Outreach & Missions How To's

Recognize Church Dropouts Before They Leave

One of the most significant reasons for stagnating and declining attendance is church dropouts. The most challenging problem is that church dropouts rarely return.

Thom Rainer: 7 Reasons Why Church Outreach Programs Fail

When I wrote "Autopsy of a Deceased Church," my desire was to demonstrate the terrible consequences and deaths of local congregations when the members are inwardly focused. It's why church outreach Programs fail.

5 Ways to Sweeten Your Morning with God

Give your morning devotions these five major upgrades, and you will likely see a big difference in the grace you see flowing into your life during those quiet hours.

4 Sure Signs Your Church Needs More First-Time Guests

As I’ve worked with churches across the country pondering over these issues, I’ve bumped into these sure signs that are evident in churches that aren’t seeing enough first-time guests arriving at their church.

How to Love People at Church Drive You Crazy

There is an environment full of opportunities to be offended by people who drive you crazy. How else can we learn to forgive? It’s called “the church,” and it’s filled with people that will drive you crazy.

7 Reasons You Should Invite (Some) People to Leave Your Church

Sometimes, one of the best things you can do to become even more effective at accomplishing your mission is to invite people to leave your church.

Why Church Attendance Is Important (Still!)

It's surprising to me how many Christians struggle with the idea of church attendance. We are at a crossroads in our nation on the importance of going to church.

Shepherding: Where the Shepherds Are Shaped by the Sheep

I can’t imagine a better scenario or a sweeter season for my first pastorate. I learned that in shepherding, the sheep shape the shepherd.