The Church Revitalization Podcast (The Malphurs Group)

So much of our world is in flux, but the opportunity to reach people with the good news about Jesus has never been greater. If your church wants to make a good first impression with guests, it's often helpful to go back to simple, timeless principles that shape a good first impression.

In this episode of the Church Revitalization Podcast, A.J. Mathieu interviews Greg Atkinson, founder of Worship Impressions and the First Impressions Conference, to discuss foundational principles that ensure a great connection with church guests.

To read today's show notes, visit malphursgroup.com/57.

consulting experts, delves deep into the nuances of church revitalization and leadership in the new year.

In This Episode:

• Reflecting on Past Lessons: How the challenges of previous years shape future strategies.
• Adaptive Strategic Planning: Crafting flexible plans that stay true to your church's mission.
• Goal Setting with Purpose: Balancing ambition with practicality to set achievable church goals.
• Measuring Success: Defining clear metrics for success to ensure progress and adaptability.

This episode is a treasure trove of insights for church leaders, consultants, and anyone invested in the strategic growth of faith-based organizations. Tune in for an engaging discussion filled with practical tips and inspiring ideas to make 2024 a year of meaningful advancement for your church.

👉 Subscribe to our podcast for more insightful episodes on church leadership and growth. Share with your network to help spread the knowledge and strengthen our faith communities.

What does it take to be a successful church consultant?

Having a successful church consulting ministry depends on certain skills, abilities, and commitments. You’ll need to invest time, energy, and resources into networking with churches and serving them well.

In this episode, we'll cover five realities of church consulting that you should keep in mind if you want to start a church consulting ministry.

To learn how to become a Malphurs Group Certified Guide, visit: https://malphursgroup.com/certification

To read today's show notes, visit: https://malphursgroup.com/105 

Have you ever felt like you were spinning your wheels as a leadership team? You set goals but rarely accomplish them.

If you want to get further as a team, you'll need to get the best effort and results from your team. In this episode, hosts Scott Ball and A.J. Mathieu share five tactics to maximize your team's effectiveness each and every week.

Read this episode's show notes at malphursgroup.com/46.

In pop culture, narcissism is funny and we derive entertainment from it. In the church, not so much. Narcissism is easy to identify in others but hard to see in ourselves. The success of our leadership, however, depends on our ability to know ourselves.

In this episode, explore five warning signs of narcissistic leadership to ensure you are being the strongest leader you can be.

To read today's show notes, visit: malphursgroup.com/83

Before a church is revitalized, its life dwindles, and death looms. These churches have a fading view of a once bright past, and it gives way to robotic monotony, apathy, and stress.

But your church can be revitalized and enter into a new season of effectiveness.

On this episode of the Church Revitalization Podcast, we are giving you six biblical signs of a revitalized church. To read today's show notes, visit: https://malphursgroup.com/161

“We want to be a multigenerational church!”

This is a common refrain in churches we work with. But when we show up to services on Sunday morning, we see a lot of white hair and hear too few babies.

Desiring to minister across generations is a holy desire, but it requires that you take time to think like a missionary and truly understand the next generation.

In this episode of the Church Revitalization Podcast, we’ll explore three key strategies you can use to reach these generations and become the multigenerational church you're dreaming of.

To read today's show notes and download the Spiritual Formation worksheet, visit: https://malphursgroup.com/186

We all want our churches to be healthy. We want them to bear fruit and be strong enough to hold out hope in a world that is seemingly turning against Christianity. But how healthy is your church?

Metrics have real potential to help us explore what is happening. But where there is power in metrics to help us, there are pitfalls we ought to be aware of.

To read today's show notes, visit malphursgroup.com/77

In this week's episode, hosts Scott Ball & A.J. Mathieu walk you through the three White House phases for reopening the economy, and what the implications are for churches in each phase.

To read this episode's show notes, visit malphursgroup.com/37.

Read the full show notes at: https://malphursgroup.com/208

In this thought-provoking discussion, Scott & A.J. dive deep into the essential skills every church leader needs to tackle the tough questions that spiritual seekers often pose.

Join us as we explore key strategies for addressing common questions about God, faith, the Bible, and morality. Learn how to engage with humility, empathy, and clarity to effectively communicate the truth.

In this episode you'll discover:

• Practical steps for defining your answers to critical questions.
• Insights on creating environments for respectful truth-seeking discourse.
• Strategies for building trust and empathy while addressing skeptics' concerns.
• Real-world examples and advice for constructive engagement.

Equip yourself with the tools to engage with seekers, strengthen your faith, and share the Good News effectively. 

If you find this episode helpful, please share it with fellow church leaders and subscribe to our channel for more valuable insights. Let's empower each other to make a positive impact on our communities.

Stay connected with The Malphurs Group for more resources and discussions on church leadership, growth, and ministry. Thank you for being part of our mission to inspire and support church leaders worldwide.

Read this week's article at malphursgroup.com/285

his week, hosts Scott Ball and A.J. Mathieu dive deep into a topic that might make some church leaders uneasy: the reasons why some churches fail in their revitalization process. They outline three key types of churches that struggle – the poorly pastored church, the timid church, and the lazy church. 

Through their candid discussion, Scott and A.J. provide insights into why these barriers arise and how to overcome them. Whether you're a pastor, church leader, or congregation member, this episode offers valuable takeaways for ensuring your revitalization efforts lead to success, not stagnation. 

Getting more out of your leadership is easier than you might think. You don’t need to spend tens of thousands of dollars getting another seminary degree or hundreds of dollars on a shelf-full of books. Improving the quality of your leadership is achieved by mastering your schedule.

In this week's episode of The Church Revitalization Podcast, we'll give you a practical example of what it looks like to build your schedule to build your church.

To read today's show notes, visit: malphursgroup.com/66

In this short episode of the Church Revitalization Podcast, we're reflecting on Thanksgiving and what we're thankful for on our team.

To view the video of this episode, visit: https://malphursgroup.com/167

In this special post-Easter episode, Scott Ball & A.J. Mathieu interview three North American pastors to get an Easter Field Report. Hear the wins and challenges of Easter 2020, and learn what's on the horizon for churches like yours.

Be blessed by Scott & A.J.'s interview with Nathan Fowler of Circle Community Church, Orlando, FL (small church), Kevin Hon of Toronto Chinese Methodist Church, Toronto, ON, CA (medium church), and Josh Fortney of Spring Creek Church, Garland, TX (large church).

Church doesn’t need to be complicated, but sometimes it ends up that way. Having a few primary ministries that are well thought out and intentional can be much more successful than a large menu of options.

We refer to the ministries beyond what are primary as secondary ministries. It’s in the secondary ministry space that church can get confusing, complicated, and distracting. And that is what we are discussing on this episode of the Church Revitalization Podcast.

To read today's show notes, visit: https://malphursgroup.com/155

Do you feel like your worship services are stuck in a rut?

Ministry is hard, and it's easy to go on autopilot. It's tempting to just do the minimum to make Sunday happen - but that is a far reach from what you intended when you first got into ministry.

In this episode, we cover 3 keys to transformational worship that can unlock a new level of effectiveness for your church, regardless of your size, budget, or facility.

To read today's show notes, visit: https://malphursgroup.com/124

Growth is on every pastor’s mind.

Compelled by the Great Commission, pastors feel an urgency to reach more people and expand the impact of their churches. But this desire can lead down an uneasy path, causing otherwise grounded leaders to compromise their values in hopes of driving growth.

Clearly, growth at any cost is too high a price to pay. But does this mean sincere pastors are forced to choose between their convictions and the growth of their church? That is the topic Scott tackles on this episode of the Church Revitalization Podcast.

To read today's show notes, visit: https://malphursgroup.com/204

Read the full show notes at: https://malphursgroup.com/231

Welcome to The Church Revitalization Podcast! In this episode, A.J. Mathieu and Scott Ball dive into the crucial topic of what to know before hiring a church consultant. Drawing from their experience in church consulting, they provide valuable insights for churches considering this important decision.

Acknowledging their own involvement in the church consulting space, the hosts aim to offer genuine advice to help churches navigate the complexities of working with consultants. From theological alignment and the importance of a balanced approach to the significance of clear consulting processes and implementation coaching, they cover a wide range of essential considerations.

Throughout the episode, listeners will gain valuable knowledge on forming empowered leadership teams, the role of assessments in the church revitalization process, and the necessity of maintaining good decision-making based on sound information. A.J. and Scott express the importance of maintaining theological alignment, shared goals, and building genuine relationships in the church setting.

Tune in as the hosts recap 10 key factors to consider when hiring a church consultant and discuss upcoming guide training opportunities. For further insights and resources, be sure to visit https://malphursgroup.com/231 for additional show notes and an informative article.
Whether you're a church leader seeking guidance or simply interested in the intricate world of church revitalization, this episode is packed with invaluable insights to help navigate the process of hiring a church consultant.

It’s a frustrating position to be in, thinking you’re the only one that wants to see positive change in your church. That might really be the case, or it may just be that nobody has yet dared broach the topic. It might as well be you!

So how can you move from something you’re just thinking about to a movement toward change? We’ve mapped out the first four steps in this episode of the Church Revitalization Podcast.

To read today's show notes, visit: https://malphursgroup.com/193

The real Saint Patrick’s story is more relevant than ever for reaching a post-Christian world. Leaders like Patrick remind us that God is able to use willing people to accomplish unimaginable things.

In this episode, we cover three evangelism lessons from Saint Patrick.

To read today's show notes, visit: malphursgroup.com/81

Read the full show notes at https://malphursgroup.com/240

In this episode of the Church Revitalization Podcast, hosts Scott Ball and A.J. Mathieu discuss five common misconceptions about church revitalization. They bust myths about what church revitalization is and isn't, covering topics like the idea that revitalization is only for declining churches, the misconception about quick fixes through surface level changes, and the assumption that revitalization is just a passing fad.

The hosts delve into the spiritual and scriptural aspects involved in the revitalization process and emphasize the significance of relying on God's power while actively working towards growth. Tune in as they offer valuable insights to help churches navigate through the revitalization journey.

Read the full show notes at: https://malphursgroup.com/250

In today's episode, we dive into the crucial topic of healthy political discourse as believers. A.J. Mathieu and Scott Ball emphasize the need for truth, integrity, respect, and civility in political discussion, challenging the trend of attacking individuals instead of debating ideas. Drawing from biblical principles and the examples of early Christians, the hosts tackle the increase in negativity and voices in public discourse due to social media, and the desensitization to character negativity. 

They also explore the importance of pursuing holiness, respect, and civility, and the manipulation of social media platforms to keep users' attention for ad revenue. Join us as we discuss engaging in politics, promoting goodness, decreasing violence, and whether Jesus would participate in the political process. Stay tuned for thought-provoking insights and practical tips for thoughtful conversations in today's political landscape.

For many years, Europe has been called "the dark continent." The decline of churches here has been phenomenal, and churches closing down is common.

Sometimes the declines are recognized too late since its progression was in slow motion. Join in this week's episode of The Church Revitalization Podcast as we discuss the history of the Church in Europe, and how the remnant is taking root today.

To read today's show notes, visit: https://malphursgroup.com/74

If you’ve spent any time on social media, watching TV, reading newspapers, or even listening to family and friends try to tell you something “factual,” you’ve likely noticed that there are communication problems out in the world.

Unfortunately, those same problems exist in the church as well. If we’re going to be on mission communicating the Good News of Jesus Christ, we need to communicate all things well.

In this episode, learn 9 obstacles to effective communication. To read today's show notes, visit malphursgroup.com/84

One of the most common hurdles as churches begin to grow is how to transition from one to two services. If your church has outgrown its capacity for a single service, it may be time to start considering the possibility of moving to two worship services.

In this episode of the Church Revitalization Podcast, we'll explore the reasons why this transition can be beneficial for your church, as well as key factors involved in making the move.

To read today's show notes, visit: https://malphursgroup.com/181

Covid-19 did not create problems for the Church, it merely exposed them and accelerated the consequences. In this episode, Scott Ball and A.J. Mathieu detail the shortcomings that Covid exposed in the Church and how your church can overcome them.

Read the show notes at malphursgroup.com/48.

Churches believe that the key to growth is implementing new strategies, but what if your ministry is built on a rotten foundation? In this episode, learn the two foundational tests every church must pass to be healthy and successful.

To download the free checklist mentioned in the episode, visit malphursgroup.com/postcovid.

Access the show notes at malphursgroup.com/49.

Read the full show notes at: https://malphursgroup.com/241

In this week's episode, titled "Why Every Church Needs a Leadership Pipeline," hosts Scott Ball and A.J. Mathieu dive into the crucial topic of leadership development in the church. They emphasize the biblical foundation for this concept, drawing on examples from the scriptures and real-life experiences. 

From the significance of discipleship to the practical benefits of a structured leadership hierarchy, Scott and A.J. lay out a compelling case for why every church needs a leadership pipeline. Join us as we unpack this essential aspect of church revitalization and learn how intentional leadership development can shape the future of your congregation.

Read the full show notes at https://malphursgroup.com/235

In this episode, Scott Ball and A.J. Mathieu dive into the critical topic of succession planning in the church. From biblical foundations to practical insights, they explore the importance of preparing for leadership transitions, and the impact of unexpected events on church leadership. By sharing examples and discussing best practices, they emphasize the need for humility, planning, and the role of the departing leader in ensuring a smooth transition. Tune in as they unravel the significance of succession planning and its impact on the mission and stability of the church.

In this episode, we'll dive into some of the unique challenges and opportunities created by ministering as a couple with our guests, Pastors Matt & Heidi Messner.

Matt is a certified consultant with The Malphurs Group, and Heidi is a Regional Pastor with the Foursquare Church, overseeing 50+ churches in Northern California, Utah, and Nevada.

To read today's show notes, visit: https://malphursgroup.com/144

“Is your church healthy?” is not intended to be a rhetorical question. The problem with the typical answers is that there is no consistent foundation for what should be measured.  Most church leaders have not taken the time to think about what should be measured or how to measure it. 

This week on the podcast, we talked through five essentials of church health, so your church can get focused on what’s most important.  There’s a bonus sixth element at the end that can’t be overlooked either.

To read today's show notes, visit: malphursgroup.com/67

Many would agree that, overall, 2020 was not fun. But, what if we saw the trials and struggles of 2020 as a kickstart to rethink how we approach everything we do?

What if we broke the rhythm a little and made church fun again? In this episode, we'll talk about two keys to bringing joy back into ministry.

To read today's show notes, visit: malphursgroup.com/72

Want to assimilate new guests into the life and ministry of your church?

Host a Newcomer Event!

A Newcomer Event is a short, 60 to 90 minute event designed to assimilate people who are new to your church. A Newcomer Event...

- eliminates uncertainty as people get connected

- helps people get plugged in to a next step

- gives new people a chance to meet your team and make friends

In this episode of The Church Revitalization Podcast, you'll hear 5 easy tips to host a successful Newcomer Event!

To read today's show notes, visit: https://malphursgroup.com/127

So - you had a visitor to your church. They made the first move, showing up at a new, unfamiliar place. They're looking for answers and hope.

What's next?

Every church should have an intentional process to assimilate newcomers. You need to be intentional about the things you say and the actions you ask visitors to take. But where to start?

In this episode, we'll cover the essentials of assimilating newcomers into your church.

To read today's show notes, visit: https://malphursgroup.com/118

To read today's show notes, visit: https://malphursgroup.com/108

"Why don't people volunteer at our church?" "How can our church get more volunteers?"

Have you ever asked these questions? Most church leaders have - you're not alone. Many leaders think people simply don't want to volunteer, but that's usually not the case.

The good news? This is a situation you can fix. In this episode, we'll cover 6 common problems that lead to a lack of volunteers, and what your church should do to get more volunteers.

To read today's show notes, visit: https://malphursgroup.com/109

The news has been filled with stories of the amazing things that artificial intelligence (AI) can do. It can write song lyrics, give you advice on what to do on your next vacation, and even write business plans.

As artificial intelligence grows in prominence and ability, pastors might start to wonder: exactly how good is an AI sermon? Beyond this question, is AI something pastors should embrace or reject? How will artificial intelligence shape ministry in the years to come?

To read today's show notes, visit: https://malphursgroup.com/176

Read the full show notes at https://malphursgroup.com/238

In Episode 238, we delve into the topic of church size and why God uses the underdog to make a big impact. Join hosts Scott Ball & A.J. Mathieu as they discuss the neutral nature of church size and emphasize the significance of church health in fulfilling the mission. They share examples of small churches making significant local impacts and encourage pastors of all church sizes to utilize resources to fulfill God's plan for the global church. The hosts also reflect on the challenges faced by their organization and issue a call for support to continue their global church revitalization efforts. Tune in as they draw inspiration from the story of Gideon and explore how God uses small beginnings to achieve great things, emphasizing the importance of reliance on God's power and alignment with His will for success, rather than numbers

Is an ineffective discipleship model a concern for you in your church?  Learn more as we construct and discuss a results-based discipleship model.

Most churches start with predetermined means and try to shoehorn the ends. It never occurs to them that there may be a better way. If you’ve ever asked yourself how you could make Sunday School or Wednesday night better, you may be ready for results-based discipleship.

To read today's show notes, visit: malphursgroup.com/88

A church in decline is painful for almost everyone involved, especially the leadership. There is no definitive answer as to when you should consider moving to one service, but when attendance is down to one-quarter to one-third full in each service, it may be time for this discussion.

On this episode of the Church Revitalization Podcast, we're reviewing some things you need to know before you make the move to one service.

To read today's show notes, visit: https://malphursgroup.com/187

Seminary is a wonderful place to learn how to preach a sermon and study Scripture. But historically, most pastors learn their leadership skills from the school of hard knocks.

On this episode of the Church Revitalization Podcast, we want to help you sidestep common potholes and give you a clear picture of four skills you need to develop that seminary might not have taught you.

To read today's show notes, visit: https://malphursgroup.com/162

Welcome to a thought-provoking episode of The Church Revitalization Podcast, where we delve into the complex paradox facing churches in the post-pandemic era. In this episode we explore the intriguing dichotomy of increasing church giving and attendance juxtaposed with declining pastoral morale.

We kick off with an in-depth analysis of recent findings from the Hartford Institute for Religion Research. Listen as we unpack the statistics that reveal a substantial rise in church donations and a modest decline in attendance, highlighting the resilience of our faith communities in adapting to the digital era. Yet, beneath this optimistic surface, we uncover a concerning trend - a significant number of pastors are battling disillusionment and fatigue, contemplating leaving their current positions or even the ministry altogether.

Our episode takes a closer look at the challenges behind the pulpit. We discuss the multifaceted roles of pastors and church leaders, who serve not only as spiritual guides but also as administrators and community leaders. The episode sheds light on how the pandemic has intensified these responsibilities, leading to emotional and spiritual tolls that are often invisible to congregations.

Then, we shift our focus to practical solutions and strategies to enhance pastoral morale. We emphasize the importance of building personal connections beyond the church, seeking external leadership help, and prioritizing self-care, including Sabbath observance, vacations, and family time. These strategies are presented as essential steps to sustain the spiritual and emotional health of those who lead our faith communities.

Join us for a riveting conversation that goes beyond the surface of church statistics. This episode of The Church Revitalization Podcast is a must-listen for church leaders, congregants, and anyone interested in the future of our faith communities. Discover insights, solutions, and a call to action to support and uplift our pastors, ensuring the vitality and resilience of our churches in these challenging times.

Read the full show notes at: https://malphursgroup.com/211

In this episdoe, Scott Ball & A.J. Mathieu delve deep into a pressing concern that resonates with pastors and church leaders across the globe: congregational engagement.

Are you grappling with apathy, dwindling attendance, or the challenges of juggling busy family lives in your church community? The dup explores these common issues and offers profound insights into why engagement often falters.

Drawing inspiration from the biblical wisdom found in 1 Corinthians 14:8, A.J. underscores the critical importance of clear communication in igniting passion and fostering participation. Discover how churches can redefine their approach to discipleship, prioritize what truly matters, and set a clear path toward spiritual growth and maturity.

This episode is a must-listen for anyone seeking practical solutions to revitalize church engagement and empower congregations to become true disciple-makers. Tune in to explore the transformative power of clear communication, holistic discipleship, and intentional organization in your church leadership journey.

Church leaders serve various functions within the church, but there are certain capabilities or competencies that are essential to leaders at any level and of any function. One of these core competencies is spiritual mentorship.

This week on the Church Revitalization Podcast, we'll go deeper into what it means to be a spiritual mentor and explore how the core competency of spiritual mentorship manifests at various levels of leadership within the church.

To read today's show notes, visit: https://malphursgroup.com/184 

Are you motivated by competition, winning, and success? Are you outspoken, determined, and always up for the challenge? You might be a D-Type (Dominant-Type) leader.

There are a lot of helpful tools for understanding your personality. At The Malphurs Group, we regularly use the DiSC Assessment. In this multi-part article and podcast series, we are exploring the primary DiSC types and how they impact your leadership.

In this first installment, you’ll learn the strengths, challenges, and keys to success for the D or Dominant type personality.

To read today's show notes, visit: https://malphursgroup.com/136

We are starting off the new year with a recap of the top 5 topics we covered last year on the podcast. What would you add to this list of top topics?

Download the free pdf, Top 10 of 2022: https://malphursgroup.com/173

Reopening your campus will come with new volunteer needs and challenges. In this week's episode, hosts Scott Ball & A.J. Mathieu walk you through the three-step process you need to undergo to prepare your volunteer teams for reopening.

To read today's show notes, visit malphursgroup.com/38. 

In today's episode, Scott Ball & A.J. Mathieu use the Strategic Envisioning framework to assess scenarios using ChatGPT, offering insightful solutions tailored to each unique challenge. From navigating financial crises to addressing community shifts, our hosts provide practical advice grounded in the foundational principles of church health. Test your own skills, and see if you can guess how Scott & A.J. will address the case studies as they break them down in real time.

Not enough volunteers at your church? Create volunteer job descriptions.

Volunteer attrition can be caused by unclear lines of authority, mismatched strengths, undefined roles, and undetermined time commitments. Having a job description for every volunteer position (from small group leader to greeter) empowers your church to attract and retain volunteers.

In this episode, we'll cover how to write a volunteer job description. We'll also provide you a free, editable job description template as a starting point.

To read today's show notes (and download a free, editable job description template), visit: https://malphursgroup.com/125

Finding the right candidate for a church staff opening is difficult. Whether you’re trying to find a new senior pastor or a part-time children’s ministry director, the cost of hiring the wrong person is steep.

But getting the right hire doesn’t need to be impossible. On this episode of the Church Revitalization Podcast, We are diving into some key principles your church can apply to hire good church staff.

To read today's show notes, visit: https://malphursgroup.com/159

Perhaps it’s in the wide reporting about the loss of Christian influence in the world that we’ve all just had it in our heads that people don’t want to talk to pastors about things. But according to a recent poll by the Barna Group suggests that a majority of U.S. adults trust Christian pastors.

On this episode of the Church Revitalization Podcast, we are looking at easy ways that you can leverage the trust the public may already have in you.

To read today's show notes, visit: https://malphursgroup.com/163

A spiritually unhealthy church may find short-term gains, but sustainability only comes when people, and church leadership in particular, are right with God and others.

Beginning a revitalization process in the church should first include an introspective look at the spiritual condition of those working on the revitalization plan.

As a part of this week’s episode of the Church Revitalization Podcast, we’ve provided a free download of our Spiritual Formation Worksheet.

To read today's show notes or download the Spiritual Formation worksheet, visit: https://malphursgroup.com/185

Read today's show notes at https://malphursgroup.com/214

Sign-up for the Leadership Pipeline Cohort at https://malphursgroup.com/pipeline-cohort

Discover the transformative power of biblically-based leadership in today's episode. We'll uncover how some leadership methods might be holding your church back and how turning to Scripture, especially Exodus 18, can pave the way for a thriving leadership ecosystem. Presented by The Malphurs Group, this episode offers a sneak peek into our Leadership Pipeline Cohort's principles and practices. Dive in, be inspired, and let's revolutionize leadership together. If this resonates with you, share with fellow leaders, and hit that subscribe button for more enriching content! 

In this episode, we collected the Top 5 Church Revitalization topics of 2021. Learn what was on the minds of pastors and church leaders this year, how to apply these trends and ideas to see new growth, and how to set your church up to thrive in 2022.

To read today's show notes, visit: https://malphursgroup.com/120

Want free church leadership resources to help your church thrive in 2022? Visit: https://malphursgroup.com/free-church-leadership-resources/

We can all agree - it's been a tough year and a half of ministry. Whether you're stepping away to rest, or still leading the charge, we're thankful for you.

⭐ Limited Time Offer ⭐

The journey towards church health starts with a clear understanding of where you are right now, and what you need to do to grow. The Church Ministry Analysis is a custom report that empowers your church with the information you need to grow and change.

To get 10% off this custom report for your church, visit https://malphursgroup.com/cma/ and use coupon code "10OFF"

🙌 Want to maximize your church volunteer effectiveness? 🙌

A few simple exercises can set volunteers on a track for greater ministry effectiveness. By exploring these 5 areas, volunteers will make connections with others and with the church itself.

As an integral part of a volunteer engagement system, Divine Design can truly help any church maximize its effectiveness in ministry, and see great results.

To read today's show notes, visit: https://malphursgroup.com/130

Read the full show notes at https://malphursgroup.com/223

Welcome to Episode 223 of the Church Revitalization Podcast! In today's insightful episode, we delve deep into the heart of church mission statements, exploring their critical role in guiding and defining the purpose of a church community.

🎙️ Episode Highlights:

1. Understanding the Mandate of the Church: We kick off with a thought-provoking discussion on the fundamental mandate of the Church, exploring how our understanding shapes our mission and actions.

2. The Great Commission - Core of the Mission Statement: Delving into Matthew 28:19-20, we analyze how the Great Commission serves as the essential foundation for a compelling mission statement, emphasizing the need to make and mature disciples as a primary mission.

3. Balancing the Great Commission and the Great Commandment: We tackle the often-discussed balance between the Great Commission and the Great Commandment (Matthew 22). Discover how focusing on the Great Commission inherently fulfills the command to love God and love people.

4. Articulation and Clarity in Mission Statements: How well does your mission statement communicate the dual aspects of the Great Commission? We explore the importance of clear articulation and understanding in crafting an effective mission statement.

5. Simplicity and Memorability: Understand why a mission statement must be simple and memorable, resonating with your church’s culture and language, and how this impacts the engagement of your congregation.

6. Application and Practicality: We discuss the crucial aspect of not just having a mission statement but actively using it to guide all church ministries and activities. Learn how to align your church's actions with its stated mission.

🔍 In this Episode, You'll Discover:

• Why many churches struggle with ineffective or unknown mission statements.
• Insights into how the Great Commission should be the driving force behind your mission.
• Practical tips on evaluating and revitalizing your church's mission statement.
• Strategies for ensuring your mission statement is both understood and actively implemented.

Read the full show notes at: https://malphursgroup.com/259

Register for the Healthy Churches Toolkit Live Launch: https://malphursgroup.com/launch

In this episode of the Church Revitalization Podcast, hosts Scott Ball and A.J. Mathieu discuss the alarming decline in biblical literacy and propose innovative strategies to combat this issue. They introduce the Healthy Churches Toolkit, a resource designed to enhance church training and leadership development. The conversation highlights the importance of accountability partnerships, gamifying Bible engagement, and hosting interactive Q&A sessions to foster a deeper connection with scripture. The hosts emphasize the need for churches to adapt and create engaging environments that encourage personal Bible study and community involvement.

Unlock the potential of your mid-sized church with these 3 often-overlooked growth strategies! 🚀🙏

In this video, we dive deep into practical, innovative approaches that can transform your church of 100-200 members into a thriving community. You'll discover:

1️⃣ How to master your welcome strategy and turn first-time visitors into engaged members
2️⃣ The power of a "Serve to Grow" leadership development approach
3️⃣ Creative ways to optimize your weekday church engagement

Whether you're a pastor, church leader, or passionate member looking to contribute to your church's growth, these strategies offer fresh perspectives and actionable insights. We break down each strategy with real-world examples and easy-to-implement tips.

Don't miss out on these game-changing ideas that could revolutionize your church's growth journey!

👍 Like this video if you found it helpful
💬 Comment below with your favorite strategy or share your own church growth tips
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📚 Read the full show notes:
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Have questions about implementing these strategies in your church? Leave them in the comments, and let's discuss!

Reopening your church's campus isn't as simple as "going back to normal." Now is the time start preparing and planning for a smooth reopening of your campus.

In this week's episode, hosts Scott Ball & A.J. Mathieu walk you through five actionable strategies to help you plan for reopening church.

These five tactics, and an additional five not covered in the episode, can be explored in the Ready to Reopen Church Checklist, which can be downloaded at malphursgroup.com/36.

A lot of pastors leave the ministry because they claim to despise church politics. But church politics are a necessary aspect of leading in the church.

The politics, in and of themselves, are not good or bad, healthy or unhealthy. They’re merely a reality that must be navigated.

In this episode, we'll discuss five key action points that empower church leaders to manage church politics in a healthy way.

To read today's show notes, visit: https://malphursgroup.com/114

Welcome to episode 24 of the Church Revitalization Podcast. In this week’s episode, hosts Scott Ball and A.J. Mathieu discuss when is the best time of year to do a strategic planning process.

Churches often wonder if there is a best or worst time of year to do strategic planning. We go season-by-season sharing the pros and cons of starting a process at each time of the year.

To read today’s show notes, visit malphursgroup.com/24.

Poor worship music during a Sunday morning service is difficult to overcome. While music and worship style are not the primary factor in determining if a guest returns or not, bad music is still likely to keep guests from coming back–and to keep your existing congregation from inviting friends and family.

So how can your church improve your worship music? That is what we are talking about in this episode of The Church Revitalization Podcast.

To read today's show notes, visit: https://malphursgroup.com/149

Public speaking regularly tops the list of things people fear–even more than death! But pastors are called to put away their fears and boldly proclaim the word of truth Sunday after Sunday.

It’s critical that pastors not only put together a competent message, but a compelling sermon. There are a few bad habits that crop up frequently, and avoiding them can elevate a “decent” sermon to a genuinely good sermon.

In this episode of the Church Revitalization Podcast, we’ll discuss five bad sermon habits to be on the lookout for.

To read today's show notes, visit: https://malphursgroup.com/191

You can't become a high-impact leader overnight. It's not an achievement you can earn in a moment.

Mastering leadership requires practicing leadership. And practicing leadership well requires leveraging certain habits.

In this episode, we cover five habits that high-impact leaders use to help them perfect their practice of leadership. Practice these habits to improve your leadership skills and become a better church leader.

To read today's show notes, visit: https://malphursgroup.com/121

Power resides in every church-whether it wants it or not.

The important question is how the church, whether universal or local, should handle its power as it seeks to influence people for God. The answer is church polity. Polity concerns whom the church empowers. It answers the question, "Who has the authority to exercise power in the church?"

On this episode of the Church Revitalization Podcast, we will discuss three approaches to power within the church and their inherent strengths and weaknesses.

To read today's show notes, visit: https://malphursgroup.com/194

Read the show notes at: https://malphursgroup.com/282

In this episode of The Church Revitalization Podcast, hosts Scott Ball and A.J. Mathieu delve into the challenges churches face when trying to implement their ministry vision. They explore different archetypes of individuals who may unintentionally or intentionally hinder progress, inspired by Dr. Aubrey Malphurs' work "Developing a Vision for Ministry." Drawing from biblical examples, such as the story of Nehemiah, the hosts discuss how internal and external oppositions manifest and provide strategies for overcoming them with resilience. Whether it's addressing the concerns of vision vampires, navigating the critiques of vision vultures, or working with vision firemen who prefer the status quo, this episode offers insights and actionable advice for church leaders committed to revitalizing their ministries. Plus, discover the importance of remembering God's past, present, and future goodness in navigating challenges. Join us for this thought-provoking conversation rooted in scripture and experience.

Change isn’t easy. Yet change in the church has never been more critical than it is right now.

We believe that your church wants to change. More than that, we believe that your church can change. We believe it because we’ve seen it.

So what do you do when your church commits to change, but some in the church resist? In this episode of the Church Revitalization podcast, we're listing what you need to do to keep your church on track.

To read today's show notes, visit: https://malphursgroup.com/165

It’s been said that any publicity is good publicity, but when it comes to the Church, nothing could be further from the truth.

The Southern Baptist Convention has had quite a year, and most involved parties would probably have preferred last week’s meeting go unnoticed. Instead, though, we had Rick Warren in a social media battle against the SBC.

On this episode of the Church Revitalization Podcast, we're breaking down what happened at that meeting and the leadership decisions that were made.

To read today's show notes, visit: https://malphursgroup.com/195

In this week’s episode, hosts Scott Ball and A.J. Mathieu share the ten trends that are going to drive church ministry in 2020.

As we look at the year ahead, there are key shifts in churches and in the culture that are going to impact nearly every congregation at some level. As you listen through these ten trends, we invite you to think critically about how your church will need to adjust and adapt to make the most of the year ahead.

To read today’s show notes and to share this list of trends with your friends in ministry, visit malphursgroup.com/20.

Love runs deep in God’s plan for humanity as we are made in His image, and love is at His core.

As we move into the fourth week of Advent, celebrating the birth of Jesus and His imminent expected return, love should be the feeling we share towards him and one another. How should that manifest itself in a revitalized church?

To read today's show notes, visit: https://malphursgroup.com/171

- manage conversations
- ensure that the group time is centered on Scriptural teaching
- create a hospitable environment
...and more.

But a few simple tips can help your church’s small group leaders make a deeper impact.

In this episode of The Church Revitalization Podcast, you'll learn 5 keys to leading a successful small group - so that you can unlock better discussions and a more fruitful experience!

To read today's show notes, visit: https://malphursgroup.com/132

Covid restrictions don't have to mean your church can't reach more people this Christmas. This episode provides three practical outreach ideas churches of any size can implement quickly and on a budget.

Read the show notes at malphursgroup.com/65

Join hosts Scott Ball and A.J. Mathieu as they dive into a fiery conversation on church revitalization in this thought-provoking episode of the Church Revitalization Podcast. In "Burning Revitalization Questions," Scott and A.J. take turns posing three hot-button questions each, sparking lively discussions and sharing their unfiltered hot takes.

In this episode, Scott and A.J. explore critical issues that arise in church revitalization efforts, delving deep into the challenges faced by rural churches, communication strategies during times of change, the influence of wealth on revitalization, ministry adaptation, leadership models, and the difficult decision of stepping aside as a pastor.

Read full show notes at: https://malphursgroup.com/197

No two churches are the same any more than there are any two people who are the same. The Body of Christ is diverse, and God is sovereign over all things and His will is done in His timing and through those of His choosing.

Still, humans are human and do human things. And with that fact, we find common themes in church dysfunction. In this episode of the Church Revitalization Podcast, we are discussing the three most common reasons that we find churches contact a consultant.

To read today's show notes, visit: https://malphursgroup.com/154

In this episode of The Church Revitalization Podcast, we tackled the top seven reasons that pastors consider quitting the ministry.

To read today's show notes, visit: https://malphursgroup.com/145

Read the full show notes at malphursgroup.com/277

When a guest visits your church, they've already decided to be brave. Don't let overlooked details create unnecessary anxiety for them! In this episode, we dive into five questions every guest is silently asking - from parking logistics to communion etiquette. Learn practical ways to address these unspoken concerns and create a more welcoming experience for your visitors. 

Whether you're a growing church looking to improve your guest services or a established congregation wanting to stay sharp, these insights will help you see your facility and processes through fresh eyes. Plus, discover why your bathroom might be more important than you think and how to make your coffee service more strategic. It's time to eliminate those small barriers that can make guests feel like outsiders.

Read the full show notes at: https://malphursgroup.com/227

Dive into Episode 227 of the Church Revitalization Podcast, hosted by The Malphurs Group, as we tackle the essential topic of vision in church leadership. "Where Are We Going? Answering the Vision Question" unravels the complexities of establishing a clear and shared vision within the church community.

We address the three prevalent vision challenges: absence, lack of communication, and resistance to vision, providing practical solutions for each. This episode emphasizes the significance of collaborative vision-casting, led by pastors but enriched by ministry leaders, to ensure alignment with God’s Word and congregation engagement.

Join us for a concise exploration of transforming vision obstacles into opportunities for growth and unity within your church. Perfect for church leaders seeking to navigate vision-related challenges and inspire a collective journey towards a compelling future.

Read the full show notes at: https://malphursgroup.com/244

In today's episode, our hosts Scott Ball and A.J. Mathieu take a comprehensive look at the 3-Step Development Process: Assessing, Training, and Launching Leaders. They emphasize the significance of pacing coaching processes, beta testing, and receiving feedback before rolling out coaching methods. 

We'll explore the importance of continuous feedback, quarterly coaching sessions, and annual coaching and review meetings based on core competencies and personal growth. Join us as we delve into the critical elements for evaluating, nurturing, and releasing effective leaders within the church.

Making plans is fun. Following through is hard. Most churches fail before they even begin the implementation journey because they did not account for the barriers.

Our team at the Malphurs Group has guided hundreds of churches through strategic planning, and on this episode of the Church Revitalization Podcast, we are addressing four common barriers we’ve noticed.

To read today's show notes, visit: https://malphursgroup.com/164

Friday, June 24, 2022, will be a date long remembered as the nearly 50-year precedent of upholding abortion as a constitutional right in the United States was overturned. 50 years. That’s a long time. So long, in fact, that it may be a case in which most never really thought the day would come.

This week on the Church Revitalization Podcast, we looked at three areas of response that the Church must take now to show that we truly do care about people and not just winning an argument.

To read today's show notes, visit: https://malphursgroup.com/146

The thought of talking about pastor compensation makes many people uncomfortable. From the pastor’s point of view, he never wants to be seen as greedy or ungrateful, so most do not initiate a compensation discussion with the powers that make those decisions in the church.

This is damaging to the whole church when a pastor is in a position that may distract him from his primary ministry and even communion with God due to external pressures.

This week on the Church Revitalization Podcast we looked at why we should pay competitive salaries and some ways in which to consider doing so.

To read today's show notes, visit: https://malphursgroup.com/156

How can we move people from the church to the Kingdom? Learn more in this episode of The Church Revitalization Podcast.

To read today's show notes, visit: https://malphursgroup.com/113

Ever cringe from bad theology on social media? We’re talking about combating that today on The Church Revitalization Podcast. To read today's show notes, visit:Ever cringe from bad theology on social media? Pastors spend hours every week writing sermons, preparing lessons, and making sure the church is spiritually healthy. Yet even with all of that hard work, there is still a lack of biblical literacy in most of our churches.

In this episode of The Church Revitalization Podcast, we’re talking about three specific steps you can take to increase biblical literacy in your church.

To read today's show notes, visit: https://malphursgroup.com/142

Read the full show notes at: https://malphursgroup.com/267

In today's episode, titled "Three Things to Do Before the End of the Year," hosts Scott Ball and A.J. Mathieu dive into essential steps church leaders need to tackle before the year wraps up. As the clock winds down on another year, it's crucial to prioritize an annual ministry plan, develop a vision-oriented end-of-year giving strategy, and implement an effective Christmas follow-up plan. These actionable insights aim to help you and your church leadership team stay focused and prepared, ensuring a meaningful and impactful entrance into the new year. Join us as we break down these vital tasks and provide practical resources you can use right away. 

Access the Healthy Churches Toolkit free for 7 days: https://malphursgroup.com/toolkit 

What does “revival” even mean? Is that what is happening? That is what we are diving into on this episode of The Church Revitalization Podcast.

To read today's show notes, visit: https://malphursgroup.com/178 

Where did this common view that equates the pastor’s ministry primarily with hands-on pastoral care come from?

While Scripture uses shepherd imagery, shepherds did much more than just provide pastoral care for their sheep.

On this episode of the Church Revitalization Podcast, we're asking the question, "Is pastoral care the primary role of the pastor?" and sharing our experiences with churches on this issue.

To read the original article written by Dr. Aubrey Malphurs, visit: https://malphursgroup.com/196

"Is Church Marketing Biblical?"

The Short Answer: Absolutely.

In this week's episode of The Church Revitalization Podcast, special guest Ryan Wakefield from Church Marketing University joins us to discuss this question. We'll discuss marketing in the Bible, how to use marketing to build relationships, and more.

To get your ticket to the Church Marketing Conference (and get access to all of Church Marketing University until October 7), visit: https://malphursgroup.com/cmu

To read today's show notes, visit: https://malphursgroup.com/106