In this episode of the Disciple Making in Community podcast, host Ken Braddy speaks with Robbie Perkins, pastor of Fountain Run First Baptist Church in Kentucky. They discuss the concept of normative sized churches, defined as those with 50 to 150 members, and the importance of financial stewardship within these communities. Perkins shares insights on cultivating a culture of generosity, the significance of modeling stewardship as church leaders, and practical strategies for managing limited resources. The conversation emphasizes the value of community engagement and the impact of faithful giving on church ministries.

In this episode of the Disciple Making In Community podcast, host Ken Braddy and guest Dr. Todd Tanner discuss the dynamics of normative-sized churches, particularly focusing on the influence of matriarchs and patriarchs. They explore the challenges faced by interim pastors, the importance of discernment in leadership, and strategies for building trust with new leaders. The conversation emphasizes the need for integrity and wisdom in navigating church politics and the significance of fostering a collaborative leadership style.

In this episode of the Disciple Making In Community podcast, Ken Braddy speaks with Dr. Whit Chapman about the exciting changes at Covenant Baptist Church, including a church name change and a focus on community engagement. They discuss the importance of recognizing and addressing volunteer burnout, creating a sustainable volunteer culture, and the significance of affirming and appreciating volunteers. Whit shares insights on developing new leaders through apprenticeship and fostering intergenerational relationships within the church.

In this episode, Ken Braddy and Dr. Stan Waffler discuss the importance of understanding and supporting bivocational pastors within the normative church context. They explore the unique challenges these pastors face, including geographical constraints, financial pressures, and the need for personal and spiritual support. The conversation emphasizes the value of relationships and community engagement in sustaining these leaders, as well as the critical role of their families in ministry. The episode concludes with advice for those considering bivocational ministry, highlighting the importance of self-care and maintaining spiritual health.

In this episode of the Disciple Making in Community podcast, host Ken Braddy speaks with Pastor Mark Turner of Redemption Heights Church in Philadelphia. They discuss the unique challenges and opportunities of serving in a normative-sized church, particularly in an urban context. Mark shares insights on understanding community needs, building trust, creative outreach strategies, the importance of listening, avoiding burnout, and the significance of partnerships with local organizations. The conversation emphasizes the need for churches to think like missionaries and to celebrate spiritual wins while maintaining a focus on the gospel.

In this episode of the Disciple Making In Community podcast, host Ken Braddy and guest Dr. Ron Brown discuss the challenges and opportunities faced by normative sized churches, particularly in the context of revitalization. Dr. Brown shares his personal journey leading Grace Springs Community Church through significant changes, including a name change, relocation, and a shift in leadership structure. The conversation emphasizes the importance of prayer, honest communication, and the need for a clear vision in revitalization efforts. Dr. Brown also provides insights on how to recognize when a church needs revitalization and offers encouragement to pastors facing similar challenges.

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Together Study from Ben Mandrell

Episode Description

In this episode of the Disciple Making in Community podcast, host Ken Braddy sits down with Pastor Steven Ammons to talk about the unique strengths of the normative church—congregations of 50 to 150 members. Together they explore how strong theological teaching, a warm and welcoming environment for families, and authentic church leadership can help smaller churches thrive. The conversation dives into the value of intergenerational relationships, why churches don’t need gimmicks to grow, and how inviting younger generations into leadership strengthens the whole church. You’ll also hear practical discipleship strategies for engaging younger families through community and shared experiences. Whether you serve in a small church or lead a larger one, this episode offers encouragement and fresh insights for building healthy, disciple-making churches.

In this episode of the Disciple Making In Community podcast, host Ken Braddy and guest Brian Gass discuss the dynamics of normative sized churches, focusing on the importance of understanding and balancing traditions while introducing change. They explore the challenges of maintaining church growth, the significance of earning trust within the congregation, and the role of communication in implementing changes. Brian shares insights from his experience as a pastor and content editor, emphasizing the need for careful evaluation of traditions and the importance of community engagement in worship.

Episode Summary

In this episode, Ken Braddy and Mike Taylor discuss the strengths and advantages of normative sized churches, which typically have congregations of 50 to 150 members. They explore relational advantages, decision-making processes, agility in ministry, and effective discipleship practices within these churches. The conversation emphasizes the importance of community, flexibility, and the unique dynamics that smaller churches offer, while also providing encouragement for pastors who may feel limited by their church size.

Free Group Essentials Conference

Episode Summary

In this episode of the Disciple Making in Community podcast, host Ken Braddy chats with Dr. Scott McConnell to explore the unique dynamics of the normative church—those with 50 to 150 in attendance. Drawing on recent Lifeway Research, they share valuable pastor insights on how church size influences discipleship, church leadership, and overall church effectiveness. Listeners will discover practical strategies for strengthening small groups, fostering community, and encouraging sustainable church growth. Whether you’re a pastor, leader, or volunteer, this conversation will help you see the powerful role normative churches play in God’s kingdom and equip you to lead with confidence.