Revitalize & Replant with Thom Rainer
383 episodes - English - Latest episode: almost 2 years ago - ★★★★★ - 244 ratingsFeaturing Thom Rainer, Mark Clifton, and Kevin Ezell, Revitalize & Replant is presented by the North American Mission Board. Revitalize & Replant is a weekly discussion on church revitalization and replanting.
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Episodes
Why the Adoption Language is Catching on in Church Replanting
July 09, 2020 00:10 - 19 minutes - 19.9 MBWe have begun to migrate from the word merger to adoption when talking about replanting churches. The language of adoption is stronger suited for the work occurring between churches, which is why adoption language is catching on. The post Why the Adoption Language is Catching on in Church Replanting appeared first on Church Answers.
Why a Church Building Is Important in Revitalization
July 02, 2020 02:53 - 23 minutes - 31.7 MBWe all know the church is not a building; it’s the people. However, this cliche is only partially true. Mark Clifton and Thom Rainer break down this statement and why the building is important in revitalization. The post Why a Church Building Is Important in Revitalization appeared first on Church Answers.
Five Major Questions That Must Be Answered in a Church Adoption
June 25, 2020 02:44 - 21 minutes - 29.3 MBChurch adoption implies healthy and biblical metaphors for each both churches. Before the church adoption takes place, ask these five major questions that must be answered. How do the doctrines of the two churches align? How do the cultures of the two churches align? What are the facility implications of adopting another church? What legal... The post Five Major Questions That Must Be Answered in a Church Adoption appeared first on Church Answers.
Making Changes in an Older Church: A Real Case Study of a Church That Was Started in 1875
June 18, 2020 02:51 - 21 minutes - 19.9 MBWhen the pastor was called to this rural church, the average attendance had declined to 275 and the church had $14 in the bank. The pastor has now been serving for 14 years, and the average attendance is 700. The post Making Changes in an Older Church: A Real Case Study of a Church That Was Started in 1875 appeared first on Church Answers.
Communicating the Importance of Giving Digitally
June 11, 2020 03:25 - 21 minutes - 19.7 MBMany churches have done well transitioning and leading through change during the past few months. A major change has been in how people give tithes, offerings, and gifts. What do you do with the stubborn church member who refuses to give digitally? Thom and Kevin Ezell discuss best practices to help lead in this area. The post Communicating the Importance of Giving Digitally appeared first on Church Answers.
Your Church Needs You Now More Than Ever
June 04, 2020 06:00 - 24 minutes - 22.2 MBThe post-pandemic era is filled with uncertainty. Thom and Mark discuss why your church needs you, Pastor, now more than ever. The post Your Church Needs You Now More Than Ever appeared first on Church Answers.
Changing Your Vocational Status in the Post-Pandemic Era
May 28, 2020 06:00 - 21 minutes - 20 MBChurch leaders have asked the question again and again. What happens if the budget cut you need to make is you? Thom and Kevin Ezell look at the positives of bi-vocational ministry in a post-pandemic era. The post Changing Your Vocational Status in the Post-Pandemic Era appeared first on Church Answers.
What If you Have to Move to Bi-vocational Status in the Post-Pandemic Era?
May 28, 2020 06:00 - 21 minutes - 20 MBChurch leaders have asked the question again and again. What happens if the budget cut you need to make is you? Thom and Kevin Ezell look at the positives of bi-vocational ministry in a post-pandemic era. The post What If you Have to Move to Bi-vocational Status in the Post-Pandemic Era? appeared first on Church Answers.
Hope in a New Chapter of Ministry
May 21, 2020 06:00 - 23 minutes - 21.8 MBThere are many pastors who are concerned about what the church will look like in the post-pandemic era. We share five reasons pastors should have hope in this new chapter of ministry. The post Hope in a New Chapter of Ministry appeared first on Church Answers.
Five Characteristics of a Church Leader Who Will Lead Well in the Post-Pandemic Era
May 14, 2020 07:00 - 24 minutes - 22.6 MBWhat makes a good leader in the post-pandemic era? Thom and Kevin discuss five characteristics of church leaders who will lead well during the days ahead. Courageous Willing to lead and think outside the box Prayerful Willing to understand the times Willing to count the cost Resources mentioned in today’s podcast: Church Answers Revitalize &... The post Five Characteristics of a Church Leader Who Will Lead Well in the Post-Pandemic Era appeared first on Church Answers.
Replanting a Church in the Post-Pandemic Era
May 07, 2020 07:00 - 22 minutes - 20.5 MBDuring this time as we look toward the post-pandemic era, an interesting development has occurred in the life of our friend, Mark Clifton. He is currently being considered as pastor of a 3-member church. Listen in as he shares his unique strategy as he steps into this new opportunity. Mark’s story Understanding the hope every... The post Replanting a Church in the Post-Pandemic Era appeared first on Church Answers.
Encouraging Developments in “Impossible” Turnaround Churches
April 30, 2020 07:00 - 23 minutes - 21.6 MBIn the midst of everything we are going through you will be encouraged by the developments taking place within what was once seen as “impossible” turnaround churches. Many impossible rural turnaround churches are surprising people. There are many turnaround churches in New England, other northeast locations, and northwest churches. Neighborhood churches are in turnaround mode.... The post Encouraging Developments in “Impossible” Turnaround Churches appeared first on Church Answers.
Understanding the Types of Religious People in the United States – Part 2
April 23, 2020 07:00 - 24 minutes - 22.4 MBToday, Thom and Kevin pick up with part two in a great discussion for churches as they reimagine themselves after the Coronavirus. Upon re-entry, churches will be able to redefine what is new. Many churches have been challenged to reach demographic groups which do not hold to a belief in Christ. New research from PEW... The post Understanding the Types of Religious People in the United States – Part 2 appeared first on Church Answers.
Understanding the Types of Religious People in the United States – Part 1
April 16, 2020 07:00 - 22 minutes - 15.5 MBThis will be a great topic for churches as they reimagine themselves after the Coronavirus. Upon re-entry, churches will be able to redefine what is new. Many churches have been challenged to reach demographic groups which do not hold to a belief in Christ. New research from PEW Research Center provides the Church with helpful... The post Understanding the Types of Religious People in the United States – Part 1 appeared first on Church Answers.
Five Great Attractions of Rural and Small Town Churches
April 09, 2020 07:00 - 23 minutes - 32.5 MBThings are changing demographically in the United States, specifically rural America. Beginning in 2013, the decline rate in rural areas began to decrease. In 2017, not only did the decline rate decrease but those arriving in rural and small towns exceeded those exiting. Today’s episode addresses how rural and small town churches can attract these... The post Five Great Attractions of Rural and Small Town Churches appeared first on Church Answers.
How to Help Members Deal with the Pain of a Dying Church
April 02, 2020 07:00 - 23 minutes - 31.6 MBRevitalize and Replant often talk about dying churches and the pain it creates for members. Thom and Kevin Ezell discuss best practices for leaders to utilize as they help members of a dying church deal with the pain. Highlights: Get them to turn that pain into a greater passion for prayer. Find the intersection of... The post How to Help Members Deal with the Pain of a Dying Church appeared first on Church Answers.
Dealing with Depression in a Church Revitalization
March 26, 2020 07:00 - 22 minutes - 31.4 MBDepression is real and pervasive in those who work in the church. Church revitalization is a difficult task and leading the church is spiritual warfare. We want to give you helpful tools to help you as you work through your emotions and remind you of truth when faced with struggle. Highlights: The struggles in a... The post Dealing with Depression in a Church Revitalization appeared first on Church Answers.
Five Ways to Earn Extra Income to Support Yourself in Ministry
March 19, 2020 07:00 - 22 minutes - 30.5 MBThis one is a bit different but very helpful. Perhaps you are barely paying the bills in a full-time ministry position, or you have a desire to go bi-vocational to connect with people in your community. Today’s episode with Dr. Kevin Ezell discusses how you can earn extra income to support yourself while serving in... The post Five Ways to Earn Extra Income to Support Yourself in Ministry appeared first on Church Answers.
What If Promises Are Broken When I Lead a Revitalization?
March 12, 2020 07:00 - 23 minutes - 32.4 MBPromises, promises. You are told the church is ready for change but after arriving those promises are quickly broken. Thom and Mark discuss the reasons why promises may be broken and how to move forward. Highlights: Some promises are conditional, but you didn’t know it. Many promises are made without knowing the implications of the... The post What If Promises Are Broken When I Lead a Revitalization? appeared first on Church Answers.
How Do You Revitalize a Church when the Median Age of a Member is 75 Years Old? – Revitalize and Replant Bonus Episode #3
March 09, 2020 18:00 - 22 minutes - 30.3 MBSUBSCRIBE TODAY: iTunes • RSS • Stitcher • TuneIn Radio • Google Play • Spotify In today’s bonus episode of Revitalize and Replant we want to give you a small taste of the type of content you will receive at Revitalize 2020. Many churches in need of revitalization have many older members with great passion for the gospel who are […]
How Do You Revitalize a Church when the Median Age of a Member is 75 Years Old?
March 09, 2020 18:00 - 22 minutes - 30.3 MBIn today’s bonus episode of Revitalize and Replant we want to give you a small taste of the type of content you will receive at Revitalize 2020. Many churches in need of revitalization have many older members with great passion for the gospel who are living in neighborhoods which have drastically changed. How does a... The post How Do You Revitalize a Church when the Median Age of a Member is 75 Years Old? appeared first on Church Answers.
Five of the Most Common Questions We Get about Church Revitalization and Replanting
March 05, 2020 08:00 - 23 minutes - 32.4 MBWithin the course of a month, we get a lot of questions about church revitalization and replanting. There are a few which we hear more often than others. You may not agree with all of the answers provided, but the following are the top five most common questions and our thoughts. Five Common Questions: What... The post Five of the Most Common Questions We Get about Church Revitalization and Replanting appeared first on Church Answers.
Four Major Attitudes You Need When Your Church Adopts Another Church
February 27, 2020 07:00 - 21 minutes - 30.1 MBThere are many churches in need of adoption. For the adopting church there is much to think about and consider when looking at this new opportunity. Once the decision is made to adopt, how can the church best serve this new opportunity? In this week’s episode of Revitalize and Replant, Thom and Mark discuss four... The post Four Major Attitudes You Need When Your Church Adopts Another Church appeared first on Church Answers.
When Is It Time to Walk Away from a Revitalization Effort?
February 20, 2020 08:00 - 24 minutes - 22.3 MBToday’s question and surrounding discussion is one we hear and take part in often. Maybe your warning signs come from family. Maybe it is due to your health. But possibly it is internal conflict outside of your control. Thom and Kevin discuss how to recognize when you have reached a line in the sand and... The post When Is It Time to Walk Away from a Revitalization Effort? appeared first on Church Answers.
Four Types of Churches That Will Soon Die
February 13, 2020 08:00 - 22 minutes - 31.2 MBOur goal is to see churches live and thrive. To know how to help churches we must understand and identify the drift which pulls churches towards the grave. In today’s episode of Revitalize and Replant Thom and Mark Clifton will discuss the characteristics of four churches which will soon die. Four Churches: The ex-Bible church... The post Four Types of Churches That Will Soon Die appeared first on Church Answers.
What Revitalize Leaders Have That Other Leaders Often Don’t – Revitalize and Replant #131
February 06, 2020 08:00 - 22 minutes - 31.2 MBSUBSCRIBE TODAY: iTunes • RSS • Stitcher • TuneIn Radio • Google Play • Spotify There are many qualities church leaders need to lead well, but there are distinct traits revitalize leaders possess which make the difference in this particular Kingdom work. In this week’s episode, Thom and Kevin talk through five of these unique characteristics. Five Unique traits of […]
What Revitalize Leaders Have That Other Leaders Often Don’t
February 06, 2020 08:00 - 22 minutes - 31.2 MBThere are many qualities church leaders need to lead well, but there are distinct traits revitalize leaders possess which make the difference in this particular Kingdom work. In this week’s episode, Thom and Kevin talk through five of these unique characteristics. Five Unique traits of revitalize leaders: Tenacity Hope Learned Leadership Skills A Supportive Family... The post What Revitalize Leaders Have That Other Leaders Often Don’t appeared first on Church Answers.
Revitalization in the Shadow of a Megachurch
January 30, 2020 08:00 - 21 minutes - 29.7 MBIt’s time for another great episode of listener questions. These are some of our favorite episodes because we are able to respond to feedback from those who are making the work at Revitalize and Replant possible. If you have a listener question please submit those in the podcast comments. From Scott: What about doing a... The post Revitalization in the Shadow of a Megachurch appeared first on Church Answers.
Four Statements That Stop Revitalization Cold in Its Tracks
January 23, 2020 08:00 - 22 minutes - 30.8 MBThe following four statements have the power to stop the important work of revitalization cold in its tracks. Thom and Kevin share stories, and discuss the importance of recognizing these problematic statements and how to address them before it’s too late. Highlights: “If only we had more __________.” “It’s __________ ‘s fault.” “This situation is... The post Four Statements That Stop Revitalization Cold in Its Tracks appeared first on Church Answers.
Five Questions to Ask If Your Church Is Experiencing a Financial Shortfall in a Revitalization
January 22, 2020 08:00 - 23 minutes - 32.6 MBIn today’s Revitalize and Replant bonus episode, we uncover five questions to ask not if, but when your work in church revitalization is experiencing a financial shortfall. Highlights: Have we listened to wise counsel outside the church? Are there indications the shortfall is seasonal or systemic? Do we need to do everything we are doing?... The post Five Questions to Ask If Your Church Is Experiencing a Financial Shortfall in a Revitalization appeared first on Church Answers.
Five Reasons God May Be Calling You to Church Revitalization
January 20, 2020 08:00 - 23 minutes - 31.6 MBHave you ever wondered if God may be calling you to church revitalization. In this bonus episode of Revitalize and Replant, Thom and Kevin discuss five signs God wants to use you for this important work. Highlights: You want your life to be used by God. The need is great. You have the willingness to... The post Five Reasons God May Be Calling You to Church Revitalization appeared first on Church Answers.
Five Incredibly Positive Signs about Church Revitalization in the Past Three Years – Revitalize and Replant #128
January 16, 2020 08:00 - 22 minutes - 30.7 MBSUBSCRIBE TODAY: iTunes • RSS • Stitcher • TuneIn Radio • Google Play • Spotify New leaders are excited for the challenge and organizations and seminaries have created focused programs and provide much needed support. Mark and Thom discuss these trends and other positive signs taking place within church revitalization. Highlights: The issue of awareness is huge (The “A” of […]
Five Incredibly Positive Signs about Church Revitalization in the Past Three Years
January 16, 2020 08:00 - 22 minutes - 30.7 MBNew leaders are excited for the challenge and organizations and seminaries have created focused programs and provide much needed support. Mark and Thom discuss these trends and other positive signs taking place within church revitalization. Highlights: The issue of awareness is huge (The “A” of the ABC Factor from Breakout Churches.) There is no longer... The post Five Incredibly Positive Signs about Church Revitalization in the Past Three Years appeared first on Church Answers.
Why Churches Must Work Together in Revitalization
January 09, 2020 08:00 - 20 minutes - 28.4 MBRevitalization is not just a small church issue. Between 65%-90% of churches in North America are in need of revitalization. The work of church revitalization must be a group effort. Thom and Kevin share their perspectives regarding this absolute need for cooperation. Highlights: Revitalization is needed at most churches. We cannot do this task alone.... The post Why Churches Must Work Together in Revitalization appeared first on Church Answers.
Why Churches Must Work Together in Revitalization – Revitalize and Replant #127
January 09, 2020 08:00 - 20 minutes - 28.4 MBSUBSCRIBE TODAY: iTunes • RSS • Stitcher • TuneIn Radio • Google Play • Spotify Revitalization is not just a small church issue. Between 65%-90% of churches in North America are in need of revitalization. The work of church revitalization must be a group effort. Thom and Kevin share their perspectives regarding this absolute need for cooperation. Highlights: Revitalization is […]
Six Ways Comparisons Hurt Church Revitalization – Revitalize and Replant Episode #126
January 02, 2020 08:00 - 21 minutes - 29.9 MBSUBSCRIBE TODAY: iTunes • RSS • Stitcher • TuneIn Radio • Google Play • Spotify Comparison is an easy trap to fall into. It is tempting to look at a “more successful” church and wish we had a different situation. But as Thom and Mark peel back the onion we discover six ways comparison hurts church revitalization. Highlights: Comparison creates […]
Six Ways Comparisons Hurt Church Revitalization
January 02, 2020 08:00 - 21 minutes - 29.9 MBComparison is an easy trap to fall into. It is tempting to look at a “more successful” church and wish we had a different situation. But as Thom and Mark peel back the onion we discover six ways comparison hurts church revitalization. Highlights: Comparison creates dissatisfaction among members with the pastors and staff Pastors and... The post Six Ways Comparisons Hurt Church Revitalization appeared first on Church Answers.
Why the Intersection of the Multi-site Movement and the Replanting Movement Is So Powerful
December 26, 2019 08:00 - 21 minutes - 29.1 MBDr. Kevin Ezell shares stories from the beginnings of the multi-site and replanting movement. Thom and Kevin discuss the strengths of these two movements coming together for Kingdom expansion. The post Why the Intersection of the Multi-site Movement and the Replanting Movement Is So Powerful appeared first on Church Answers.
Why the Intersection of the Multi-site Movement and the Replanting Movement Is So Powerful – Revitalize and Replant Episode #125
December 26, 2019 08:00 - 21 minutes - 29.1 MBSUBSCRIBE TODAY: iTunes • RSS • Stitcher • TuneIn Radio • Google Play • Spotify Dr. Kevin Ezell shares stories from the beginnings of the multi-site and replanting movement. Thom and Kevin discuss the strengths of these two movements coming together for Kingdom expansion. Highlights: A church stays alive through the principle of multiplication. Proven leadership is provided to more […]
When Is a Church Too Far Gone? – Revitalize and Replant Episode #124
December 19, 2019 08:00 - 21 minutes - 29.3 MBSUBSCRIBE TODAY: iTunes • RSS • Stitcher • TuneIn Radio • Google Play • Spotify Today, Thom and Mark answer questions from podcast listeners specifically dealing with churches struggling to make needed changes. The real question is, “Is my church too far gone?” From Ed: I have been filling in for a month at a church that has dwindled to […]
When Is a Church Too Far Gone?
December 19, 2019 08:00 - 21 minutes - 29.3 MBToday, Thom and Mark answer questions from podcast listeners specifically dealing with churches struggling to make needed changes. The real question is, “Is my church too far gone?” From Ed: I have been filling in for a month at a church that has dwindled to 25 active members and they are asking me to stay... The post When Is a Church Too Far Gone? appeared first on Church Answers.
Six Indicators a Revitalization Must Become a Replant
December 12, 2019 08:00 - 21 minutes - 29.6 MBToday’s episode focuses on the characteristics and hangups of churches in need of revitalization and replanting. Kevin and Thom discuss their experiences and observations from churches across North America. Pastors should learn to recognize the signs and influence change. The Six Indicators a Revitalization Must Become a Replant: When the trajectory is obviously... The post Six Indicators a Revitalization Must Become a Replant appeared first on Church Answers.
Six Reasons Some Pastors Don’t Desire to Go to a Church Needing Revitalization
December 05, 2019 08:00 - 21 minutes - 29.1 MBEven with the increased desire of church revitalization from leaders of all generations, Thom and Mark discuss six reasons why some pastors don’t desire to go to a church needing revitalization. The 6 reasons some pastors don’t desire to go to a church needing revitalization: We don’t celebrate the victories of revitalized churches and their... The post Six Reasons Some Pastors Don’t Desire to Go to a Church Needing Revitalization appeared first on Church Answers.
Seven Important Scorecards in Revitalization
November 28, 2019 08:00 - 22 minutes - 31.3 MBMeasurements are important. Numbers tell us where we have been and where we might be headed. Thom and Kevin take this episode to discuss 7 important metrics that should be included on a church revitalization scorecard. The 7 church revitalization scorecard metrics: New Christians Total giving more than weekly per capita... The post Seven Important Scorecards in Revitalization appeared first on Church Answers.
Why a Revitalizing Church Should Consider a Partnership with a Healthier Church
November 21, 2019 08:00 - 22 minutes - 31.4 MBMany churches know they have a problem and are serious about solving the issues through revitalization.Thom and Mark discuss the many positives behind a revitalizing church partnering with a healthier church. Highlights: Leaders can learn much from a healthier church. Churches can share resources. The pastor of the revitalizing church needs a listening ear. Church... The post Why a Revitalizing Church Should Consider a Partnership with a Healthier Church appeared first on Church Answers.
Why Church Replanting Is Becoming a Movement – Episode #119
November 14, 2019 08:00 - 21 minutes - 30.2 MBSUBSCRIBE TODAY: iTunes • RSS • Stitcher • TuneIn Radio • Google Play • Spotify In today’s episode, Thom and Kevin discuss the growing church revitalization movement. Churches all over the country are finding ways to rescue gospel influence in their communities through church revitalization and replanting. Listen in on this fascinating conversation about what God is doing through this […]
Why Church Replanting Is Becoming a Movement
November 14, 2019 08:00 - 21 minutes - 30.2 MBIn today’s episode, Thom and Kevin discuss the growing church revitalization movement. Churches all over the country are finding ways to rescue gospel influence in their communities through church revitalization and replanting. Listen in on this fascinating conversation about what God is doing through this growing movement. Highlights: Revitalization has become a powerful solution to... The post Why Church Replanting Is Becoming a Movement appeared first on Church Answers.
Six Encouraging Statements for Church Revitalization Leaders
November 07, 2019 08:00 - 18 minutes - 25.9 MBChurch Revitalization is hard. Pastors often feel like they are drowning. Thom and Mark take some time to encourage leaders in the thick of church revitalization. You are not alone. You are not to blame. It will take a while, but you will make it. Most criticisms are not meant to hurt you personally. You... The post Six Encouraging Statements for Church Revitalization Leaders appeared first on Church Answers.
Six Encouraging Statements for Church Revitalization Leaders – Episode #118
November 07, 2019 08:00 - 18 minutes - 25.9 MBSUBSCRIBE TODAY: iTunes • RSS • Stitcher • TuneIn Radio • Google Play • Spotify Church Revitalization is hard. Pastors often feel like they are drowning. Thom and Mark take some time to encourage leaders in the thick of church revitalization. You are not alone. You are not to blame. It will take a while, but you will make it. […]
How to Stay Focused on Revitalizing a Church When the Critics Are Killing You – Episode #117
October 31, 2019 07:00 - 24 minutes - 33.1 MBSUBSCRIBE TODAY: iTunes • RSS • Stitcher • TuneIn Radio • Google Play • Spotify Every leader faces criticism. In this episode Kevin and Thom talk about facing criticism and ways leaders can respond to criticism. Leaders will never be able to avoid criticism but they can overcome criticism. Highlights: Recognize the commonality of criticism “Hurting people hurt people” Love […]