks with Mike Stadelmayer at Church Growth Services who offers some fascinating insights about churches and debt. There are definitely some surprises in this interview.

Resources:

• Wesley Biblical Seminary

• Upward Sports

• Church Growth Services

• Check out this free eBook, “Church Debt, Striking a Balance Between Risk & Reward,” and learn more!

• Schedule a call with Mike Stadelmayer

• The Hope Initiative

• Church Answers Platinum Membership

• FREE Research Report: New Surprising Insights

Episode Sponsor:

• Wesley Biblical Seminary is focused on developing trusted leaders for faithful churches.
  • They offer certificates, bachelor’s degrees, master’s degrees, and doctoral degrees.
  • Since 1974 WBS has been faithfully fulfilling its mission.
• Fully committed to the inerrancy of Scripture and the transforming power of the Holy Spirit.
• Flexible online format that fits your schedule.
• Equipping men and women called by God.
• An array of programs to help you take the next step. You can do it!
• If you’d like to learn more, visit Wesley Biblical Seminary.

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 Should a Church Have Debt? An Interview with Mike Stadelmayer appeared first on Church Answers.

Thom and Jess open a conversation from their revised book, “The Millennials: How We Missed the Largest Living Generation — and Why It’s Not Late.” This episode unpacks what happens when churches neglect reaching the Millennials.

Resources:

• Wesley Biblical Seminary

• Upward Sports

• Upward Sports: Pickleball

• “The Millennials: How We Missed the Largest Living Generation — and Why It’s Not Late” by Thom S. Rainer and Jess W. Rainer – coming soon!

• Know Your Community

• The Hope Initiative

• Church Answers Membership

• FREE Research Report: New Surprising Insights

Episode Sponsor:

• Wesley Biblical Seminary is focused on developing trusted leaders for faithful churches.
  • They offer certificates, bachelor’s degrees, master’s degrees, and doctoral degrees.
  • Since 1974 WBS has been faithfully fulfilling its mission.
• Fully committed to the inerrancy of Scripture and the transforming power of the Holy Spirit.
• Flexible online format that fits your schedule.
• Equipping men and women called by God.
• An array of programs to help you take the next step. You can do it!
• If you’d like to learn more, visit Wesley Biblical Seminary.

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.

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.

The post What Happens When the Church Overlooks the Millennials appeared first on Church Answers.

Thom and Jess draw from the introduction of their revised book, “The Millennials: How We Missed the Largest Living Generation — and Why It’s Not Late,” to set the stage for why Millennials matter. They highlight how this generation compares in size to others and why pastors must pay attention now.

Resources:

• Wesley Biblical Seminary

• Upward Sports

• Upward Sports: Pickleball

• “The Millennials: How We Missed the Largest Living Generation — and Why It’s Not Late” by Thom S. Rainer and Jess W. Rainer – coming soon!

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

• “The Anxious Generation” by Jonathan Haidt (affiliate link)

• The Hope Initiative

• Church Answers Membership

• FREE Research Report: New Surprising Insights

Episode Sponsor:

• Wesley Biblical Seminary is focused on developing trusted leaders for faithful churches.
  • They offer certificates, bachelor’s degrees, master’s degrees, and doctoral degrees.
  • Since 1974 WBS has been faithfully fulfilling its mission.
• Fully committed to the inerrancy of Scripture and the transforming power of the Holy Spirit.
• Flexible online format that fits your schedule.
• Equipping men and women called by God.
• An array of programs to help you take the next step. You can do it!
• If you’d like to learn more, visit Wesley Biblical Seminary.

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.

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.

The post The Largest Living Generation—Why the Church Can’t Overlook the Millennials appeared first on Church Answers.

In this episode, Thom looks at one of the surprising findings from the 2023 FACT (Faith Communities Today) study. The research shows that more than seven out of ten churches share their facilities with other organizations. Thom explores why so many churches are opening their doors, what kinds of groups they are hosting, and how this trend impacts both the church and the community.

This number comes from the 2023 Faith Communities Today (FACT) survey, one of the most comprehensive studies of U.S. congregations, conducted every five years since 2000. The 2023 survey included responses from over 15,000 congregations across denominations and traditions.

The FACT report notes that 70.5% of congregations share their buildings with other groups — including nonprofits, community organizations, government programs, and even other churches.
(Source: FACT 2023 Summary Reports; UCC FACT 2023 Release)

Resources:

• Wesley Biblical Seminary

• Upward Sports

• Upward Sports: Pickleball

• FACT 2023 Summary Reports

• The Hope Initiative

• Church Answers Platinum Membership

• FREE Research Report: New Surprising Insights

Episode Sponsor:

• Wesley Biblical Seminary is focused on developing trusted leaders for faithful churches.
  • They offer certificates, bachelor’s degrees, master’s degrees, and doctoral degrees.
  • Since 1974 WBS has been faithfully fulfilling its mission.
• Fully committed to the inerrancy of Scripture and the transforming power of the Holy Spirit.
• Flexible online format that fits your schedule.
• Equipping men and women called by God.
• An array of programs to help you take the next step. You can do it!
• If you’d like to learn more, visit Wesley Biblical Seminary.

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 Church Number: 70.5% Churches That Share Their Facilities with Other Organizations appeared first on Church Answers.

In this episode, Thom looks at new data from the 2023 FACT (Faith Communities Today) study. The research shows that churches with extensive online giving receive 34% more per attender than those with none. Thom unpacks what that number means for church leaders, why it matters, and how congregations can take practical steps to strengthen generosity in a digital age.

This number comes from the 2023 Faith Communities Today (FACT) survey, one of the most comprehensive studies of U.S. congregations, conducted every five years since 2000. FACT 2023 surveyed over 15,000 congregations across various denominations and faith traditions.

• • Congregations with no online giving reported per capita giving of $1,809.
  • Congregations with extensive online giving reported per capita giving of $2,428.
  • That’s about a 34% increase per attender.

Interpretation and insights have also been provided by the Lake Institute on Faith & Giving (Lake Institute, Insights 2023).

Resources:

• Church Answers University

• Redemption Seminary

• Upward Sports

• Upward Sports: Pickleball

• FACT 2023 Summary Reports

• Lake Institute on Faith & Giving

• The Hope Initiative

• Church Answers Membership

• FREE Research Report: New Surprising Insights

Episode Sponsor:

Get a diploma plus nine hours credit toward a Master’s degree at Redemption Seminary. Learn more today at https://churchanswers.com/diplomas/

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 Church Number: 34% How Much More Churches Receive Per Attender If They Have Extensive Online Giving appeared first on Church Answers.

In this episode, Thom dives into a surprising and encouraging statistic from the 2023 FACT study—79% of church attenders say that church is “very important” in their lives. With so many articles and headlines announcing the decline of religion in America, this number offers a different perspective—one filled with hope, mission, and responsibility.

The data comes from “This Place Means Everything to Me: Key Findings from a National Survey of Church Attenders in Post-Pandemic United States” (2023 FACT study, published by the Hartford Institute for Religion Research). The study is one of the most comprehensive post-pandemic surveys of active churchgoers in the United States.

Resources:

• Church Answers University

• Redemption Seminary

• Upward Running

• “This Place Means Everything to Me: Key Findings from a National Survey of Church Attenders in Post-Pandemic United States” (2023 FACT study, published by the Hartford Institute for Religion Research)

• The Hope Initiative

• Church Answers Membership

• FREE Research Report: New Surprising Insights

Episode Sponsor:

Get a diploma plus nine hours credit toward a Master’s degree at Redemption Seminary. Learn more today at https://churchanswers.com/diplomas/

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 post The Church Number: 79% The Number of Church Attenders Who Say Church Is “Very Important” to Their Lives appeared first on Church Answers.

In this episode, Thom discusses a striking figure from the 2023 FACT (Faith Communities Today) study: 62% of churchgoers report attending weekly worship services. What does this number really tell us? Is it reliable? And how should pastors respond in a culture where attendance patterns are shifting?

Resources:

• Church Answers University

• Redemption Seminary

• Upward Running

• FACT 2023 Summary Reports

• The Hope Initiative

• “Pray & Go: Your Invitation to Become a Great Commission Christian” by Thom S. Rainer (affiliate link)

• Church Answers Membership

• FREE Research Report: New Surprising Insights

Episode Sponsor:

Get a diploma plus nine hours credit toward a Master’s degree at Redemption Seminary. Learn more today at https://churchanswers.com/diplomas/

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 post The Church Number: 62% The Percentage of Churchgoers Who Attend Weekly appeared first on Church Answers.

It has been several years since the pandemic, but its effects are still lasting. Thom and Jess explore how COVID-19 didn’t just disrupt church attendance for a season — it changed patterns for the long term. They discuss the lasting shifts and how churches can adapt.

1. 1. Fewer people attend weekly — even among the committed.
   2. Many attenders are rotating between churches.
   3. The “core” in many churches became more committed.
   4. Churches must not apologize for expecting committed attendance.

Resources:

• Chaney & Associates

• The Church Advisory Podcast

• Upward Sports

• Upward Sports: Pickleball

• The Hope Initiative

• Church Answers Membership

• FREE Research Report: New Surprising Insights

Episode Sponsor:

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 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 How the Pandemic Changed Church Attendance appeared first on Church Answers.

Thom and Jess explore why Gen Z’s view of the church differs significantly from that of past generations. They unpack the values, expectations, and skepticism of this connected-yet-cautious generation.

1. 1. They value authenticity over polished performance.
   2. They want participation, not passive observation.
   3. They’re community conscious and expect the church to be, too.
   4. Trust must be earned, not assumed.
   5. Digital presence matters, but in-person relationships remain the most effective.

Resources:

• Chaney & Associates

• The Church Advisory Podcast

• Upward Sports

• Upward Sports: Pickleball

• “The Millennials” by Thom S. Rainer and Jess W. Rainer (affiliate link)

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

• “The Anxious Generation” by Jonathan Haidt (affiliate link)

• The Hope Initiative

• Church Answers Membership

• FREE Research Report: New Surprising Insights

Episode Sponsor:

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 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 Why Gen Z Views Church Differently appeared first on Church Answers.

Thom and Jess discuss how smartphones have reshaped connection — and disconnection — in the church. From constant distraction to reduced attention spans, they explore how devices affect worship, community, and discipleship.

1. 1. Attention spans are shorter than ever in church gatherings.
   2. Social media during sermons creates a split focus.
   3. Online relationships sometimes replace in-person fellowship.
   4. A phone-free season can be a powerful spiritual reset.

Resources:

• Chaney & Associates

• The Church Advisory Podcast

• Upward Running

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

• “The Anxious Generation” by Jonathan Haidt (affiliate link)

• The Hope Initiative

• Church Answers Membership

• FREE Research Report: New Surprising Insights

Episode Sponsor:

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

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 post The Smartphone Problem in Your Church appeared first on Church Answers.

Thom and Jess discuss how church conflict is often not about the issue on the surface. Many disputes mask deeper spiritual, relational, or personal struggles — and wise leaders learn to look beyond the obvious.

1. 1. Surface issues are often just the “presenting problem.”
   2. Personal frustrations can spill over into church life.
   3. Historical grievances sometimes resurface in new conflicts.
   4. Spiritual battles often underlie interpersonal tensions.
   5. Wise leaders dig deeper before reacting to what they hear.

Resources:

• Chaney & Associates

• The Church Advisory Podcast

• Upward Running

• The Hope Initiative

• Church Answers Membership

• FREE Research Report: New Surprising Insights

Episode Sponsor:

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

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 post Why Conflict in the Church Is Often About Something Else appeared first on Church Answers.

In the final part of the series, Thom and Jess examine four additional translations that remain popular within more specific theological, academic, or expositional contexts: New American Standard Bible (NASB), New Revised Standard Version (NRSV), Revised Standard Version (RSV), and Legacy Standard Bible (LSB).

Resources:

• Chaney & Associates

• The Church Advisory Podcast

• Upward Sports

• Upward Sports: Pickleball

• A Comprehensive Examination of Why the Top 10 Bible Translations Are Popular – Part 1

• A Comprehensive Examination of Why the Top 10 Bible Translations Are Popular – Part 2: NIV, KJV, NLT

• A Comprehensive Examination of Why the Top 10 Bible Translations Are Popular – Part 3: ESV, CSB, NJKV

• The Hope Initiative

• Church Answers Membership

• FREE Research Report: New Surprising Insights

Episode Sponsor:

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 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 A Comprehensive Examination of Why the Top 10 Bible Translations Are Popular – Part 4: NASB, NRSV, RSV, LSB appeared first on Church Answers.

The series continues as Thom and Jess explore the next three popular translations: English Standard Version (ESV), Christian Standard Bible (CSB), and New King James Version (NKJV).

Resources:

• Chaney & Associates

• The Church Advisory Podcast

• Upward Sports

• Upward Sports: Pickleball

• A Comprehensive Examination of Why the Top 10 Bible Translations Are Popular – Part 1

• A Comprehensive Examination of Why the Top 10 Bible Translations Are Popular – Part 2: NIV, KJV, NLT

• A Comprehensive Examination of Why the Top 10 Bible Translations Are Popular – Part 4: NASB, NRSV, RSV, LSB

• The Hope Initiative

• Church Answers Membership

• FREE Research Report: New Surprising Insights

Episode Sponsor:

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 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 A Comprehensive Examination of Why the Top 10 Bible Translations Are Popular – Part 3: ESV, CSB, NJKV appeared first on Church Answers.

Thom and Jess begin ranking the most widely used Bible translations in the U.S., starting with the top three: New International Version (NIV), King James Version (KJV), and New Living Translation (NLT).

Resources:

• Chaney & Associates

• The Church Advisory Podcast

• Upward Running

• A Comprehensive Examination of Why the Top 10 Bible Translations Are Popular – Part 1

• A Comprehensive Examination of Why the Top 10 Bible Translations Are Popular – Part 3: ESV, CSB, NJKV

• A Comprehensive Examination of Why the Top 10 Bible Translations Are Popular – Part 4: NASB, NRSV, RSV, LSB

• The Hope Initiative

• Church Answers Membership

• FREE Research Report: New Surprising Insights

Episode Sponsor:

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

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 post A Comprehensive Examination of Why the Top 10 Bible Translations Are Popular – Part 2: NIV, KJV, NLT appeared first on Church Answers.

Thom and Jess Rainer introduce a four-part series on the top 10 English Bible translations in America. In this episode, they offer a broad overview of how these translations emerged, the philosophies behind them, and how cultural, theological, and practical factors affect their popularity.

1. 1. History of English Bible translation in America
   2. Translation philosophies: formal, dynamic, and optimal equivalence
   3. The influence of denominations, publishers, and tradition
   4. The growing role of digital access and searchability

Resources:

• Chaney & Associates

• The Church Advisory Podcast

• Upward Running

• A Comprehensive Examination of Why the Top 10 Bible Translations Are Popular – Part 2: NIV, KJV, NLT

• A Comprehensive Examination of Why the Top 10 Bible Translations Are Popular – Part 3: ESV, CSB, NJKV

• A Comprehensive Examination of Why the Top 10 Bible Translations Are Popular – Part 4: NASB, NRSV, RSV, LSB

• The Hope Initiative

• Church Answers Membership

• FREE Research Report: New Surprising Insights

Episode Sponsor:

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

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 post A Comprehensive Examination of Why the Top 10 Bible Translations Are Popular – Part 1 appeared first on Church Answers.

In the conclusion of this two-part series, Thom and Jess Rainer share four more reasons churches are dying in 2025. The challenges are real—but so are the opportunities to respond with courage and clarity.

5. Failure to move from a denominational paradigm

6. Failure to see the promising world of co-vocational

7. Deferred maintenance comes due

8. The disappearance of meaningful prayer

Resources:

• Chaney & Associates

• The Church Advisory Podcast

• Upward Sports

• Upward Sports: Pickleball

• Autopsy of a Deceased Church in 2025 – Part 1

• “Autopsy of a Deceased Church: 12 Ways to Keep Yours Alive” by Thom S. Rainer (affiliate link)

• “Anatomy of a Revived Church: Seven Findings about How Congregations Avoided Death” by Thom S. Rainer (affiliate link)

• “A Resurgence Not Yet Realized” by Thom S. Rainer

• My Church Staff

• Smart Church Solutions

• The Hope Initiative

• Church Answers Membership

• FREE Research Report: New Surprising Insights

Episode Sponsor:

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 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 Autopsy of a Deceased Church in 2025 – Part 2 appeared first on Church Answers.

Thom and Jess Rainer revisit the insights from Thom’s 2016 bestseller “Autopsy of a Deceased Church” and provide a sobering update for today’s church landscape. In this episode, they begin unpacking the eight new signs that a church is nearing its end in 2025.

1. Loss of hope

2. Looking for transfer growth

3. No evangelistic outreach

4. Thinking that the past is the hero

Resources:

• Chaney & Associates

• The Church Advisory Podcast

• Upward Sports

• Upward Sports: Pickleball

• Autopsy of a Deceased Church in 2025 – Part 2

• “Autopsy of a Deceased Church: 12 Ways to Keep Yours Alive” by Thom S. Rainer (affiliate link)

• “Anatomy of a Revived Church: Seven Findings about How Congregations Avoided Death” by Thom S. Rainer (affiliate link)

• The Hope Initiative

• Church Answers Membership

• FREE Research Report: New Surprising Insights

Episode Sponsor:

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 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 Autopsy of a Deceased Church in 2025 – Part 1 appeared first on Church Answers.

Thom and Jess Rainer continue their honest conversation about why outreach has dropped off the radar in many churches. The second half of the list offers insight into theological drift and misplaced priorities.

5. Heavy inward focus

6. Weak theology of evangelism

7. Failure to understand “seed planting time”

8. Failure to emphasize outreach as a priority

Resources:

• Chaney & Associates

• The Church Advisory Podcast

• Upward Running

• 8 Reasons Most Churches Do Not Do Outreach – Part 1

• Know Your Community

• The Hope Initiative

• Invite Your One

• Good News Neighbors + Complete Membership Class Toolkits