In this episode of the Pave Podcast, we explore the profound calling of the church to not just make an impact, but to make history. Join host Jonathan L. Smith and guest Lee Williams III as they discuss biblical examples of historical moments and how churches today can embrace their unique missions. Discover how focusing on families and being gospel-centered can lead to transformative, history-making moments in your community. Tune in to be inspired by stories of resilience and the enduring power of faith.

Welcome to the Pave Podcast hosted by Jonathan L. Smith!

Join us as we explore innovative, biblical strategies and revolutionary tools to empower you to be a catalyst for church growth. Be inspired by church growth practitioners who are expanding God’s Kingdom in their communities and around the world.

Summary:

In this episode of the PAVE Podcast, Jonathan Smith and Pastor Dustin Slayton discuss effective strategies for church growth and revitalization. They emphasize the importance of displaying the church that leaders aspire to create, focusing on leadership, community engagement, and the power of storytelling. The conversation covers practical steps for pastors to embody the vision they have for their congregations, shine a light on exemplary members, and utilize various platforms to foster a welcoming and transformative church environment.

Takeaways:

• Display the church you need to become.
• Leaders must embody the vision they want to see.
• Empower future leaders within the church.

Takeaways:

• Replanting is often necessary for churches in decline.
• Indicators for replanting include a new name, leadership, and strategies.
• Revitalization focuses on returning to core church functions like prayer and evangelism.
• Churches must identify specific target groups for effective outreach.
• Healthy churches are led by healthy pastors, emphasizing the need for leadership assessment.
• Revitalization is a long-term process that requires commitment and focus.
• The mission of the church should always be expansive, not limited.
• Community engagement is crucial for revitalization efforts.
• Churches must be willing to innovate to remain relevant.
• Spiritual health directly impacts numerical growth in churches.

Quotes:

• "Replanting takes courage."
• "Healthy churches are led by healthy pastors."
• "We have to return to our first love."
• "Change or die."
• "We need to innovate."
• "The gospel is what your church needs."
• "It's pace, not race."
• "The mission has become too small."

Resources:

https://www.texasbaptists.org/ministries/church-starting

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the Pave Podcast

03:05 Understanding Church Revitalization vs. Replanting

05:55 Indicators for Replanting a Church

09:11 Characteristics of a Church in Need of Replanting

12:01 The Process of Replanting

14:46 Transitioning to Revitalization

18:00 Biblical Imperatives for Revitalization

20:48 Defining Revitalization

24:12 The Role of Leadership in Revitalization

27:07 The Importance of Community Engagement

29:59 Conclusion and Final Thoughts