https://youtu.be/HBeOodeUxXE

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



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



Resources:

* Doctor of Ministry, The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary


* Smart Church Solutions


* Smart Church Solutions, Resources


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


* FREE Research Report! New Surprising Insights


* Church Answers Central


The Hope Initiative

Episode Sponsors:


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

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

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



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

https://youtu.be/9h_3edqCYXE

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



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



Resources:

* Upward Sports


* Upward Sports: Pickleball


* Life Application Study Bible


* Church Connect


* Tyndale House Publishers


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


* Ryan Burge


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


* Church Answers Platinum Membership


* FREE Research Report! New Surprising Insights


* The Hope Initiative

Episode Sponsors:


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

Exciting News: Did you hear? Pickleball is the newest offering – Claim your TWO free net sets, while supplies last! Launched in April, pickleball is perfect for middle and high schoolers — easy to learn, quick to set up, and highly engaging. Whether you prefer a traditional league or a flexible practice-and-play format, Upward Sports is here to guide you. Plus, to help you get started,

https://youtu.be/HiQIh2eulZY

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

* Smart Church Solutions


* Doctor of Ministry, The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary


* Julie Masson


* FREE Research Report! New Surprising Insights


* Church Answers Central


The Hope Initiative

Episode Sponsors:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

 

 

 



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

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

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



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



Learn how at sbts.edu/dmin.

https://youtu.be/4HrwDGcy0HM

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



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



Resources:

* Kids GO Bible


* Amanda Jass


* Life Application Study Bible


* Church Connect


* Tyndale House Publishers


* Upward Sports


* Upward Sports: Pickleball


* Church Answers Platinum Membership


* FREE Research Report! New Surprising Insights


* The Hope Initiative

Episode Sponsors:


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

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

Learn more here.

 



Start Preparing Now for 2026! Looking ahead to what’s next in your ministry? Create an outreach strategy that includes a warm invite for the whole family – use sports as that invite. Whether it's basketball, soccer,

There are many underappreciated people in your church. If you are in leadership, you must ensure they receive the proper recognition, encouragement, and resources. Josh and Sam discuss several groups that fly under the radar but are critical to everyday ministry.



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



Resources:

* Doctor of Ministry, The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary


* Smart Church Solutions


* FREE Research Report! New Surprising Insights


* Church Answers Central


The Hope Initiative

Episode Sponsors:


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

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

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



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



Learn how at sbts.edu/dmin.

 

 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

https://youtu.be/zcjgf7NTMAc

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

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

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

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


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


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


* Upward Sports


* Upward Sports: Pickleball


* Life Application Study Bible


* Church Connect


* Tyndale House Publishers


* Church Answers Platinum Membership


* FREE Research Report! New Surprising Insights


* The Hope Initiative

Episode Sponsors:


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

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

Be the Neighborhood Church. Want to create a welcoming space for families? Upward Sports provides a first-class, well-organized,

https://youtu.be/E1AWCjfzCpo

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



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



Resources:

* Smart Church Solutions


* Doctor of Ministry, The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary


* FREE Research Report! New Surprising Insights


* Church Answers Central


The Hope Initiative

Episode Sponsors:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

 

 

 



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

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

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



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



Learn how at sbts.edu/dmin.

https://youtu.be/0Nbsjv1VtCw

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



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



Resources:

* Life Application Study Bible


* Church Connect


* Tyndale House Publishers


* Upward Sports


* Upward Sports: Pickleball


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


* Good News Neighbors Toolkit


* Invite Your One


* Church Answers Platinum Membership


* FREE Research Report! New Surprising Insights


* The Hope Initiative

Episode Sponsors:


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

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

Learn more here.

 



Start Preparing Now for 2026! Looking ahead to what’s next in your ministry? Create an outreach strategy that includes a warm invite for the whole f...

https://youtu.be/HsMxaHP9mE4

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



* Work on the work
* Sermon series overview with your team
* The low-maintenance influencer
* Monthly to-do checklist with key leaders
* Personal counseling
* Sermon prep at least one quarter ahead



Resources:

* Doctor of Ministry, The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary


* Smart Church Solutions


* FREE Research Report! New Surprising Insights


* Church Answers Central


The Hope Initiative

Episode Sponsors:


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

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

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



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



Learn how at sbts.edu/dmin.

 

 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

https://youtu.be/4PCi3vmFLzY

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



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



Resources:

* Rooted


* Upward Sports


* Upward Sports: Pickleball


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


* Ryan Burge


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


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


* Church Answers Platinum Membership


* FREE Research Report! New Surprising Insights


* The Hope Initiative

Episode Sponsors:


* The Rooted experience can help you create a discipleship culture that connects your people and leads to ongoing life change in Jesus. Rooted is...

* A proven plan for helping people connect to God, their church, and their purpose
* A sustainable way to launch groups
* An approach to discipleship that helps people step out of their comfort zones and experience life-changing rhythms of discipleship
* An opportunity to change the culture of your church


* Visit experiencerooted.com/churchanswers for free resources to help you learn more, including the What is Rooted? video and a free download of the Rooted experience framework and Rooted Workbook sample.

 



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

Start Preparing Now for 2026! Looking ahead to what’s next in your ministry? Create an outreach strategy that includes a warm invite for the whole family – use sports as that invite.

https://youtu.be/8XpF5XoCxuc

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



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



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



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



Resources:

* Smart Church Solutions


* The Revitalization at Shadowbrook Church


* Doctor of Educational Ministry, The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary


* FREE Research Report! New Surprising Insights


* Church Answers Platinum Membership


The Hope Initiative

Episode Sponsors:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

 

 

https://youtu.be/Z_ie_1neiAU

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



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



Resources:

* Upward Running


* Rooted


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


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


* Brown Church Development Group


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


* Church Answers Platinum Membership


* FREE Research Report! New Surprising Insights


* The Hope Initiative

Episode Sponsors:


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

Offer a 5K Challenge: Inspire your congregation and engage your community with a meaningful running ministry. Upward provides:

Tailored training plans to help your runner or walkers move from the couch to completing a 5k.
Access to the new RunClub app for tracking progress and building community.
A fully customizable program that fits your church's timeline — all led by your run coach who will be fully equipped with the Upward Running materials to lead.


Simple to Start: With just one passionate leader and no facility needed, your church parking lot can become the starting line for life transformation.
Build Stronger Connections: Use running to foster relationships, promote healthy habits, and grow spiritually while expanding your church’s impact.
Upward is Here for You: Ready to bring Upward Running to your church? Visit Upward.org/Runcoach to get started today!

 

 



* The Rooted experience can help you create a discipleship culture that connects your people and leads to ongoing life change in Jesus. Rooted is...

* A proven plan for helping people connect to God, their church, and their purpose
* A sustainable way to launch groups
* An approach to discipleship that helps people step out of their comfort zones and experience life-changing rhythms of discipleship

https://youtu.be/508ZeR4uSnk

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

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

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

* The Revitalization at Shadowbrook Church


* Doctor of Educational Ministry, The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary


* Smart Church Solutions


* The Worship Dept.


* Church Answers Platinum Membership


* FREE Research Report! New Surprising Insights


* The Hope Initiative

Episode Sponsors:


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

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



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



Rumley needed guidance to unify his splintered congregation. 

He knew exactly where to turn.

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

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

 

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

https://youtu.be/DlzxPZB--fQ

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



* It’s too shallow.
* It’s not relatable.
* It's poorly written.
* It’s not our church doctrine.
* It’s too long.
* It’s boring.



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



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



Resources:

* Rooted


* Upward Sports


* Upward Sports: Pickleball


* Church Answers Platinum Membership


* FREE Research Report! New Surprising Insights


* The Hope Initiative

Episode Sponsors:


* The Rooted experience can help you create a discipleship culture that connects your people and leads to ongoing life change in Jesus. Rooted is...

* A proven plan for helping people connect to God, their church, and their purpose
* A sustainable way to launch groups
* An approach to discipleship that helps people step out of their comfort zones and experience life-changing rhythms of discipleship
* An opportunity to change the culture of your church


* Visit experiencerooted.com/churchanswers for free resources to help you learn more, including the What is Rooted? video and a free download of the Rooted experience framework and Rooted Workbook sample.

 



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

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


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

Exciting News: Did you hear? Pickleball is the newest offering – Claim your TWO free net sets, while supplies last! Launched in April,

https://youtu.be/deKyMZVTTQU

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



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



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



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



Resources:

* Smart Church Solutions


* The Revitalization at Shadowbrook Church


* Doctor of Educational Ministry, The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary


* FREE Research Report! New Surprising Insights


* Church Answers Platinum Membership


The Hope Initiative

Episode Sponsors:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

 

 



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

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



A small number of members seemed better suited for sharing gossip than the gospel.
Older and younger members had relegated the Great Commission to the church staff. 
Gen-Xers were comfortable in a congregation that placed few demands upon them. 

https://youtu.be/PbbTQ_Jyp9o

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



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



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

* Upward Running


* Rooted


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


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


* Ryan Burge


* Church Answers Platinum Membership


* FREE Research Report! New Surprising Insights


* The Hope Initiative

Episode Sponsors:


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

Offer a 5K Challenge: Inspire your congregation and engage your community with a meaningful running ministry. Upward provides:

Tailored training plans to help your runner or walkers move from the couch to completing a 5k.
Access to the new RunClub app for tracking progress and building community.
A fully customizable program that fits your church's timeline — all led by your run coach who will be fully equipped with the Upward Running materials to lead.


Simple to Start: With just one passionate leader and no facility needed, your church parking lot can become the starting line for life transformation.
Build Stronger Connections: Use running to foster relationships, promote healthy habits, and grow spiritually while expanding your church’s impact.
Upward is Here for You: Ready to bring Upward Running to your church? Visit Upward.org/Runcoach to get started today!

 

 



* The Rooted experience can help you create a discipleship culture that connects your people and leads to ongoing life change in Jesus. Rooted is...

* A proven plan for helping people connect to God, their church, and their purpose
* A sustainable way to launch groups
* An approach to discipleship that helps people step out of their comfort zones and experience life-changing rhythms of discipleship
* An opportunity to change the culture of your church


* Visit experiencerooted.

https://youtu.be/0lF_AdhEwHI

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



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



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

* The Revitalization at Shadowbrook Church


* Doctor of Educational Ministry, The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary


* Smart Church Solutions


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


* Church Answers Platinum Membership


* FREE Research Report! New Surprising Insights


* The Hope Initiative

Episode Sponsors:


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

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



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



Rumley needed guidance to unify his splintered congregation. 

He knew exactly where to turn.

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

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

 

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

https://youtu.be/oETunb-1kOQ

In this episode, we re-examine a major demographic shift reshaping communities and churches: the decline in mobility across the United States. Americans are moving far less than they did in previous generations, especially millennials. While older generations often relocated for work opportunities or family, today’s younger adults are more likely to stay put. Rising housing costs, tighter job markets, student loan burdens, and a growing preference for stability have all contributed to this trend. For church leaders, this change presents both challenges and opportunities.



* On one hand, fewer new people moving into a community may mean slower demographic growth, especially in areas outside the Sun Belt.
* But on the other hand, people who stay are often more open to long-term relationships, deeper discipleship, and lasting involvement in the life of the church.
* The big reason for families: Two incomes are necessary. Moving means finding two new jobs.
* Other root causes: housing, debt, family ties.
* Implications for church outreach and growth.
* Stability may lead to deeper community connections.
* Focus shifts: from attractional to relational ministry.
* Churches should invest in long-termer discipleship strategies.



Resources:

* Rooted


* Upward Sports


* Upward Sports: Pickleball


* Brown Church Development Group


* Church Answers Platinum Membership


* FREE Research Report! New Surprising Insights


* The Hope Initiative

Episode Sponsors:


* The Rooted experience can help you create a discipleship culture that connects your people and leads to ongoing life change in Jesus. Rooted is...

* A proven plan for helping people connect to God, their church, and their purpose
* A sustainable way to launch groups
* An approach to discipleship that helps people step out of their comfort zones and experience life-changing rhythms of discipleship
* An opportunity to change the culture of your church


* Visit experiencerooted.com/churchanswers for free resources to help you learn more, including the What is Rooted? video and a free download of the Rooted experience framework and Rooted Workbook sample.

 



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.

https://youtu.be/tXhYL4noEew

Pastors are often held to a “higher standard,” but not every expectation placed on them is biblical or even wise. In this episode, Josh and Sam explore which higher standards actually make sense for pastors and why. They cut through unrealistic pressures and focus on the standards that truly align with Scripture and healthy leadership.



* Decorum in public life, especially with social media
* Greater knowledge of Scripture and theology
* Emotional self-control and humility
* Financial stewardship and transparency
* Commitment to family and personal health



Resources:

* Smart Church Solutions


* The Revitalization at Shadowbrook Church


* Doctor of Educational Ministry, The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary


* Upward Running


* FREE Research Report! New Surprising Insights


* Church Answers Central


The Hope Initiative

Episode Sponsors:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

 

 



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

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



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



Rumley needed guidance to unify his splintered congregation. 

He knew exactly where to turn.

https://youtu.be/W8qu2hmmoS8

Sam is joined by Todd Brown and Isaac Brown of Brown Church Development Group, who are “The Church Facility Experts.” In this second episode, they discuss how the Baptist T design still affects churches decades later–often in ways leaders don’t realize. Here are five ways this design limits ministry today and what can be done to use your facility as a tool for mission, not as a monument to the past.



* Hospitality and connection
* Assimilation problems
* Discipleship challenges
* Volunteer limitations
* Passive culture



Resources:

* Brown Church Development Group


* Church Master Planning


* How Your Building Shapes Your Ministry: The Baptist T – When Building Design Limits Ministry


* Church Answers Platinum Membership


* FREE Research Report! New Surprising Insights


* The Hope Initiative

Episode Sponsor: