Church leaders often find that one of the hardest parts of church renewal is engaging the congregation in the work of justice. Because justice is often perceived as unrelated to renewal, it can get pushed to the …
Church Renewal During the “Great Dechurching” of America
Where did everybody go? If your church’s pews are less full than they were a few decades ago, you are not alone. Research shows that 40 million American adults stopped attending church over the last …
Tim Keller’s Lessons for Church Renewal Leaders
Church planter and author Tim Keller left behind a rich legacy for those who work in church renewal. Keller planted and grew a thriving congregation in Manhattan, co-founded The Gospel Coalition, launched a church planting …
How to Become an Outward-Focused Church
The gravitational pull of churches will always be toward the wants and needs of insiders. It takes intentional effort to keep a church focused on its mission of reaching those outside the faith. At a …
How To Catch the Wave Of the Holy Spirit
Revitalization leaders know that catching waves are as important as making plans. Catching waves is about embracing Holy Spirit opportunities that are consistent with mission. Those opportunities show up in a variety of ways. Sometimes …
Five Ideas for a Modern Reformation
EDITOR’S NOTE: This summer, we’re bringing you our most popular articles from recent years. I originally wrote this article on Reformation Day, but its message continues to have traction year-round! On Oct. 31 more …
A Look Ahead at the Headwinds of 2025
To help your church thrive, it is important to keep an eye out for emerging opportunities and challenges. What better time to think about these trends than at the start of a new year! I …
Planning a Vision Retreat
The work of church renewal hinges on ministry leaders’ clarity about the church’s mission and their role in helping to accomplish it. Summer is the perfect season to plan a retreat that allows your team …
Recent Trends In Church Staffing
A high-functioning church staff helps the church accomplish its mission. A key task many church renewal leaders face is hiring, training, and empowering the right people for ministry as employees. The Unstuck Group recently just …
Encouraging People: Being a “Barnabas” in a “Paul” World
Recently, I was on a call discussing the need for encouragement in this season of life and ministry. Many of our friends and colleagues are walking away from ministry and the church. It can be …