Podcast Episode #588
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From church idols to church busyness, Thom and Sam discuss the major reasons why your church might be stuck. Sometimes the reason a church is stuck is that there is a fear of change, other times because of a bully. Listen in as Thom and Sam talk about the issues and potential solutions.
Reasons a church might be stuck:
- There is an idolatry of the past.
- Critics and bullies are holding the church hostage.
- The pastor has been burned in the past and fears leading change.
- The church likes evangelism in theory only.
- The church has become activity driven.
Other highlights:
- The goal of fostering a church is to help them return to a state of independence.
- Trust that breaks down will eventually be detrimental to any relationship.
- Fostering is local churches helping local churches.
- God gave you a specific address for a specific reason. Loving your neighbor applies to people and churches.
- If leadership is not aligned, then you should not move forward.
Resources mentioned in today’s podcast
- 2020 Micro Consultations
- Simple Church
- Zero-Based Church Scheduling Blog
- Zero-Based Church Scheduling Podcast
Episode Sponsors
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Feedback
If you have a question you would like answered on the show, fill out the form on the podcast page here at ThomRainer.com. If we use your question, you’ll receive a free copy of Scrappy Church.
How about the moniker of “TR” for Dr. Rainer?
During my adult life, as I have moved around, have been in lay leadership in 7 different churches. Sadly I have observed “Idolatry of the past” over and over in 5 of the 7.
New name ideas inspired by your opening dialog and various comments throughout the podcast:
– “The O.D.” for The Old Donkey.
– OMR – Old Man Rainer, which would lead Sam to be named YMR.
– TOWeR – The Older Wiser Rainer
– D.R. (Dr. Rainer)
– The Dr.
– Rainer, the elder
– Macro Rainer (and micro rainer)
– or simply Thom (which might at first be awkward for all who revere you to get used to, but they’ll get over it eventually).
Thanks for sharing your insights, encouragement, and humor. Your podcast is a blessing!
Great podcast and great content! I must say I was exceedingly encouraged by the response of Thom Rainer when his son corrected him on his “act” response. His son told his father that you should, “pray first and then act” which Thom agreed with having no sense of being offended by being corrected by his son. They obviously has a great deal of respect for each other which shows in the way they interact but I love to see leaders who not only speak of humility but show it!
Thank you, Gary! Sam is a wise man.