The Church Revitalization Podcast

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What if you could see church growth coming before it actually arrives? In this episode of the Church Revitalization Podcast, Scott Ball and A.J. Mathieu walk through three leading indicators that can predict future church health and growth, rather than simply reviewing what has already happened. They explain the difference between lag measures (like attendance) and lead measures, and show how tracking the right numbers gives church leaders real leverage to make smarter decisions.

Scott Ball and A.J. Mathieu are the co-hosts of the Church Revitalization Podcast, produced by the Malphurs Group, a church consulting and coaching organization. Scott serves as a Vice President at the Malphurs Group and works closely with churches navigating revitalization, while A.J. brings a background in church health strategy and practical leadership coaching. Together they make complex ministry concepts accessible and actionable for pastors and church leaders at every stage.

[5:11] Lead vs. Lag Measures: The Odometer vs. Speedometer Analogy
[7:55] Introduction to the Three Leading Indicators
[9:08] Indicator 1: Connection Cards and First-Time Guest Engagement
[15:16] Indicator 2: Moving People from Large Gatherings to Small Groups
[17:46] Indicator 3: Volunteer Engagement as a Predictor of Church Health

Free 7-Day Trial of the Healthy Churches Toolkit: https://healthychurchestoolkit.com Episode Article: https://malphursgroup.com/351 Facebook: https://facebook.com/malphursgroup Instagram: https://instagram.com/malphursgroup YouTube: https://youtube.com/themalphursgroup X: https://x.com/malphursgroup

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Is your church full of attendees but short on disciples? In episode 350 of the Church Revitalization Podcast, Scott and A.J. dig into one of the most common and quietly damaging patterns in church life: the consumerism cycle. They walk through three concrete red flags that signal your congregation may be consuming church rather than contributing to it, and then offer a practical framework for shifting the culture toward ownership and discipleship.

Scott Ball and A.J. Mathieu are the co-hosts of the Church Revitalization Podcast, produced by the Malphurs Group, a nonprofit ministry dedicated to helping churches across North America thrive. Scott and A.J. bring a mix of pastoral insight and practical strategy to each episode, making the show a go-to resource for pastors and church leaders navigating real challenges in ministry today.

[4:04] Red Flag 1: Preference-driven complaints as a sign of a consumer mindset
[7:02] Red Flag 2: Low volunteerism and the gap between attendance and participation
[9:36] Red Flag 3: Giving culture and what it reveals about congregational ownership
[15:43] Culture shift framework: Reframing belonging, language, and what your church asks of people
[19:20] Leveraging low-bar entry points to build high commitment over time

Free 7-Day Trial of the Healthy Churches Toolkit: https://healthychurchestoolkit.com Episode Article (Ep. 350): https://malphursgroup.com/350 Facebook: https://facebook.com/malphursgroup Instagram: https://instagram.com/malphursgroup YouTube: https://youtube.com/themalphursgroup X: https://x.com/malphursgroup

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[4:04] Red Flag 1: Preference-driven complaints as a sign of a consumer mindset
[7:02] Red Flag 2: Low volunteerism and the gap between attendance and participation
[9:36] Red Flag 3: Giving culture and what it reveals about congregational ownership
[15:43] Culture shift framework: Reframing belonging, language, and what your church asks of people
[19:20] Leveraging low-bar entry points to build high commitment over time

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Gen Alpha kids (born 2010 to 2024) are reshaping what families expect from children's ministry, and most churches need some practical, achievable adjustments to keep up. In this episode, Scott and A.J. walk through three concrete changes any church can make to better reach Gen Alpha kids and their parents. Whether your church is just getting started or looking to sharpen what you already have, this conversation will give you a clear path forward.

Scott Ball and A.J. Mathieu are the co-hosts of the Church Revitalization Podcast, produced by the Malphurs Group, a church consulting organization dedicated to helping churches move from decline to health. Scott brings the perspective of a millennial parent raising Gen Alpha kids, while A.J. brings a Gen X practitioner's eye for what actually works in the local church. Together they offer frank, field-tested guidance for pastors and ministry leaders every week.

[4:07] Communication With Parents: Why digital-first but not digital-only matters for millennial families
[9:09] Finding the Right Communication Mix: Avoiding the constant deluge and building a consistent plan
[11:18] Safety Systems: Why check-in and checkout protocols are non-negotiable for Gen Alpha families
[17:18] Practical Safety Setup: Single point of access, digital check-in, and low-cost ways to make it work
[18:36] Tech Expectations in the Classroom: Meeting Gen Alpha where they are without dumbing down the message

Free 7-Day Trial: https://healthychurchestoolkit.com Episode Article: https://malphursgroup.com/348 Facebook: https://facebook.com/malphursgroup Instagram: https://instagram.com/malphursgroup YouTube: https://youtube.com/themalphursgroup X: https://x.com/malphursgroup

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What does your church actually stand for, and does your community know it? In this episode of the Church Revitalization Podcast, Scott and A.J. walk through three practical steps to help your church define and communicate a genuine, compelling identity, one that goes far deeper than a new logo or a refreshed website. Drawing on real examples from ministry and culture, they make the case that a church's brand must grow out of who it truly is, not out of what it wishes it looked like.

Scott Ball and A.J. Mathieu are church health consultants with the Malphurs Group, a ministry dedicated to helping churches move from decline to sustainable vitality. Each week on the Church Revitalization Podcast, they bring honest conversation, practical frameworks, and field-tested insight to help pastors and church leaders do the hard work of revitalization. Whether you are a longtime listener or finding them for the first time, expect straightforward guidance rooted in decades of on-the-ground ministry experience.

[1:07] Why rebranding without self-knowledge backfires, and what churches should do first
[7:39] Step 1: Discovering your church's real, God-given identity
[11:46] Step 2: Articulating your identity in language that is clear and distinctive
[19:54] Step 3: Aligning your culture and strategy so your identity is lived out, not just stated
[25:33] Starting with biblical alignment as the foundation of everything

Free 7-Day Trial of the Healthy Churches Toolkit: https://healthychurchestoolkit.com Episode Article: https://malphursgroup.com/347 Facebook: https://facebook.com/malphursgroup Instagram: https://instagram.com/malphursgroup YouTube: https://youtube.com/themalphursgroup X: https://x.com/malphursgroup

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Many churches default to the Sunday morning invite as their primary outreach strategy, but for a growing number of people, that front door feels intimidating before a relationship even exists. In this episode, Scott and A.J. walk through three practical "side door" approaches that churches can use to build genuine connections with their communities before ever asking someone to show up on a Sunday morning.

Scott Ball and A.J. Mathieu are church health consultants with the Malphurs Group, a ministry dedicated to helping churches navigate revitalization and growth. Each week on the Church Revitalization Podcast, they bring practical, field-tested insight drawn from years of working directly with pastors and church leaders across the country.

[0:38] Why the Sunday invite alone is not enough -- and the anxiety unchurched people feel about walking through the front door
[5:24] Side Door 1: Community events and services your church organizes to serve people and build relationships outside the building
[7:08] The "serve first, sell nothing" mindset that should shape every outreach effort your church pursues
[9:48] Side Door 2: Having a consistent presence in third places where people already gather in everyday life
[13:31] Side Door 3: Partnering with community organizations your neighbors already know and trust

Free 7-Day Trial of the Healthy Churches Toolkit: https://healthychurchestoolkit.com Episode Article: https://malphursgroup.com/346 Facebook: https://facebook.com/malphursgroup Instagram: https://instagram.com/malphursgroup YouTube: https://youtube.com/themalphursgroup X: https://x.com/malphursgroup

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In this episode of the Church Revitalization Podcast, Scott and A.J. break down three distinct types of "gatekeepers" that show up in churches and how each one can quietly block healthy growth and mission. From information filters to change blockers to ego-driven power players, this conversation gives church leaders the language and insight to identify what might be holding their church back. The discussion is practical, honest, and backed by real consulting experience.

Scott Ball and A.J. Mathieu are lead consultants at the Malphurs Group, a church health and revitalization consulting ministry that has worked with hundreds of churches across the country. Each week on the Church Revitalization Podcast, they bring field-tested insights to help pastors and church leaders navigate the real challenges of leading a church toward health and mission. Whether you are a longtime listener or just finding the show, you will find their conversations to be direct, grounded, and genuinely helpful.

[1:20] Defining what a gatekeeper actually is in a church context
[5:50] Gatekeeper Type 1: The person who controls what the pastor gets to hear
[8:47] Gatekeeper Type 2: The person or group that blocks change before it can happen
[14:33] Gatekeeper Type 3: The leader whose ego or insecurity becomes a barrier to progress
[26:02] How to actually work around the gatekeeper problem in your church

Free 7-Day Trial of the Healthy Churches Toolkit: https://healthychurchestoolkit.com Episode Article: https://malphursgroup.com/345 Facebook: https://facebook.com/malphursgroup Instagram: https://instagram.com/malphursgroup YouTube: https://youtube.com/themalphursgroup X: https://x.com/malphursgroup

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Pastors make hundreds of decisions every week, and not all of them deserve the same mental energy. In this episode of the Church Revitalization Podcast, Scott and A.J. walk through four practical categories of decisions that pastors should consider offloading, delegating, or systematizing so that the decisions that truly matter get the attention they deserve.

Scott Ball and A.J. Mathieu are church consultants with the Malphurs Group, a ministry dedicated to helping churches move toward health and sustainable growth. Each week on the Church Revitalization Podcast, they bring practical, field-tested insights drawn from years of working directly with pastors and church leadership teams across the country.

[3:40] Category 1: Operational and Administrative Decisions — Why routine approvals, purchases, and scheduling items should never land on the pastor's desk
[8:08] Category 2: Pastoral Care Decisions — How to triage care needs and build a team so the pastor is not the first and only point of contact
[10:59] Category 3: Volunteer and Ministry Team Decisions — Giving volunteers real authority within clear boundaries so leaders stop second-guessing every call
[15:04] Category 4: Requests That Should Follow a Written Process — Why benevolence, events, and staff time off need a policy, not a conversation
[16:56] Practical Next Step — How to track your decisions this week and identify which ones you should stop making altogether

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Most church finance reports put people to sleep, but they don't have to. In this episode, Scott and A.J. walk through three financial reports every church should be sharing with its congregation, including one that almost no church is currently doing. These reports go beyond the standard budget line items to give leaders and members a clearer, more motivating picture of where the church stands financially and where it is headed.

Scott Ball and A.J. Mathieu are the co-hosts of the Church Revitalization Podcast, produced by the Malphurs Group, a consulting and coaching ministry dedicated to helping churches become healthier and more effective. Scott serves as the President of the Malphurs Group, and A.J. is a ministry consultant and coach on the team. Together they bring practical, research-informed guidance to pastors and church leaders each week.

[2:37] Report 1: The Giving Trend Report and what it reveals over time
[7:09] Report 2: A fresh approach to presenting your church budget
[12:55] Report 3: The Giving Units Report that most churches are not tracking
[15:29] Why showing giving unit trends on screen can be powerful for the congregation
[18:45] How to close your financial report with transparency and encouragement

Free 7-Day Trial: https://healthychurchestoolkit.com Episode Article: https://malphursgroup.com/343 Facebook: https://facebook.com/malphursgroup Instagram: https://instagram.com/malphursgroup YouTube: https://youtube.com/themalphursgroup X: https://x.com/malphursgroup

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Every pastor says they want honest feedback, but do their actions back that up? In this episode, Scott and A.J. walk through three clear signs that a pastor or any church leader may have a blind spot when it comes to receiving input, from defensive reactions to punishing the messenger to making decisions in a complete vacuum. If you have ever felt like bringing feedback to your leader is more trouble than it is worth, this episode will help you name what you are seeing.

Scott Ball and A.J. Mathieu are lead consultants at the Malphurs Group, a church consulting and coaching organization dedicated to helping established churches find a way forward. Each week on the Church Revitalization Podcast, they bring practical, field-tested insight drawn from years of working directly with pastors and church leadership teams across the country. Their conversations are honest, sometimes funny, and always aimed at helping churches become healthier.

[4:35] Sign 1: Defensiveness — shutting down conversations and deflecting feedback
[10:25] Sign 2: Punishing the Messenger — what happens when the person who brings information pays a price for it
[12:58] Sign 3: Decisions Made in a Vacuum — leading without meaningful input from the team
[13:57] Real-World Story — a case study from the consulting room showing all three signs in action
[20:11] The Payoff of Humility — why leaders who welcome feedback lead longer and lead better

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Being nice sounds like a virtue, but in church revitalization it can quietly work against you. In this episode, Scott and A.J. walk through three specific ways that avoiding hard conversations and tolerating the wrong things in the name of kindness can stall or even sabotage your church's mission. The goal is not to be harsh, but to lead with the kind of courageous clarity that actually serves your congregation well.

Scott Ball and A.J. Mathieu are ministry strategists and consultants with the Malphurs Group, a firm dedicated to helping churches develop healthy, mission-driven cultures. Each week they bring practical leadership insight to pastors and church leaders navigating the challenges of revitalization. Whether you are a longtime listener or joining for the first time, you will find their conversations grounded, direct, and built for real-world ministry.

[4:44] Way 1: Tolerating the Wrong People in the Wrong Roles
[10:12] Way 2: How Being Nice Can Derail Your Planning
[15:53] Softening Fear to Maintain Comfort Only Makes Leading Harder Later
[16:00] Way 3: Letting Culture Drift
[21:39] The Closing Challenge: Be Strong, Be Kind, and Actually Lead

Free 7-Day Trial of the Healthy Churches Toolkit: https://healthychurchestoolkit.com Episode Article: https://malphursgroup.com/341 Facebook: https://facebook.com/malphursgroup Instagram: https://instagram.com/malphursgroup YouTube: https://youtube.com/themalphursgroup X: https://x.com/malphursgroup

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Is your church's vision still guiding decisions and inspiring people, or has it quietly expired without anyone noticing? In this episode of the Church Revitalization Podcast, Scott Ball and A.J. Mathieu walk through three clear signs that a church's vision has gone stale, and they offer practical next steps for auditing and renewing it before it does more damage.

Scott Ball and A.J. Mathieu are the co-hosts of the Church Revitalization Podcast and consultants with the Malphurs Group, a ministry dedicated to helping churches develop healthy, strategic frameworks for growth and renewal. Each week they bring practical, field-tested insight to pastors and church leaders who are serious about moving their congregations forward.

[4:03] Why overly broad vision statements are a warning sign right from the start
[7:48] Sign 1: Nobody in your church can actually explain the vision
[9:57] Sign 2: The vision is no longer driving real ministry decisions
[14:46] Sign 3: The vision has already been fully accomplished or fully abandoned
[17:22] Practical next steps: How to audit and renew your church's vision this week

Free 7-Day Trial of the Healthy Churches Toolkit: https://healthychurchestoolkit.com Episode Article: https://malphursgroup.com/340 Follow the Malphurs Group: https://facebook.com/malphursgroup https://instagram.com/malphursgroup https://youtube.com/themalphursgroup https://x.com/malphursgroup

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Every growing church eventually hits a wall, and in this episode, Scott and A.J. walk through three predictable barriers that slow or stall church growth. These are not problems that cause growth to begin in the first place, but rather real, pragmatic obstacles that show up when a healthy church is already moving in the right direction and needs to clear the path ahead.

Scott Ball and A.J. Mathieu are lead consultants at the Malphurs Group, a church consulting organization focused on helping churches become healthier and more effective in their mission. Each week on the Church Revitalization Podcast, they bring practical insight drawn from years of working directly with pastors and church leaders across the country. Their approach is grounded, honest, and always pointed toward real-world application.

[5:59] Barrier 1: The Pastor as the Bottleneck -- when the pastor's capacity for personal relationships limits how far the church can grow
[11:17] Barrier 2: The Family Church Identity Problem -- when a close-knit congregation unintentionally becomes unwelcoming to newcomers
[15:52] The Cost of an Insular Culture -- how new people quietly leave when they cannot break into existing relational circles
[17:17] Barrier 3: The Pastor's Self-Perception -- when a pastor's internal identity keeps him from leading the church to its next level
[22:10] The Value of Outside Help -- why bringing in an outside perspective can help pastors and churches see and break through these barriers

Free 7-Day Trial: https://healthychurchestoolkit.com Episode Article: https://malphursgroup.com/339 Facebook: https://facebook.com/malphursgroup Instagram: https://instagram.com/malphursgroup YouTube: https://youtube.com/themalphursgroup X: https://x.com/malphursgroup

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In this episode of the Church Revitalization Podcast, Scott and A.J. walk through three practical signs that a leader may be operating with low emotional intelligence. From confusing anger with authority to struggling to read a room to reacting instead of responding, the conversation is honest, self-aware, and grounded in real pastoral experience. The goal is not to point fingers at others but to help leaders identify areas where they can grow.

Scott Ball and A.J. Mathieu are church consultants with the Malphurs Group, a ministry dedicated to helping churches thrive through practical leadership and strategic revitalization. Each week they bring that same hands-on, field-tested perspective to the Church Revitalization Podcast, making complex leadership topics accessible and actionable for pastors and church leaders at every stage.

[4:45] Sign 1: You Confuse Anger With Authority
[10:50] Sign 2: You Struggle to Read the Room
[14:33] Sign 3: You React Instead of Respond
[19:08] How Leaders Can Actually Improve Their EQ
[21:07] Closing Encouragement: You Can Grow in This

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Growing churches and declining churches handle their facilities very differently — and it often has nothing to do with budget or building size. In this episode, Scott and A.J. break down three practical philosophies that healthy, growing churches apply to their physical spaces that plateaued or declining churches tend to overlook.

Scott Ball and A.J. Mathieu are the co-hosts of the Church Revitalization Podcast, produced by the Malphurs Group, a church consulting organization dedicated to helping churches grow healthy and reach their communities. Each week, Scott and A.J. bring practical, actionable insights for pastors and church leaders navigating the challenges of revitalization and growth.

[3:06] Point 1: Treating Your Facility as a First Impression Tool, Not Just a Container for Sunday Services
[7:43] Point 2: How Growing Churches Maximize Their Space Beyond Sunday Morning
[12:54] Point 3: Letting Your Space Reflect Your Priorities, Not Your History
[17:10] Practical Example: Auditing Outdated Spaces and What They Communicate to New Guests
[19:31] How to Conduct a Facility Audit and Take Action on What You Find

Free 7-Day Trial of the Healthy Churches Toolkit: https://healthychurchestoolkit.com Episode Article: https://malphursgroup.com/337 Facebook: https://facebook.com/malphursgroup Instagram: https://instagram.com/malphursgroup YouTube: https://youtube.com/themalphursgroup X: https://x.com/malphursgroup

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Pastor failures -- moral, emotional, and relational -- are rarely just personal crises. Too often, the church itself has inadvertently created the conditions for them: isolated leaders, missing accountability, and no margin for rest. In this episode, Scott and A.J. make the case that keeping a pastor healthy is a team responsibility, and walk through three practical systems any church can put in place before a problem develops.

Scott Ball and A.J. Mathieu are the hosts of the Church Revitalization Podcast, produced by The Malphurs Group -- a church health and strategic planning consultancy. Scott and A.J. work with churches across the country to help leaders build healthy structures, cultures, and teams that can sustain long-term growth and ministry impact.

In this episode:

[00:00] Why pastor health is everybody's responsibility -- and the danger of only thinking about it reactively
[04:46] The isolation problem: why the pastoral role structurally separates leaders from genuine community, and what healthy churches do about it
[17:03] Accountability that protects, not just prosecutes: proactive structures including technology monitoring, honest check-ins, and mutual accountability among elders
[28:17] Rest as a leadership strategy: why mandatory, guilt-free rest is essential for long-term pastoral health -- and how boards can protect it
[39:18] Resources for building a healthier board culture at your church

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Show notes and resources for this episode: https://malphursgroup.com/336

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Every church feels it: attendance dips, energy fades, and ministry momentum stalls somewhere between Memorial Day and Labor Day. But the summer slump isn't inevitable. It's the result of low expectations and no plan. In this episode, Scott and A.J. make the case that April is exactly the right time to get ahead of summer, and they give you three practical categories of action to help your church stay healthy and even grow through the slower months.

Scott Ball and A.J. Mathieu are the hosts of the Church Revitalization Podcast, produced by The Malphurs Group, a church health and strategic planning consultancy with decades of experience helping churches of all sizes move toward health and missional effectiveness. Each week, they bring practical, actionable conversations to help church leaders lead well.

In this episode:

[04:00] Why the "everybody's gone" mindset is a self-fulfilling prophecy and how to break the cycle
[07:00] Point 1: Reset your expectations. Summer is a less-cluttered season, not a lost one
[09:44] Point 2: Make a plan now. Three categories to act on before summer arrives: outreach, discipleship, and planning
[18:43] Point 3: Protect your people's momentum. Practical ways to stay connected so the fall re-launch isn't starting from zero
[20:30] The simple challenge to give your small group leaders right now

Resources & Links:

Free 7-Day Trial of the Healthy Churches Toolkit: https://healthychurchestoolkit.com

Episode article & resources: https://malphursgroup.com/335

Follow The Malphurs Group:

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Most churches run their preaching ministry and worship ministry on parallel tracks that never really meet. The result is a Sunday service that feels more like a playlist followed by a sermon than an integrated, unified experience. In this episode, Scott and A.J. explore the practical steps any church can take — regardless of size or style — to build real collaboration between the pastor and the worship leader so that Sunday morning becomes a cohesive whole.

Scott Ball and A.J. Mathieu are church health consultants with The Malphurs Group and co-hosts of the Church Revitalization Podcast. Each week they tackle practical, actionable topics to help church leaders lead thriving, healthy churches.

In this episode:

[00:05:45] Build a Shared Vision for Sunday — Why a preaching calendar is the foundation of worship planning, and how to give your worship leader what they need early enough to actually use it.
[00:10:28] Clarify Who Owns What — How to define healthy ownership between the preaching pastor and the worship leader — and why unclear roles create unnecessary tension on Sunday morning.
[00:15:02] Build in a Feedback Rhythm — Why a short debrief after (or between) services is one of the most underutilized tools in church ministry, and how to make it a regular, low-pressure habit.
[00:19:08] Bonus: Stop Rehearsing Right Before Church Starts — A practical word on worship team rehearsal timing and why Sunday morning sound check is not the time to figure out if a song is ready.

Resources & Links:

🛠️ Healthy Churches Toolkit — Your all-in-one leadership operating system for church health and vision. Start your free 7-day trial: healthychurchestoolkit.com

📖 Full show notes & related articles: malphursgroup.com/334

📲 Follow The Malphurs Group:

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You've got guests showing up on Sunday — but they're not sticking around. In this episode, Scott and A.J. break down three common, fixable reasons your guest assimilation process is losing people, and what you can do to turn things around without a massive budget overhaul.

Scott Ball and A.J. Mathieu are the hosts of the Church Revitalization Podcast, part of The Malphurs Group — a church health and strategic planning consultancy that has helped hundreds of churches across the country get healthy and grow. Each week they bring practical, actionable insights to help church leaders move their congregations forward.

[00:00:00] Introduction — Why guests aren't returning
[00:04:19] Sponsor — TapConnect & Healthy Churches Toolkit
[00:07:20] Reason #1: You don't have a clear next step for guests
[00:16:39] Reason #2: Your next step asks too much, too soon
[00:26:03] Reason #3: Your follow-up system breaks down under pressure
[00:33:10] Closing thoughts and challenge

Resources & Links

Free 7-Day Trial of the Healthy Churches Toolkit: https://healthychurchestoolkit.com

Show notes & article: https://malphursgroup.com/333

TapConnect (use code TMG10 for 10% off): https://tapconnect.church

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Most church budget conversations focus on what to cut. But what if the real problem is what you're not funding? In this episode, Scott and A.J. make the case that churches are dangerously underfunding three key areas — and the cost shows up in plateaus, burnout, and declining impact long before leaders realize why.

Scott Ball and A.J. Mathieu are the hosts of the Church Revitalization Podcast and consultants with The Malphurs Group, a church health and strategic planning organization helping churches across the country move from plateau and decline toward fruitful, sustainable ministry.

In this episode:

[00:02:17] — Leadership Development: Why your biggest budget line item (personnel) is undermined when you invest nothing in developing those people
[00:07:22] — Guest Experience & First Impressions: Signage, facilities, and follow-up systems — the areas churches know need work but never budget for
[00:16:03] — Strategic Planning & Church Health: Why a one-time retreat with ideas on a whiteboard isn't a plan — and what it actually costs you not to plan
[00:21:25] — Recap & Challenge: Three categories that are dangerously underfunded in most churches, and a practical challenge for each

Resources & Links:

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💳 TapConnect (save 10% with code TMG10) — https://tapconnect.church
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"We've always done it this way." It's the most common objection church leaders face when trying to move their congregation forward — and one of the most frustrating. In this episode, Scott and A.J. break down what this phrase is actually communicating, who tends to say it and why, and walk through a practical three-step framework for responding to it without blowing up the unity of your church.

Scott Ball and A.J. Mathieu are consultants with The Malphurs Group, a church health and revitalization ministry. Each week on the Church Revitalization Podcast they bring practical, field-tested insights to help pastors and church leaders lead healthier, more effective churches.

[00:06:34] What is the "We've Always Done It This Way" objection really communicating? Fear of loss, distrust of leadership, and absence of vision
[00:12:13] Who says it? Understanding three types of objectors: the Loyal Traditionalist, the Power Protector, and the Chronic Objector
[00:21:10] Step 1 — Validate, don't capitulate: honor the past without being held hostage to it
[00:23:09] Step 2 — Reframe around mission, not preference: connect change to the Great Commission, not just strategy
[00:26:01] Step 3 — Create small, early wins: build momentum through incremental change rather than trying to overhaul everything at once

Resources & Links

Free 7-Day Trial of the Healthy Churches Toolkit: https://www.healthychurchestoolkit.com

TapConnect — Digital connect cards for your church (use code TMG10 for 10% off): https://www.tapconnect.church

Episode article: https://www.malphursgroup.com/331

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Related Episodes: https://www.malphursgroup.com/150 https://www.malphursgroup.com/86 https://www.malphursgroup.com/270

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Small groups are one of the most common ministries in the church — but are they actually producing disciples? In this episode, Scott and A.J. make the case that many churches have confused participation with transformation. Just because people show up to a group doesn't mean discipleship is happening. In fact, your small groups ministry might be the most dangerous ministry in your church — because you think discipleship is happening when it isn't.

Scott Ball and A.J. Mathieu are consultants with The Malphurs Group, helping churches develop practical strategies for revitalization, discipleship, and leadership. Each week on the Church Revitalization Podcast, they tackle actionable topics to help your church thrive.

In this episode:

[00:04:03] The "participation trap" — why getting people into groups isn't the same as making disciples
[00:09:33] What Acts 2:41-47 tells us about what small groups should actually accomplish
[00:14:11] The three things most small groups are missing: clear outcomes, accountability, and connection to the discipleship pathway
[00:17:32] How to define your discipleship target and design groups around it
[00:19:49] Why small group leaders need a framework, not just curriculum — and why they don't need to be Bible teachers

Resources mentioned:

🛠️ Healthy Churches Toolkit (Small Groups Ministry Training by Build Groups): healthychurchestoolkit.com
📖 Full article & show notes: malphursgroup.com/330
🔌 TapConnect (church attendance & guest connection tool): tapconnect.church — use code TMG10 for 10% off

Connect with us:

facebook.com/malphursgroup
instagram.com/malphursgroup
youtube.com/themalphursgroup
x.com/malphursgroup

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Most churches don't lose volunteers to a dramatic exit — they lose them to a slow fade. In this episode, Scott Ball breaks down the three warning signs of volunteer burnout that leaders often miss until it's too late, and then shares three practical systems you can build right now to prevent burnout before it derails your ministry.

Scott Ball is a church consultant with The Malphurs Group and co-host of the Church Revitalization Podcast. Each week, Scott and A.J. Mathieu tackle practical, actionable topics to help churches thrive.

In this episode:

[00:04:11] Why volunteer burnout is a barrier to recruiting new volunteers
[00:04:56] Warning Sign #1 — The volunteer who's gone quiet
[00:07:23] Warning Sign #2 — Scope creep without conversation
[00:12:45] Warning Sign #3 — Withdrawing from community, not just ministry
[00:17:31] Three systems to prevent burnout: role clarity, coaching cadence, and built-in off-ramps

Resources & Links:

🔗 Free 7-Day Trial of the Healthy Churches Toolkit (includes volunteer position description samples and leadership pipeline tools): healthychurchestoolkit.com

🔗 Full article and resources for this episode: malphursgroup.com/329

🔗 Sponsor: TapConnect — track guests and attendance with a simple tap system. Use code TMG10 to save 10% off any plan: tapconnect.church

📱 Follow The Malphurs Group:

Facebook: facebook.com/malphursgroup
Instagram: instagram.com/malphursgroup
YouTube: youtube.com/themalphursgroup
X: x.com/malphursgroup

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What can medieval cathedral builders teach us about church leadership? Notre Dame took over 200 years to build — surviving wars, plagues, and leadership transitions — yet many modern churches can't survive a single pastoral transition. In this episode, Scott and A.J. explore why so many churches collapse when a long-tenured pastor leaves, and what you can do to build something that lasts far beyond your tenure.

Scott Ball and A.J. Mathieu are church consultants and the hosts of the Church Revitalization Podcast, brought to you by the Malphurs Group. Each week they tackle practical, actionable topics to help church leaders and their churches thrive.

In this episode:

[00:00] The Notre Dame inspiration: what 200-year building projects teach us about church leadership
[06:31] The problem: why your church won't survive your pastorate
[07:47] Lesson 1: Mission over personality — making your church's identity transferable
[10:10] Lesson 2: Distribute the knowledge — eliminating leadership bottlenecks
[19:19] Lesson 3: Think generationally — laying foundations for the future
[23:05] Action steps: audit bottlenecks, document everything, and test your systems

🔗 Links & Resources:

Read the article: malphursgroup.com/328
Free 7-day trial of the Healthy Churches Toolkit: healthychurchestoolkit.com
Support our global ministry: malphursgroup.com/donate
Check out TapConnect: tapconnect.church (use code TMG10 for 10% off)

Connect with us:

Facebook: facebook.com/malphursgroup
Instagram: instagram.com/malphursgroup
YouTube: youtube.com/themalphursgroup
X: x.com/malphursgroup

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div]:bg-bg-000/50 [&_pre>div]:border-0.5 [&_pre>div]:border-border-400 [&_.ignore-pre-bg>div]:bg-transparent [&_.standard-markdown_:is(p,blockquote,h1,h2,h3,h4,h5,h6)]:pl-2 [&_.standard-markdown_:is(p,blockquote,ul,ol,h1,h2,h3,h4,h5,h6)]:pr-8 [&_.progressive-markdown_:is(p,blockquote,h1,h2,h3,h4,h5,h6)]:pl-2 [&_.progressive-markdown_:is(p,blockquote,ul,ol,h1,h2,h3,h4,h5,h6)]:pr-8"> _*]:min-w-0 gap-3 standard-markdown"> Every church leader faces the dilemma: someone brings you an exciting new ministry idea, and it's easier to say yes than to disappoint them. But continuously adding programs creates calendar clutter, burns out volunteers, drains resources, and confuses your congregation about what actually matters. In this episode, we equip you with a practical three-question framework to discern when to say yes to new ministry ideas—and how to gracefully say no when needed.

Scott Ball and A.J. Mathieu are church consultants with The Malphurs Group, where they help churches navigate decline, leadership challenges, and organizational health. Through their podcast and consulting work, they challenge conventional church leadership thinking while providing immediately implementable strategies that prioritize kingdom work over member comfort.

In This Episode:

[00:00] The hidden cost of saying yes to every ministry idea and why calendar clutter is killing your church

[08:18] Three filtering questions to evaluate new ministry proposals: mission alignment, existing ministry overlap, and resource optimization

[15:07] Walking through real examples: when to say yes, when to replace, and when to pilot-test new ideas

[18:41] How to say no gracefully: affirm the heart, redirect the passion, and offer a future path

[23:04] Why saying no to good things protects your ability to say yes to the best things

Links & Resources:

Read the full article: malphursgroup.com/327
Try the Healthy Churches Toolkit free for 7 days: healthychurchestoolkit.com
Learn more about TapConnect Use Code TMG10 to save 10%: tapconnect.church
Connect with us on Facebook: facebook.com/malphursgroup
Follow us on Instagram: instagram.com/malphursgroup
Subscribe on YouTube: youtube.com/themalphursgroup
Follow us on X: x.com/malphursgroup

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Churches across America are losing 60-80% of young adults between ages 18-29, and most leaders are trying all the wrong fixes. It's not about being cooler, having better coffee, or upgrading your lights. In this episode, we break down the two real reasons young adults leave your church and give you three actionable fixes you can implement this month to turn things around.

In This Episode:

[02:00] Why "being cooler" won't solve your young adult problem
[04:43] Reason #1: You're not giving them real responsibility or leadership opportunities
[09:00] Reason #2: You're not providing authentic community—just programs
[15:00] How to build natural connection points instead of more structured groups
[21:08] The three questions to ask young adults in your church this week

Resources & Links:

📖 Read the full article: malphursgroup.com/326

🛠️ Try the Healthy Churches Toolkit FREE for 7 days: healthychurchestoolkit.com

🌐 Connect with The Malphurs Group: malphursgroup.com

Follow us on social media: Facebook: facebook.com/malphursgroup Instagram: instagram.com/malphursgroup YouTube: youtube.com/themalphursgroup X/Twitter: x.com/malphursgroup

Scott Ball and A.J. Mathieu are church consultants with The Malphurs Group, helping church leaders navigate revitalization, strategic planning, and building healthy ministry systems. Together, they deliver practical, no-nonsense advice to help your church thrive.

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Your church has groups, classes, Bible studies, and a beautiful buffet of programs—but your people aren't growing spiritually. You're seeing staff burnout, volunteer shortages, and 40% of your congregation still can't quote the Great Commission. The problem isn't lack of activity; it's that you've created a maze of programs instead of a clear discipleship pathway.

Scott Ball and A.J. Mathieu are your hosts for The Church Revitalization Podcast, a weekly show from The Malphurs Group dedicated to helping church leaders develop practical strategies for church health and growth. Together they bring decades of consulting experience working with churches across the country to implement effective discipleship systems.

In this episode, Scott and A.J. diagnose three critical signs your church has a maze instead of a map.

[2:13] Sign #1: Menu vs. Map

[6:28] Sign #2: Members Can't Name Their Next Step

[13:08] Sign #3: Measuring Programs, Not Progress

The episode concludes with practical steps to shift from program-oriented thinking to process-oriented discipleship.

Ready to simplify and strengthen your church's discipleship pathway? Get a 7-day free trial of the Healthy Churches Toolkit at healthychurchestoolkit.com, where you'll find Strategic Envisioning training and tools to help you build a clear discipleship process. Connect with a certified Malphurs Group guide at malphursgroup.com to partner with your church in making disciples who make disciples.

Follow us on social media: Facebook: facebook.com/malphursgroup Instagram: instagram.com/malphursgroup YouTube: youtube.com/themalphursgroup X: x.com/malphursgroup

Read the full show notes at malphursgroup.com/325

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Board meetings going nowhere? Two members dug in on opposite sides? Today we tackle one of the most common—and most damaging—situations church leaders face: how to actually lead when your board is divided. Learn to diagnose the real issue, make decisions without unanimity, and prevent division through clear authority structures.

Scott Ball and A.J. Mathieu are church consultants with The Malphurs Group, specializing in helping churches navigate leadership challenges, strategic planning, and revitalization. Through practical frameworks and real-world experience, they equip pastors and church leaders with actionable solutions for building healthy, thriving congregations.

In This Episode: [1:11] Diagnose the Division: Understanding directional vs. relational conflict [8:45] Lead to a Decision: Why unity doesn't mean unanimity [15:42] Prevent Division by Clarifying Authority: Setting boundaries before conflict [21:40] Next Steps: Resources for healthy board leadership

Links & Resources:

📖 Read the full article: malphursgroup.com/324
🎁 🎓Building a Biblical Board Course available in the Healthy Churches Toolkit Free 7-Day Trial: healthychurchestoolkit.com
📱 Connect with us on Facebook: facebook.com/malphursgroup
Instagram: instagram.com/malphursgroup
YouTube: youtube.com/themalphursgroup
X/Twitter: x.com/malphursgroup

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Clear communication is essential for everything from teaching God's word to casting vision, yet many churches struggle with four common breakdowns that create confusion and stall momentum. In this episode, Scott and A.J. walk through the most frequent communication mistakes churches make—from drowning their congregation in noise to contradicting messages from leadership—and provide practical strategies to communicate more effectively.

Scott Ball and A.J. Mathieu are church consultants with The Malphurs Group, helping churches navigate revitalization, strategic planning, and leadership development. With decades of combined experience working with churches across the country, they bring practical, actionable insights to help church leaders build healthier, more effective ministries.

In This Episode:

[2:06] Over Communicating Everything

[6:15] Under Communicating the Important Stuff

[11:30] Leadership Contradicting One Another

[19:41] Wrong Medium for the Message

Resources & Links:

Read the full article at https://malphursgroup.com/323
Try the Healthy Churches Toolkit free for 7 days: https://healthychurchestoolkit.com
Contact The Malphurs Group: leadership@malphursgroup.com
Visit our website: malphursgroup.com

Facebook: https://facebook.com/malphursgroup
Instagram: https://instagram.com/malphursgroup
YouTube: https://youtube.com/themalphursgroup
X (Twitter): https://x.com/malphursgroup

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Your budget is the most honest document in your church. While mission statements and value declarations tell you what you aspire to be, your budget reveals what you actually prioritize and fund. In this episode, Scott and A.J. help church leaders audit their budgets to identify misalignment between stated values and actual spending, then provide a practical framework for making strategic shifts over time without creating financial chaos.

Scott Ball and A.J. Mathieu co-host the Church Revitalization Podcast, helping evangelical church leaders navigate the practical challenges of ministry. Both serve as consultants with the Malphurs Group, working with churches across the country on strategic planning, leadership development, and organizational health. Their conversational approach combines real-world consulting experience with actionable frameworks that church leaders can implement immediately.

IN THIS EPISODE:

[00:02:51] Budget Reveals the Truth

[00:11:37] Conducting a Values-Based Budget Audit -

[00:24:14] The Four Budget Buckets Framework

[00:32:56] The Missions vs. Ministry Balance

[00:37:39] Taking the Long View on Change

RESOURCES & LINKS:

Free 7-Day Trial of the Healthy Churches Toolkit (with new strategic planning & leadership pipeline features): healthychurchestoolkit.com

Full Episode Article: malphursgroup.com/322

Connect with The Malphurs Group: Website: malphursgroup.com Facebook: facebook.com/malphursgroup Instagram: instagram.com/malphursgroup YouTube: youtube.com/themalphursgroup X (Twitter): x.com/malphursgroup

Let the Malphurs Group help your church with budget alignment, strategic planning, and maximizing your ministry effectiveness. Visit malphursgroup.com to learn more about our consulting services and resources.

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In this special Christmas episode of the Church Revitalization Podcast, Scott Ball and A.J. Mathieu react in real time to a series of viral Christmas-themed church and Christian videos circulating online. From funny and lighthearted moments to intense theological takes and over-the-top productions, this episode explores how Christians communicate faith during the Christmas season—and how those messages are received by both believers and the watching world.

Scott Ball is joined by co-host and fellow church consultant A.J. Mathieu as they offer candid, unscripted reactions rooted in decades of ministry experience. Together, they discuss pastoral wisdom, cultural engagement, outreach effectiveness, and where well-intended Christmas expressions may help—or hurt—the church's witness.

Chapters

[00:00] Introduction

[02:15] Pastors, humor, and calling out fruitcake from the pulpit

[04:41] "God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen" and why punctuation matters in theology

[07:45] Is Christmas pagan? Responding to extreme anti-Christmas arguments

[12:44] Cross-shaped Christmas trees and symbolic overcorrections

[18:08] "Christmas at the Movies" sermon series—helpful or overdone?

[24:20] Mega-church Christmas productions, ticket prices, and public perception

[34:12] A deeper look at A Christmas Carol and the dangers of moral rigidity

Links & Resources

Healthy Churches Toolkit - https://healthychurchestoolkit.com
The Malphurs Group - https://malphursgroup.com
Facebook - https://facebook.com/malphursgroup
Instagram - https://instagram.com/malphursgroup
YouTube - https://youtube.com/themalphursgroup
X (Twitter) - https://x.com/malphursgroup

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Many churches struggle with volunteers who are spread too thin—serving in three, four, or even five roles. In this episode, we explore why narrowing volunteer focus actually increases effectiveness and joy in serving, and how to transition your church to a healthier, more sustainable volunteer culture.

Hosted by Scott Ball and A.J. Mathieu of The Malphurs Group, this conversation walks you through practical steps any church can take. If you're new to the Church Revitalization Podcast, Scott and A.J. bring decades of combined church consulting experience, helping churches grow healthier through strategy, leadership, and intentional systems.

In this episode:

[00:01] Setting the stage: volunteers doing too much and the 80/20 problem [02:18] Why people fear reducing volunteer roles—and why it actually works [03:20] Step 1: Creating a realistic, intentional timeline for change [07:20] Step 2: Helping volunteers find their best-fit roles through Divine Design [12:20] Step 3: Engaging volunteers in recruiting their successors [15:27] Step 4: Why a Leadership Pipeline is essential to prevent the problem from returning [17:41] "Slow is smooth, smooth is fast" applied to volunteer transition [18:47] Building systems instead of just filling slots

Links & Resources:

Healthy Churches Toolkit → https://healthychurchestoolkit.com
Full episode article → https://malphursgroup.com/320
Website → https://malphursgroup.com
Facebook → https://facebook.com/malphursgroup
Instagram → https://instagram.com/malphursgroup
YouTube → https://youtube.com/themalphursgroup
X (Twitter) → https://x.com/malphursgroup

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In this episode of the Church Revitalization Podcast, Scott Ball and A.J. Mathieu discuss five key reasons why revitalization efforts in churches often fail. They emphasize the importance of distinguishing between activity and genuine progress, recognizing demographic changes in the community, establishing accountability structures, navigating decision-making challenges, and avoiding the consensus trap that can hinder momentum. The conversation highlights practical strategies for churches to implement effective revitalization processes and the value of having experienced guides to support them. Chapters

[00:00] Understanding Revitalization Failures [07:01] Demographic Mismatch in Revitalization [12:12] Importance of Accountability in Implementation [15:42] Decision-Making Challenges in Revitalization [19:36] Navigating the Consensus Trap

Get a free 7-day trial of the Healthy Churches Toolkit at healthychurchestoolkit.com

malphursgroup.com facebook.com/malphursgroup x.com/malphursgroup instagram.com/malphursgroup youtube.com/themalphursgroup

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This week, Scott and AJ take a fun holiday detour and build the ultimate Christmas worship setlist—draft style. They debate classics, song arrangements, emotional picks, and what actually serves a congregation well during Advent. Equal parts practical and playful, this episode will get you thinking about your Christmas services.

Scott Ball and A.J. Mathieu co-host The Church Revitalization Podcast and lead The Malphurs Group, helping churches experience renewed health and grow with confidence. If this is your first time listening, welcome—expect practical, actionable conversations rooted in real ministry experience.

In this episode (timestamps):

00:41 — Why Christmas music matters in worship planning
05:05 — The "draft rules" and first-round song selections
13:08 — Debating arrangements, modern twists, and nostalgia
18:00 — Vulnerable stories behind certain song choices
25:28 — Final setlists, service flow, and surprising endings

LINKS

Healthy Churches Toolkit — https://healthychurchestoolkit.com
The Malphurs Group — https://malphursgroup.com
Facebook — https://facebook.com/malphursgroup
Instagram — https://instagram.com/malphursgroup
YouTube — https://youtube.com/themalphursgroup
X (Twitter) — https://x.com/malphursgroup

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Many churches struggle to maintain healthy membership systems. In this episode of the Church Revitalization Podcast, Scott Ball and A.J. Mathieu unpack the three most common membership pathway mistakes churches make—and how to fix them. Whether your process is too long, too short, or simply unclear, this episode will help you build a pathway that's meaningful, strategic, and effective.

Scott Ball and A.J. Mathieu are the co-hosts of the Church Revitalization Podcast and leaders at The Malphurs Group, helping churches grow healthier through strategic planning, leadership development, and the Healthy Churches Toolkit.

In this episode, you'll hear:

[00:06:00] Why "right-sizing" your membership process matters [00:12:00] How to communicate the "why" behind church membership [00:16:00] Why membership should be the beginning—not the end—of discipleship [00:22:00] How to measure engagement and care for members well [00:25:00] Practical tips for evaluating and improving your membership system

Links & Resources Mentioned:

Full article: malphursgroup.com/317
Learn more: healthychurchestoolkit.com
Visit The Malphurs Group: malphursgroup.com
Follow us on social media:
Facebook
Instagram
YouTube
X (Twitter)

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Parenting in today's world can feel overwhelming—especially when it comes to tackling the tough topics. In this episode, Scott Ball sits down with youth pastor and author Mark Shoemaker to talk about his new book What to Say and How to Say It to Your Teen, co-written with his father, Tim Shoemaker. Together, they discuss how parents can approach difficult conversations with wisdom, grace, and confidence.

Scott Ball is the Vice President of The Malphurs Group and co-host of the Church Revitalization Podcast, helping churches and leaders develop clarity, structure, and health. Mark Shoemaker is a veteran youth pastor and author, passionate about equipping parents to disciple their kids and foster meaningful communication in the home.

In this episode, you'll hear:

[00:02:00] The heart behind What to Say and How to Say It to Your Teen

[00:05:00] Why timing and emotional awareness matter in parenting conversations

[00:08:00] How to prepare your heart and approach for sensitive topics

[00:14:00] How church leaders and youth pastors can partner with parents

[00:21:00] Practical ideas for creating space for meaningful talks with your kids

Links & Resources Mentioned:

Get the book: What to Say and How to Say It to Your Teen on Amazon

Explore more resources: healthychurchestoolkit.com

Follow The Malphurs Group on social media:

Facebook
Instagram
YouTube
X (Twitter)

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Are your staff meetings dominated by information gathering and idle chit-chat instead of strategic decision-making? In this episode, Scott Ball and A.J. Mathieu share practical strategies to transform your weekly team time from wasted hours into productive, vision-focused collaboration that actually moves your ministry forward.

Scott Ball and A.J. Mathieu are co-hosts of the Church Revitalization Podcast and consultants with the Malphurs Group, where they help churches develop healthy systems and strategic clarity. With decades of combined experience in church leadership, they bring practical, field-tested insights to help your church thrive.

In This Episode:

[00:00] Why most churches waste their staff meeting time and how to fix it

[03:49] Gather information before the meeting—don't wing it or rely on repetitive updates

[07:09] Prioritize collaborative decision-making over information reporting

[09:04] Avoid one-on-one conversations that should happen offline

[11:29] Keep vision, mission, and strategy at the center of every meeting

[13:25] End with clarity: tasks, due dates, deliverables, and accountability

Resources & Links:

Healthy Churches Toolkit: https://healthychurchestoolkit.com
Full Article for This Episode: https://malphursgroup.com/315
Website: https://malphursgroup.com
Facebook: https://facebook.com/malphursgroup
Instagram: https://instagram.com/malphursgroup
YouTube: https://youtube.com/themalphursgroup
X/Twitter: https://x.com/malphursgroup

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How can a small church in a large metro area find a path toward growth? In this case study episode of the Church Revitalization Podcast, Scott Ball and A.J. Mathieu walk through the real-life scenario of a 35-person congregation with an older membership, a new part-time pastor, and big questions about what comes next. Instead of offering cookie-cutter solutions, they pose four critical questions every small church should ask to clarify strategy, focus resources, and take meaningful steps forward .

Scott Ball and A.J. Mathieu are church consultants with The Malphurs Group, equipping churches worldwide to grow healthier through strategic planning, leadership development, and revitalization. Whether you lead a small church or simply want practical insights, you'll find encouragement and actionable takeaways here.

In this episode:

[05:17] Why visibility—both in the community and online—matters for small churches [13:20] How to identify and invest in "tent-pole" ministries like kids or outreach [20:02] Why doubling down on bold, biblical teaching leads to real growth [25:28] Building spiritual friendships that last from Sunday to Sunday [29:45] How to balance patience with urgency when leading change

Links & Resources:

Healthy Churches Toolkit: https://healthychurchestoolkit.com Episode Article: https://malphursgroup.com/314Website: https://malphursgroup.comFacebook: https://facebook.com/malphursgroup Instagram: https://instagram.com/malphursgroup YouTube: https://youtube.com/themalphursgroup X (Twitter): https://x.com/malphursgroup

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Should your church do strategic planning during a pastoral transition—or wait until a new pastor arrives? In this episode of the Church Revitalization Podcast, Scott Ball and A.J. Mathieu tackle one of the most common questions churches ask during seasons of change. They outline why planning now is almost always the better choice and how it can set up your next pastor and congregation for long-term success.

Scott Ball and A.J. Mathieu are church consultants with The Malphurs Group, equipping churches worldwide to grow healthier through strategic planning, leadership development, and revitalization. With over a decade of experience, they share practical wisdom for navigating transitions with clarity and confidence.

In this episode:

[02:10] When strategic planning may not be the right timing [05:30] How planning shapes better job postings and candidate alignment [08:13] Why pre-planning strengthens mission, vision, and pastoral fit [12:49] Increasing congregational buy-in and unity during transition [18:38] Giving your next pastor a better decision-making framework [22:01] Addressing the concern of "cutting out" the new pastor

Links & Resources:

Healthy Churches Toolkit: https://healthychurchestoolkit.com Episode Article: https://malphursgroup.com/313Website: https://malphursgroup.comFacebook: https://facebook.com/malphursgroup Instagram: https://instagram.com/malphursgroup YouTube: https://youtube.com/themalphursgroup X (Twitter): https://x.com/malphursgroup

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How can shepherding pastors lead effectively in vision and strategy? In this episode of the Church Revitalization Podcast, Scott Ball and A.J. Mathieu address a common challenge: pastors who excel in relational and pastoral care but feel less confident when it comes to vision and strategy. They share practical steps for leaning into strengths, building balanced teams, and leading with humility while still guiding the church toward God's future. Scott Ball and A.J. Mathieu are church consultants with The Malphurs Group, equipping churches worldwide to grow healthier through strategic planning, leadership development, and revitalization. Whether you naturally lean toward shepherding or strategy, you'll find encouragement and tools to lead with confidence. In this episode:

[03:42] Recognizing your strengths and weaknesses without self-doubt

[08:09] Why building a complementary team is essential for balance

[11:01] How to live your role and lean into your pastoral strengths

[13:57] Avoiding pride and empowering others to lead alongside you

[15:33] Lessons from Moses and the importance of humility in leadership Links & Resources:

Healthy Churches Toolkit: https://healthychurchestoolkit.com

Episode Article: https://malphursgroup.com/312

Website: https://malphursgroup.com

Facebook: https://facebook.com/malphursgroup

Instagram: https://instagram.com/malphursgroup

YouTube: https://youtube.com/themalphursgroup

X (Twitter): https://x.com/malphursgroup

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How do you get your team to actually use Planning Center—or any church management software—consistently?In this episode of the Church Revitalization Podcast, Scott Ball and A.J. Mathieu share practical strategies to boost adoption and ensure your church gets the most value from your ChMS investment. From identifying the right core features to building solid onboarding systems, you’ll learn how to turn good intentions into long-term habits.

Scott Ball and A.J. Mathieu are church consultants with The Malphurs Group, equipping churches worldwide to grow healthier through strategic planning, leadership development, and revitalization. Whether your team is brand new to Planning Center or you’ve been using it for years, you’ll find actionable tips to increase buy-in and effectiveness.

In this episode:

[04:02] How to determine the most critical features for everyone to use

[09:37] The importance of onboarding and re-training for lasting adoption

[14:15] Why checklists are your secret weapon for consistent use

[18:26] How to build accountability into your software processes

[21:58] Encouraging a culture of shared responsibility with Planning Center

Links & Resources:

Healthy Churches Toolkit: https://healthychurchestoolkit.com

Episode Article: https://malphursgroup.com/311

Website: https://malphursgroup.com

Facebook: https://facebook.com/malphursgroup

Instagram: https://instagram.com/malphursgroup

YouTube: https://youtube.com/themalphursgroup

X (Twitter): https://x.com/malphursgroup

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How can a healthy church come alongside a declining one to bring new life? In this episode of the Church Revitalization Podcast, Scott Ball and A.J. Mathieu explore practical and biblical ways for thriving churches to partner with struggling congregations. From building trust to offering tangible support, this conversation unpacks how partnerships can honor both churches’ missions while maximizing Kingdom impact.

Scott Ball and A.J. Mathieu are church consultants with The Malphurs Group, equipping churches worldwide to grow healthier through strategic planning, leadership development, and revitalization. Whether you lead a strong church or one in need of revitalization, you’ll find actionable ideas for collaboration that blesses both congregations.

In this episode:

[04:18] Why humility is the first step toward healthy church partnerships

[09:06] How to approach a declining church without creating defensiveness

[14:42] Practical ways a healthy church can provide resources and support

[20:17] The role of shared vision in ensuring partnership success

[24:33] Long-term strategies for sustaining revitalization efforts

Links & Resources:

Healthy Churches Toolkit: https://healthychurchestoolkit.com

Episode Article: https://malphursgroup.com/310

Website: https://malphursgroup.com

Facebook: https://facebook.com/malphursgroup

Instagram: https://instagram.com/malphursgroup

YouTube: https://youtube.com/themalphursgroup

X (Twitter): https://x.com/malphursgroup

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When is it time for a church to close its doors? In this episode of the Church Revitalization Podcast, Scott Ball and A.J. Mathieu discuss how to discern whether your congregation should pursue revitalization or intentionally close. Using the analogy of CPR, they outline key indicators of church health, the realities of revitalization efforts, and kingdom-minded options if closure becomes the best step.

Scott Ball and A.J. Mathieu are church consultants with The Malphurs Group, equipping churches worldwide to grow healthier through strategic planning, leadership development, and revitalization. Whether your church is facing decline or you want to prevent it, this conversation offers both practical insight and hope.

In this episode:

[03:03] Understanding “critical mass” and why motivation matters more than money

[07:11] The CPR analogy for revitalization—why there’s no harm in trying

[12:18] Why outside help is essential for near-death churches

[15:16] When closing may be the best option and how to plan for it

[17:57] Kingdom-minded ways to bless others with your church’s assets

[21:34] How closure can still be a witness of resurrection and renewal

Links & Resources:

Healthy Churches Toolkit: https://healthychurchestoolkit.com

Episode Article: https://malphursgroup.com/309

Website: https://malphursgroup.com

Facebook: https://facebook.com/malphursgroup

Instagram: https://instagram.com/malphursgroup

YouTube: https://youtube.com/themalphursgroup

X (Twitter): https://x.com/malphursgroup

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How should your church manage and prioritize community partnerships? In this episode of the Church Revitalization Podcast, Scott Ball and A.J. Mathieu unpack how to evaluate, categorize, and communicate about partnerships—whether they’re with local ministries, national organizations, or groups using your facility. Learn how to align partnerships with your mission and vision while avoiding “pathway creep” that dilutes your church’s focus.

Scott Ball and A.J. Mathieu are church consultants with The Malphurs Group, equipping churches worldwide to grow healthier through strategic planning, leadership development, and revitalization. Whether you lead a large church or a small congregation, you’ll find practical steps for prioritizing partnerships that make the greatest Kingdom impact.

In this episode:

[04:36] Why categorizing partnerships as primary, secondary, or good neighbor is essential

[07:55] How to identify and invest in primary ministry partnerships

[14:01] The role and purpose of secondary ministry partnerships

[18:20] Defining “good neighbor” partnerships and when to limit promotion

[26:26] How to create a communication plan that protects your discipleship pathway

Links & Resources:

Healthy Churches Toolkit: https://healthychurchestoolkit.com

Episode Article: https://malphursgroup.com/308

Website: https://malphursgroup.com

Facebook: https://facebook.com/malphursgroup

Instagram: https://instagram.com/malphursgroup

YouTube: https://youtube.com/themalphursgroup

X (Twitter): https://x.com/malphursgroup

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What makes someone truly qualified to serve as an elder in your church? In this episode of the Church Revitalization Podcast, Scott Ball and A.J. Mathieu share three common pitfalls churches face when selecting elder candidates—and how to avoid them. From clarifying the difference between longevity and competency to defining role expectations, this conversation will help you build a stronger, healthier leadership team.

Scott Ball and A.J. Mathieu are church consultants with The Malphurs Group, equipping churches around the world to grow healthier through strategic planning, leadership development, and revitalization. Whether you’re new to the show or a regular listener, you’ll find practical insights you can put into action right away.

In this episode:

[05:31] Why confusing longevity with competency can lead to poor leadership choices

[11:51] How overlooking team chemistry can derail your board’s effectiveness

[18:09] The cost of failing to clarify elder role expectations

[22:40] Practical steps to strengthen your selection process and team unity

Links & Resources:

Healthy Churches Toolkit: https://healthychurchestoolkit.com

Episode Article: https://malphursgroup.com/307

Website: https://malphursgroup.com

Facebook: https://facebook.com/malphursgroup

Instagram: https://instagram.com/malphursgroup

YouTube: https://youtube.com/themalphursgroup

X (Twitter): https://x.com/malphursgroup

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When is the right time for your church to expand its building? In this episode of the Church Revitalization Podcast, Scott Ball and A.J. Mathieu share three key considerations every church should evaluate before committing to a major building project. From clarifying vision to setting measurable benchmarks and crafting a financial plan, this discussion will help you avoid costly missteps and position your church for long-term health and impact.

Scott Ball and A.J. Mathieu are church consultants with The Malphurs Group, helping churches worldwide grow healthier through strategic planning, leadership development, and revitalization. Whether you’re a first-time listener or a long-time subscriber, you’ll find practical, actionable advice to guide your church’s next steps.

In this episode (with timestamps):

[1:34] The first and most important question: Does your building project align with your mission and vision?

[9:17] Why you need clear benchmarks before committing to construction

[13:40] How to think through space optimization, parking, and other logistics before you build

[17:32] Creating a rock-solid financial and campaign plan

[21:53] Why working with a specialist can save you from incomplete or stalled projects

Links & Resources:

Healthy Churches Toolkit: https://healthychurchestoolkit.com
Article: https://malphursgroup.com/306
Website: https://malphursgroup.com
Facebook: https://facebook.com/malphursgroup
Instagram: https://instagram.com/malphursgroup
YouTube: https://youtube.com/themalphursgroup
X (Twitter): https://x.com/malphursgroup

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Evangelism isn’t a program—it’s a culture rooted in identity. In this episode of the Church Revitalization Podcast, we explore how churches can move from sporadic outreach events to fostering a deep, church-wide culture of evangelism that flows naturally from who we are in Christ.

Hosts Scott Ball and A.J. Mathieu from The Malphurs Group bring their practical experience working with hundreds of churches to help you reframe evangelism as a core component of your church’s DNA, not just a once-a-year effort.

In this episode:

[00:42] Why evangelism is more about identity than activity

[12:16] How to equip people to share their faith with confidence

[20:58] Prioritizing local outreach while still supporting global missions

[25:18] Why you should celebrate effort—not just results—in evangelism

[27:27] The importance of sowing seeds and trusting God with the harvest

Resources & Links:

🎯 Read the companion article
🧰 Explore the Healthy Churches Toolkit
📘 Learn more about the Church Ministry Analysis

Facebook: facebook.com/malphursgroup
Instagram: instagram.com/malphursgroup
YouTube: youtube.com/themalphursgroup
X (formerly Twitter): x.com/malphursgroup

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Many churches struggle with senior leaders who are stuck doing ministry instead of leading others to do it. In this episode, we break down how to make the shift—biblically and practically—from being hands-on doers to high-leverage leaders who equip others for lasting impact.

Scott Ball and A.J. Mathieu, church consultants with The Malphurs Group, co-host the Church Revitalization Podcast. With decades of combined experience helping churches thrive, they share real-world insights for leaders looking to lead more effectively and build healthier teams.

In this episode:

(00:45) Why equipping others is a biblical imperative (Ephesians 4)
(06:20) What it really means to lead instead of do
(13:00) Why you need more tolerance for failure and less for mediocrity
(19:40) How to build a culture that rewards leadership, not just busyness
(23:45) Practical steps for managing the transition from doing to leading

🔗 Links & Resources

→ Healthy Churches Toolkit — Try it free for 7 days

→ Episode article & transcript

→ Facebook

→ Instagram

→ YouTube

→ X (Twitter)

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People don’t join small groups because of catchy announcements—they join because they’re hungry for connection. In this episode, we explore how to communicate the real value of groups: not as a program, but as a path to deeper spiritual and relational health. If your small groups ministry feels stuck, this conversation will help you reframe the message and reengage your people.

Hosted by church consultants Scott Ball and A.J. Mathieu of The Malphurs Group, this episode offers practical strategies grounded in theology and real-world experience from helping hundreds of churches.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

→ [00:03:56] Why small groups meet a deep emotional and spiritual need

→ [00:10:24] How to teach the theology of fellowship without guilt-tripping

→ [00:15:54] Why showing (not telling) is key to group engagement

→ [00:19:04] How to keep momentum without falling into false starts

→ [00:22:47] A powerful tool that auto-generates small group guides and more

LINKS

→ Article: https://malphursgroup.com/303

→ Toolkit: https://healthychurchestoolkit.com

→ Facebook: https://facebook.com/malphursgroup

→ Instagram: https://instagram.com/malphursgroup

→ YouTube: https://youtube.com/themalphursgroup

→ X (formerly Twitter): https://x.com/malphursgroup

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Building a Healthy Multi-Site Leadership Culture

Many churches dream of going multi-site, but few consider what it takes to cultivate a unified, thriving leadership culture across campuses. In this episode, we outline the five essential elements your church needs to lead well in a multi-site model.

Your hosts Scott Ball and A.J. Mathieu from The Malphurs Group bring decades of church consulting experience. They share insights from working with churches of all sizes to build healthy systems and sustainable leadership models.

In this episode, we cover:

→ [00:05:36] Why your church needs clearly defined leadership teams across campuses

→ [00:10:32] The importance of meeting structure and clarifying purpose

→ [00:14:41] How to empower campus autonomy while maintaining alignment

→ [00:20:53] Creating consistent communication rhythms to avoid silos

→ [00:21:35] Why celebrating shared wins strengthens cross-campus unity

LINKS

→ Article: https://malphursgroup.com/302

→ Toolkit: https://healthychurchestoolkit.com

→ Facebook: https://facebook.com/malphursgroup

→ Instagram: https://instagram.com/malphursgroup

→ YouTube: https://youtube.com/themalphursgroup

→ X (formerly Twitter): https://x.com/malphursgroup

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Is your church aging and struggling to attract younger families? In this episode of the Church Revitalization Podcast, we explore practical strategies to breathe new life into your children's ministry and effectively connect with young families.

Scott Ball and A.J. Mathieu are experienced church consultants with The Malphurs Group. They specialize in church revitalization, strategic planning, and leadership development, helping churches become healthy, growing communities.

In this episode, you'll discover:

Why heart change and brutal honesty are essential first steps (4:13)
How improving your physical space can attract young families (7:00)
Tips for staffing children's ministries, even with limited resources (14:34)
Effective outreach strategies to meet families in your community (19:36)
Internal ministry ideas that build lasting connections with parents (25:33)

LINKS:

Healthy Churches Toolkit
Related Article

Facebook
Instagram
YouTube
X (Twitter)

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It's the 300th episode 🎉 of the Church Revitalization Podcast, and we're celebrating by answering some of your most pressing questions. From making tough ministry decisions to cultivating leadership in your church, Scott Ball and A.J. Mathieu provide practical, actionable advice to help your church thrive.

Scott Ball and A.J. Mathieu are experienced church revitalization consultants dedicated to equipping church leaders. Each week, they tackle important topics to strengthen your church's health and mission.

In this episode:

[05:07] Q1: How to make decisions about continuing, improving, or ending ministries.
[08:26] Q2: The value of hiring an outside church consultant.
[13:39] Q3: What to do when your church needs revitalization but doesn't realize it.
[17:38] Q4: How to help people see themselves as leaders in your church.
[21:07] Q5: Staying strategic and visionary as a solo pastor despite day-to-day demands.
[26:10] Q6: The role of spiritual formation in revitalization.
[32:00] Q7: Preparing strategically for church growth before it happens.
[37:26] Q8: Should church strategy implementation always lead to numerical growth?

Links: 🌐 Healthy Churches Toolkit 🌐 Full Episode Article

Connect with us: 📷 Instagram 📘 Facebook 𝕏 X (Twitter) ▶️ YouTube

Thanks for joining us for 300 episodes of strengthening churches together!

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Ready for a thriving fall ministry launch? In this episode of the Church Revitalization Podcast, we break down the three must-do steps that will set your ministry up for a successful new season—whether your summer’s winding down or you’re just starting to plan ahead.

Your hosts, Scott Ball and A.J. Mathieu, are passionate church consultants with years of experience helping leaders revitalize and grow healthy congregations. If you’re new to the show, you’ll hear practical insights and real-world strategies you can apply right away.

Here’s what we cover in today’s episode:

[02:00] Why now is the perfect time to set your sermon calendar for the fall
[07:24] Proven tips for recruiting and organizing your volunteer teams
[11:09] How to refresh and refocus your church’s strategic ministry projects
[15:29] Bonus tip: How to actually make time for planning (and stick to it!)

Relevant Links & Resources:

Explore the Healthy Churches Toolkit: healthychurchestoolkit.com
Dive deeper with the companion article: malphursgroup.com/299
Connect with us for more tips and resources: The Malphurs Group on Facebook | Twitter

Ready to lead boldly into the new ministry season? Hit play and let’s get started!

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This week on The Church Revitalization Podcast, Scott Ball and AJ Mathieu dive deep into one of church leadership’s most sensitive questions: Can you—should you—ever fire a volunteer? From ethical violations to mismatched roles, we break down why letting a volunteer go may be necessary (and how you can do it well, with grace and clarity). Discover proactive strategies to avoid these tough situations in the first place and learn how to create a thriving, healthy volunteer culture in your church.

Hosted by Scott Ball and AJ Mathieu of the Malphurs Group, The Church Revitalization Podcast tackles real-world leadership challenges to help churches grow stronger and healthier. Whether you’re a seasoned leader or new to ministry, Scott and AJ offer practical advice, proven tools, and plenty of encouragement for every church context.

In this episode, we cover:

The ethical, spiritual, and practical reasons you might need to let a volunteer go
How to prevent most firings with good systems and culture
Steps for having hard conversations with struggling volunteers
Healthy onboarding and offboarding practices to support your teams
What to do in extreme cases, including legal and church discipline scenarios

Links & Resources:

Get access to the Healthy Churches Toolkit: healthychurchestoolkit.com – Free 7-day trial!
Connect with us: malphursgroup.com, Facebook, Twitter
Dive into more episodes and resources on church volunteer management

Got stories or questions about managing volunteers? Comment below or message us—your wins and horror stories help us serve church leaders even better!

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Many churches are stuck with outdated or overly complex bylaws that limit their effectiveness and create unnecessary conflict. In this episode, we unpack the top five issues with church constitutions and bylaws—and how your church can fix them.

Scott Ball and A.J. Mathieu of The Malphurs Group bring practical insights from years of helping churches navigate governance and leadership challenges. If you’re new to the podcast, we help churches get healthy and grow through strategic planning and leadership development.

In this episode, we cover: → [00:02:34] Why relying on bylaws instead of policies leads to dysfunction → [00:07:17] How complexity makes compliance nearly impossible → [00:11:26] What happens when bylaws are designed for the wrong church size → [00:14:03] The risks of outdated or unbiblical governance structures → [00:20:54] How vague or conflicting authority erodes trust and accountability

Resources & Links: → 🧰 HealthyChurchesToolkit.com – Start your free 7-day trial and access our course on building a biblical board, plus sample policy manuals → 📘 Read the full article: malphursgroup.com/297→ 👥 Connect with us on Facebook and Instagram→ 🌐 Learn more about our work: malphursgroup.com

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Looking to level up volunteer engagement in your church? In this episode of The Church Revitalization Podcast, we break down the best times and strategies for recruiting volunteers, drawing from current trends and real-world ministry experience. Whether you’re a seasoned leader or new to church revitalization, these insights will help you build a strong, servant-hearted volunteer team.

Hosts Scott Ball and A.J. Mathieu—church consultants and revitalization experts—unpack practical principles and share firsthand stories to help you effectively connect people to their calling in your church community.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

The top 5 moments to recruit volunteers (and which one you’re probably missing)
Why getting people serving early matters for church “stickiness”
How to leverage membership classes and spiritual gifts for team-building
The strengths and pitfalls of ministry fairs and seasonal “pushes”
Why recruiting is everyone’s job, not just the staff’s

🔗 Resources & Links:

Try the Healthy Churches Toolkit free: healthychurchestoolkit.com
Free access for international listeners: healthychurchesglobal.com
Read the full episode article: malphursgroup.com/296

Connect with us on social & discover more revitalization resources at malphursgroup.com.

Ready to transform your volunteer culture? Hit play and let’s get started!

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Myth-busting Spiritual Gifts! In this episode of the Church Revitalization Podcast, Scott Ball and AJ Mathieu tackle three of the most widespread misconceptions about spiritual gifts. They dig into where common beliefs miss the mark, how spiritual gifts assessments really work, and why understanding gifting is so important for engaging church members in meaningful ministry.

Your hosts, Scott Ball and AJ Mathieu, are church health experts with The Malphurs Group. Every week, they take practical, actionable topics and break them down into bite-sized episodes to help your church thrive. Whether you're a lead pastor, volunteer, or just passionate about church revitalization, this show is for you!

Here’s what you’ll learn in today’s episode:

(02:20) Why spiritual gifts assessments are helpful but not authoritative
(07:44) The Spider-Man analogy: You have to try out your gifts to know them!
(12:25) Are Paul’s lists in the epistles exhaustive? What’s really being communicated?
(18:07) Why spiritual gifts (and assessments) still matter in every church
(20:32) Practical steps to help your congregation discover and use their gifts

Links & Resources:

Try the Healthy Churches Toolkit free for 7 days: healthychurchestoolkit.com
Read the full episode article and recap: malphursgroup.com/295
Connect with The Malphurs Group on social: Facebook | Twitter/X

Subscribe so you never miss an episode, and let us know how you’re helping your church thrive!

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Unlock the secret to effective volunteer placement in your church! In this episode, we dive deep into why getting the right person in the right role—right now—matters, with a special focus on temperament and its impact on ministry effectiveness. Whether you're a seasoned leader or just starting out, you'll discover actionable steps for aligning volunteer strengths with real church needs.

Join hosts A.J. Mathieu and Scott Ball from the Church Revitalization Podcast, brought to you by the Malphurs Group team. With years of hands-on experience in church leadership and revitalization, A.J. and Scott bring clarity, energy, and practical wisdom each week to help church leaders thrive.

What’s Inside This Episode:

Understanding the difference between temperament and personality—and why it matters [03:30]
Quick overview of the DISC assessment and how it fits church volunteer roles [11:12]
Signs of volunteer misalignment and practical solutions for burnout [18:45]
How to use the new Divine Design Discovery Tool for customized volunteer recruitment [4:27][23:17]
Building leadership pipelines and aligning teams for greater health [22:14]

Links & Resources:

Try the Healthy Churches Toolkit free for 7 days: healthychurchestoolkit.com
Deep dive article & show notes: malphursgroup.com/294
Connect with us on social media for more weekly insights

Discover how understanding temperament can energize your volunteers and transform your church—listen now and start building your healthiest team yet!

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Why do some unhealthy churches seem to be growing rapidly? In this episode, we peel back the layers behind fast-growing churches and explore whether all that glitters is truly gold. Join us as we discuss the hidden factors that can fuel church growth and how to discern authentic health from surface-level success.

Your hosts are Scott Ball and A.J. Mathieu from The Malphurs Group. Each week, we bring practical insights and real-world advice to help pastors and leaders revitalize their churches and lead with confidence. Whether you're a first-time listener or a longtime subscriber, we’re here to help your church thrive.

In this episode, we cover: - The dangers and appeal of charismatic leadership [06:01] - How consumer-oriented programs can spark attendance without real transformation [10:03] - The impact of location and demographics on church growth [15:29] - The role of transfer growth and what it really means for church health [20:13] - Practical steps to focus on healthy discipleship and mission [22:50]

Links & Resources: - The Healthy Churches Toolkit: healthychurchestoolkit.com - Full episode article & resources: malphursgroup.com/293 - Connect with us: Website - More revitalization tools and leadership tips: YouTube

Looking to build a thriving, healthy church? Explore the Healthy Churches Toolkit and other resources linked above!

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Is your church’s vision stalled or ineffective? In this episode, we break down actionable steps to create and communicate a compelling vision that drives real growth and engagement within your congregation. Discover how clarity and strategy can move your church forward, whether you’re starting from scratch or refreshing your current direction.

Join hosts Scott Ball and A.J. Mathieu from the Malphurs Group, whose expertise in church revitalization empowers ministries worldwide. Their passion: helping churches thrive with practical insights, real data, and biblically-rooted strategies.

What you'll hear in this episode:

Why vision clarity directly boosts church growth (1:20)
The first step: a “discernment” phase combining data and prayer (3:58)
Crafting a vision draft that inspires buy-in (5:24)
Cascading vision from the pulpit to every ministry area (11:24)
How to measure, track, and celebrate progress—avoiding common pitfalls (17:04)

Links & Resources:

Discover tools & start your 7-day free trial: Healthy Churches Toolkit
Show notes & episode article: malphursgroup.com/292
More from the Malphurs Group: Website

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Is your church overwhelmed by a maze of groups, classes, and ministries—or struggling to get people engaged at all? On this episode, we break down how to streamline your discipleship ministries for greater clarity and real spiritual growth.

Your hosts, Scott Ball and A.J. Mathieu from The Malphurs Group, bring years of hands-on experience revitalizing churches. Each week, they share practical strategies for church leaders to create healthier, more effective ministries—no matter your church’s size or context.

In this episode:

[00:02:14] Announcement: New “Six Areas of Groups Ministry” Masterclass partnership (and why it matters)
[00:07:04] The real issue: Why variety confuses people and stalls engagement
[00:08:53] The program vs. process mindset (and how to shift gears)
[00:12:25] Building a clear, 3-5 step discipleship pathway—what primary and secondary ministries are (and aren’t)
[00:26:31] Practical steps to combine, align, or sunset ministries for maximum impact

Episode Links:

Try the Healthy Churches Toolkit for free: healthychurchestoolkit.com
Read the full article: malphursgroup.com/291
Connect with us on social: facebook.com/malphursgroup | twitter.com/malphursgroup

Take your next step toward a healthier church today!

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In this episode, we dive into what it takes to develop a healthy, growing small groups ministry that actually connects people and fosters transformation. Whether your church uses Sunday School, home groups, or a hybrid model, this conversation will challenge assumptions and offer practical steps forward.

Scott Ball and A.J. Mathieu are joined by Adam Erlichman from Build Groups—a national consultant helping churches grow their groups ministry by 30–50% in under a year. Adam shares powerful stories, best practices, and a major new announcement about exclusive training content now available through the Healthy Churches Toolkit.

In this episode:

(00:03:08) Why Sunday School vs. Small Groups is a false dichotomy
(00:05:36) What most churches get wrong about launching groups
(00:10:31) The right metrics to track group health (and the ones to stop using)
(00:26:37) What qualitative factors reveal if your groups are thriving
(00:30:16) A behind-the-scenes look at the brand new Build Groups Masterclass

Links & Resources:

🌐 Main Site: malphursgroup.com

📖 Read the full article at malphursgroup.com/290

🎥 Start your free 7-day trial & get the Build Groups Masterclass

🤝 Connect with Adam Erlichman and the Build Groups team

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Read the full show notes at: https://malphursgroup.com/289

Welcome to the Church Revitalization Podcast, where we tackle the real issues facing today’s church leaders. In this episode, hosts Scott Ball and A.J. Mathieu dive into the top five things worship leaders should stop doing right now. With candid stories from Scott’s own years as a worship leader—and A.J.’s trademark humor—they break down common pitfalls and offer practical advice for creating a more engaging, distraction-free worship experience. Whether you’re a worship leader, senior pastor, or just passionate about church health, this episode will challenge your perspective, spark some laughs, and help your church worship grow stronger.

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Do pastors really know who's attending their church every week? In this episode of the Church Revitalization Podcast, A.J. Mathieu and Scott Ball dig into the common myth that "only half the church is present on any given Sunday"—and challenge assumptions about church attendance. They discuss the roots of this belief, why it persists, and, most importantly, why getting the real numbers actually matters for effective ministry and discipleship.

Learn practical ways to move beyond gut feelings and start gathering actionable data on church engagement—plus, helpful ideas for tracking attendance without burdening your team or your church members. Whether your church is large or small, knowing who's truly present is key to intentional shepherding, boosting engagement, and making better strategic decisions.

Show Links:

Full show notes & article
Start your free trial of the Healthy Churches Toolkit: healthychurchestoolkit.com
Global listeners: access the toolkit for free at healthychurchesglobal.com

For more practical insights to help your church thrive, follow the Church Revitalization Podcast and connect with the Malphurs Group team each week!

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Are you stepping into a new pastoral role? Or do you know someone who is? In this episode of the Church Revitalization Podcast, hosts Scott Ball and A.J. Mathieu share practical, actionable advice for pastors beginning their journey at a new church. Drawing from real-world examples and years of experience, they unpack key strategies such as being a learner before a leader, the importance of building relationships over seeking immediate results, and understanding the “why” behind church traditions before making changes. Learn how to communicate hope, find early wins, and set a healthy foundation for your ministry and your new congregation. Whether you’re a senior pastor, youth pastor, or part of church leadership, these insights will help you or someone you know start strong.

Full show notes: malphursgroup.com/287

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Read the full show notes at malphursgroup.com/286

Join hosts Scott Ball and A.J. Mathieu as they dive into a miniseries focused on successfully onboarding a new pastor. In this episode, the discussion revolves around how churches can prepare to welcome a fresh leader effectively. Scott and A.J. share valuable insights on practicing intentional hospitality, embracing clear and gracious communication, and being open to change. Whether you're in the midst of a pastoral transition or simply thinking ahead, this episode is packed with practical advice to set your church up for success. Don't miss out on these essential tips for ensuring a smooth transition and a thriving church community!

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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.

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Growth is often celebrated in church circles, but what if your success is hiding deeper problems? In this episode, Scott Ball and AJ Mathieu tackle the rarely-discussed challenges that growing churches face. They reveal three common pitfalls: becoming complacent with your current success, not understanding why you're actually growing, and expanding too quickly without the leadership foundation to sustain it. Whether your church is experiencing modest or explosive growth, these insights will help you build a healthier, more sustainable ministry that values depth over mere numbers. Because not everything that grows is healthy – and sometimes the most dangerous time for your church is when everything seems to be going well.

Read the full show notes at malphursgroup.com/284

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Read the show notes at https://malphursgroup.com/283

Join hosts Scott Ball and A.J. Mathieu as they delve into the dynamics of teamwork within the church context. In this enlightening episode, Scott and A.J. explore the five types of teams drawn from the insights of the book "The Wisdom of Teams" by Katzenbach and Smith. They discuss how these categories—working group, pseudo team, potential team, real team, and high-performance team—apply to church staff, elder boards, and volunteer groups. Discover practical steps to assess and elevate your team's effectiveness, fostering an environment of mutual accountability and genuine affection. Plus, explore the intrinsic value of moving from simply collaborating to genuinely caring for one another, as inspired by biblical principles. Tune in to elevate your church team's performance and unity today! Remember to check out the Healthy Churches Toolkit for resources that can transform your team's dynamics. Subscribe and transform how your church team works!

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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.

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Read the full show notes at malphursgroup.com/281

Join hosts Scott Ball and A.J. Mathieu in this episode of The Church Revitalization Podcast as they delve into the latest data on Christianity in America. After decades of decline, there's a glimmer of hope—has the trend finally plateaued? Discover the good news and the challenges still facing the church today.

Scott and A.J. explore the factors contributing to the stabilization of Christian identification and the generational shifts influencing these numbers. With 86% of Americans believing in a soul and 83% acknowledging a higher power, the hosts emphasize the significant opportunities for outreach and transformation.

Learn why it's crucial for churches to refocus on fundamental practices, discipleship, and outreach to turn the tide. Whether you're a church leader or member, this episode offers actionable insights to help your church thrive and impact your community.

Listen now to understand what this means for your church and how you can be a part of reversing the trend. Don't miss this vital conversation on the future of faith in America.

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Discover the essential keys to church revitalization through outreach in this insightful episode with Scott Ball and AJ Mathieu. Learn why most churches have outreach activities but lack effective outreach strategies, and how this disconnect becomes a major barrier to growth. The hosts break down three critical steps that can transform your congregation from inward-focused to externally-oriented: shifting your mindset from "us" to "them," genuinely understanding your community's needs beyond surface-level assumptions, and establishing sustainable outreach practices that become part of your church's DNA. Whether your church is plateaued, declining, or simply looking to maximize its community impact, these actionable insights will help you develop the external focus necessary for true church revitalization. Don't miss this practical guide to fulfilling the Great Commission in your local context.

Full show notes at https://malphursgroup.com/280

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Leadership dysfunction can be the silent killer of church growth, yet many leaders don't want to address it. In this episode, we explore four critical dysfunctions that might be holding your church back: poor conflict management, entrenched parties and processes, tolerance of disunifying behavior, and lack of shared vision. Learn how to identify these issues and take practical steps toward creating a healthier leadership culture in your church.

Full show notes available at malphursgroup.com/279

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Is your church plateaued, declining, or in need of a fresh vision for the future? In this episode of the Church Revitalization Podcast, hosts Scott Ball and A.J. Mathieu go back to the basics and break down the essential steps for launching a church revitalization process today.

They discuss: ✅ Who revitalization is for (and who it’s not for) ✅ The six critical steps for turning around a struggling church ✅ Why assessment, team formation, and intentional planning are key ✅ How churches can move from decline to growth with practical, actionable strategies

Whether your church needs minor optimization or major revitalization, this episode provides a clear roadmap to get started. Plus, learn how The Malphurs Group can come alongside your church with training, coaching, and strategic planning to help you succeed.

🔗 Show Notes & Resources: malphursgroup.com/278 🎧 Subscribe for weekly insights on church health & leadership!

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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.

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Full show notes at: https://malphursgroup.com/276

Tired of begging for nursery workers from the pulpit? Transform your church's volunteer recruitment with four game-changing strategies that actually work. Learn how to match people with their calling, simplify recruitment, and build a sustainable volunteer culture—without the guilt trips or burnout.

Perfect for pastors and ministry leaders who want to move beyond desperate announcements to create a thriving volunteer ministry. Get practical tools for identifying gifts, streamlining ministries, and keeping volunteers engaged long-term.

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In this episode of the Church Revitalization Podcast, Scott Ball and A.J. Mathieu discuss the essential roles and responsibilities of elders within the church. They outline three critical things that elders should never do: getting too involved in the minutiae of church operations, acting unilaterally without the consensus of the elder board, and neglecting the spiritual care of the congregation. The conversation emphasizes the importance of defined roles, collective authority, and the need for elders to focus on higher-level oversight and spiritual nourishment for the church community. Read the full show notes at: https://malphursgroup.com/275

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Ministry silos can cripple a church's effectiveness, creating competing calendars, duplicated programs, and territorial mindsets. In this episode, Scott Ball and A.J. Mathieu break down the common symptoms of siloed ministries - from calendar conflicts to information hoarding - and provide practical solutions for unifying your church's vision and systems. Learn how to identify whether your church has fallen into the silo trap and discover actionable steps to break down walls between ministries to create a more cohesive, effective church.

Show notes: Visit malphursgroup.com/274 for the full article and resources mentioned in this episode.

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In this episode, Scott Ball and A.J. Mathieu dive into “4 Things Your Church Consultant Doesn’t Want to Hear You Say.” They tackle common phrases like “We’re the friendliest church” and “People leave other churches and come here to heal,” unpacking why these statements might not mean what you think. From addressing misconceptions to offering practical advice on leadership and community engagement, this conversation challenges churches to rethink their perspectives.

Plus, hear about the free Church Checkup Challenge and how it can help your church assess its health for the year ahead: https://malphursgroup.com/challenge

Tune in for honest insights, biblical wisdom, and actionable steps to strengthen your ministry. Read the show notes at malphursgroup.com/273.

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Is your church quietly drifting from the Great Commission to what we call "The Comfortable Commission"? In this episode, Scott and A.J. explore how well-intentioned churches can gradually shift from mission-focused to comfort-focused ministry - often without realizing it.

You'll discover: - Warning signs your church might be choosing comfort over mission - How "good stewardship" can become an excuse for playing it safe - Practical ways to evaluate your current reality - Steps to break free from comfort-driven ministry

Plus, learn about the upcoming Church Check-up Challenge, a free 7-day journey to assess and improve your church's health.

Read the full show notes at https://malphursgroup.com/272

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In this enlightening episode of the Church Revitalization Podcast, hosts Scott Ball and AJ Mathieu are joined by Dr. Tom Wadsworth, a renowned expert in New Testament studies. Dr. Wadsworth shares groundbreaking insights into how the early church approached worship and assemblies, challenging many modern assumptions about church gatherings.

About Our Guest: Dr. Tom Wadsworth has dedicated over 40 years to studying the New Testament, with advanced degrees in theology and a PhD specializing in early church practices. His research has gained international attention, with his videos garnering over half a million views from 70 countries.

Resources Mentioned: Dr. Tom Wadsworth’s Videos: youtube.com/tomwadsworth

Dr. Wadsworth’s Website: Visit TomWadsworth.com for additional resources.

Healthy Churches Toolkit:

Get 7 days of free access to resources that can help your church focus on edification and revitalization at MalphursGroup.com/toolkit.

To read the full show notes go to https://malphursgroup.com/270

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Read the full show notes at https://malphursgroup.com/269 This week, join hosts Scott Ball and A.J. Mathieu as they dive into an essential topic for the Advent season: "5 Reasons Why People May Attend Your Church This Christmas." During the episode, Scott and A.J. provide actionable insights on why individuals might be drawn to church during this festive period, breaking down what they call the "5 D's" – Development, Displacement, Death, Disaster, and Divorce. Whether it's seeking hope, community, or comfort, these reasons are particularly poignant during the Christmas season.

Plus, they discuss how your church can meet these needs and make a lasting impact. Don’t miss out on valuable tips to connect with visitors and foster a welcoming, Christ-centered environment this Christmas.

GET A 7 DAY FREE TRIAL OF THE HEALTHY CHURCHES TOOLKIT HERE: MALPHURSGROUP.COM/TOOLKIT

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On this episode of the Church Revitalization Podcast, Scott Ball, AJ Mathieu, and special guest Derek Maxson dive into optimizing your church website for three key visitor types: insiders, shoppers, and seekers. Learn practical strategies to make your site more welcoming, improve accessibility, and align with Great Commission principles. Plus, discover Derek’s expert tips for enhancing your church’s digital presence and a special discount for website assessments at Spiffy.church.

Read the full show notes: https://malphursgroup.com/268 Get 7 Days FREE of the Healthy Churches Toolkit: https://malphursgroup.com/toolkit Get 50% off a Website Evaluation PLUS Free Training: https://spiffy.church use code PODCAST

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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

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FULL SHOW NOTES @ malphursgroup.com/266

In today's episode titled "The Best & Worst Times for Strategic Planning," your hosts Scott Ball and A.J. Mathieu dive into an essential discussion for church leaders. They'll explore the nuances of optimal timing for strategic planning processes in churches, highlighting why some times of the year can be more favorable for gaining momentum and implementing change. However, they also emphasize that sometimes urgent needs can override timing concerns.

Whether your church is in the midst of a crisis or routine planning, Scott and A.J. provide actionable insights to help you navigate these crucial decisions. Plus, they'll share details on how the Malphurs Group can support your church through these processes with their Healthy Churches toolkit and a dedicated team of expert guides. Stay tuned for practical advice and invaluable resources designed to help your church thrive.

Get 7 Days Free of the Healthy Churches Toolkit @ malphursgroup.com/toolkit

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Today, we're diving into the crucial topic of innovating in ministry without losing focus. We'll explore practical strategies for making iterative changes in your church, leveraging your temperament to navigate differing attitudes towards change, and avoiding the pitfalls of program clutter.

Stay tuned for valuable insights on effective decision-making, beta testing new ideas, and maintaining your church’s mission amidst innovation.

Read the full show notes at https://malphursgroup.com/265

GET 7 DAY FREE OF THE HEALTHY CHURCHES TOOLKIT: https://malphursgroup.com/toolkit

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In this episode, we're diving into strategies for building a culture of collaboration within your church. Scott explores the significance of managing silence during discussions, engaging quieter team members, and breaking larger groups into smaller ones to ensure all voices are heard. He emphasizes the role of intentionality in inclusive leadership, effective time management, and fostering actionable committee planning.

We’ll also discuss how to strategize and overcome common collaboration challenges, ranging from time constraints to temperamental differences, ensuring that every meeting propels your ministry forward. Additionally, we’ll touch on the importance of clear role definitions, the balance between deliberative and action-oriented teams, and the essentials of consistent strategic planning.

Stay tuned as Scott provides insights and practical steps for cultivating a collaborative environment, enhancing communication, and driving effective decision-making in your church. Don't miss this episode—it’s packed with valuable tools and resources to help your ministry thrive!

Read the full accompanying article at https://malphursgroup.com/264

Get 7 Days free of the Healthy Churches Toolkit & Save 20% off until October 31 @ 11:59pm Eastern at https://malphursgroup.com/toolkit

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On this week's episode of the Church Revitalization Podcast, we're showing you all the features of the new Healthy Churches Toolkit! We dove into how the toolkit empowers churches to thrive, with resources for strategic planning, leadership development, and tools for actionable growth. Here’s a quick breakdown:

Toolkit Features Overview: We covered each main feature, including the media library, training platform, automated assistants, and workshops.
Live Demo: A hands-on demo showing how to navigate the platform, access courses, use the marketing and discussion guide assistants, and more.
Next Steps: How to get started, subscribe, and unlock exclusive launch pricing at https://malphursgroup.com/toolkit Join us as we continue supporting churches toward health and growth—be sure to subscribe for future updates and resources!

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In this episode of the Church Revitalization Podcast, Scott Ball and A.J. Mathieu discuss the implications of artificial intelligence (AI) in church settings. They explore the misconceptions surrounding AI, distinguishing between 'bad AI' that could replace human roles and 'good AI' that can serve as a valuable tool for church leaders. The conversation emphasizes the importance of emotional intelligence in pastoral roles and the ethical boundaries that should guide the use of AI. They conclude by encouraging churches to embrace AI as a tool for growth while maintaining a clear understanding of its limitations and potential.

Read the full show notes at: https://malphursgroup.com/262

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In this episode of the Church Revitalization Podcast, Scott Ball and A.J. Mathieu discuss the benefits of sermon-based study groups. They explore how these groups foster unity within the church, provide predictable discipleship outcomes, and deepen the congregation's knowledge of Scripture. The conversation also highlights the importance of using tools to create effective discussion guides, making it easier for church leaders to implement these groups. Read the full show notes at https://malphursgroup.com/261

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In this episode of the Church Revitalization Podcast, hosts A.J. Mathieu and Scott Ball discuss three impactful strategies that aging congregations can implement within 90 days to revitalize their church. They emphasize the importance of understanding the unique challenges faced by aging congregations and provide practical steps for community engagement, mentoring younger generations, and welcoming new residents. The conversation encourages churches to focus on genuine service and connection within their communities as a pathway to growth and revitalization.

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

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.

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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 🔔 Subscribe and hit the notification bell to stay updated on more church growth content

📚 Read the full show notes: https://malphursgroup.com/258

#ChurchGrowth #MidSizedChurch #ChurchLeadership #ChristianCommunity #ChurchStrategy

Have questions about implementing these strategies in your church? Leave them in the comments, and let's discuss!

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Welcome to Episode 257 of The Church Revitalization Podcast! In this special anniversary episode, your hosts Scott Ball and A.J. Mathieu reveal "The Five Habits of a Healthy Church." We’ll emphasize the power of storytelling to engage your congregation and drive your mission, as well as the importance of embedding core values into daily decisions. Tune in to discover practical strategies for communicating your church's mission, conducting effective weekly strategy reviews, and prioritizing impactful tasks. We'll also discuss partnerships with the Malphurs Group and Healthy Churches Global for revitalization efforts. Celebrate our 5th anniversary with us by sharing this episode with your church leaders, leaving a review, and learning how our certified guide team can help implement these habits for church growth. Let's dive in and make your church thrive! Read the full show notes at https://malphursgroup.com/257

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In Episode 256 of The Church Revitalization Podcast, we tackle the challenge of preaching in a world where attention spans are rapidly shrinking and distractions are everywhere. We explore how to craft sermons that resonate deeply while addressing the realities of modern life. We discuss the importance of capturing attention quickly, the power of storytelling in conveying deep theological truths, and the need for sermons that provide clear, actionable takeaways. This episode offers insights and practical strategies for delivering sermons that engage both the intellect and the heart.

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In Episode 255 of The Church Revitalization Podcast, we explore the reasons behind the declining male presence in churches. Titled “The Silent Exodus: Understanding Why Men Are Leaving the Church,” this episode examines cultural shifts, the disconnect between church activities and male interests, and the perceived irrelevance of church in addressing personal and professional challenges. Backed by data from Pew Research and Barna, we provide insights and practical strategies for church leaders to re-engage men and make church a relevant and purposeful part of their lives.

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In this episode, hosts Scott Ball and A.J. Mathieu dive into three essential questions to evaluate your Sunday worship services. They discuss the importance of consistency, continuous improvement, and the contagious excitement that can make a difference in a church's atmosphere. From pinpointing problems to fostering a genuine love for the ministry, this episode offers valuable insights to help your church flourish. Don't forget to check out the show notes at malphursgroup.com/254 and consider supporting our global training efforts.

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In this episode of The Church Revitalization Podcast, hosts Scott Ball and AJ Mathieu explore the reasons why church strategies fail. They identify three key points: the impact of a lack of planning, the crucial role of leadership, and the significance of adequate resources. Tune in to gain valuable insights into developing successful church strategies.

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Read the full show notes at: https://malphursgroup.com/252

In this episode, our hosts A.J. Mathieu and Scott Ball explore the crucial shift from rearview mirror thinking to windshield thinking, emphasizing the need for honesty, humility, and collaboration to cultivate enthusiasm for the future. They discuss practical strategies for moving from nostalgia to a vision focus, while highlighting the significance of balancing tradition with missional engagement. Join us as we unpack the divide between nostalgia and vision, and discover how churches can leverage tradition to reach the next generation and their community.

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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.

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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.

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Read the full show notes at: https://malphursgroup.com/249

In this episode, hosts A.J. Mathieu and Scott Ball dive into the topic of "Big Hospitality in Small Spaces." They share personal experiences and discuss the importance of creating welcoming and interactive spaces within church facilities, despite potential limitations. From utilizing underutilized areas for connection to the impact of good signage and parking attendants, they provide practical tips for enhancing hospitality starting from the parking lot.

The hosts also emphasize the significance of training and building a strong team to provide a great guest experience, drawing inspiration from successful models like Disney's staff interactions and Walmart's engagement initiatives. If you're seeking to transform your church's welcoming atmosphere, join us as we explore strategies and insights to create a lasting impact on your congregation and guests.

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Read the full show notes at https://malphursgroup.com/248

In this episode, Scott and A.J. dive deep into the crucial topic of decision-making within the church. They explore the barriers to effective decision-making, including the fear of conflict, the sunk cost fallacy, and the importance of aligning decisions with the church's mission and values. Drawing on their own experiences and insights, the hosts discuss the impact of resistance to change, the value of collaboration, and the need for a clear decision-making framework. Join us as we unravel the complexities of decision-making in the church and learn valuable principles to revitalize decision processes for the betterment of our ministries.

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Read the full show notes at: https://malphursgroup.com/247

On this episode of The Church Revitalization Podcast, Scott Ball and A.J. Mathieu discuss the importance of annual checkups for churches to improve their overall health. Drawing parallels to personal health checkups, the hosts emphasize the need for regular assessments to diagnose and address any underlying issues in the church's health.

They dive into the six key areas of evaluation in the church ministry analysis, highlighting the significance of assessing the great commission focus, core values, discipleship pathway, vision clarity, strategy objectives, and leadership culture. The hosts stress the benefits of conducting these assessments annually and provide practical insights on how to prioritize and implement changes based on the evaluation results.

Join Scott and A.J. as they unpack the significance of church health checkups and offer valuable advice on leading churches towards greater health and vitality.

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Read the full show notes at: https://malphursgroup.com/246

In this episode of the Church Revitalization Podcast, hosts Scott Ball and AJ Mathieu delve into the importance of rest for pastors. They explore the biblical basis for rest, the concept of sabbatical, and the need for regular weekly rest. They discuss practical options for providing pastoral sabbaticals and emphasize the significance of disconnecting and modeling rest for sustainable ministry.

Tune in to learn why rest is critical for healthy pastors and how to implement restful practices in ministry.

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Read the full show notes at: https://malphursgroup.com/245

In this episode titled "Overcoming Obstacles in Pipeline Implementation," our hosts Scott Ball and A.J. Mathieu dive into the key challenges hindering the successful implementation of a leadership pipeline within the church. They address issues related to unclear expectations, communication challenges, inconsistent implementation, and resistance to change.

Join us as we explore their insightful strategies for overcoming these obstacles and hear about real-life experiences in applying leadership pipeline principles, regardless of the size or unique factors of the church. Stay tuned as we unravel the keys to successful implementation and explore the potential benefits. If you want to learn more and show your support for the initiative, be sure to visit malpersgroup.com/245 and check out the full episode.

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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.

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Read the full show notes at: https://malphursgroup.com/243

In this episode of The Church Revitalization Podcast, hosts Scott Ball and A.J. Mathieu delve into the critical role of core competencies for leadership within the church. They stress the importance of defining these competencies in order to bring objectivity to the selection and development of leaders at different levels. They discuss the implications of these competencies on coaching, promoting, and managing the leadership pipeline within a church.

Additionally, they highlight the significance of incorporating specific ministry skills into the core competencies framework, and how it contributes to maintaining structure and enhancing predictability in leadership outcomes. Overall, this conversation uncovers crucial insights into guiding and developing leaders in various church ministries.

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Read the full show notes at https://malphursgroup.com/242

In this episode, A.J. Mathieu and Scott Ball explore the concept of leadership levels within the church, shedding light on the need for a structured leadership pipeline and the different responsibilities and development investment at various leadership levels. From discussing the impact of leadership triage on problem-solving to drawing parallels with Moses' leadership model, they provide valuable insights and practical guidance for church leaders looking to build and nurture effective leadership structures.

Join us as we uncover the significance of leadership levels and their role in fostering growth and preventing burnout within the church.

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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.

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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.

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Read the full show notes at https://malphursgroup.com/239

In this episode titled hosts Scott Ball and A.J. Mathieu dive into the complex interplay between faith and politics. As pastors grapple with navigating the uncertain and divisive landscape of an election year, they'll explore the keys to effectively communicating God's word without turning the church into a political battleground. Join us as we discuss the balance between biblical preaching and addressing contemporary issues, the importance of prioritizing the kingdom of heaven, and the responsibility of cultivating a biblical worldview within the church. Tune in for a thought-provoking discussion that will equip and enlighten pastors and church leaders on communicating God's word in the midst of a politically charged atmosphere.

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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

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Read the full show notes at https://malphursgroup.com/237

Welcome to Episode 237 of the Church Revitalization Podcast! In this episode, hosts Scott Ball and A.J. Mathieu explore the crucial question of "Who Should Join Your Strategic Planning Team?" They emphasize the importance of building committed teams to implement new visions and initiatives in church revitalization. From assembling the right mix of individuals to the practical steps for effective strategic planning, Scott and A.J. provide valuable insights into creating sustainable change within church communities. Join us as we delve into the intricacies of forming a strategic planning team that fosters growth, unity, and a shared vision for your church's future.

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Welcome to The Church Revitalization Podcast! In this episode, hosts A.J. Mathieu and Scott Ball delve into the topic of "Developing a Discipleship Pathway for Kids & Students." They discuss the importance of focusing on the younger generation in churches, sharing insights on how to integrate children and student ministries into the overall discipleship pathway of the church. Through honest conversations and practical examples, the hosts underscore the need for intentional and age-appropriate ministry, stressing that the discipleship outcomes should remain consistent across different age groups. Join us as we explore the vital intersection of discipleship, ministry, and the younger members of our congregations.

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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.

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Read the full show notes at https://malphursgroup.com/234

Welcome to Episode 234 of The Church Revitalization Podcast, where we explore the pressing issues facing congregations in North America. In this episode, hosts A.J. Mathieu and Scott Ball delve into the alarming demographic cliff facing churches with a shortage of younger pastors to fill the shoes of retiring senior leaders. They investigate the financial and educational barriers hindering younger pastors from pursuing ministry, and valiantly propose practical solutions to address this critical issue. Join us as we unravel the challenges and opportunities for church revitalization in the face of this impending crisis.

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Read the full show notes at: https://malphursgroup.com/233

Welcome to the Church Revitalization Podcast, where we equip church leaders with essential strategies to ensure their churches thrive. In this episode, Scott Ball and A.J. Mathieu engage in a candid conversation about the common failure point in church revitalization processes. They explore the critical aspects of planning and implementing changes within the church, stressing the significance of follow-through and accountability.

The hosts shed light on the importance of ongoing meetings to maintain momentum and keep the focus on the end goals. Additionally, they offer valuable insights into navigating pushback from individuals within the church, highlighting the need to address concerns while staying true to the mission and vision.

Moreover, Scott and A.J. underscore the value of seeking external support to guide church leaders through the challenges of implementation, emphasizing the impact of having an experienced ally to provide validation and confidence in the midst of change.

If you're looking for actionable advice and key strategies to overcome the common pitfalls in church revitalization, this episode is a must-listen. Join Scott and A.J. as they unpack practical approaches to ensure successful implementation on your church's revitalization journey.

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Join this special episode of the Church Revitalization Podcast, where host Scott Ball interviews Build Groups founder and the author of Group Leader Training, Adam Erlichman. In this episode, we dove deep into all things Groups Ministry. We explored what makes a Groups ministry thrive, how can impact the overall health and growth of your church, and the biggest challenges that prevent churches from having an impactful Groups ministry. The advice is incredibly practical—whether you have a small groups or Sunday school approach.

Read the full show notes and enjoy a bonus article from Adam Erlichman at https://malphursgroup.com/232

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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.

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Read the full show notes at https://malphursgroup.com/230

This episode dives into the crucial role of vision indicators in guiding your church towards its mission and vision, akin to navigating a ship with a clear compass in the vast ocean of ministry.

Discover the art of selecting, implementing, and refining vision indicators that are not only measurable but deeply impactful and aligned with each step of your discipleship pathway. Learn about the importance of focusing on output-oriented measures to truly gauge the effectiveness of your church's efforts and how these indicators can inspire strategic action within your congregation.

Scott and A.J. will share practical advice on developing effective vision indicators, highlight inspiring examples, and discuss strategies for ensuring these indicators remain relevant and continue to drive meaningful progress towards your church's goals. Whether you're looking to establish new vision indicators or revitalize existing ones, this episode is packed with insights to help your church navigate its journey with confidence and clarity.

🔔 Don't forget to subscribe to our channel for more episodes on church leadership, strategic planning, and transformative insights for church revitalization. Share this episode with fellow church leaders and join the conversation on steering congregations towards vibrant growth and impactful ministry.

#ChurchRevitalizationPodcast #TheMalphursGroup #ChurchGrowth #VisionIndicators #ChurchLeadership #StrategicPlanning

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Join us in Episode 229 of the Church Revitalization Podcast as we dissect the latest Lifeway Research on baptism trends within the Southern Baptist Convention (SBC) and discuss the implications of declining membership numbers. With a significant 46% increase in baptisms over the past two years, we dive into what this means for the SBC amidst an overall downward trend in membership, now standing at 13,223,122 in 2023.

🔹 What We Cover:

The surge in baptisms in 2022 and its impact.
The long-term decline in SBC baptisms and memberships.
Insights into how demographics, church size, and engagement strategies are influencing these trends.

🔹 Engage With Us: We're eager to hear your perspective! Share your thoughts and strategies in the comments below. How is your church adapting to these challenges?

🎧 Full show notes available at malphursgroup.com/229

🔔 Subscribe for more insights on church growth and revitalization.

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Read the full show notes at https://malphursgroup.com/228

Explore the multifaceted journey of becoming a church consultant in Episode 228 of the Church Revitalization Podcast with hosts Scott Ball & A.J. Mathieu.

This episode delves into the rewarding aspects of church consulting, such as witnessing transformation, leveraging entrepreneurial skills, and deepening your love for the church. It also addresses the challenges, including the commitment required and the competitive landscape.

Join us for an insightful discussion that balances the highs and lows of church consultancy, offering a comprehensive perspective for those considering this path.

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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.

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Dive into Episode 226 of the Church Revitalization Podcast with Scott Ball and A.J. Mathieu, brought to you by The Malphurs Group, as we dissect the critical dynamics between primary and secondary ministries within the church.

This episode shines a light on how these ministries intertwine to fulfill the church's mission of disciple-making and spiritual growth. Learn the key distinctions that set primary ministries apart as the cornerstone of spiritual development, and discover how secondary ministries play a supportive role, enhancing the discipleship pathway without overshadowing the primary focus.

We'll also tackle the common pitfalls that churches face, including the challenges of communication, the lifecycle of ministries, and the phenomenon of program creep, providing practical insights and strategies to navigate these issues effectively. Join us in this compelling conversation as we explore the delicate balance and strategic alignment of church ministries to maximize impact and foster a thriving spiritual community.

For more insightful discussions on church leadership, growth strategies, and pastoral insights, subscribe to The Church Revitalization Podcast and join us in our mission to empower church leaders and bring revitalization to communities worldwide.

Learn more by reading the full show notes at https://malphursgroup.com/226

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Read the full show notes at: https://malphursgroup.com/225

In this enlightening episode, our hosts Scott Ball & A.J. Mathieu delve deep into the vital role of discipleship in the church's mission, as mandated by the Great Commission.

🌟 Key Highlights:

Understanding Discipleship: Discover why discipleship isn't just an activity but the essence of everything a church should engage in.
Edification and Transformation: Learn about the importance of edification in discipleship, ensuring spiritual growth over mere program attendance, and aiming for transformation as seen in Acts 2:41-47.
Integrating Evangelism: Uncover the inseparable link between discipleship and evangelism. Understand how effective evangelism involves both proclamation and action, creating a "feedback loop" that furthers the spread of the Gospel.
Building an Effective Pathway: Explore how a well-crafted discipleship pathway focuses on desired actions and outcomes, constantly adjusting for maximum effectiveness.
The Positive Feedback Loop: Engage with the concept of discipleship as a journey that extends outward, transforming not just individuals but communities.
The Church's True Mission: Reflect on the dichotomy of the church's role as primarily focused on making and maturing disciples, and how every activity within the church should align with this mission.

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Read the full show notes at https://malphursgroup.com/224

In this enlightening and engaging video, we delve deep into the heart of what makes a ministry truly impactful and transformative. Join us as we explore the four essential types of core values that are pivotal to the health and effectiveness of any church or ministry.

🔹 What You'll Learn:

Actual Discipleship Values: Discover the foundational values that naturally emerge in a healthy faith community and how to actively nurture and articulate them.
Aspirational Discipleship Values: Understand the importance of identifying and cultivating the missing elements in your church's spiritual life.
Unique Values: Learn about the special, distinctive qualities that make your church stand out and how they contribute to a diverse and vibrant global faith community.
Anti-Values: Recognize and address the negative attitudes and behaviors that can hinder your church's growth and mission.

🔸 Why Watch?

Whether you're a church leader, ministry worker, or just someone interested in the dynamics of faith-based communities, this video offers invaluable insights.
Gain practical tips and strategies for nurturing a balanced and thriving spiritual environment.
Understand the challenges and rewards of fostering core values in ministry.

✨ Don't Forget:

Like, Share, and Subscribe for more inspiring and educational content about faith, community, and personal growth.
Leave a comment below to join the conversation. We love hearing your experiences and insights!

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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:

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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.

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Welcome to Episode 222 of The Church Revitalization Podcast, brought to you by The Malphurs Group. In this enlightening episode, we delve deep into the transformative world of leadership pipelines and how they can lead to unprecedented growth and vitality in your church community.

Are you struggling with leadership shortages, undefined roles, or stagnant growth within your ministry? Discover the five essential strategies to overcome these common challenges and unlock the full potential of your church leadership. We discuss the importance of defining a clear leadership philosophy, implementing a consistent development process, and taking decisive steps to establish a robust leadership pipeline.

Highlights of this episode include: - Understanding the critical need for a leadership pipeline in church growth. - How to identify and develop core competencies in your church leaders. - The significance of continuous improvement and training in leadership development.

Don't miss out on the valuable insights and actionable advice shared in this episode. Whether you're a seasoned church leader or just beginning your ministry journey, these strategies are designed to empower and revitalize your church's leadership dynamic.

For complete details and additional resources, make sure to visit the full show notes at https://malphursgroup.com/222. Also, discover how you can join our upcoming Leadership Pipeline Cohort and start making a real difference in your ministry today by visiting The Malphurs Group Leadership Pipeline Cohort: https://malphursgroup.com/pipeline-cohort

Subscribe to The Church Revitalization Podcast for more episodes on church leadership, growth strategies, and pastoral insights. Join us in our mission to empower church leaders and bring revitalization to communities worldwide.

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Get the full show notes: https://malphursgroup.com/221

In Episode 221 of The Church Revitalization Podcast, we delve into overcoming knowledge biases in church leadership, and how they're holding your church leadership back.

Learn about effective communication, intentional leadership training, and creating a lifelong learning culture within church teams. This episode offers valuable insights for any church leader seeking to enhance team cohesion and effectiveness.

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Read the full show notes at https://malphursgroup.com/220

In this pivotal episode, we confront the sobering reality of church decline across the U.S. With a focus on the Faith Communities Today survey's stark findings, we unravel the causes behind the drop from 137 attendees in 2000 to just 65 in recent years. This episode is more than a statistical analysis; it's a clarion call for churches to reevaluate and reignite their core mission, especially in the realm of evangelism. We dissect the concerning trend of declining evangelistic focus and its profound impact on church health.

Discover actionable strategies to reverse this trend, with insights into modern evangelism tactics like digital outreach, relational evangelism, and community engagement. Tune in for a deep dive into how churches can adapt, innovate, and revitalize their impact in today's world. An essential listen for church leaders, members, and anyone passionate about the future of faith communities.

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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.

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Welcome to a special Giving Tuesday edition of The Church Revitalization Podcast! In this episode, we delve into the heart of our mission, revealing the exciting and transformative projects we are embarking on in 2024 to strengthen churches globally. Read more at https://malphursgroup.com/218 Donate to our projects at https://malphursgroup.com/donate

🌍 Featured Projects:

Transforming Church Leadership in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia - January 2024: Discover how we're equipping Ethiopian pastors with essential training in theology and leadership.
Revitalizing a Madrid Church for Broader Impact - February 2024: Learn about our efforts to rejuvenate a church in Madrid, turning it into a hub of faith and community outreach.
Global Ministry Empowerment in Sicily, Italy - March 2024: Join us at the International Baptist Churches Mission Leadership Conference, where we empower pastors worldwide.
Cultivating Church Leadership in Oaxaca, Mexico - 2024: Hear how we support the growth and outreach of El Calvario Church through leadership development.
Empowering Tanzanian Pastors in Mwanza - 2024: Find out how training 50 pastors in Mwanza is revolutionizing church leadership in Tanzania.
Nurturing the Burundian Church in Bujumbura - 2024: Understand our role in strengthening the foundation of the Burundian church.
Shaping Global Church Leadership in Buenos Aires, Argentina - October 2024: Get a glimpse of our partnership at the 2024 Global Gathering of the Missional International Church network.

🙏 Join Our Mission: Each of these projects is a testament to our commitment to building up Christ's Church and bringing the Gospel to the nations. Your support and partnership can make a profound difference in communities worldwide.

🔗 Learn More: For detailed information on each project and how you can be a part of this global movement, download our mission project sheets linked in the show notes.

💬 Let's Connect: Contact us to start a conversation about partnering to increase our impact. Together, we can be a part of Christ's plan for humanity, resourcing and training pastors and church leaders across the globe.

#ChurchRevitalization #GlobalMission #GivingTuesday #Podcast #ChristianLeadership #CommunityOutreach #TheologyTraining #ChurchGrowth

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In this episode, we explore the profound effect a simple "thank you" can have on individuals and communities. We share a heartwarming story about receiving a thank-you note on a flight and discuss the often-overlooked power of acknowledging the efforts of ministry volunteers, church staff, and our loved ones.

Join us as we uncover why it's crucial not to take people for granted and discover effective ways to express your gratitude. Whether you're a church leader, a volunteer, or simply someone who values the importance of appreciation in everyday life, this conversation is for you.

Remember, a small gesture of thanks can go a long way in strengthening bonds and fostering a positive community. Tune in and be inspired to spread kindness and recognition in your own life and ministry!

🙏 Subscribe for more insightful discussions on church leadership and personal growth.

#Gratitude #ChurchLeadership #Thankfulness #TheMalphursGroup #ChurchRevitalizationPodcast #PersonalGrowth

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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.

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Read the full show notes at: https://malphursgroup.com/215

Dive into a steaming debate about propriety in worship and why it matters for your church with Scott Ball & A.J. Mathieu in Episode 215: "Coffee in the Sanctuary? A Sip Too Far or a Stir Towards Engagement?"

We explore John Piper's thought-provoking question on worship propriety, from historical practices to today's casual customs. Join us as we balance tradition with a welcoming church atmosphere, and reflect on God's interactions from Genesis to the Gospels.

What's your take on worship and reverence? Continue the conversation with us. #WorshipDebate #ChurchCulture

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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!

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In this episode, hosts Scott Ball and A.J. Mathieu discuss the importance of staying true to the core mission of the Church in a world filled with chaos and evil. They emphasize the relevance of the Great Commission and the need for churches to prioritize spreading the Gospel and making disciples.

Drawing inspiration from Acts 17:26-27, Scott and A.J. remind us of God's proximity to us and the role of the Holy Spirit and the Church in connecting people to Him. They challenge churches to recommit to an outward focus and emphasize that the Great Commission remains a sacred trust.

Join them in this compelling episode as they inspire you to prioritize the Great Commission in your own church and life, and to continue spreading the message of grace, peace, and salvation in a world in need. Tune in to The Church Revitalization Podcast for this impactful discussion.

Read the full show notes at https://malphursgroup.com/213

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In this episode, we're delving into an untapped wellspring of pastoral power sitting right in your sanctuary: the potential of co-shepherds within your congregation!

Ever feel like pastoral care is a juggling act you're performing solo? We've been there. But the truth is, there's a wealth of leadership potential perched in your pews, waiting to be unleashed. "Unleashing Potential: Empower Co-Shepherds in Your Church" is about shifting from a solo act to a symphonic partnership in shepherding.

📘 In our rich discussion, we navigate through:

The scriptural roots of shared shepherding: It's biblical, not just practical! * Eagle eyes for leadership: Identifying and affirming latent leaders in your flock. * Equipping for excellence: Transforming congregants into compassionate co-shepherds. * Mastering the art of delegation: Empowerment that uplifts without upending. * Continuous cultivation: How to assess and enhance your collaborative pastoral care strategies. * Transitioning from a pastor-centric model to a co-shepherding congregation is more than strategy; it's about stewarding the manifold gifts of God's people.

Ready to turn spectators into shepherds? Hit play, and let's dive in!

🔗 Dive deeper with our full article, packed with actionable insights: https://malphursgroup.com/212

🤝 Know a fellow leader who needs to hear this? Pass it on!

🔔 Stay in the know! Subscribe and leave a review.

#ChurchRevitalization #SharedLeadership #EmpowermentInFaith

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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.

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Read the full shownotes at: https://malphursgroup.com/210

In the world of faith, size doesn't determine impact. Discover how small churches can break free from the "Small Church Syndrome" and make a substantial difference. This podcast explores the symptoms of this syndrome, such as pastor-centric decision-making and program-oriented discipleship, and presents five powerful strategies for growth:

Rigorously Apply a Great Commission Focus
Shift Towards Process-Oriented Discipleship
Optimize the Leadership Structure for Empowerment
Regularly Communicate an Inspiring Picture of the Future
Learn How to Celebrate Progress

Join us on this journey to transform your small church into a thriving, impactful community that fulfills the Great Commission and realizes its full potential.

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Read the full show notes at: https://malphursgroup.com/209

Churches across America are being damaged by abusive and narcissistic pastors who avoid accountability and concentrate power in their own hands.

In this podcast, we discuss the warning signs of toxic church leadership and the profound harm these pastors inflict on congregations.

You’ll learn:

The manipulative behaviors and control tactics used by dysfunctional pastors.
The devastating effects of abusive leadership - declining attendance, loss of joy, staff turnover, and spiritual malaise.
Why narcissistic pastors stay entrenched - lack of oversight, cults of personality, and bullying critics.
How to confront toxic pastors - implementing accountability structures, addressing warning signs, training in ethics, protecting whistleblowers.
When removal is necessary - laying the groundwork and having full denominational support.

This candid conversation deals with an often ignored problem plaguing churches across the country. We offer solutions to restore congregational health and renew the proper pastoral role.

The courageous work of confronting dysfunction may be difficult but is essential for the mission of the church. Listen now for an in-depth look at the problem of controlling and abusive church leadership and what faithful congregations can do about it.

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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.

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Families packed the pews each Sunday. The budget was strong, and the church was known as a cornerstone of faith in their town.

But over time, things changed. Programs stayed the same even as the community evolved. Attendance slowly declined, and facilities started to show their age.

This story is all too common. Once-thriving churches coast on momentum until stagnation gives way to deterioration.

How can your church avoid this death spiral? On this episode of the Church Revitalization Podcast, we explore what to avoid and solutions to help revitalize your church.

To read today's show notes, visit: https://malphursgroup.com/207

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If you stay in ministry long enough, chances are you or someone you love will be impacted by a church scandal. We wish it weren't true, but sin exists even within Christ's church. In our broken world, scandals will continue to plague congregations until Christ returns.

In this episode of the Church Revitalization Podcast, Scott and A.J. explore the common sources of church scandals, steps to recovery, and a message of hope for leaders navigating these tragic situations.

By God's grace, even the most broken churches can be rebuilt into places of health and holiness once again. There is light at the end of the tunnel.

To read today's show notes, visit: https://malphursgroup.com/206

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In today's fast-paced world, an epidemic of apathy towards faith has emerged among families. While busyness is often blamed, the end result remains the same - parents are disengaging from discipleship. The passing excitement of Sunday services fades by Monday, revealing "Sunday-only" faith rather than genuine spiritual vitality. Yet as disciples called to make disciples, we must cure these plaguing Sunday-only patterns.

What if we could empower families to embrace discipleship? In this episode of the Church Revitalization Podcast, Scott and A.J. explore moving beyond stale Sunday-centered approaches for churches to equip families to thrive in faith amidst the pressures of modern life.

To read today's show notes, visit: https://malphursgroup.com/205

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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

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If you've ever tried to get a stalled car rolling downhill, you know it takes immense effort just to get the thing moving. But once you've broken through that initial inertia, momentum takes over and the car practically rolls itself.

The same can be said for growth in the church. But how do you start that momentum to begin with? In this episode of the Church Revitalization Podcast, we'll share practical ideas to shift your church from a fixed mindset to a growth mindset.

To read today's show notes, visit: https://malphursgroup.com/203

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What does your church have in common with a grocery store? Maybe more than you think.

When choosing where you will shop for groceries, you may have many choices. But why do you choose one over another? Why does it seem that one store is full of happy customers and another is a ghost town?

So how does this relate to churches? Most of us have probably driven by a church that didn’t seem like it had much going on only to see another nearby that was overflowing. Your church may be one or the other.

Today on the Church Revitalization Podcast, we are taking a look at why the culture of your church (or grocery store) matters and what you can do to assess the culture of your church.

To read today's show notes, visit: https://malphursgroup.com/202

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Welcome to the post-Christian landscape in America. It's no secret that our churches are facing a significant challenge – a decline in the adherence to a Biblical worldview, even among those who identify as Christians.

In this episode of the Church Revitalization Podcast, A.J. and Scott dive deep into the heart of the problem, exploring the causes behind this degradation, the consequences it brings, and potential solutions that might just be the key to revitalizing our churches.

To read today's show notes, visit: https://malphursgroup.com/201

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Time certainly has flown by! It was August of 2019 when Scott and I recorded our first few episodes of The Church Revitalization Podcast. We didn’t know what to expect or if anyone would listen.

Now after nearly four years and 200 episodes, the podcast has been downloaded over 100,000 times and somehow found by people in 175 countries.

So here are the top 5 episodes from our first 200!

To read today's show notes, visit: https://malphursgroup.com/200

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Money is a common topic in scripture and not one that is difficult to find God’s position on. God wants generosity and sacrifice, so we should all be good teachers of these high biblical values.

A.J. and Scott are talking about money. Of course, it takes money to run a ministry, and on this episode of the Church Revitalization Podcast, you'll find some ways that your church can help increase generosity.

To read today's show notes, visit: https://malphursgroup.com/199

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Leading as a pastor involves navigating the delicate balance between ministry and family commitments. It's not uncommon to find ourselves caught in a perpetual juggling act, trying to meet the demands of congregational growth while also tending to the needs of our own families.

On this episode of the Church Revitalization Podcast, A.J. and Scott offer tips for maintaining a healthy balance between ministry and family.

To read today's show notes, visit: https://malphursgroup.com/198

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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Why is it so difficult to disciple men effectively?

Every man has his own unique challenges, but all men are in need of spiritual growth and vitality. Unfortunately, most churches place minimal focus on developing men. It’s just too hard.

But if your church is ready to step up and make a difference in the lives of the men in your congregation, there are five key principles that can help you get better at discipling men.

To read today's show notes, visit: https://malphursgroup.com/192

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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

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How many times have you said, “We don’t have enough volunteers”?

This is among the most common challenges that church leaders face. Is it possible to actually get ahead, to have the volunteers we need, and to truly have an embarrassment of riches when it comes to our volunteer rosters?

While volunteer recruitment will never be easy or automatic, it is possible to get ahead and not feel desperate or discouraged from week to week.

In this episode of the Church Revitalization Podcast, we’ll explore five simple but often overlooked tactics for volunteer recruitment that any church can implement and begin to gain momentum.

To read today's show notes, visit: https://malphursgroup.com/190

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Do you (or your church) love the thought of participating in the movement of the Gospel around the world?

Do you (or your church) want to see disciples on every continent become disciple-makers?

Do you (or your church) see the value in building up leaders that can lead well into a challenging and uncertain future?

We do! And if you answered “yes” to one or more of those questions, then you are in a position to help us increase all of those things!

As a well-known leader in church health and leadership development, The Malphurs Group is uniquely positioned now for a significant global impact on the Church. We need you as a partner. Today on the Church Revitalization Podcast, we are sharing the vision of the Malphurs Group, and we are sharing how you or your church can get involved.

To read today's show notes, visit: https://malphursgroup.com/189

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Have you ever looked around your worship center on a Sunday morning, and people aren’t singing along? Or noticed people scrolling their phones during your sermon? Everyone gets distracted from time to time, but if you’ve noticed a growing sense of apathy from your congregation on a Sunday morning, it’s time to fix it. In this episode of the Church Revitalization Podcast, we’ll explore three key ways to break free from apathy in your Sunday worship service. To read today's show notes, visit: https://malphursgroup.com/188

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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

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“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

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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

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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

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Being elevated to a leadership position does not make anyone immune to being emotionally unhealthy. Likewise, leadership promotions should not be taken as an affirmation of a clean bill of emotional health.

This week on the Church Revitalization Podcast, we talk through five common emotional disorders that can hold people back from excelling as a leader and leading effective teams.

To read today's show notes, visit: https://malphursgroup.com/183

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This week’s episode of The Church Revitalization Podcast takes a little lighter tone.

We explore the diverse landscape of American evangelicalism by taking a quiz based on an article by Mere Orthodoxy called "The Six Way Fracturing of Evangelicalism."

Of the six categories outlined in the article where will we end up? You’ll hear it unfold in real time as we go through it and anxiously await the results of the quiz.

Mere Orthodoxy article: "The Six Way Fracturing of Evangelicalism" - https://mereorthodoxy.com/six-way-fracturing-evangelicalism/

To read today's show notes, visit: https://malphursgroup.com/182

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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

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We haven’t done the hard work for you, just given you a path.

A common question that we as Malphurs Group Guides get from pastors that we work with is “Do you have any suggestions for sermon topics that will help with revitalization?” Generally, the answer is to preach through the primary topics of a healthy church: Great Commission mandate, building up mature disciples, and having a compelling future-focused vision. For this week’s episode of the Church Revitalization Podcast, though, we’ve zoomed out to some broader themes and given you five sermon series outlines to take your congregation deeper into the truths of Scripture.

To read today's show notes, visit: https://malphursgroup.com/180

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Leading and directing are both crucial functions of effective church leadership, but they involve different approaches and goals.

Our goal is to help you better understand the difference between leading and directing and how to apply each approach depending on the situation.

To read today's show notes, visit: https://malphursgroup.com/179

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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

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Dying churches are stagnant, and thriving churches are full of life. The difference is action, animation, movement, and even the dreaded word….change.

This week on the Church Revitalization Podcast, we talk about the basics of working through an action plan.

To read today's show notes, visit: https://malphursgroup.com/177

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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

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Honesty is always the best policy.

In this episode of The Church Revitalization Podcast, we’re not really accusing any church of actively lying. We certainly understand the motivations behind this list of things churches tell themselves. We try to make things sound better than they really are. That doesn’t help anyone. It's better to face the facts and do the work of establishing where our church is today, and working towards a better, healthier future.

To read today's show notes, visit: https://malphursgroup.com/175

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More churches articulate a vision than reach one. In fact, the number of churches that actually make progress toward their goals is small. It’s easy to get overwhelmed by obstacles to change, the tyranny of the urgent, and other roadblocks to actualizing your God-given vision. But you shouldn’t give up!

In this episode of the Church Revitalization Podcast, we’re going to focus on how you can use systems thinking to reach your church’s vision.

To read today's show notes, visit: https://malphursgroup.com/174

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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

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Learn about the 2023 Church Check-Up Challenge! In this 7-day challenge (beginning January 9), you'll get practical tools and training to optimize your church's health for the upcoming year. Each day, you'll receive an email, a short video, and one actionable tool that focuses on a critical aspect of church health. Plus, one church that signs up for the challenge will receive a free Church Ministry Analysis--which includes a custom-written report and virtual report consultation with one of our Certified Guides.

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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

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Joy doesn’t exist because things are healthy. No. The opposite.

Churches that want to experience revitalization need to get serious about becoming a place filled with joy. This joy is available to all churches—but it takes hard work to tap into the source.

In this episode of the Church Revitalization Podcast, we’ll explore how your church can experience joy and how it can transform your church.

To read today's show notes, visit: https://malphursgroup.com/170

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*This week's episode of the podcast was written and recorded prior to the passing of Dr. Aubrey Malphurs. You can read a statement from our TMG team here: https://malphursgroup.com/press

As we continue through advent, we’re talking about peace. There are dozens of references to peace in the New Testament alone. Peace is certainly a key theme in the coming of the Messiah, and in His imminent return. With the birth of Christ we gained an option of peace never before seen. When Jesus returns we will finally gain the peace promised, once and for all who are in Christ.

To read today's show notes, visit: https://malphursgroup.com/169

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When we celebrate Advent, we remember the fulfillment of God’s promises in the birth of Jesus–but we also embrace the sense of expectation for Christ’s imminent Return. In reflecting on this season on our team at The Malphurs Group, we realized that there’s a clear connection between Advent and church revitalization.

Over the next four weeks, we’ll tackle each of the traditional four topics: hope, love, joy, and peace. In this episode of the Church Revitalization Podcast, we will dive into how hope plays a critical function in empowering your church for revitalization.

To read today's show notes, visit: https://malphursgroup.com/168

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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

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It’s not news that the Church is declining in the United States and that fewer people are identifying as Christian, but Pew Research recently released the findings of a study showing the trendline of Christian decline along with future projections.

So what is the takeaway for the Church? In this episode of the Church Revitalization Podcast, we are focusing on a few things to consider about the future of Christianity in America.

To read today's show notes, visit: https://malphursgroup.com/166

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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It seems like everyone has a podcast these days! While starting a podcast isn’t for everyone, there is still plenty of room in the so-called “market” for your church to start a podcast.

You don’t need to make the “new and noteworthy” or top charts for your podcast to be successful. You simply need to set the right goals, and put in the work to achieve those ends. On this episode of the Church Revitalization Podcast, we are giving you five steps for starting a church podcast.

To read today's show notes, visit: https://malphursgroup.com/160

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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

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It’s the heavyweight title fight of church discipleship ministries.

Perhaps second only to church “worship wars” between traditional and contemporary music, the battle between Sunday School and Small Groups has been waging for a few decades now too.

In this episode of the Church Revitalization Podcast, we discuss the best possible method for church discipleship.

To read today's show notes, visit: https://malphursgroup.com/158

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A team or board of qualified senior leaders is an essential component of a healthy church leadership culture. That said, when church boards are dysfunctional, they can do more to single-handedly run a church into the ground than just about any other factor.

n this episode of the Church Revitalization Podcast, we outline the five most common dysfunctional habits of unhealthy church boards.

To read today's show notes, visit: https://malphursgroup.com/157

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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

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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

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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

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Every leader has to make decisions, and good decisions are made from good information. The helpful things every pastor should know every week, we call the pastor’s “dashboard.”

So what should be on your dashboard? This week on the Church Revitalization Podcast, we will tell you some of the best things to include in any pastoral dashboard.

Read the full show notes at malphursgroup.com/153

Shout out to our friends at GrowingHealthierChurches.com for their great dashboarding tool for users of Planning Center and Elvanto/Tithely.

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Millennials are the most religiously unaffiliated generation in American history. But they’re not atheists or agnostics. A study by Barna Group found that 74% of Millennials believe God exists, and almost half say they pray daily-yet many young adults don’t identify with a specific denomination or church.

Why are Millennials leaving their faith? And what can the church do about it? That is the subject of this episode of the Church Revitalization Podcast.

To read today's show notes, visit: https://malphursgroup.com/152

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Throughout the country, churches of all sizes and denominations experience a bump in fall church attendance. Congregations benefit from people wanting to get back into the rhythm of “normal” life after the summer and to establish good habits for a new season.

However, this isn’t just a chance to hop back into the status quo of the spring. In this episode of the Church Revitalization Podcast, we are giving you 10 ways to maximize the fall church attendance bump.

To read today's show notes, visit: https://malphursgroup.com/151

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The leaders of change must be proactive; they must act while the window is open. They must understand the process of change and be ready to implement that process as God opens windows to the future. But how do you start that process of change?

Is your church frozen in the status quo? We are going to help you thaw it out on this episode of the Church Revitalization Podcast.

To read today's show notes, visit: https://malphursgroup.com/150

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Is your church frozen in the status quo? We are going to help you thaw it out on this episode of the Church Revitalization Podcast.

To read today's show notes, visit: https://malphursgroup.com/150

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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

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Leadership development is a key element that highly effective churches have in common. If you want to increase the quantity and quality of ministry that your church is capable of doing, build leaders.

So how do we help people grow in their leadership skills, and perform at higher and higher levels of effectiveness? In this episode of The Church Revitalization Podcast, we are looking at three things…Assess, Train, and Launch.

To read today's show notes, visit: https://malphursgroup.com/148

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What are the early signals that your church needs revitalization? God designed your church to accomplish a specific purpose. Whenever a congregation begins to slow down in accomplishing that purpose, or starts to pursue its own agenda, the church begins to need revitalization.

This week on the Church Revitalization Podcast, we are discussing 5 warning signs your church needs revitalization.

To read today's show notes, visit: https://malphursgroup.com/147

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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

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It’s been well-documented that the tenure of pastors has been decreasing for some time now. A recent Barna study looked into some reasons that pastors consider quitting, and we think there are solutions to these issues. 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

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If marriage isn’t difficult enough, try doing ministry together. Ministry places intense pressure on marriages. At the same time, ministry together can be extremely rewarding and impactful. 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

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The purpose of your worship service is to lead people to live in awe and obedience to God. Are your worship services declining and failing to accomplish their purpose?

You don’t need to be cool or have the most innovative worship service in your town. Every church, regardless of tradition, style, or liturgy can work hard to eliminate worship service mistakes, and in so doing, lead people into worship with intentionality and excellence.

In this episode of the Church Revitalization Podcast, we're discussing the top 5 mistakes to avoid in your worship service.

To read today's show notes, visit: https://malphursgroup.com/143

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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

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May 24, 2022 - Last week, Guidepost Solutions concluded and released their report on the ongoing Southern Baptist Convention (SBC) sex abuse scandal, and the results are not good. In fact, what was uncovered is disgusting and infuriating.

What does all this mean for your church? In this episode, we talk about two primary points.

To read today's show notes, visit: https://malphursgroup.com/141

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It’s an exciting time for a pastor and a church when a changing of the guard is in motion. With all the greatest trust in the Lord to direct these relationships, humanity is still flawed, so mistakes are made or red flags overlooked.

In this episode, we discuss three ways in which the onboarding process of a new pastor can help ensure a long tenure.

To read today's show notes, visit: https://malphursgroup.com/140

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Are you a details person? Do you thrive in an environment with clear rules and guidelines? You might be a C-Type (Conscientious-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 final installment, you’ll learn the strengths, challenges, and keys to success for the C or Conscientious type personality. To read today's show notes, visit: https://malphursgroup.com/139

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Do you value stability and loyalty? Do you avoid decisions that could lead to conflict? You might be an S-Type (Steady-Type) leader.

In this third installment, you’ll learn the strengths, challenges, and keys to success for the S or Steady Type personality.

To read today's show notes, visit: https://malphursgroup.com/138

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Are you always chasing the next big idea? Are you a connector and networker? You might be an I-Type (Influence-Type) leader.

In this second installment, you’ll learn the strengths, challenges, and keys to success for the I or Influence type personality.

To read today's show notes, visit: https://malphursgroup.com/137

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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.

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

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It's easier to talk about what Bible study you'll host next, instead of talking about your church's vision. But communicating vision is important to the health and growth of your church.

Lots of churches have put effort into vision development, but then find that it fizzles out in a short amount of time. It often comes down to a lack of communication.

In this episode, you'll learn 3 simple questions to ask of your church’s vision plan that can help move you forward.

To read today's show notes, visit: https://malphursgroup.com/135

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Your church's core values guide your leaders and keep you on course when turbulence obscures the vision.

But it's not enough to implement the values. You also must work hard at protecting and preserving them.

In this episode, we'll dive into 3 threats to your core values (conflict, compromise, and institutionalization) and how to guard against them, so that you have the biggest long-term impact possible.

To read today's show notes, visit: https://malphursgroup.com/134

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How can the local church help build the global church?

As a local church leader or member, you may feel like there's not much you can do to help grow the global church. But we took a team to Europe to talk to faithful international church planters about how local churches across the world can get involved in their work.

In this episode, you'll learn more about the current state of the global church and how the future could look.

To read today's show notes, visit: https://malphursgroup.com/133

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Being a small group leader sounds simple, but it can be very difficult. As a leader, you have to: - 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

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One of the most impactful Christian leaders is also one of the most misunderstood -- Saint Patrick.

Like St. Nick or St. Valentine, Patrick’s story is overshadowed by cultural traditions that have little (or nothing) to do with his actual story.

In this episode, explore a pioneering aspect of Patrick’s ministry that was revolutionary in his time - so that you can see that same transformation today.

To read today's show notes, visit: https://malphursgroup.com/131

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🙌 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

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👉 You cannot help your church grow and have a greater impact without knowing what’s working and what isn’t.

In order to measure your church health, you need to accurately understand 6 areas.

These metrics show your overall health trends and can show any significant red flags. If your church took the Church Ministry Analysis, how would your church score in different areas?

Learn more in this episode of The Church Revitalization Podcast. Take the custom written Church Ministry Analysis* here: https://malphursgroup.com/cma

*From now until March 9, 2022, you can get 50% off the Church Ministry Analysis by using code STATE when you register

To read today's show notes, visit: https://malphursgroup.com/129

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Easter is on its way! And it's one of the best times to reach the people in your church's community. Discover 10 new Easter outreach ideas to make your Easter planning easy and effective.

To read today's show notes, and receive a free PDF download of all 10 ideas, visit:

https://malphursgroup.com/128

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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

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Most declining churches are also aging churches.

If you want to reach the next generation, it's not going to happen by accident. It requires a desire to change, a strategy to change, and a commitment to follow through on that change.

In this week's episode of The Church Revitalization Podcast, we cover 3 strategies to reach younger people at your church.

To read today's show notes, visit: https://malphursgroup.com/126

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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

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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

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Are you concerned about apathy in your church congregation? Are people uninterested and disengaged?

A recent Lifeway survey of pastors recorded many of them listing apathy as their primary concern for their church. Apathy is a real problem - and the good news is, there's something we can do about it.

In this week's episode of The Church Revitalization Podcast, we cover 5 reasons your congregation is apathetic (and what to do about it).

To read today's show notes, visit: https://malphursgroup.com/123

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We've all heard news of a church merger - or maybe we've even been involved in one. But do church mergers really work? Should you peek below the surface, you would probably find that blending smaller struggling churches often results in one larger struggling church, not necessarily a spiritually healthy church.

In this episode, we cover 3 reasons church mergers often DON'T work, and 5 things you can do to make a merger more successful.

To read today's show notes, visit: https://malphursgroup.com/122

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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

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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/

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Do you feel discouraged? Tired? Weary? Confused? Struck down?

It's no secret that the last couple of years of ministry have been hard. From logistics to livestreams, from illness to injustice, leading a church in this world is hard.

Going into next year, it’s important to be intentional about viewing our world through our hope in Jesus and the certain future God gives us.

To read today's show notes (and find encouragement for your weary heart), visit: https://malphursgroup.com/119

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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

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Wait... create an incompetent team? Who wants that?

Today, we'll be looking at volunteer team management from the OPPOSITE perspective. What would you have to do to decrease the competence of your team? And how can you avoid doing those things?

Leading a healthy ministry requires working with people and helping them to be their best. Understanding which factors can most influence a person’s behavior can unlock the full potential of your staff and volunteer teams.

To read today's show notes, visit: https://malphursgroup.com/117

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Losing a volunteer is the worst. Retaining volunteers is important for the health and impact of your church.

But did you know - one of the biggest reasons people will quit a volunteer role is a lack of clear communication? A significant percentage of volunteers could be retained (even if on a modified schedule) if you improve key communication skills.

In this episode, we'll cover three simple habits that can transform your team, reduce attrition, and enhance your volunteers’ understanding of their importance.

To read today's show notes, visit: https://malphursgroup.com/116

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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"

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Healthy, sustainable church growth requires focusing your energy on the right things.

Church growth isn’t about nickels and noses. It’s not about fog machines and cool lights. Church growth isn’t about fueling your ego. But God is calling every church to grow because every church is called to go and make disciples.

In this episode, you'll learn five key strategies your church can use to sustain healthy church growth.

To read today's show notes, visit: https://malphursgroup.com/115

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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

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It’s easy to retreat into a myopic view of our local church and forget that there’s a whole global Church (and a lost world) out there needing the human resources that we’ve been gifted with. 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

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⭐ FREE DOWNLOAD in show notes: 10 Christmas Church Outreach Ideas To read today's show notes, visit: https://malphursgroup.com/112

Your church has a nearly unparalleled opportunity to reach your community during the holiday season. In this episode, we'll explore six key questions you should be asking in order to implement creative Christmas outreach ideas.

To jumpstart your planning and brainstorming, download our resource 10 Christmas Church Outreach Ideas.

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The problem is not that we use technology, the problem is that we use technology poorly.

At the end of the day, the goal of the Church remains one of relationship building. First, person to person, and then person to Christ. Would we not use every opportunity to do so?

In this episode, we discuss how to use technology to become more relational.

To read today's show notes, visit: https://malphursgroup.com/111

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Men are at a crisis point in our society, and your church's men's ministry can stand in the gap. If the church builds up men, everyone benefits. Likewise, building up women and kids to thrive helps the whole of the family and society.

In this week's podcast, explore five ways the church has failed men, and what your church and men's ministry can do about it.

To read today's show notes, visit: https://malphursgroup.com/110

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"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

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Don't make these 10 deadly church planting mistakes! Church planting is difficult, treacherous, and not guaranteed to succeed. However, you can be aware of the ten deadly church planting mistakes. By being intentional about navigating around these church planting mistakes, you can see your church plant beat the statistics and reach more people with the Gospel! To read today's show notes, visit: https://malphursgroup.com/108

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Every church operates out of what it values. The problem is that most churches never take the time to consider what those core values truly are.

Do you know what your church's actual core values are? Could you defend those values by your actions? In this week's episode, we discuss 5 ways to leverage your core values for greater church health.

To read today's show notes, visit: https://malphursgroup.com/107

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"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

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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

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Take a look at 3 ways to increase giving in your church. Spoiler alert: there is no magic, but there are strategies.

We’ve worked with a lot of churches, and some are blessed with an abundance of finances, and some struggle all the time. Of course, there are many factors that may predispose a church to greater financial resources such as location, size, and demographics of the congregation. If everything was equal in those respects, there are still things that one church could do that would provide different results from another. Here are three.

To read today's show notes, visit: https://malphursgroup.com/104

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No pastor got into ministry because he wanted to make a budget, but the budget season is an excellent time to think strategically. Ministry cannot happen without resources.

In this episode, we'll cover three church budget strategies that can go overlooked. As your church builds the budget for next year, keep these three strategies in mind.

To read today's show notes, visit: https://malphursgroup.com/103

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Let’s be honest with each other. Your church’s outreach strategy probably isn’t working particularly well. The vast majority of churches in the United States are in decline, and of those that are growing, only a fraction of them are reaching the unchurched.

The failure to create a winning outreach strategy is usually rooted in the inability to conceive of anything different from what has already been done.

In this week's episode, we’ll explore how you can use five criteria to help you craft a custom outreach strategy that works in your context.

To read today's show notes, visit https://malphursgroup.com/102

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Why is strategic planning important? Is strategic planning Biblical?

Strategic planning is critical for churches that want to make a kingdom impact. Indeed, churches that fail to plan are likely to suffer. However, strategic planning in the church isn’t an easy task. Leveraging a proven process and tools tailored to the ministry context can help your church immeasurably.

In this episode, we'll discuss why strategic planning is important and how it can make a difference in your church.

To read today's show notes, visit: https://malphursgroup.com/101

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Good leaders are born and made. Regardless of how easily good leadership comes to you, you can improve your skills, and should seek that improvement out. The Church is in dire need of quality leaders who will constantly point people back to Christ, and model well for them the traits of the Savior. In this episode, we'll cover 5 areas of development you can lean into to grow as a high-impact leader.

To read today's show notes, visit: https://malphursgroup.com/100

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Have you felt frustrated that many in your congregation aren’t involved in any groups, but other members attend two or three classes or Bible studies? What’s happening? Why is it so difficult - especially for new families - to get plugged into the fellowship? There are several common mistakes churches make in small group ministries. In this episode, we’ll explore the five problems that plague small group ministries in churches, and how you can avoid them.

To read today's show notes, visit: https://www.malphursgroup.com/99

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New research indicates troubling trends in the American Religious landscape. Discerning churches will pay attention to these trends and act on their implications for their congregation.

All of the top line trends suggest that evangelical churches must overcome serious challenges and shortcomings in order to thrive. In this episode, we'll share three key data points and how your church can respond.

To read today's show notes, visit: https://malphursgroup.com/98

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Here in the United States we just celebrated our independence on the 4th of July. Regardless of whether you’re an American or not, there are some freedoms that you may need to be reminded of.

Oftentimes, pastors get caught in cycles in which they feel oppressed by their circumstances. Sometimes, those circumstances are self-imposed. In this episode, we'll cover 10 freedoms you, as a pastor, have in your church, and help you break free of the things that bind you.

To read today's show notes, visit: https://malphursgroup.com/97

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Do most of your staff meetings feel like they could have been an email? The sad reality is most church meetings are too long, too report-driven, and just plain boring! Bad meetings are not unique to churches. But your church’s staff meetings don’t have to be bad or boring.

In this episode, we’re sharing three tips for better staff meetings. Develop these three habits, and your church will thrive, and you will stop dreading staff meetings.

To read today's show notes, visit: https://malphursgroup.com/96

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Have you ever felt like your church’s board wasn’t reaching its full potential? Most church board members are good people that have good intentions. But they’re often inefficient and ineffective because they don’t know how best to spend their time and energy.

In this episode of The Church Revitalization Podcast, we’ll share five common roadblocks to a healthy church board and the shifts your team can make to be more effective. These subtle shifts make all the difference.

To read today's show notes, visit: https://malphursgroup.com/95

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Have you worked on vision in your church, but you’re not really seeing the positive effects that you expected?

Vision can be tough, and it doesn’t come easy for many, so you’re not alone if you’re struggling. Vision cannot be overlooked, though. It is a critical component of a healthy, thriving church.

In this week's episode, we'll cover 7 vision failures that may be happening in your church and how to make plans for a course correction.

To read today's show notes, visit: malphursgroup.com/94

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If you don’t know how you’re doing, how can you know if you’re doing the right things? One of the components of church revitalization is measuring success.

In our Strategic Envisioning process of church revitalization, we work through five things that are essential to church health. If you’re seeing these five things happening in your church, there is a very good chance that you’re reversing a trend of decline, and will begin to see a new trend of Kingdom expansion.

To read today's show notes, visit: malphursgroup.com/93

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Has your church ever experienced a summer slump? Nearly every church sees a dip in attendance over the summer, and it can make you want to shrug your shoulders and take the loss. But what if you could leverage the summer for growth?

Not all growth is numerical, but all growth contributes to your overall health. In this week's episode, we’ll explore five things you can do to grow as a church over the summer--and who knows, perhaps your congregation may pick up some new people along the way!

To read today's show notes, visit: malphursgroup.com/92

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Any church revitalization should start with a church revitalization checklist. Preparation is key. To be a successful revitalizing pastor, you need to use your own pre-revitalization checklist.

In this week's episode of The Church Revitalization Podcast, we share a Pre-Revitalization checklist that will set your church up for success. Learn how to clarify, set expectations, and prepare yourself and your team.

To read today's show notes, visit: malphursgroup.com/91

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If your church remains a closed system, it will inevitably die.

Given the trajectory your church is on, is it spiraling downward or is it genuinely being given outside energy, opening itself up to authentic leadership and deep change?

Church death doesn’t have to be inevitable. In this week's episode, we'll cover four things you can do to start the process of breakthrough.

To reach today's show notes, visit: malphursgroup.com/90

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More than 80% of churches are plateaued or in decline, and church leaders are the problem. The greatest barrier to your church’s success is not your strategy, it is your leaders.

Having ineffective church leaders is not a death sentence! Church leaders can grow, change, learn, and become effective. But if you want to see strategic change, you have to first admit where and how your church leaders are the problem.

In this episode, we'll cover five symptoms of church leaders that are a problem.

To read today's show notes, visit: malphursgroup.com/89

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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

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Is emotional intelligence really that important to the church and its leaders? Does it make a difference?

Great leaders lead through emotions. They move us. They ignite our passion and inspire the best in us. In this episode, dive into fourteen reasons why every Christian, and leaders in particular, should understand and value the importance of emotional resonance.

To read today's show notes, visit: malphursgroup.com/87

Note: The show notes from this episode are an excerpt from Developing Emotionally Mature Leaders by Dr. Aubrey Malphurs, published by Baker Books, 2018.

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By definition, the status quo is the current state of affairs. Regardless of cause, a lack of forward progress in making and maturing disciples of Jesus leaves churches in an unhealthy state.

Things are always changing whether we want them to or not, or whether we choose to direct the change or not. Positive change in the church is change that is biblical, intentional, strategic, and measurable.

In this week's episode of The Church Revitalization Podcast, we'll share 5 ways to challenge the status quo and inspire deep change.

To read today's show notes, visit: https://malphursgroup.com/86

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At its core, good church strategic planning is not an event—it is a process of continuous improvement. Most churches fail to make plans. Or, at best, they will put ideas on paper but fail to follow through.

The solution is to re-conceptualize church strategic planning as a healthy habit rather than an event.

In this episode, you’ll learn the five moments—think of them as beats—that define a healthy rhythm for church strategic planning.

To read today's show notes, visit: malphursgroup.com/85

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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

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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

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The single most effective form of evangelism is simply living out a life transformed by Christ and telling other people your story about how you came to know Him.

In this episode, we share 3 ways that churches can cultivate creative individual evangelism among their congregations.

To read today's show notes, visit: malphursgroup.com/82

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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

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Your church will never go where you are not intentionally leading it. To see long-term, sustained success in ministry, you will need to chart a course to ministry goal setting and achieving those goals.

Winning ministry goals are Mission-centric, measurable, specific, performance-based, and temporary. Learn more about each of these winning characteristics and how to apply them in this week's episode.

To read today's show notes, visit: malphursgroup.com/80

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The way you treat guests is a reflection of your practical theology. One of the Bible’s deepest values is hospitality, and so if your church is aiming to be Biblical… your church must value hospitality, too!

If you’ve heard criticisms of your hospitality from churchgoers, or you haven’t heard them because guests keep slipping out the back door, chances are you need to take a hard look at your approach to hospitality.

In this episode, learn 11 small things your church can do to serve guests better.

To read today's show notes, visit: https://malphursgroup.com/79

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Regardless of your political and social position, we can probably agree that our nation is divided and more tragically, the Church is divided.

It would be easier for us to stay in our corners, divided and entrenched in our points of view, but that's not what God is calling us to do. As ministers of reconciliation and peacemakers, we are called to seek a solution for the issues that exist among us.

To read today's show notes, visit: malphursgroup.com/78

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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

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You read that right. Stop training your leaders if you want to see better staff and volunteer performance. This sounds almost unbiblical but it has been proven in multiple business studies over multiple decades.

In this week’s podcast we discussed six factors that affect workplace and volunteer performance. Learn how to equip your leaders to do the work of ministry well.

To read today's show notes, visit: malphursgroup.com/76

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Spanish is the second most spoken native language in the world. If reaching Spanish-speaking communities isn’t on your church’s radar, you will fall behind one of the greatest ethnic shifts of the next century.

Many Anglo and Black pastors are disconnected from the unique challenges that face Hispanic congregations. In this episode, we'll discuss four of these challenges.

To read today's show notes, visit: malphursgroup.com/75

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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

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Churches without leadership accountability have a one-way ticket to organizational implosion. This isn't an overstatement. It's the truth. When pastors lack effective accountability, eventually the ministry will fail. That's why leadership culture is one of the components we assess in our Church Ministry Analysis process.

In this episode of The Church Revitalization Podcast, we'll dive into the five myths (and five realities) of leadership accountability.

To read today's show notes, visit: malphursgroup.com/73

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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

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Choosing a church consulting partner is a huge responsibility. How do you navigate the complexity? How can you be sure you have chosen the right partner?

That complexity is why we created this list of 10 tips you should know before hiring a church consultant. We want you to be well-informed about what to look out for in this space.

To read today's show notes, visit: malphursgroup.com/71

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In this week's episode, we outline one key action every church leader must take to prepare for 2021 and we share the details about an exciting giveaway.

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When you choose to win at ministry but lose at home, you’re on a dangerous road.

You can win at both. It is possible to be a successful leader and have a healthy family life. But to win at both, you have to be intentional about winning at home.

So if you’re feeling like you’re losing at home this Christmas after a long and hard year, we want to give you some incredibly simple-yet-powerful tips that can help you win at home. In this podcast episode, we'll discuss practical things you can do today that will generate more wins for you in life, and give your family the best present possible this Christmas: your presence.

To read today's show notes, visit: malphursgroup.com/69

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Want to see greater ministry fruit, a more productive staff, and less office drama?

Communicate clearly.

Lack of clarity in communication to ministry leaders delays effective church ministry. As Donald Miller says, “If you confuse, you lose,” and that is exactly what happens in churches every day.

This week on the Church Revitalization Podcast, we talked through three principles for better leadership communication to help you sharpen your leadership.

To read today's show notes, visit: malphursgroup.com/68

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“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

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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

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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

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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

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Empowerment is about authority. Authority is decision-making power. The heart of empowerment is the transfer of decision-making control over an area of ministry.

No amount of leadership development--classroom training, reading, practicing, or mentoring--can produce a leader without ultimately handing off ministry to emerging leaders. Therefore, understanding and applying the concept of empowerment are essential to developing more leaders in your church.

To read today's show notes, visit malphursgroup.com/64

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In the first few minutes of nearly every meeting with a new church contact, we’ll inevitably hear their current attendance and their pre-covid attendance. I don’t say that to give anyone a hard time, but instead to set up this week’s topic on developing future-proof church metrics.

You may think it’s premature, but we’re saying today...let go of the past and the numbers that went with it. It’s ok to mourn the past (for a brief time), but God is always calling your church forward. Let’s look at three fresh principles for measuring your church in a more sustainable and useful way.

To read today's show notes, visit malphursgroup.com/63

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Legislation, with the best of intentions, might change a person's behavior, but it will never change the condition of their heart.

As our over-dramatized political divides get continuously pumped into our news feeds, we can all benefit from a reset of perspective.

In this week's podcast episode, we're talking about the only winning campaign. The most amazing thing about Jesus's campaign for king-of-every-soul is that he calls on us to join him in his campaign. He commissioned his Church (people) to be on the campaign trail. "Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you." It's the preeminent mission of every church and believer.

To read today's show notes, visit: malphursgroup.com/62

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The consequences of unhealthy leadership structures are self-evident: burnout, moral failures, low effectiveness, poor performance, arguing, apathy.

These disastrous consequences are the reason why Jesus invested so much time and energy in his ministry to leadership development. Jesus taught that the effectiveness of ministry is directly proportional to the number of healthy leaders.

In this episode of The Church Revitalization Podcast, learn three critical steps to developing a healthy leadership structure in your church.

To read today's show notes, visit: malphursgroup.com/61

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Have you ever left a church leadership meeting and wanted to quit church altogether?

Dysfunctional leadership is a common problem. In fact, for every church with a healthy leadership structure, there are likely dozens with leadership challenges. So if your church’s leadership structure makes you want to pull your hair out, you aren’t alone.

God’s design is for your church to have healthy, Biblical leadership. You are not fated to operate under bad polity. You can choose to develop more effective and efficient leadership structures that empower your church to have a more significant impact.

In order to bail on bad polity and build a better, biblical leadership structure that works in the 21st century, you need to acknowledge three challenges and navigate three action steps. In Part 1 of Bailing on Bad Polity, we detail the challenges your church must boldly confront to transition to a better structure for the future.

To read today's show notes, visit: malphursgroup.com/60

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The unique challenges of the Covid pandemic highlighted how churches must reallocate personnel dollars in the future. As more ministry shifts online, churches will need to beef-up their digital ministry staffing. Additionally, volunteers saw unprecedented expectations placed on their shoulders during the pandemic.

These changes have left many church leaders wondering--what should be a paid position and what should be a volunteer position?

Rather than make a comprehensive list of which positions should be paid and which should be a volunteer (which could vary from church to church), in this podcast episode we'll give you three guiding principles to help you know when to hire.

To read today's show notes, visit: malphursgroup.com/59

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Budgeting your church's finances is rarely anyone's favorite thing to do, but it takes money to do ministry. Many people think that money is a "necessary evil" in the church, but money in and of itself is neither good nor evil. It's just a tool used for good or evil. As with any other tool, if used correctly, it will help you achieve your goals. The same goes for your budget, which is an expression of how you use your tool (money) to do ministry that matters.

In this episode, we walk through five steps to zero-based budgeting and stewarding your church's finances to maximize your impact for Christ in the world.

To read today's show notes, visit malphursgroup.com/58.

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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.

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Too many pastors find themselves discouraged, and their ministry doesn't match what they thought it would be when they started their ministry. In this episode, we explore critical steps you can take to jumpstart your calling and put yourself back on the journey to thriving ministry.

Our guest this episode is Dale Sellers, Executive Director of the 95 Network, and author of the book Stalled: Hope and Help for Pastors Who Thought They’d Be There by Now. By unpacking his own story, Dale brings insight and encouragement to pastors who feel as if they should be more "successful."

Read the show notes at malphursgroup.com/56.

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In Episode 55 of The Church Revitalization Podcast, we spoke with Bo Patterson. Bo is a Guide on the Malphurs Group team, but more relevantly, he is an expert in group ministry. He's personally launched dozens of groups at the churches where he has served over the past five years and launched ten new groups since the pandemic started.

Bo gives highly practical insight into growing your small group ministry, even in this challenging climate. Listen to the full episode below to glean all the tips. To read today's show notes, visit malphursgroup.com/55.

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Things are so uncertain right now, and leading churches right now feels like trying to balance on one rollerblade down a steep hill while juggling knives. Here's the good news, you don't have to feel overwhelmed. The uncertainty of 2020 doesn't have to hold you back from making a clear plan for 2021. Your church can get unified, and your team can get a clear plan of action, no matter what curveballs are ahead of us. You can get the clarity you need to make good plans for next year. In this episode, hosts Scott Ball and A.J. Mathieu teach you how. Read the show notes at malphursgroup.com/54

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Now is the time to make smart and fast decisions. Churches that are waiting for "normal" are getting lost, falling behind. The key to thriving beyond 2020 is choosing to move forward with a bold vision for the future.

In this episode, Scott Ball and A.J. Mathieu outline how to summon the courage to move forward and what the future of the church could look like.

Access the show notes at https://malphursgroup.com/53

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Pastors are struggling with exhaustion, frustration, and overwhelm. It feels like you are fighting a battle you cannot win, and for every two steps you take forward, 2020 knocks you back three steps. There is a way out. In this episode, Scott Ball & A.J. Mathieu walk through four actions you can take to reduce your fatigue and increase your effectiveness. Read the show notes at malphursgroup.com/52.

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If you're like most churches, most of your members haven't come back to in-person services. Your church might not even have them yet!

At the same time, online attendance has been plummeting since Easter. According to Barna, as many as 30% of all engaged Christians, and 50% of millennials who attended church pre-Covid, don't engage with the church at all anymore.

The good news? There's something you can do about it.

Learn five ways your church can boost overall online engagement while targeting disengaged pre-Covid members, getting more from those currently tuning in, and connecting with the unreached in your area. Get the show notes at malphursgroup.com/51.

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The greatest barrier to making disciples is a lack of intentionality in our ministry. Given time, churches accumulate ministries and programs. It's inevitable. The majority of churches have cluttered "ministry garages" that are preventing them from doing what God designed them to do.

Learn the four steps churches can take to build a more effective ministry in our post-Covid world.

Read the show notes at malphursgroup.com/50.

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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.

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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.

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Have you ever felt like you're capable to achieve more as a church leader, but feel like there is an invisible barrier holding you back? Every leader has a ceiling.

This is the Peter Principle--people will rise to the level of their incompetence.

In this episode of the Church Revitalization Podcast, Scott Ball & A.J. Mathieu walk you through three steps for raising your leadership capacity.

Access the show notes at malphursgroup.com/47.

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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.

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The best leaders understand the role that emotions play in their own lives and the lives of others. To maximize your effectiveness as a church leader, you must understand the four levels of emotional intelligence (EQ) and how to leverage them.

In this episode, hosts Scott Ball & A.J. Mathieu detail how to boost your EQ by climbing the four levels of emotional intelligence.

Read this episode's show notes at malphursgroup.com/45.

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In this week's episode, hosts Scott Ball and A.J. Mathieu share three insights into leading well during the transition back to in-person services.

Read this episode's show notes at malphursgroup.com/44.

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In this episode, we talked with Greg Atkinson about how we can continue to engage with our congregations online even as some of our churches have begun meeting in-person again. Greg gives practical, actionable advice for churches to manage the balance in-person and online ministry.

Greg is the founder of the First Impressions Conference, a professional church secret shopper, and author of several books including the Hospitality Ministry Handbook for Volunteers.

Read the show notes at malphursgroup.com/43

Hospitality Ministry Volunteer Handbook: Equipping You to Serve (Outreach Ministry Guides)

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The current racial tension in America is an opportunity for pastors to learn, lean-in, and lead well.

Since the release of the George Floyd video, our team has been focused on trying to listen. Particularly, we want to listen to church leaders of color that we know and respect. Secondly, we wanted to hear from white pastors who have been knee-deep in leading well through this issue for years.

In the three interviews we conducted for this episode, we began with a simple question: How would you encourage pastors to lead well through this historic moment?

As you listen to the audio below, we encourage you to stop, listen, and learn. Evaluate how you can lead better moving forward.

Read the full show notes at malphursgroup.com/42.

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In a world filled with overwhelming statistics, hosts Scott Ball & A.J. Mathieu cut through the noise and show you the data most relevant to your church. All of us need to make decisions based on good information. In this episode, we break down three studies with church-specific data and what it means for your congregation.

Read the show notes at malphursgroup.com/41.

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Your church can and should be leveraging this moment to become more effective than ever before. In this week's episode, we interview Jason Burns--the found of Radiant Printing and the Lead Pastor at Access Church. Jason's unique role in leading an organization that helps churches be more effective in communicating their mission and vision while serving as a pastor gives a deep weight to his perspective and insight. Let's dive in!

Access the show notes at malphursgroup.com/40.

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Join hosts Scott Ball and A.J. Mathieu for an interview with Michael Anthony, author of A Call to Courage and the founder of Courage Matters. Learn how to lead with courage through this crisis, and how to lead change in your church with courage.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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).

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Are you ready for the hundreds of Easter guests that will “attend” your church online this weekend? Do you have a clear plan for following up with them? Are you confident you can connect them into the life of your church beyond streaming your services on Sunday?

On Episode 34 of the Church Revitalization Podcast, we walk you step-by-step through an assimilation plan that every church can customize and use. This done-for-you guest follow-up system can be up and ready to go by Sunday, regardless of the size of your church.

Read the show notes at malphursgroup.com/34.

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During the COVID-19 crisis, it is important now more than ever to develop a robust small groups ministry. Live streaming your church's worship services is important, but leveraging a network of small groups to bring spiritual care to the individual level is even more necessary.

In this episode, Scott Ball & A.J. Mathieu walk you through how to use Zoom and the Band App to create a thriving virtual small groups strategy. To read the show notes, visit malphursgroup.com/33.

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Episode 32 of the Church Revitalization Podcast is our first in a series of "Live" podcasts. This episode was recorded live on Facebook on Monday, March 23. During this series, we are tackling urgent topics related to leading during the COVID-19 crisis.

In this week's episode, hosts Scott Ball & A.J. Mathieu share the three most urgent actions leaders must take to lead well through this crisis.

To read the episode's show notes, visit malphursgroup.com/32.

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In this week’s episode, hosts Scott Ball and A.J. Mathieu describe the three-step process churches must go through to change their culture.

The gap between your reality and your ideal vision is rooted in the need for fundamental change. This change, at its core, is not just a change of strategy but a change of culture. This week, we walk you through the three steps your church will need to navigate if you want to shift your culture to unlock your vision.

To read today’s show notes, visit malphursgroup.com/31.

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In this week’s episode, hosts Scott Ball and A.J. Mathieu share five tactics to help your church win the implementation battle. Making plans was never the biggest challenge in the revitalization process—it’s turning those dreams into reality. Churches often struggle to gain momentum, and they get frustrated and burned out when their plans seem to fail. Scott & A.J. empower you with five simple things your church can do to make sure your church wins at implementation. To read today’s show notes, visit malphursgroup.com/30.

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This week’s episode is unique. Hosts Scott Ball and A.J. Mathieu recently hosted a webinar on Crisis Logistics in the church. Given the rapidly evolving situation with the coronavirus around the world, we are releasing the full, unedited audio of that webinar on our podcast to help your church prepare for a potential crisis. Put simply, if your church had to stop meeting for a few weeks, would you be ready to meet the spiritual and logistical needs that would arise?

Additional resources such as a full set of notes from the Crisis Logistics Webinar and a downloadable PDF Crisis Logistics Checklist can be accessed at malphursgroup.com/29.

The Church Revitalization Podcast: Recent Episodes

The Malphurs Group