Revitalization Hope for the New Year
While this blog is typically for church planting, there is a great need for church revitalization. So many churches close their doors every year, and that is sad. I just read the stats regarding the number of church starts versus church closings in North America, and it wasn't good news.
What if the body of Christ actually acted like His body?
What if the church lived as though we were all on Team Jesus? What if the churches that have plateaued or are in decline didn't have to stay that way?
These are some of the questions that I have been wrestling with during this past year. I wish I had all the answers, but I don't. I do know this: God cares about His Church and what He cares about, should be a concern for us as well. These two books have helped shape my thinking and lead me to be a part of the solution rather than just a spectator watching from the sidelines.
Today’s spiritual landscape is littered with churches on their last legs, forcing us to reconsider how we keep the Body of Christ alive and healthy. The solution, according to visionary pastors Darrin Patrick and Mark DeVine, is to infuse new blood into the body and by seeking God’s presence and guidance. Avoiding cookie-cutter steps or how-to formulas, Replant describes the story of a church resurrection, a story that offers a multitude of divinely inspired, and practical possibilities for church planters. The result is a harvest of inspiring ideas on how to inspire new church growth.
Whether your church is vibrant or dying, whether you are a pastor or a church member, Autopsy of a Deceased Church will walk you through the radical paths necessary to keep your church alive to the glory of God and advancement of Christ’s Kingdom!
There is much to say about the topic of revitalization. In the upcoming months, we will take a closer look at some successful turnarounds as well as some that did not turn out the way we hoped. We can learn from both, in the hopes of being more effective as we move forward.
If you have a turnaround story or thoughts regarding this topic, please comment below and let's start a healthy dialogue.
To connect with me personally, visit Jeff Hoglen Author Page or hit me up on Twitter - Jeff Hoglen