How Church Revitalizers Can Navigate Difficult People with Grace and Strategy

If you’re a church revitalizer, there’s a good chance you’ve got a well-worn copy of Well-Intentioned Dragons by Marshall Shelley on your shelf. I know I do—and I’ve flipped through it more times than I’d like to admit. Why? Because every church has them: difficult people. They’re the abrasive ones, the ones who rub others the wrong way. But here’s the truth we can’t forget—they’re still people Jesus died for, people we’re called to love and minister to, no matter how challenging they make it.

These folks tend to fall into two camps: the aggressives and the passives. The aggressives are the controllers—think hostile personalities or clique leaders—who want to run the show. The passives, on the other hand, drag their feet—apathetic, lonely, or clinging to fading traditions. Aggressives dominate the agenda; passives slow the momentum. Both can stall a church’s renewal if left unchecked. So, how do you deal with them? Here’s a practical strategy to keep the mission moving forward without losing your sanity—or your love.

A Game Plan for Coping with Difficult Personalities

1. Pinpoint the Real Problem

Start by getting to the root. What’s sparking the tension? Is it a specific issue—like a change in worship style—or a deeper power struggle? You can’t fix what you don’t understand.

2. Bless Be the Ties—or Not 

How tight is the bond between these controllers and the church’s leadership? Strong ties might mean more influence (and more resistance), while weaker ones could make redirection easier. Know the relational landscape.

3. Count the Costs 

Weigh the impact of their behavior. Are their actions a minor annoyance you can overlook, or are they derailing the church’s mission? Some battles aren’t worth fighting; others you can’t afford to ignore.

4. Seek God’s Solution First

Before you act, pray. What options do you have? God’s wisdom often reveals paths we’d miss in our frustration—like a gentle redirect instead of a showdown.

5. Aim for a Win-Win

Can you find a solution that keeps the church on track and honors the person? Maybe a controller could lead a smaller project, channeling their energy constructively. It’s not always possible, but it’s worth exploring.

6. Have the Meetings Before the Meetings

Work one-on-one behind the scenes. Public confrontations can escalate strife, but private conversations can build understanding and alignment. Discretion saves drama.

7. Love Is the Antidote 

Lead with God’s love—firm, but kind. Love doesn’t mean tolerating chaos; it means addressing it with grace and resolve. Firmness without love breeds resentment; love without firmness enables dysfunction.

“Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everyone.  If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.” Romans 12:17-18 (NIV)

When the Dragon Is on Staff

Sometimes the challenge isn’t in the pews—it’s on your team. A difficult staff member calls for a different approach: performance counseling. Don’t wing it—plan it. Document it. These sessions aren’t just for problems; they’re for growth too.

You might need one when:

– Performance is slipping.

– You want their input on an issue.

– You see potential for them to level up.

– You’re reviewing a past project for lessons learned.

– You’re offering future-focused advice.

– There’s a clear issue to address.

Preparation is key. Know what you want to say, what questions to ask, and how to answer theirs concisely.

Questions like these can guide the conversation:

– “What do you enjoy most about this ministry?”

– “What frustrates you day-to-day?”

– “How would you improve our operations?”

– “Are there any systems or traditions you think we should let go of?”

– “Have you got a timeline in mind for changes—feel safe sharing it with me?”

Asking questions doesn’t just clarify—it builds trust. And trust is gold when you’re navigating tension.

Loving the Dragons into the Mission

Difficult people—whether aggressive controllers or passive resisters—aren’t the enemy. They’re part of the flock. Yes, they’ll test your patience. Yes, they’ll complicate revitalization. But with a clear strategy and a heart anchored in God’s love, you can turn friction into forward motion. Pinpoint the issue, pray for wisdom, and lead with both firmness and grace. You might not tame every dragon, but you can guide them—and your church—toward the mission God’s called you to. After all, revitalization isn’t about avoiding the hard stuff; it’s about walking through it with purpose.

Intentional Prayer for Intentional Boldness

Some things you can’t buy off the shelf. Boldness is one of them—no Walmart aisle or Amazon search will deliver it to your doorstep. Yet, as a pastor, boldness is exactly what you need to lead your church through the messy, muddy waters of revitalization. I’ve been there, craving a “can of boldness” to crack open and pour out. Thankfully, Scripture shows us where true boldness comes from—and it’s not from within ourselves.

Take Joshua, the Old Testament leader who embodied boldness but also stumbled into a “bold-mess.” His story offers a powerful lesson for us today. When God called him to lead the Israelites across the Jordan River at flood stage, Joshua didn’t hesitate. He met with God regularly, listened intently, and obeyed when God said, “Go.” The result? The people crossed, Jericho’s walls fell, and God’s plan prevailed. But then came Ai. Fresh off victory, Joshua assumed God would work the same way again. He sent 3,000 men into battle without seeking God’s direction—and they were humiliated. Why? Because Joshua leaned on his own boldness instead of God’s. The missing ingredient? Prayer.

As pastors, we can fall into the same trap—charging ahead with our own plans, only to find ourselves in a bold-mess. Revitalization is messy, and it takes more than human grit to push through. It takes boldness anchored in God. So, how do we find it? Through intentional prayer rooted in three truths: our calling, the Gospel, and the church we serve.

The Call of God: Your Anchor of Boldness

Boldness starts with knowing you’re called. Think of Paul in Ephesians 3:7-11. He was a minister “by the gift of God’s grace,” driven by a clear calling to preach the Gospel to the Gentiles. His life motto—“to live is Christ, to die is gain”—wasn’t just a catchy phrase; it was his anchor. Every letter he wrote begins with a nod to that call (see Romans 1:1). It steadied him through storms.

Pastor, your calling is your anchor too. Are you convinced God has called you to lead your church through revitalization? That’s a question worth wrestling with in prayer. Without that assurance, you’ll be tossed around like a ship in a storm, drifting toward a bold-mess like Joshua at Ai. But when you’re rooted in God’s call, you gain the courage to lead with quiet confidence, trusting He’s in the business of revitalizing churches—and He’s chosen you to shepherd this one.

The Gospel: Your Catalyst for Boldness

Paul’s boldness didn’t come from his personality; it came from the Gospel that transformed him on the Damascus Road. He preached it fiercely, defending it against pollution even in his day (think Galatians). The Gospel wasn’t just his message—it was his fuel. Look at Ephesians 3:8-12 again: though “the very least of all the saints,” Paul had “boldness and access with confidence” through Christ. That’s the same power available to you.

The Gospel is the catalyst for revitalization. It changes lives and churches because it’s God’s power, not ours. When you pray, you tap into “the unsearchable riches of Christ,” approaching the throne of grace with boldness—not pride—to find mercy and help. If you want to lead revitalization with courage, let the Gospel drive you to your knees, praying for your people and facing each day with unshakable confidence.

The Church: A Community That Needs Boldness Too

Boldness isn’t just for you—it’s for your church. Paul didn’t pray only for himself; he prayed for the churches he served. In Ephesians 3:13-16, he asks God to strengthen the Ephesians “with power through His Spirit” so they wouldn’t lose heart. Pastor, your flock needs that same boldness to walk the revitalization road with you. It’s not just your calling to make disciples—it’s theirs too. They’re set apart for the Gospel, and they need you to pray for their courage.

Think of William Carey, the shoemaker-turned-missionary. In his small English village, he could’ve settled for a quiet life. But he couldn’t shake the burden for unreached millions. Through prayer, he sought God’s direction, then boldly sailed to India as the first Protestant missionary of the modern era. His courage sparked a movement—Adoniram Judson, Hudson Taylor, and others followed. One man’s bold prayers changed the world. Your prayers can change your church.

Avoiding the Bold-Mess

Joshua’s loss at Ai wasn’t the end. When he and the leaders fell before God, mourning their defeat, God revealed the problem: sin in the camp. They repented, removed the idols, and moved forward with God’s plan. If you’ve tried revitalizing in your own strength and hit a wall, take it to God. Are you leaning on your power instead of His? Repent, seek Him, and let Him redirect you.

Pastor, intentional boldness flows from intentional prayer. Be reminded of your calling, the Gospel’s power, and your church’s need. Don’t lose heart over suffering—through faith in Christ, you have “boldness and access with confidence” (Ephesians 3:12). Like Joshua, Paul, and Carey, seek God first. You can’t out-revitalize the Revitalizer. So hit your knees, pray boldly, and lead with courage. The victory’s already His—you’re just following the playbook.

Pastors, Are You Scoring Leadership Touchdowns?

As pastors, we often assume that leadership is just part of the job description. “Of course I provide leadership,” you might say. And you’re right—it’s not exactly a groundbreaking revelation. But here’s the thing: truly grasping what it means to lead with purpose and intention, while fostering a servant leadership culture in your church, can be a game-changer. It’s like scoring a touchdown in ministry—bringing renewed enthusiasm, energy, and even joy to the calling. Who doesn’t want to enjoy the work of shepherding God’s people?

Dr. Jim Laub, creator of the Organizational Leadership Assessment, breaks servant leadership into six key disciplines. One of them—*providing leadership*—sounds simple, but it’s a challenge worthy of a championship match. It’s not just about rallying the team with a “Go get ‘em!” It’s about three critical components: envisioning the future, initiating action, and clarifying direction. Let’s unpack these and see how they can help you lead your church to victory.

1. Envisioning the Future: Paint the Picture

Leadership starts with vision. As a pastor, you’re the one God has entrusted to set the course. Aubrey Malphurs defines vision as “a clear, challenging picture of the future of the ministry, as you believe that it can and must be.” It’s not enough to have a vague idea—you need to paint a vivid, compelling picture of where your church is headed.

Here’s how to do it:

Define the end goal. What does success look like for your ministry?

Include your people. A vision that doesn’t resonate with their dreams and aspirations will fall flat.

Test it out. Share it with your leaders and welcome their feedback.

Deliver it with passion. Articulate it clearly, preach it boldly, and pursue it relentlessly.

Crafting a vision takes guts. It’s stepping into the unknown, like a coach calling a risky play. The status quo might feel safe, but it’s the bold, God-given vision that moves the ball forward. And here’s a pro tip, especially for smaller churches: don’t let operational management bog you down. Free yourself to champion the vision and strategize its fulfillment. As Helen Keller said, “The only thing worse than being blind is having sight but no vision.”

2. Initiating Action: Move the Ball Down the Field

Vision without action is just a daydream. Great leaders don’t sit on the sidelines—they take the initiative. That means rejecting the status quo, tackling lingering problems, and seizing new opportunities. Maybe your church has unresolved conflicts or a dormant mission. Don’t just lament it—act on it with love, patience, and resolve.

Think of ministry progress like a football game. It’s not always about the long touchdown pass; sometimes it’s the steady grind of “three yards and a cloud of dust.” Celebrate the small wins—those hard-fought first downs—because they lead to real advancement.

Proverbs 6:6 points us to the ant as a model of initiative:

The ant doesn’t need a boss. She gets to work without prodding. We can too—spot opportunities and stay disciplined.

The ant acts decisively. No excuses, no delays—just execution. When the mound crumbles, she rebuilds immediately.

Mark Twain nailed it: “There are two types of people. People who accomplish things and people who claim to have accomplished things. The first group is less crowded.” Be in that first group—take action and get it done.

3. Clarifying Direction: Huddle Up and Align

Leadership isn’t just about pointing the way; it’s about getting everyone on the same page. Imagine a football team huddle—everyone knows the play, their role, and why it matters. As a pastor, ask yourself: “Do my people have the direction they need to carry out their responsibilities?” Clarity is key, and it hinges on two things: structure and inspiration.

Structure: Clear communication requires preparation. Just like you structure a sermon, structure your leadership messages. Anticipate questions, practice your words, and match your tone and body language to the message. It might feel like extra work, but it beats the chaos of misunderstanding.

Inspiration: Passion moves people. When you communicate with energy and positivity—“We can do this together!”—you ignite buy-in. Encouragement, as 1 Thessalonians 5:11 urges, builds confidence and hope, both personally and congregation-wide.

The Ball’s in Your Hands

Envision the future. Initiate action. Clarify direction. These are your tools to lead like a servant and score leadership touchdowns. So, which area do you want to grow in? Pick one, set a couple of action steps, and start this week. You’re the shepherd guiding the flock to green pastures—and yes, there will be obstacles. But here’s the good news: you’ve got the ultimate Head Coach. With God leading you, victory is assured.

What’s your next play?

From Dandelions to New Life: Reimagining a Dying Church

I stepped onto the lawn of a church I was helping through a revitalization process, and I couldn’t help but notice: it was a sea of dandelions. The grass was more yellow than green, a vivid sign of neglect. This congregation was on a clear downward slide toward death, but as I looked at those dandelions, an idea took root. I gathered the people and pointed to the lawn. “Right now,” I said, “your church is a dandelion—not the bright yellow one, but the fluffy white one. It looks like it’s about to die. But here’s the thing about dandelions: that white, fragile stage isn’t the end. It’s the beginning of something explosive.”

Dandelions are relentless. When they hit that fluffy white phase, the wind catches those seeds, and soon, new growth pops up everywhere. What if this church wasn’t dying, but on the cusp of being reborn? What if they stopped seeing themselves as a fading relic and started imagining a fresh start—a church poised to spread new life across their community? That shift in perspective became our rallying cry. The church wasn’t just a tired institution; it was a dandelion ready to scatter seeds of hope. Revitalization isn’t about clinging to what’s left—it’s about letting go of the old and embracing the potential for new growth. Like a dandelion, this church could multiply, taking root in unexpected places, if only they’d see the beauty in their current stage. Sometimes, what looks like death is just the setup for a vibrant rebirth.

Here are practical steps to accomplish this revitalization process, turning a declining church into a thriving one:

Step 1: Assess the Current Reality

Begin by taking an honest look at where the church stands. Gather the leadership and a few key members to evaluate attendance, engagement, finances, and community perception. Ask questions like: What’s working? What’s not? Are we known in the community, and if so, for what? For the dandelion church, the lawn full of weeds was a visible symptom of deeper neglect—use this step to identify your own “dandelions,” the signs of decline that need addressing.

Step 2: Shift the Mindset

Revitalization starts with reimagining. Just as I reframed the church as a fluffy white dandelion ready to spread seeds, help your congregation see their situation as an opportunity, not a death sentence. Share the vision through sermons, small group discussions, or even a symbolic gesture—like handing out dandelion seeds—to inspire hope. Encourage them to let go of the past and embrace the potential for new life.

Step 3: Cast a Clear, Christ-Centered Vision

Develop a simple, compelling vision that refocuses the church on its mission: sharing the gospel and serving the community. For example, “We’re here to scatter seeds of hope, growing God’s kingdom one life at a time.” Ground it in Scripture (like Matthew 28:19-20) and make it outward-focused. The lead pastor must champion this vision consistently, ensuring it’s not just a slogan but a rallying point for action.

Step 4: Build a Committed Core Team

Identify a small group of influencers—people who are open to change and passionate about the church’s future. This isn’t about titles but trust and enthusiasm. Equip them with the vision and empower them to spread it. In the dandelion church, this team would be the ones blowing the seeds outward—start with 3-5 people who can model the shift from despair to possibility.

Step 5: Start Small with Tangible Wins 

Don’t overhaul everything at once. Pick one or two achievable goals to build momentum. Maybe it’s sprucing up the church property (like mowing that dandelion lawn) to signal renewal, or hosting a simple community event to reconnect with neighbors. Celebrate these wins publicly to boost morale and show progress. Small steps prove change is possible without overwhelming the congregation.

Step 6: Refocus Outward 

Shift the church’s energy from internal maintenance to external mission. Research your community—demographics, needs, opportunities—and find one practical way to serve. It could be a food drive, a free workshop, or partnering with a local school. The dandelion scatters seeds naturally; your church should naturally extend into the community, showing Christ’s love in action.

Step 7: Equip and Release the Congregation 

Train your people to live out the vision. Offer basic discipleship tools—how to share their faith, serve others, or invite friends to church. Keep it simple and actionable. The goal is to turn members into seed-scatterers, not just pew-sitters. For the dandelion church, this meant moving from passive attendance to active outreach, one person at a time.

Step 8: Persevere Through Resistance

Change will stir pushback. Some will cling to the old ways, fearing the loss of what was. Acknowledge their feelings but keep pointing to the vision. The pastor must stay steady, leaning on prayer and the core team for support. Like dandelions thriving despite being uprooted, the church can grow through adversity if the focus remains on the future.

Step 9: Measure and Adjust

After 6-12 months, check progress. Are more people engaging? Is the community responding? Adjust the plan as needed, but don’t abandon the vision. The dandelion doesn’t control where its seeds land, but it keeps producing them—trust God to guide the growth while you refine the process.

This journey isn’t quick or easy, but it’s worth it. The church I worked with began to see itself not as a dying patch of grass, but as a field ready to bloom. By following these steps, your church can scatter its own seeds of hope, transforming decline into a thriving new beginning. What’s your next step? Pick one and start today.

Seeing Clearly: Finding New Vision and Direction for Your Church

I’ve had poor vision my entire life—blurry edges, squinting at signs, the whole deal. That is, until I got laser eye surgery a few years back. It was a game-changer: suddenly, I could see the world with a clarity I’d never known. That experience got me thinking about vision in a broader sense—especially when it comes to the church. If your church is struggling to see where it’s going, you’re not alone. The good news? There’s a biblical, practical way to sharpen your focus and chart a new course. Here’s what I’ve learned along the way.

Step 1: Seek the Lord’s Help—Really Seek It

You’re probably rolling your eyes—“Of course, pray about it, duh!”—but hear me out. Seeking the Lord isn’t just tossing up a quick prayer and calling it a day. It’s diving into His Word with intention, asking, “What do You have for us here?”

Step 2: Study Your Community Like a Church Planter

Church planters don’t just guess—they study. They dig into demographics: how many people live nearby, their ages, incomes, ethnicities, you name it. Revitalizing a church calls for the same homework. These studies aren’t just numbers—they’re a window into who’s out there and what they need. Whether it’s a radius around your building or a drive-time map, knowing your community helps you see where God’s already at work.

Step 3: Set a Target You Can Aim For

Once you’ve got the data, pick a target. It’s like archery: you won’t hit the bullseye every shot, but without a mark, you’re just flinging arrows into the wind. Declining churches often drift because they lack aim. Your target might be young families, seniors, or a specific ethnic group—whatever reflects your community. Having a focus keeps you from spinning your wheels and gives you something to measure progress against.

Step 4: Play to Your Strengths

Here’s a hard truth: unless you’re a megachurch, you can’t be everything to everyone. You’re not the spiritual Walmart, and that’s okay. Instead, lean into what you’re good at. If your community’s average age is 60+, build an amazing senior ministry—think trips, Bible studies, community service. If you’re surrounded by young families, pour into preschool and young marrieds’ programs. Don’t try to offer every ministry under the sun, but what you do, aim to do really well. Focusing on strengths means saying “no” to some things so you can say “yes” to what matters most.

A Clearer Picture

I don’t get frustrated with my eyesight anymore. Lasik was a small investment with a huge payoff. The same goes for your church. Seeking the Lord, studying your community, setting a target, and focusing on strengths isn’t a magic fix, but it’s a start. It’s like spiritual Lasik—helping you see where God’s leading with fresh clarity. Your church might not get it perfect, but with His grace, you can take steps toward a vision that’s sharp, biblical, and alive.

Spreading the Good News: Church Outreach Inspired by Acts 1:8

When Jesus spoke to his disciples in Acts 1:8, he laid out a roadmap that still guides churches today: “But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.” It’s a call to action that starts close to home and stretches to the farthest corners of the world. For churches, this verse isn’t just a mission statement—it’s a living, breathing framework for outreach. Let’s unpack how churches bring this vision to life, layer by layer, in ways that are both practical and profound.

Starting in “Jerusalem”: Loving Our Neighbors

Every outreach journey begins where we stand—our own “Jerusalem.” For churches, this means the local community: the streets, schools, and families right outside their doors. It’s about being a visible, caring presence. Picture a church throwing a block party with free food and games or hosting a back-to-school supply drive for kids in need. These aren’t just events—they’re bridges. They meet real needs while opening the door to relationships and, ultimately, the gospel.

I’ve seen churches earn credibility this way. One congregation I know started a weekly dinner for struggling families—no strings attached. Over time, those families didn’t just get fed; they got curious about the faith behind the kindness. That’s the beauty of starting local: it’s personal, tangible, and builds trust before you take the next step.

Reaching “Judea and Samaria”: Crossing Nearby Boundaries

The next layer—Judea and Samaria—pushes churches beyond their comfort zones, but not too far. Think of it as regional outreach: nearby towns, cities, or even groups that differ culturally or socially. In biblical times, Samaria was close to Judea geographically but worlds apart in terms of ethnicity and history. Today, churches might see this as a call to serve the underserved in their region—immigrants, prisoners, or the homeless.

One church I heard about teamed up with others in their area to clean up a neglected park. Another launched a prison ministry, bringing hope to those society often forgets. These efforts cross boundaries without requiring a plane ticket. They’re about stretching into spaces that might feel unfamiliar but are still within reach, reflecting the Spirit’s nudge to broaden our witness.

To the Ends of the Earth: Going Global

Then there’s the big one: “the ends of the earth.” This is where international missions come in—sending missionaries, planting churches, or supporting global relief. Many denominations encourage churches to think holistically: support local efforts, yes, but also fund Canadian missions and international work. It might look like sponsoring a missionary family in Asia or packing shoeboxes for Operation Christmas Child to send worldwide.

I love how this global vision ties back to the Holy Spirit’s power. It’s not about what we can do alone—it’s about what God can do through us. One church I read about prays over every mission trip, believing the Spirit paves the way long before they arrive. That dependence keeps the focus on divine guidance, not just human hustle.

A Balanced Approach: The Outreach Portfolio

Some churches weave all three layers into a seamless strategy. They’ll budget for a local food pantry, chip in for regional disaster relief, and send a team overseas—all in the same year. It’s like an outreach portfolio, ensuring no part of Acts 1:8 gets left behind. Others train everyday believers to share kindness wherever they go, handing out “Christian Kindness Cards” locally while offering free programs globally. The idea? Every one of us is a witness, starting right where we are.

Powered by the Spirit

Here’s the thread that ties it all together: the Holy Spirit. Acts 1:8 isn’t a to-do list—it’s a promise. Churches lean hard into prayer, whether it’s walking their neighborhoods asking for God’s guidance or interceding for missionaries halfway around the world. I’ve seen outreach flop when it’s just about events with no heart behind it. But when it’s Spirit-led? That’s when you see lives change—sometimes quietly, sometimes dramatically.

Word and Deed in Harmony

The best-efforts blend sharing the gospel with meeting needs. Think financial workshops rooted in biblical wisdom or cleaning up a community space while chatting about faith. It’s not enough to talk about Jesus—we’ve got to show his love in action. That said, balance matters. I’ve noticed some churches pour everything into flashy international projects while their own neighborhood crumbles.

Wrapping It Up

Acts 1:8 isn’t a rigid blueprint—it’s a dynamic call to start local, stretch regional, and dream global, all while trusting the Spirit to lead. Whether it’s a hot meal for a neighbor, a helping hand across town, or a Bible for someone overseas, the heart of outreach is the same: being Jesus’ witnesses. And honestly? That’s a mission worth living for.

Laying the Foundation: Why Disciple Making Is the Heart of the Church

What if church wasn’t just about showing up on Sunday, singing a few songs, and heading home? What if it was about something bigger—like becoming disciples who make disciples, living out Jesus’ call every single day? That’s the picture we get from the early church in Acts 2:42—believers devoted to teaching, fellowship, breaking bread, and prayer. Not just coexisting, but *participating* in a vibrant, purposeful community. That’s God’s design for us, and it’s the key to any church that wants to thrive. Let’s unpack what disciple making really means and how it’s not just a program—it’s the heartbeat of following Jesus.

Discipleship Isn’t Optional—It’s Who We Are

Here’s a hard truth: too many of us have bought into the idea that being a disciple is an extra credit assignment for the super-committed. You know, something for the Tuesday women’s group or the Wednesday men’s Bible study. But Jesus didn’t see it that way. When He said, “Go and make disciples of all nations” (Matthew 28:19), He wasn’t handing out a suggestion—He was giving us our marching orders. A disciple isn’t someone who’s mastered the Christian life; it’s anyone who’s heard Jesus’ call, turned from sin, trusted the gospel, and said, “I’m in—wherever You lead.”

So why do we treat it like an add-on? Maybe it’s because we’ve split evangelism (sharing the good news) and discipleship (growing in faith) into two neat boxes. But the Great Commission doesn’t play that game—it’s one seamless mission: lead people to faith, baptize them, and teach them to obey everything Jesus commanded. It wasn’t a class—it was a way of life. Shouldn’t every church be that kind of place?

Disciple Making = Christian Living

Let’s ditch the idea that discipleship is a separate category with its own sign-up sheet. It’s not a program—it’s the air we breathe as followers of Jesus. Sure, special studies or small groups can help us grow, and that’s awesome. But everything in the church—every sermon, every potluck, every prayer—should point us toward becoming better disciples and making more of them. It’s not about adding “discipleship” to the to-do list; it’s about seeing our whole Christian journey through that lens.

Take the first disciples. When Jesus called those fishermen in Mark 1, they didn’t sign up for a seminar—they dropped their nets and followed. Same with Matthew the tax collector. Jesus said, “Follow me,” and Matthew was out the door, leaving his old life behind. A disciple is just that: someone who hears Jesus, repents, believes, and goes where He goes. That’s where it starts—with His call, not our checklist.

Knowing Before Doing: Paul’s Playbook

Here’s where it gets practical. A lot of discipleship talk focuses on doing—prayer, Bible study, serving others. All good stuff! But the Apostle Paul flips the script. In Colossians 1:9-10, he prays for believers to be filled with knowledge so they can live lives worthy of God. For Paul, “knowing” comes before “doing.” Doctrine isn’t some dry theology class—it’s the foundation for how we walk with Jesus. The Great Commission’s “teach” isn’t about dumping facts; it’s about teaching obedience to Christ’s commands.

So, if your church is big on spiritual disciplines but light on biblical truth, you might be building on sand. We need both—head and hands—working together. When we know who Jesus is and what He’s done, the doing flows naturally.

No Church, No Discipleship

Let’s be real: you can’t make disciples in a vacuum. God wired us for community, and the church is His “Plan A” for growing us up in faith. Sure, para-church groups have done amazing work with small groups and one-on-one mentoring—I’ve been blessed by that myself. But when discipleship gets too individualistic, we miss the bigger picture. It’s in the messy, beautiful chaos of church life that we learn to follow Jesus together. As Dietrich Bonhoeffer warned, if you’re not in community, you’re in danger of going it alone—and that’s not what Jesus had in mind.

Start with the Kids

Want to see disciple making take root? Look at the next generation. Jesus didn’t brush off the kids brought to Him (Matthew 19:13-15)—He welcomed them. If we’re serious about this, our churches should pour into our children, discipling them from the cradle. Pastors, parents, leaders—don’t sleep on this. The mission starts with the little ones in our pews.

Disciples Are Missionaries

Following Jesus isn’t a solo gig—it’s a mission. When He called those fishermen, He didn’t just say, “Follow me.” He said, “I’ll make you fishers of men.” Every disciple is a missionary, not in the “pack your bags for Africa” sense (though maybe!), but in the “live on purpose” sense. We’re learning to follow Jesus ourselves, and part of that is helping others take their next step—whether they’re new believers or just a few paces behind.

This hit me hard: if I’m a disciple, I’m on mission. Not just the pastors or the “official” missionaries, but me—and you. Ephesians 4:12 says leaders equip the saints for ministry. That’s us! We’re the hands and feet, making disciples as we go.

Let’s Get Moving

So, where do we start? First, see yourself as a disciple—not tomorrow, but today. Then ask: Is my church a place where disciple making is normal, not a side hustle? Do we welcome seekers, walk them to faith, and guide them into maturity? It’s not about perfect programs—it’s about a culture where Jesus’ call echoes in everything we do.

Preaching Life Back into a Church: The Power of the Pulpit in Revitalization

Ever walked into a church that feels like it’s on life support? The pews are half-empty, the energy’s flat, and the mission’s a distant memory. That’s where church revitalization comes in—a gritty, grace-filled process of breathing new life into a struggling congregation. And at the heart of it? Preaching. Not just any preaching, but the kind that shakes the dust off, stirs the Spirit, and rallies God’s people back to their calling. Let’s dive into how preaching fuels revitalization—and why it might be the lifeline your church needs.

The Why: Preaching Is More Than Words

Revitalization isn’t about slapping a fresh coat of paint on the walls or tweaking the worship setlist. It’s about reviving people—hearts that have grown cold, a community that’s lost its way. Preaching is the spark plug because it’s how God’s Word gets unleashed. Romans 10:17 says faith comes by hearing, and in a declining church, faith is often in short supply. When a pastor steps into the pulpit with Scripture in hand, it’s not just a sermon—it’s a lifeline, a chance for the Holy Spirit to whisper, “I’m not done with you yet.”

Think of it as God’s megaphone. Through preaching, He reminds us of His mission (missio Dei)—that sending vibe that runs from Genesis to Revelation. A church on the brink doesn’t need more programs; it needs a fresh encounter with Jesus. And that starts with the Word, faithfully preached.

What Preaching Does in Revitalization

So, how does preaching turn things around? Here’s what the journey looks like:

1. Painting a Picture of What Could Be

Dying churches often forget why they exist. Preaching steps in with a vision straight from Scripture—think disciple-making (Matthew 28) or equipping the saints (Ephesians 4). It’s like holding up a mirror and a map at the same time: “Here’s where we are, but here’s where God wants us.” A sermon series on Acts might remind a congregation they’re meant to be a movement, not a museum.

2. Calling Out the Comfort Zone

Let’s be real—stagnant churches love their ruts. Preaching has to poke that bear, gently but firmly. It’s not about the pastor’s soapbox; it’s about letting God’s Word expose apathy or selfishness. Preach through the Bible, and the tough stuff—sin, pride, inward focus—gets lit up naturally. It’s God doing the talking, not you.

3. Lighting a Fire of Hope

Revitalization needs a spark of belief that God can still move. Sermons on Ezekiel’s dry bones or Jesus’ letters to struggling churches (Revelation 2-3) shout, “God raises the dead!” That’s gold for a church that feels DOA. Then it pushes further—hope isn’t passive. Preaching calls folks to roll up their sleeves and join the mission, whether it’s serving the poor or sharing the gospel next door.

4. Building a Crew of Disciples

You can’t revitalize alone. Preaching disciples a core group who’ll carry the torch. Start small—pour into a handful of faithful folks through the Word and watch them spread the fire. It’s slow, but it’s how culture shifts.

How to Preach during Revitalization

Here’s the playbook for preaching in this messy, beautiful process:

– Make It Real: Tie the Word to their world. In a rural church, Nehemiah’s rebuilding might mean revitalizing a dying town. In the city, it’s about redeeming broken streets. Speak their language, but don’t water down the truth.

– Go Slow: Revitalization isn’t a sprint. Start preaching Scripture from day one, but build trust over time. Push too fast, and you’ll lose them. Let the Spirit set the pace.

– Lift Up Jesus: Keep Christ front and center. A little plaque in one pastor’s pulpit read, “Sir, we wish to see Jesus” (John 12:21). That’s the goal—show them the Savior who heals His church, and they’ll follow.

The Hard Stuff

Preaching for revitalization isn’t all high-fives and amens. People resist change—sometimes with pitchforks. You might get pushback (or the boot) for rocking the boat. And it’s tempting to chase quick fixes—new lights, hip sermons—but that’s a trap. Real renewal comes from faithful preaching, not flash. Oh, and burnout? It’s real. Pastors, stay rooted in your own walk with God, or you’ll flame out before the church turns around.

The Bottom Line: God’s Word Works

Preaching in revitalization is a wild ride—part privilege, part battle. It’s standing in the gap, trusting God’s Word to do what programs can’t. When you preach Scripture under the Spirit’s lead, big things happen. Godly things. A church on its last legs can find its footing, not because of you, but because of Him. So, pastor, grab your Bible. Church member, lean in. The pulpit’s where revival starts—and it just might change everything.

Missional Preaching: Proclaiming God’s Heart for the World

What if preaching wasn’t just about filling pews with inspired listeners but about sending them out as agents of God’s kingdom? That’s the heartbeat of missional preaching—a style of proclamation that’s less about personal pep talks and more about igniting a movement. It’s preaching with a purpose: to connect the ancient words of Scripture with the wild, messy mission of God in today’s world. Let’s unpack what missional preaching is, why it matters, and how it’s shaping the church today.

The Big Idea: God’s Mission, Our Calling

At its core, missional preaching starts with a simple but seismic truth: God is a sending God. From the Father sending the Son (John 20:21) to the Spirit empowering the church, the Bible pulses with a mission—missio Dei, as the theologians call it. Missional preaching takes this divine storyline and runs with it, framing every sermon as a chapter in God’s redemptive plan. It’s not just about getting saved; it’s about joining a cosmic restoration project.

Think of it like this: traditional preaching might ask, “How does this verse comfort or challenge me?” Missional preaching flips the script: “How does this text send us into the world?” It’s less about the individual in the pew and more about the church as a sent community, living out God’s kingdom right here, right now.

What Makes Missional Preaching Tick?

So, what does this look like in practice? Here are the key ingredients that make missional preaching stand out:

1. It’s All About God’s Kingdom

Missional sermons don’t dodge the big picture. They zoom out to show how God’s reign—His justice, peace, and love—is breaking into our broken world. A preacher might take Psalm 23 and not just say, “God’s my shepherd,” but also ask, “How do we shepherd others in His name?”

2. It Speaks to the Streets

No ivory towers here. Missional preaching gets its hands dirty, wrestling with the real stuff of life—cultural idols, neighborhood struggles, even the skepticism of a post-Christian age. It’s exegesis of both Scripture and society, delivering truth that hits home.

3. It’s a Team Effort

Forget the lone-ranger Christian vibe. This kind of preaching paints the church as a family on mission together. It’s about “we,” not just “me”—a call to hospitality, unity, and shared purpose that turns strangers into kingdom collaborators.

4. It Sparks the Imagination

Ever notice how Jesus taught with stories? Missional preaching leans into that, weaving narratives that pull listeners into God’s drama. A good metaphor or a vivid image can turn a dusty text into a living invitation to see the world differently.

5. It Demands a Response

This isn’t preaching that lets you off the hook with a warm fuzzy feeling. Missional sermons end with a nudge—sometimes a shove—to act. Serve the poor. Reconcile with a neighbor. Share your faith. It’s the Holy Spirit’s work, sure, but we’re the hands and feet.

How It’s Done: Tools of the Trade

Preachers approach missional preaching in different ways, but here are a few paths they tread:

– Expository with a Twist: Take a passage, unpack it verse-by-verse, but always tie it back to God’s mission. Genesis 12 becomes less about Abraham’s journey and more about God’s promise to bless all nations—including ours.

– Thematic Power: Pull together scriptures around a missional idea—justice, discipleship, shalom—and build a sermon that paints a unified picture.

– Story-Driven: Tell the Bible as one big story, linking Creation to the Cross to the coming renewal of all things. It’s preaching that sweeps you up and says, “You’re part of this!”

The Theology Behind the Mic

Missional preaching isn’t just a style—it’s theology with a pulse. It’s Trinitarian, reflecting the Father, Son, and Spirit’s teamwork in saving the world. It’s incarnational, echoing Jesus’ boots-on-the-ground ministry. And it’s eschatological, pointing to the day when every tear is wiped away—a hope that fuels action today.

Why It Works (and Why It’s Hard)

Research shows missional preaching can transform churches. It shifts the focus from “keeping the lights on” to “lighting up the world.” Congregations start seeing faith as a 24/7 gig—lived out at work, school, or the corner store. But it’s not without hurdles. Overdo the social action angle, and you might skimp on doctrine. Lean too hard on culture, and the gospel can get fuzzy. Plus, in an age of video sermons and multi-site churches, keeping it local and personal is a real challenge.

Voices in the Conversation

Al Tizon calls missional preaching “kingdom preaching,” feeding churches the spiritual nutrients they need to thrive. Ed Stetzer ties it to cultural engagement, equipping believers for a shifting world. And pioneers like Lesslie Newbiggin remind us that this is about the church rediscovering its sent identity—a wake-up call we’re still answering.

Where It’s Headed 

Today, missional preaching is evolving fast. Preachers are tackling climate crises, racial divides, and digital disconnection, proving God’s mission touches every corner of life. Some are even taking it online, using platforms like X to amplify their voice—though that raises the question: can a tweet carry the weight of a sermon?

 The Bottom Line

Missional preaching isn’t for the faint of heart. It demands preachers who study hard, pray deep, and listen well—to God, to Scripture, to their people. But when it clicks, it’s electric. It turns hearers into doers, pew-sitters into world-changers. So, next time you hear a sermon, ask yourself: Is this just good words—or a call to join God’s mission? Because that’s where the real adventure begins.

Helping Church Goers Become Holy, Not Just Happy

When we think about leadership in the church, it’s tempting to assume the goal is to keep everyone happy. But happiness, while pleasant, isn’t the ultimate aim. The true calling of church leadership is to guide people toward holiness—helping them deepen their faith, experience God’s love, and grow in living out their beliefs. This isn’t about rigid rules or forcing people into a mold; it’s about creating an environment where systematic theological growth, personal disciplines, a strong understanding of Christ, and biblical priorities can flourish.

Strategic Leadership for Growth

Strategic leadership plays a key role here. It’s about designing structures that serve these purposes and maximize their impact—not just within the church, but in the surrounding community as well. Rather than squeezing people into preconceived frameworks, we should wrap those frameworks around the unique energies, visions, and gifts of the congregation. The goal? To align how we work and relate with the gospel we proclaim, making it visible and tangible in our lives.

The Command to Make Disciples

At its core, making disciples is a direct command from Jesus Himself. Before He ascended, He told His followers to “go and make disciples,” teaching others what they’d learned during their years with Him (Matthew 28:19-20). This wasn’t just for the twelve—it’s for us too. Discipleship is about simple obedience, and disciples, by definition, obey. It’s how we pass on the will and ways of God, something our culture has struggled to do well in many areas. In the church, we can’t afford to let this slide. Without serious discipleship, we risk raising a generation that doesn’t truly know God.

A Two-Way Journey

What’s beautiful about discipleship is that it’s a two-way street. It’s not just one person pouring knowledge into another; it’s about sharing life together. Both the mentor and the mentee grow in faith, maturity, and understanding. Age and experience might differ, but the relationship is mutually enriching. This is where the body of Christ shines—through discipleship, everyone gets to exercise their gifts, share their struggles, and build loving, supportive bonds. It’s not just about teaching the way of Jesus; it’s about living like Him. Jesus didn’t just lecture His disciples—He laughed with them, cried with them, and shared intimate moments that turned them into His family.

Spreading the Good News

Discipleship also matters because it’s God’s chosen method for spreading the Good News. Jesus spent over three years investing in His twelve, teaching them, sending them out, and preparing them for what was to come. He promised they’d do “even greater things” than He did (John 14:12), empowered by the Holy Spirit after His departure. And they did. On Pentecost, the Spirit came, and those disciples boldly proclaimed the gospel, turning the world upside down (Acts 17:6). Multitudes came to faith, churches sprang up across the Roman Empire, and the mission continued through history—from the Reformation to the New World.

The Mission Continues

That mission hasn’t changed. The command still stands: “Go and make disciples.” A disciple is someone who knows they’re saved (John 3:16), is empowered by the Holy Spirit (John 14:26-27), grows in grace and knowledge (2 Peter 3:18), and carries Christ’s heart for the lost (Matthew 9:37-38). The harvest is still plentiful, and the workers are still few. So, what are we doing about it?