{"id":32352,"date":"2022-09-10T16:06:15","date_gmt":"2022-09-10T21:06:15","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.biblia.work\/sermons\/10-reasons-to-be-optimistic-about-churches-in-2019\/"},"modified":"2022-09-10T16:06:15","modified_gmt":"2022-09-10T21:06:15","slug":"10-reasons-to-be-optimistic-about-churches-in-2019","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.biblia.work\/sermons\/10-reasons-to-be-optimistic-about-churches-in-2019\/","title":{"rendered":"10 Reasons to Be Optimistic About Churches in 2019"},"content":{"rendered":"
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Jonathan Petersson photo – Pexels<\/div>\n

By Thom S. Rainer<\/em><\/p>\n

Despite the tough reality many congregations face today, I remain an obnoxious optimist as we move into 2019.<\/p>\n

Recently, I received an email about a church that I thought was headed for closure. Through a series of God-blessed events, the church has turned the corner and will remain a presence in the community.<\/p>\n

That one anecdote has been a common theme for so many congregations: there is hope. God is not done with us yet. And here are ten reasons why:<\/p>\n

1. More church leaders are admitting their churches are struggling. <\/strong><\/h3>\n

On the surface, this reason seems more like a reason for pessimism. I don\u2019t see it that way. You can\u2019t begin to get healthy until you admit you are not healthy. It is a vital first step.<\/p>\n

2. Churches are increasingly connecting with their communities. <\/strong><\/h3>\n

They are breaking out of their holy huddles and becoming a witness and a positive presence in the neighborhoods and towns where God has placed them.<\/p>\n

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3. There is significant evidence of greater Great Commission obedience.<\/strong><\/h3>\n

We recently conducted a survey of 1,700 church leaders. The number one area where they are seeking to improve is evangelism and outward focus.<\/p>\n

4. Toxic church behavior is less tolerated.<\/strong><\/h3>\n

Many churches struggle because issues such as bullying and toxic leadership are swept under the rug. Just recently I spoke with a pastor who was celebrating the reality that we talk about these issues openly and frankly.<\/p>\n

5. Church revitalization has become a major movement.<\/strong><\/h3>\n

This one reason excites me beyond measure. Such is the reason I created the non-profit organization, Revitalize Network. I wanted a place where we could connect and help one another.<\/p>\n

6. More young pastors feel called to lead a church revitalization.<\/strong><\/h3>\n

Related to the revitalization movement is the incredible number of young leaders who are and will be leading churches toward revitalization. I can\u2019t wait to see what God will do!<\/p>\n

7. More church leaders are seeking coaching and consultations.<\/strong><\/h3>\n

I love the humility and vulnerability I am seeing with these leaders. They are seeking God\u2019s wisdom, and they are calling on others to help their churches move forward. I know.<\/p>\n

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See also  The Group Most Likely to Still Be Missing From Your Church<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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We at Church Answers are receiving more requests for coaching and consultation than at any point in my ministry.<\/p>\n

8. Churches are working together toward fulfilling the Great Commission.<\/strong><\/h3>\n

[epq-quote align=”align-right”]For decades many of our churches and church leaders have criticized and fought each other. More than ever today, we realize we are on the same team.[\/epq-quote]There are so many areas where we can work together even if we come from different denominations or non-denominational churches.<\/p>\n

For decades many of our churches and church leaders have criticized and fought each other. More than ever today, we realize we are on the same team.<\/p>\n

9. Church planting and church revitalization are not perceived to be either\/or.<\/strong><\/h3>\n

We need both. We must have both. They are each critically important. I love the dual emphasis that is taking place.<\/p>\n

10. The multi-site and multi-venue movement is entering an era of growth and maturity. <\/strong><\/h3>\n

Because of this movement, existing congregations are finding new opportunities for Great Commission growth. Because of this movement, fewer churches will close their doors.<\/p>\n

These are exciting days to be a church leader and church member. While we don\u2019t deny the reality of struggling churches, we embrace the excitement about God\u2019s work in so many congregations.<\/p>\n

I really believe it: 2019 will be an incredible year for thousands of churches.<\/p>\n

I can\u2019t wait to see what God will do.<\/p>\n

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Thom S. Rainer<\/h2>\n

@ThomRainer<\/strong><\/p>\n

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Thom is the former President and CEO of Lifeway Christian Resources and author of Autopsy of a Deceased Church<\/em>.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n