009: 7 Ministry Essentials for Overcoming Plateau & Decline

10/18/22 • 26 min

Leading change in our churches is hard. It is incredibly tempting to keep adding and adding ideas in hopes that you will see a glimpse of change. What we need is not more programming, but focus.
These seven ministry essentials can guide you to lead your church to address strategic areas and focus your ministries toward growth and health.
1. Pastors and ministry leaders consistently develop leadership skills
2. Reimagine God's work in your community
3. Create intentional church wide communication
4. Execute a group discipleship strategy
5. Reengage Sr. Adults to Gospel work
6. Full focus on reaching and discipling the next generation
7. On going evangelism training

Previous Episode

008: Reimagine Community, Realign Church

The Leading Your Church Podcast with Rich Cochran offers a refreshing perspective on how to lead a church in a world that is constantly changing. In this episode, Rich emphasizes the importance of reimagining our communities and realigning our church to meet the social and physical needs of the people we serve.

Rich emphasizes that the Gospel is not just a message of salvation but also a call to serve the needs of others. He argues that churches should not be just a place where people come to worship, but also a community center that offers practical help and support to those in need.

Cochran encourages church leaders to step out of their comfort zones and engage with their communities in new and innovative ways. This can include partnering with local organizations, hosting community events, or even starting their own outreach programs.

To overcome plateau and decline in church attendance, Rich suggests that leaders need to realign their church ministries to better serve their communities. This means identifying the social and physical needs of the people in their area and creating programs that address those needs.

Finally, Cochran stresses the importance of making disciples. He argues that churches should not just focus on increasing attendance but on developing deep relationships with their members and helping them grow in their faith. By doing so, churches can create a strong sense of community and inspire their members to become ambassadors of the Gospel in their own communities.

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010: Pressing on when words sting your heart

In episode 10 of the Leading Your Church podcast with Rich Cochran, titled "Pressing On When Words Sting," Rich encourages pastors and church leaders to persevere in ministry despite hurtful comments or criticisms they may receive. He reminds listeners that words can have a profound effect on the heart and can discourage even the most dedicated leaders.

Rich knows personally the effect hurtful words from individuals in his church, and emphasizes the importance of seeking support from others during these times. He encourages leaders to stay grounded in their faith, to remember why they started serving in ministry in the first place, and to focus on the positive impact they are making.

The episode also addresses the reality that even well-intentioned comments, such as constructive criticism, can still be hurtful. Rich encourages leaders to take a step back and consider the source of the criticism, and to use it as an opportunity for growth rather than letting it discourage them.

In conclusion, Rich reminds listeners that the work of ministry is difficult but also deeply rewarding, and that it's important to stay focused on the good that is being accomplished. He encourages leaders to persevere through the sting of hurtful words and to continue to serve with passion and dedication.