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A P U B L I C AT I O N O F T H E S O U T H E R N B A P T I S T S O F T E X A S C O N V E N T I O N • 2 0 1 7
REVITALIZATION 5 HABITS OF
+TECHNOLOGY EVANGELISTIC
CHURCHES
In a world dominated by
technology, churches must be PA G E 2 8
prepared to reach their members
and culture in new ways.
PA G E 2 8
SUNDAY SCHOOL’S
ROLE IN
ENLARGE THE REVITALIZATION
ORGANIZATION
PA G E 1 8 RURAL CHURCH
REVITALIZATION
A CASE FOR
ASSIMILATION
IF YOU’RE A
CHRISTIAN,
YOU’RE A
MISSIONARY
DEAR CHURCH LEADER 2017 DATES // CONVENTION STRATEGIES
God can make any church come alive, but its people must January 12
Church Revitalization Lab // Grapevine SBTC
turn to the Lord and experience revitalization God’s way. The
January 19
entire Church Revitalization process of the SBTC is based on Church Revitalization Lab // San Antonio, Parkhills BC
transferable principles from the Word of God for the people February 9
of God. Our desire is to come alongside the local church Church Revitalization Conference // Criswell College
March 30 – April 1
to join you on your journey to restore the church to be the Advance Now Weekend // San Antonio
beacon of hope for a community in need of Jesus. April 9
Whether you are on a plateau, just beginning a slump, or CP Sunday
faced with the uncertainty of how to continue proceeding April 13
NAMB/Church Revitalization Conference //
forward, our methods and processes can assist you in SBTC, Grapevine
determining what your next steps should be. Contact us at May 4
the SBTC. We are here to serve you. Role of the Pastor Conference // SBTC, Grapevine
June 10
Crossover, SBC // Phoenix, AZ
In His Service and Yours, June 11 – 12
Pastor’s Conference // Phoenix, AZ
Kenneth Priest, Director June 13 – 14
SBC Annual Meeting // Phoenix, AZ
Convention Strategies
October 5 –6
Southern Baptists of Texas Convention Strategic Growth Forum // SBTC, Grapevine
kpriest@sbtexas.com
or 877.953.SBTC
CHURCH
Revitalization sbtexas.com/revitalization
Biblically Based Principles for Renewed Growth
6
When thinking through church
revitalization, a pastor must know what the
E N L AR G E
possibilities are in his present context. To
know these, the pastor must first know his
present reality.
T HE
The Case for Assimilation
O R G AN I Z AT IO N
18 14
The topic of “assimilation” does not create
the same buzz as some topics, but might
I suggest that it is one of the more important
issues of church revitalization and church growth.
IF YOU’ R E A
CHRIS TIAN, 16
R E VI TAL IZ AT ION + YOU’ R E A
TE CH NOL OGY MIS S IONARY
In a world dominated by technology,
28
the church must be prepared The Missing Link 21
to reach its members and Making Disciples that Make Disciples
8
Ministry and
If you are convinced
that God wants to E VA NG E L I S T IC
use you in revitalizing CHU RCHE S Personnel Initiatives
a rural church, you
32
can’t keep looking beyond the
Baker’s Dozen:
26
horizon. You must be determined
to stay long enough to let God
use you... Decision-Making
Approaches
SUNDAY SCHOOL’S ROLE SINK SURFACE SWIM
IN REVITALIZATION 34
There is an increasing awareness of
the decline in baptisms in the Southern
Baptist Convention. At the same time,
11
30 percent of our churches are declining
and another 40 percent of our churches
have plateaued. So what is the key to
Do You Have Plumblines for
Your Church’s Decisions? 36
helping these churches?
SBTEXAS.COM/REACH 1
CHURCH
Revitalization
Biblically Based Principles for Renewed Growth
SBTEXAS.COM/REACH 3
Revitalization Process
THE
The question of what you from afar (unless you are
need is based on how many in a rural community and
you have; whether 15 or all are driving from afar).
POSSIBILITIES
150, there is a right answer Your focus must be on the
on what you need for the surrounding community. Is
church to be best positioned this a community of senior
for the future. adults or young singles? Are
ARE ...
A good rule of thumb they retired professionals,
is to have one leader for young working class,
every eight members. This middle-aged lower class?
rule allows you to disciple Who lives, works, and plays
a few people at a time for around your church? Then,
the purpose of fulfilling what are the ethnicities?
By Kenneth Priest
Director, Convention Strategies leadership roles in the Reading demographics can
church as the need arises. assist with this, but nothing
W
hen thinking through church revitalization, As you equip one man to is better than boots-on-
a pastor must know what the possibilities be a deacon, he can then the-ground work in this
are in his present context. To know these, mentor other men to be case. Drive through the
the pastor must first know his present deacons when the timing is neighborhoods, or better
reality. This addresses several areas which we will look at; right for other deacons to yet, walk the community.
people: both internal and external, and things: buildings, come on board. Similarly, Treat the day as a prayer
room sizes, equipment, etc. you can disciple someone walking opportunity and
as a teacher, and then they look for signs of who is
SBTEXAS.COM/REACH 7
growth books written by mega-
church pastors, church planters, and
statisticians. As valuable as all of
these are, it’s just tough for the small
church pastor to identify with them
and their suggested models.
So this book dealt with principles
rather than programs. There is
nothing profound about any of
them. They have all been discussed
ad infinitum in most of the church
growth and revitalization studies.
What I did that might be a little
bit different is that for nearly 50
years of ministry, I have lived these
principles out in small and medium
churches that have seen revitalization
and renewed growth. One was in a
university town, the little forgotten
neighborhood church about to go
under. Another was in a metropolitan
suburb, a church that overbuilt in
a transitioning neighborhood. Still
another was in an inner-city setting
RURAL CHURCH
with multiple ethnic ministries. But
three of the churches I have been
privileged to pastor were and are in
REVITALIZATION
the rural setting. All three of them
had reached a growth plateau or
were in decline.
I simply adapted the principles
from the book to those rural
By Dick Sisk | Pastor, Tarpley BC listen to my own good counsel and situations and two of the three
ultimately turned my doctoral project experienced total revitalization. The
wish I had taken from Southwestern Seminary into one that didn’t see revitalization was
my own advice a practical book entitled Beyond not because of the principles, but
when I started the Plateau: Hope and Help for the rather rests solely on my shoulders. I
to have a book Small and Medium-sized Church. simply didn’t stay there long enough.
published. I had My main motivation was not to At First Baptist Church of Heath,
always said that I garner attention as an author. The near Rockwall the attendance went
had much rather thing that pushed me was the fact from about 60 to about 230. In
people ask me, that there are so many pastors who addition at the church I am presently
“Why don’t you write a book?” are struggling in small and medium serving, the attendance has gone
than to have people ask me why I churches, and it’s hard to wrap their from about 30 to averaging about 85.
did write a book. But alas, I didn’t hearts and minds around the church While I know that attendance is not
SBTEXAS.COM/REACH 9
area I am in prefers old hymns starting my ninth year at the
with a country touch, your I’M NOT SAYING IT IS EASY, BUT church I am now serving. It
community might prefer a takes time and determination.
different approach to worship.
IF YOU ARE CONVINCED THAT I actually turned down the
Adapt to where you are. Don’t GOD WANTS TO USE YOU IN search committee from my
attempt to convince people “ideal, dream” church a few
that they need to adapt to a REVITALIZING A RURAL CHURCH, years ago, because I had only
foreign approach just because YOU CAN’T KEEP LOOKING been here a couple of years. I’m
it worked in the suburban not saying it is easy, but if you
church where you used to be. BEYOND THE HORIZON. YOU MUST are convinced that God wants
Our foreign missionaries have BE DETERMINED TO STAY LONG to use you in revitalizing a rural
to learn how to adapt to the church, you can’t keep looking
culture they are serving. The ENOUGH TO LET GOD USE YOU. beyond the horizon. You must
same is true here in the good be determined to stay long
old USA. You have to adapt to enough to let God use you.
where you are, not where you think they came up with the ideas. Blessings as you evaluate,
would like to be. It’s called working with the folks adapt, apply, and stick to it.
God has given you.
3. APPLICATION Once you
know where you are, and you have 4. DETERMINATION It will
a pretty good idea of how to adapt take determination to spend the
these principles to your situation, necessary time in order to see
you then have to begin to apply revitalization to take place. As long
them. This is not easy, because you as a pastor sees his rural setting as a
can’t do it alone. You have to bring stepping stone to something bigger
the people along with you and it and better, the probability is not
takes time. A good way to approach very high that revitalization
this phase is to give the people will take place. I was at
ownership of the principles. Teach my first rural church
them these various principles and for a little over
ask them to tell you how they relate ten years.
to your church. After all, they know I am
more about your church than you
do, in spite of all of your training
and preparation. Start setting in
motion the ideas that come
from your people. Put
them in charge of the
steps as you go. It’s
not deceitful
for them
to
By Mark Yoakum
SBTC Church Ministries Director
is an increasing awareness For a long time churches have known you can do
SBTEXAS.COM/REACH 11
Churches may do one or two follow- not growing?” The reason is they them saved. Unless our members
up visits, but churches very rarely have let Satan divert them into a have a burden, it doesn’t matter how
see that person become an active program which focuses on the study many salvation presentations they
member of the church, much less a of the Bible and fellowship. They make; they will not share because
disciple. The reason is most of the forget the purpose of Sunday school there is no burden. Simply put, they
time there is no relationship with is to be the reaching arm of the do not care enough.
the person, so he or she does not church. They do not invite people to Evangelism Explosion, Faith, and
become a disciple. Evangelism that church or Sunday school; instead, other training programs like these
produces the best fruit happens in they focus on attending with their are not evangelism programs; they
the context of relationships. This is friends and studying the Bible. If a are discipleship programs to teach
best accomplished in our churches church wants to change its growth members how to share their faith. It
today through Sunday school. pattern from declining or plateaued, is very important for all members to
When someone invites a friend it must address the issue of getting learn how to share their faith. That
to church, and he or she starts to outside the walls and inviting their is part of the discipleship process.
investigate the claims of Jesus, they friends, relatives, co-workers and The problem with many discipleship
come to Sunday school, and the odds neighbors. Churches with a focus programs is that they do not teach
are they will be saved within one on the primary task of its members individuals how to share their faith.
year. Because of the relationships that to invite people to their class in an This program was started by Jesus
now exist, he or she will continue to effort to see them become Christians when he sent his followers out two by
read and study God’s word and start are the churches making a difference two. To be a complete disciple, one
applying it to their lives. Through in their communities and growing. must be like Jesus and not only be
Sunday school relationships, the new We have to focus on reaching the able, but willing to share about Jesus
convert becomes assimilated and lost. In Sunday school, we must start wherever they go. Their most fruitful
begins the path to spiritual growth. praying more for those who are lost evangelism efforts will be in the
This is the most fruitful strategy to than for all the physical ailments of context of their relationships.
evangelism. our members. When our members Repeatedly, people have told me
The question is, “Why are so develop a burden to pray for the lost, it is easier to share with someone
many churches with Sunday School they will develop a burden to see totally unknown to them than people
they are the closest to. I believe this
is Satan’s way of keeping Christians
from being effective. If we really had
T H E QUE ST I ON: a burden, we would share with those
closest to us. Surveys of churches
Why are so many churches with Sunday School not growing? tell us that as many as 94 percent of
members have not shared their faith
T H E A NSW E R: with anyone during the last year. This
has to change.
The reason is they have let Satan divert them into a program Two of the more famous young
which focuses on the study of the Bible and fellowship. pastors in our convention recently
They forget the purpose of Sunday school is to be shared on a video showing that it is
the reaching arm of the church. They do not invite easier for them to share Jesus from
people to church or Sunday school; instead, the pulpit than with people one on
they focus on attending with their friends and one; therefore, they do not do it
studying the Bible. much. In talking with many pastors,
I find a great number of them are
Revitalization
church revitalization methods.
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+ a s s i m i l ati on [uh-sim-uh-ley-shuh n]
for
Assimilation
by Ken Hemphill normally explain “going” in terms an evangelistic visit in the home. One
Director, Church Planting and Revitalization,
North Greenville University
of evangelizing. I often translate evening I was visiting with a friend
“baptizing” as “congregationalizing” from college days who had recently
T
he topic of “assimilation” which is broader and more joined our church and was actually
does not create the same comprehensive than simply the act on my evangelism team. As we were
buzz that church growth, of baptizing a new believer in water. driving home from a visit, he asked
evangelism, innovation in worship, In 1 Corinthians 12:13 Paul indicates me if I wanted to know what it was
and other such topics might create at that we are all baptized by one Spirit like to join First Baptist. From the
a seminar, but might I suggest that it into one body. This reference is found tenor of the question, I wasn’t sure
is one of the more important issues right at the heart of his discussion I wanted to know but knew that I
of church revitalization and church of the church as a gifted body. Thus needed to know. He indicated that as
growth. Without an effective strategy the Spirit places the new believer in a visitor he received numerous calls
of assimilation, we will constantly Christ and in his body the church. It and contacts indicating the great
struggle to be effective as it relates to is this act of incorporation into the interest the church had in him and
the priority of the Great Commission. church (assimilation) that becomes his family. However, after he joined,
the critical link between “going” the contacts ceased after he got
THE IMPERATIVE (evangelizing) and “teaching” his welcome letter from the pastor
The imperative in the Great (equipping or discipling). with his tithing envelops included.
Commission is “make disciples.” What an indictment! But it was true
It takes relationships and time to THE TRAGIC REALITY and we had to begin to think more
make disciples and thus assimilation Tragically many churches have strategically about the process for
becomes the key to the disciple- no established process for the incorporating new members in our
making task. In truth, I think that assimilation of new members into the fellowship and ensuring that they
assimilation is actually mandated by body of Christ. When I pastored First “belonged.”
the three participles which define Baptist, Norfolk, we had an aggressive
the disciple making task in Matthew outreach strategy which involved A DIFFERENT KIND
28:19-20. The participles are “going,” numerous contacts beginning the OF RESOURCE
“baptizing,” and “teaching.” We Sunday immediately after the first visit A few years ago, I joined with a
to our church and culminating with former staff member from my Norfolk
TRAGICALLY
see in a few moments, assimilation is should be birthed into the family of
about relationships and they are the God. This is a critical juncture in the
MANY CHURCHES key to making people feel wanted at process of assimilation and cannot
your church. The first letter in Velcro be taken for granted. We “assume”
HAVE NO is “v” and it stands for “Valuing Every that new believers and newcomers
ESTABLISHED
Person as a Gift from God.” A large to our church will find their place in
percent of the people, some estimate the body. We can’t assume! Whether
PROCESS FOR as high as 87 percentage, attend the you call your small groups Sunday
church they attend today because school, cell groups, connect groups,
THE ASSIMILATION they were brought to the church or whatever, the larger a church
OF NEW MEMBERS
by a friend or relative. Teach and becomes the smaller it must become.
encourage your people to invite and Recent studies have convincingly
INTO THE BODY bring their friends to church. The shown that the attachment to a
process of assimilation first begins small group is the essential factor in
OF CHRIST. with a friendship outside the church retaining persons in the church.
and continues as they are welcomed RELATIONSHIPS. The reason
by the church family. that small groups are vital is
ENGAGE. Once we have that relationships are the key to
developed a strategy for helping assimilation. If people do not feel
days to write a book to help churches people bring their friends to an wanted and vital they will eventually
to think strategically about their event sponsored by the church, it drop out of church. Are your small
assimilation process. We called it is essential to develop a consistent groups designed so that they help
V.E.L.C.R.O. Church. We wanted and effective plan for engaging each people develop relationships? Here is
a process that would help people guest with intentionality. This process where homogeneity and receptivity,
“stick” to the church. We intended it begins in the process and must be two vital growth principles come
to be a totally different kind of church carried throughout the entire time into focus. Effective small groups
growth book. This one is designed that a guest is on your campus. will capitalize on these twin growth
to be studied by the laity rather than While it is important to have persons principles.
read by the clergy. Too many growth who are tasked with welcoming ORGANIZE. Don’t assume that
ideas go unimplemented because guests, this intentional spirit of if you enroll someone in a small
they are met with resistance when hospitality must go beyond the “first group, your job of assimilation is
introduced by the pastor of staff. The impressions” team and must become complete. Each small group must
approach in our book is based on the the culture of the entire church. be organized so that regular contact
core conviction that nothing changes LEAD. Our ultimate goal is to with each member is maintained and
anyone’s mind but the Word of God introduce all our friends to our best appropriate ministry is conducted.
applied by the Spirit of God. Thus friend, Jesus. We are sometimes We suggest you apply the I.S.S.E.
each of the six chapters begins with intimated by the idea of evangelism. formula as you are organizing your
Bible study, followed by a section of Nothing should be more natural or small groups for ongoing care —
application questions, and then three enjoyable than sharing with a friend Intentional, Sustainable, Simple, and
sets of “Velcro” suggestions. the story of your life and relationship Expandable. In each section we make
with Christ. Each church must have suggestions that will help you to
AN OVERVIEW OF an effective plan for training people develop your own Velcro strategy for
THE VELCRO PROCESS to build relationships with lost sticking members to Christ and his
Value. In truth, the process of people, meeting needs in the name of body, the church.
assimilation usually begins before Christ, and sharing the good news.
a visitor walks in the door of your CONNECT. A baby is born into
SBTEXAS.COM/REACH 15
IF YOU’ R E A CH R I S T I A N,
YOU’ RE A M I S SI O NA RY
By Shane Pruitt Believe it or not, Wikipedia gives call to a relationship with the king is
SBTC Missions Director
one of the best definitions I’ve found also a call to tell the world about this
of missional living: “In Christianity, same king! And, this should make
A
simple explanation of missional living takes place when us extremely joyful. After all, thank
missions is that we have the believer adopts the posture, God that there is more to being a
a glorious king who thinking, behaviors and practices Christian than getting saved, sitting
has rescued us into his of a missionary in order to engage on our blessed assurances on padded
kingdom, and now we get to love others with the gospel message.” pews, going to a bunch of potluck
him, worship him, and tell the Unfortunately, the word “missional” dinners, waiting on the Rapture Bus
world about him so others will love, has become such a misused and to swoop down and pick us all up to
worship and share him. misunderstood buzzword in the the good ol’ by-and-by.
So, what is a missionary? Often, the last decade. But, at its core, the
image that comes to mind are those term emphasizes the truth that For by grace you have been saved
“superstar” Christians who have their ALL Christians should be involved through faith. And this is not your
pictures on the back walls of our in the Great Commission of Jesus own doing; it is the gift of God, not
churches, who get on planes and wear Christ, not only a select group of a result of works, so that no one may
cargo-pants; coming back once a year “professional” missionaries. boast. For we are his workmanship,
to offer slide-show presentations. In Scripture is clear that all Christians created in Christ Jesus for good works,
no way should we belittle that view are missionaries. Here’s why: which God prepared beforehand, that
of missionaries. Thank God for those Salvation is a call to be a we should walk in them. (Ephesians
who surrender their lives to share missionary. The following statement 2:8-10)
the love of Jesus on foreign soil. They can’t biblically exist in the minds of
definitely are missionaries, but they’re Christians: “God has called me to Therefore, if anyone is in Christ,
also not the only ones. salvation but not to missions.” The he is a new creation. The old has
SBTEXAS.COM/REACH 17
E NL ARGE
THE
O R G AN I ZATI ON
BY KENNETH PRIEST
SBTC Director of Convention Strategies
A
and LifeWay Research, the respondents
begins to identified the following: organization? First, a church must
think about decide what Bible study model is
enlarging the needed to be used in its respective
organization, WILLING TO BE IN A SMALL GROUP BIBLE context; on-campus Sunday
STUDY IF A FRIEND INVITED THEM:
it once again morning, on-campus small
comes around to the issue of groups, off-campus small groups
need. A portion of your role as or a hybrid.
the senior leader is to strategize 61% 42%
on the “what’s next” list. A
pastor must continually look to DEFINITIONS:
AGE 20-29 AGE 30+
what is going to be happening On-campus Sunday morning:
next in the church in order to traditionally referred to as a
address it. As an example, if WILLING TO LISTEN TO SOMEONE TELL Sunday school model or Bible
the church is going to host a THEM ABOUT CHRISTIANITY: Fellowship model. This decision
fall festival and has a strong typically uses age-graded or life-
follow-up process to its festival, stage Bible study classes which
it can expect some additional
families to begin attending the
89% 75% meet around the worship hour of
the church. A challenge for this
church. The pastor must look model is not enough time for
to the preschool and children’s AGE 20-29 AGE 30+ biblical community.
area to ensure they are prepared On-campus small groups:
for what may come. Are this model is a small group
WOULD ATTEND A CHURCH THAT
the rooms ready? Are there PRESENTS THE TRUTH TO THEM IN AN model which still uses the church
enough volunteers equipped? UNDERSTANDABLE WAY: campus. Typically, this model
These are just two of the initial would meet at a different time
questions. Whatever the event from the primary worship time,
or program, it will drive an 63% 47% utilizing age-graded and life-stage
outcome when implemented classes. A challenge for this model
correctly, therefore the church is getting people back on campus
AGE 20-29 AGE 30+
must be prepared. an additional time during the
Why start new groups? week.
Bottom line is to reach new Off-campus small groups:
WOULD BE LIKELY TO ATTEND A CHURCH
people for Christ. Even in a IF THE PEOPLE THERE CARED ABOUT this model typically has the
declining church, starting a THEM AS A PERSON: groups meetings when it is
new group is the best way to most convenient for the persons
reach new people. engaged in that particular group.
58% 38% These groups may be setup by
SBTEXAS.COM/REACH 19
Deciding on your target
audience will help you ON-CAMPUS
ON-CAMPUS
SUNDAY
ON-CAMPUS
ON-CAMPUS OFF-CAMPUS
OFF-CAMPUS HYBRID
HYBRID
SUNDAY MORNING
MORNING SMALL
SMALL GROUPS
GROUPS SMALL GROUPS
SMALL GROUPS
determine which model
is best for your church.
T
good. In fact, the exciting worship? Are we short of
numbers are really ideas and activities? Is our pastor
scary. We see the not dynamic enough? You can add
percentage of churches a host of questions and reasons
that are plateaued and declining here. Some of them have weight and
remain over 70 percent both in Texas merit, but I contend that they are
and nationally. In addition to that, not enough. We are in dire need of
our baptism numbers continue to something more than the next series
decline year after year. Often times or even new leadership.
we are befuddled as to why we We need a different plan.
SBTEXAS.COM/REACH 21
often push hard and work to help
their people embrace a particular
D I S C I P L E S or a few particular aspects of a
disciple. The problem is that most of
M A K E the time they have not developed a
comprehensive picture of a disciple.
D I S C I P L E S A major portion of the leaders I
interact with in churches have not
been personally discipled and thus
What if one of the components, “disciples make disciples.” This is struggle to define, or for that matter
or maybe even the greatest key, to not an aspirational goal, but a key replicate, that in the lives of others.
turn this around is disciple-making? focus. It is simple and yet incredibly When leadership has not clearly
What if the struggles we are seeing difficult. It is basic to the core of defined or really may not even know
stem from a lack of true disciples who we are as Christians and yet it what a replicating disciple looks like,
in the church? Would that change is profound in the deepest of ways. the struggle to be effective for the
the importance of the conversation True disciples make other disciples. gospel becomes an ever-increasing
when it comes to making fully For this to make any sense and to obstacle. In truth, we are lost to
replicating followers of Christ? help move this conversation forward, engage the morally runaway culture
Would that make us rethink what we we must define what a disciple is if we don’t know how disciples live
are doing? Would that make us focus and does. To be honest, most leaders and make other disciples.
on the lives of people more and their that I have engaged with do a great
spiritual journey? job of understanding a component DISCIPLESHIP REDEFINED
We have adopted the phrase, of what a disciple is and does. They When we talk about making true
Ted Elmore
Pastor/Church Relations
Associate, SBTC
Revitalization
Adam Greenway
Dean, Billy Graham School
CONFERENCE
Caleb Lasater
SBTC Social Media
& IT Catalyst
Nathan Lorick
Evangelism
Director, SBTC
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with the gospel. Our struggle is that
IF WE WANT TO we have separated these ideas in the
CHANGE THE CULTURE church and people choose the one(s)
WORTH A
OF THE CHURCH, they prefer. Many discipleship people
are not really evangelists and many CLOSER LOOK
WE HAVE TO TEACH evangelists don’t know how to make
PEOPLE TO LIVE disciples. If we want to change the
AS REPLICATING, culture of the church, we have to
teach people to live as replicating,
EVANGELIZING evangelizing disciple-makers. True
DISCIPLE-MAKERS. disciples reach people, multiply their
faith and live on mission, and that is
disciples, we have to clearly define what we want to see all throughout
what a disciple is and does. Many the church.
have written extensively on this and
will define it far more eloquently REVITALIZATION DEMANDS
that I can in this article. We use the DISCIPLE-MAKING
following definition as a place to The key to seeing things change
begin the conversation: rallys around the fact that we have
A disciple is a fully committed to refocus our efforts on the most
follower of Christ that embraces the important things, making disciples
message of Jesus through spiritual who make disciples. In the world of
growth and maturity, the mission of revitalization, we must stop trying We are called to live out and
Jesus through penetrating lostness to keep moving forward as though pass on our faith, just like the
(missions and evangelism), and the early disciples. We are called
everything is going well when it is
to pass on our faith in such a
method of Jesus through life-on-life not. We need to see the reality that way that it continues to grow.
spiritual multiplication. many churches are plateaued and This is our task.
We use the phrase, “fully declining, from there we need to
committed follower of Christ” reset our vision to focus on true Overwhelming, isn’t it?
intentionally. Disciple-making disciple-making multiplication.
begins with people committing their RHYTHMS is a new
This requires the pastor to develop
resource developed by
hearts and lives to Christ. Many life-replicating disciples as a leader. the SBTC with a goal to
times churches work to program Practically, this may involve him provide an introductory
the ministries of the church before meeting with his staff, deacons, or disciple-making tool for
focusing on the hearts of the people. a few key leaders every week, then churches and leaders in
If you want to make replicating walking with them to live as disciples Texas and beyond.
disciples, you must begin by and challenging them to replicate
changing and engaging the hearts For your copy visit
their lives in the lives of others.
sbtexas.com/rhythms
of the people. They have to be on There is no quick fix. It requires
mission, not just attending. investing and building a leadership
In addition to that, our definition team that makes disciples. It’s about
includes missions, evangelism and multiplication not addition. This
training as a part of disciple-making. conversation is simply a drop in the
We are taking about more than just bucket of the needs we have to turn
teaching someone about God. This things around, but every movement
includes sharing, reaching, living begins with a single step.
and replicating in the lives of others
SBTEXAS.COM/REACH 23
VETTING CRITERIA FOR
V I S I O N , S T R AT E G Y,
M I N I S T RY A N D
PERSONNEL
I N I T I AT I V E S
“Good is the enemy of great” is the first By Jim Baker | Sacred Structures
Problem Avoidance/Problem Solving - What Training - Can a current staff or volunteer be trained to
q potential problems could occur if this initiative q fill this role? If not, why not? If so, how can this training
is implemented? What are the anticipated obstacles? be achieved?
How will we overcome them?
Structure - If approved, where on the staff organization
SBTEXAS.COM/REACH 25
BAKER’S DOZEN
DECISION-MAKING
APPROACHES
SPIRITUAL ALIGNMENT PRIORITIES PRINCIPLES
RELATIONAL
BY JIM BAKER | SACRED STRUCTURES
C
hange leaders are people STA F F: What do other staff or team
who see opportunities 6 members think about the change?
where others don’t. They I N T U I T I V E : What is your gut saying?
have the courage to take
great risks and the ability to
7
R AT I O N A L : What are the pros and
make wise decisions.
Frequently they aren’t even aware of the
8 cons?
decision-making process they are using R I S K / R E WA R D : What are the
when determining a change initiative, but 9 risks with this change? What are the
intuitively run change related decisions potential pay-offs? Can you live with the
through multiple filters. worst case scenario?
CO ST: What are the costs in dollars,
Thirteen Decision-Making
Approaches When Considering
q time and resources? What are the costs
if you don’t make the change?
Change
C A PAC I T Y: Is there sufficient time and
Developing the ability to make wise
decisions is foundational to effectively
w motivation to see the change through?
leading change. The list below contains 13 COM P E T E N C Y: Is there adequate
common lenses for viewing decisions. Use e knowledge, skills and habits to
them to look at change-related decisions implement the change?
from multiple angles and to discover your R E L AT I O N A L : Who will be impacted
preferred decision-making approaches. r most by this change? Who will benefit,
who will be hurt?
S P I R I T UA L : What indications are
1 there that the change is God’s will? Other Questions To Consider
• Which approaches make the most
A L I G N M E N T: Does the change
2 line up with the mission and vision
difference for you?
• What would a wise decision look like?
of the church?
• What other information do you need to
P R I O R I T I E S : Does the change support know to make a great decision?
3 the church’s objectives and goals? • What will you stop doing to make room
P R I N C I P L E S : Is the change consistent for this change?
4 with the church’s values and doctrine? • What other decision making approaches
would you add to the list?
P E R S P E C T I V E : What do key advisors
5 think about the change?
SBTEXAS.COM/REACH 27
REVITALIZATION +
H
TE C N O L O Y
G
evitalizing a church by technology, whether it is the to use. I would like to share with
R
is not a simple newest smart phone, tablet, virtual you just a few of these resources
task that can be reality or social media platform. that can be utilized for your work
accomplished This constantly advancing in revitalizing your church starting
overnight. It technology comes with its risks, with the resources provided by the
is a process but also with its many benefits SBTC and then looking at a few
that takes earnest prayer, for personal and ministry use. In additional technological tools.
intentional evangelism coupled a revitalization work, it is highly
with discipleship and a focused important for extra resources to OTHER TOOLS FOR
priority on God’s Word. With be cost-effective, if not free. This is REVITALIZATION
this foundation set, resources can why the Southern Baptists of Texas When a church is in the process
be used alongside it in order to Convention has worked to provide of revitalization, it is important to
enhance the work of revitalization. resources by utilizing the current be great stewards with the limited
We live in a world that is dominated trends in technology for churches funds that are available.
A couple years ago we developed Apps for phones and tablets have Revitalizing a church is a
a site to house video trainings, become even more accessible for challenging task that pastors do
sermons, and webinars. The site churches and ministers to use. The Church not have to face alone. Our pastor
has now grown and has almost 600 Revitalization app provides resources for development site provides courses
videos to help our churches in many you in the palm of your hand. Articles, and resources for the pastor who is
different areas of ministry. This site blogs, short videos and a new podcast on working through revitalization in his
can be utilized by those on staff and revitalization are all housed in this one app. church. Reports and responses to
those in the congregation. For a This allows for content on revitalization to questions from the course pertaining
church going through revitalization, be accessed anywhere, so long as your to the church are sent to a mentor
this content can help fill the gap device has an internet connection. New that can help guide the pastor during
caused by lack of staff and train content is added periodically in order to stay the revitalization process. This allows
leaders in the comfort of their own up-to-date with changes and current trends for what can be a lonely experience
home or at church. in revitalization. This app is available for for a pastor to be a time that filled
There is a specific section for Android, Apple and Windows phones. with honesty, encouragement
churches going through revitalization The newly launched Church Revitalization and support. Currently there are
with content geared to address the podcast features different guests answering three courses based on the books
issues they are facing. If your church questions on revitalization and discussing Breaking the Missional Code, Bonsai
is going through the revitalization revitalization as it pertains to specific Theory of Church Growth and Total
process with the SBTC, preaching areas. These guests provide insight for Church Life which address different
and teaching points are provided to unique areas of revitalization and can be aspects of the process that are
work in conjunction with the sermon- downloaded so that you can listen at your important to revitalization.
based small group approach method own convenience. Look for podcasts with
that we use. Each session provides guests such as Ken Hemphill and Ronnie
insight for the pastors and Sunday Floyd. This podcast is available directly
school/small group leaders as they within the Church Revitalization app or
approach the text. simply search “Church Revitalization” in
iTunes.
SBTEXAS.COM/REACH 29
IN TODAY’S CULTURE important to be consistent in posting.
Whether it is Scripture, an announcement
IT IS IMPORTANT FOR for an upcoming event or just a word of
A CHURCH TO HAVE AN encouragement, when people find your
ONLINE PRESENCE IN page, non-members will want to see that
things have been happening in the life of
THE FORM OF SOCIAL the church even if it just within a Facebook
MEDIA OR A WEBSITE. post.
For an initial church website, Weebly
Many things seem unattainable for a (weebly.com) or Wordpress (wordpress.
church that is not “tech-savvy” and has com) are good options in order to create
a small budget. However, there are many a free online presence alongside social
tools out there at little to no cost and can media. Weebly does offer paid packages
still be effective in enhancing the work of that are still cost effective if the additional
the church. tools are necessary for your church. It
In today’s culture it is important for a is important to include your church’s
church to have an online presence in the location, contact information and service
form of social media or a website. When times in whatever format you choose for
someone searches “church” or “Baptist your online presence
church” online, what do they find? If you For images on social media posts, apps
do not show up, they will likely visit a such as Over or Adobe’s Spark Post are
different church. must haves. These apps can cost a few
For a church, Facebook pages are dollars, but are worth the small price to
currently a great way to have a free online be able to create images with scripture,
presence. It is necessary to have a personal quotes or announcements for your church.
profile in order to create a Facebook Page. A small addition such as this can really
With the ability to post as you would enhance a social media post or even a
on a personal account, but also display banner on a website. These apps can be
contact information, an address and other found on your phone or tablet’s app store.
information a church can interact with Technology is ever-changing and
members and non-members alike. It is progressing, but churches can utilize the
tools to their advantage so long as they
enhance the work of the church and do
not distract from the gospel message.
The foundation of prayer, evangelism,
discipleship and a priority on God’s Word
must be at the center of what the church is
doing, only to be supported by whatever
the latest technological trend may be.
Church Revitalization
Revitalization training videos, event details & resources
SBTC
SBTC events calendar, event streaming, archived sessions,
TEXAN Magazine, TEXAN Online, staff directory
1Cross
Share the gospel in multiple languages (3-minute video for
each language). Also contains resources for sharing your faith.
Advance Now
The Evangelism App Designed to equip others to advance
Evangelism tools, event details & resources the kingdom of God. Contains podcasts,
articles, videos and news updates.
sbtexas.com/apps
SBTEXAS.COM/REACH 31
F I V E H A B I T S OF
E VA NG E LI ST I C
CH U RCH E S
By Nathan Lorick that help me maximize my running that year after year are seeing many
SBTC Director of Evangelism
abilities. One can be inundated with people saved and baptized, I have come
I
all the new products, races, and to the conclusion that there are five
medals that the running world offers. key components or habits in the life
However, having the right shoes, GPS of a church that leads it to evangelistic
watches, clothing and books do not effectiveness. I pray these will assist
make you a runner — running does! your church in reaching more people
As we look across the landscape of for Jesus than ever before.
churches in America, many have all
the right accessories to be evangelistic 1) THE PASTOR LEADS
churches. They have great preachers, THE CHARGE
incredible worship, state-of- the- This is without a doubt the
art facilities, and all the things they most important aspect of a church
5) EVANGELISM IS CONSISTENTLY
WE CAN HAVE ALL WE NEED TO BE HIGHLIGHTED BEFORE THE CHURCH
SBTEXAS.COM/REACH 33
S I NK
B Y S T E V E N SM I T H
V. P. F OR ST U DE N T S E RV I C E S /
C OM M U N I C AT I ON S , S W BT S
S U R FA C E
S HI N E
There are days Dismounting the pulpit, you faithfulness. We do not invent
would really be shocked if the messages; we proclaim truth. So we
that we preachers people did not hoist you on their measure our effectiveness by how
SBTEXAS.COM/REACH 35
plumb line is a simple
A
but accurate tool used for
determining whether or
not something is perfectly
vertical or upright. Used
since ancient times, a plumb
line consists of a line and weight of some sort,
usually a stone or piece of lead.
References to the use of a plumb line in the
Do You Have
Holy Scriptures are usually that of the Lord’s
plumb line, how righteously people stand
according to his Word.
for Your
Then the Lord said, “I am setting a plumb line
among My people Israel.”
Church’s
PLUMB LINES FOR DECISIONS
The plumb line can be a useful metaphor
in church decision making. With a myriad
A
B Y J I M BA K E R function much like a carpenter’s or mason’s
S AC R E D ST RU C T U R E S plumb line. They make sure your ministries,
programs and decisions line up with your
mission, vision, values and priorities. Ministry
plumb lines identify and objectify misalignment
by reflecting the truths and values you embrace
and the behaviors you expect.
In a sense they are your organizational “flags
on the hill” or “maxims” – a list of principles
that describe clearly and concisely what you
believe, value and expect staff and leadership to
think through when considering ministry and
resource allocation decisions.
They communicate how you want
opportunities processed and let everyone know
what kind of things you will do and won’t do.
Mission and ministry plumb lines then can be
an effective tool for communicating “the way we
operate around here.”
SBTEXAS.COM/REACH 37
SOUTHERN BAPTISTS OF TEXAS CONVENTION
2017 FORUM
$ 10 9:00-12:30
Includes lunch
SECOND
CHAIR
NETWORK
The Second Chair Network meeting is designed
Revitalization
CONFERENCE
April 13 DFW JOHNNY HUNT
Pastor, FBC Woodstock, Georgia
SBTEXAS.COM/REVITALIZATION
SOUTHERN BAPTISTS
OF TEXAS CONVENTION
10 AM Space limited.
20 per WebEx event.
SBTEXAS.COM/REVITALIZATION
SBTEXAS.COM/REACH 41
this can’t be done alone.
whatiscp.com