Next Sunday

In this episode of The Next Sunday Podcast, hosts Jim Shepherd and Frank Bealer dive deep into the staggering movement of dechurching across America — a cultural shift that has seen over 40 million people walk away from their local churches over the past 25 years. The episode spotlights the insightful research behind the book The Great Dechurching, co-authored by Jim Davis, Michael Graham, and renowned sociologist Ryan Burge.

This conversation isn't just about statistics. It's a heartfelt, honest exploration of the church hurt that has driven many away from organized religion, while revealing that a large percentage of the dechurched haven't lost faith in Jesus, just in the institution of the church. Jim and Frank explore the multitude of reasons behind this exodus — from toxic leadership and politicized pulpits to people simply drifting due to life transitions or lack of community.

What makes this episode so timely and actionable is the discussion around what church leaders can do today. The hosts highlight real examples of churches designing sermon series to address church wounds, building exit processes that care for members who move, and the urgent need to reevaluate church culture and relational outreach. Jim shares compelling ideas like assigning departing members a “big brother/big sister” mentor and conducting pastoral check-ins post-move — all with the goal of reducing spiritual isolation.

Listeners will be particularly challenged by the insight that 50% of the dechurched are open to returning — especially if personally invited. That single stat could transform your outreach strategy. Frank shares how personal joy and relational evangelism — like a simple, passionate encounter at a Starbucks — can powerfully reflect the winsomeness of Christ's body.

This episode is essential listening for pastors, church staff, and Christian leaders seeking practical ways to re-engage the dechurched, foster emotional and spiritual health in their congregations, and rediscover the heart of community-based ministry.By addressing dechurching and church hurt head-on — and more than once — Jim and Frank ensure these key issues are neither ignored nor minimized. Instead, they offer wisdom, humility, and a hopeful roadmap toward reconnection.

In this special two-part episode Frank and Jim dive deep into the real-life story of succession at Generis—a transition that saw Jim moving from his long-held CEO role to Chairman, while Frank stepped up as the new leader of the organization.In their candid and often lighthearted conversation, Frank and Jim share behind-the-scenes insights into what it takes to execute a smooth leadership transition.

They explore not just the logistical side—like communication plans, practical decision-making, and when to “pass the baton”—but also the critical, often overlooked, relational dynamics of trust, respect, and letting go of control.Drawing on personal experiences, lessons from church leadership, and practical wisdom from experts in succession, this episode offers actionable guidance and encouragement for anyone navigating leadership change.

Whether you’re part of a church, nonprofit, or business, you’ll find relevant takeaways on how intentionality, transparency, and a healthy organizational culture can make all the difference.

Tune in to hear how generational leadership handoffs don’t have to be messy, and how, when done right, they set the stage for an exciting new chapter.

What if the end of your leadership wasn’t an ending at all, but the beginning of something even better? 

In this week's episode of Next Sunday, Jim and Frank open up about one of the most pivotal moments in any organization: the leadership handoff. With over three decades at the helm of Generis, Jim shares what it really takes to step aside with purpose, while Frank unpacks the call he felt stepping into the CEO role—not as a promotion, but as a divine assignment. This isn’t just about titles or transitions. It’s about legacy, trust, and the sacred work of stewarding a mission into the future. 

In this Episode:

• Why great leaders prepare for transition long before it's needed
• The spiritual and emotional weight of handing off leadership
• How legacy-minded succession can unlock a church’s next season of growth

Nearly 70% of church plants fail within their first four years. But the reason behind these failures isn’t what most people think.

In this episode, Jim Sheppard and Frank Bealer explore why funding, rather than a lack of vision, is the main reason church plants struggle to survive. They dive deep into research from the Evangelical Council for Financial Accountability (ECFA), break down the financial realities of starting a church, and share strategies to help church planters secure the resources they need for long-term success.

In this Episode:

• What the research says about funding and church plant survival
• Breaking down real church planting costs—what’s essential and what’s surprising
• The funding sources church planters rely on and why diversification matters

Why do so many church leaders feel stuck—like their teams aren’t reaching their full potential? In this episode of Next Sunday, Jim Sheppard and Frank Bealer explore the unseen barriers that hold pastors and ministry leaders back. Whether it’s fear, burnout, misalignment, or something deeper, they dive into the challenges that keep leadership from thriving and share practical strategies to overcome them.

In this episode:

• The leadership missteps Jim and Frank wish they had caught sooner—and how they’d lead differently today
• How misalignment shows up in teams and what to do when your staff is “rowing in different directions”
• Why rebuilding trust is the key to healthier church culture—and where to start

At just 29 years old, Luke Lezon stepped into a senior pastor role in the middle of a church split, facing doubt, criticism, and immense pressure. Now, with thousands attending each weekend, he shares what it takes to lead when no one thinks you’re ready. Joined by his mentor, Jim Sheppard, this conversation dives deep into the challenges and triumphs of young leadership.

In this episode:

• How Luke handled skepticism and criticism as a young leader
• The biggest lessons from leading through a church split
• Why age doesn’t determine your ability to lead

Does your church have the financial leadership it needs to thrive? Many churches overlook a critical role that could unlock new opportunities and secure their financial future.

In this episode, Jim and Frank dive into the importance of having a dedicated CFO in your church. They explore how this role goes beyond managing budgets and bookkeeping to becoming a strategic partner in aligning your church's finances with its vision. Whether you're a small church just starting out or a growing multi-campus ministry, this episode will give you practical steps to strengthen your financial foundation.

In this Episode:

• Why the CFO role is essential for growing churches
• How to identify financial gaps and plan for the future
• Tips for hiring or outsourcing the right financial leadership

Let’s ensure your church is positioned for long-term success!

Leadership isn’t just about the big moments—it’s the small, daily choices that determine your legacy. But one compromise, one overlooked warning sign, and everything can change in an instant.

While sanctification requires discipline and intention, drifting away from it is easier than we think. In this episode, we unpack the hidden traps that derail church leaders, exploring the guardrails, self-awareness, and accountability needed to protect both influence and soul. Plus, we react to a powerful conversation between Matt Chandler and Lecrae, test our Bible knowledge, and debate some hot-button church finance topics.

In this episode:

• The subtle ways leaders drift from sanctification—and how to stay on course.
• Why accountability and spiritual discipline are non-negotiables for church leaders.
• A fun (and slightly controversial) game of Hot or Not on church finances.

Does your church have a clear theology of giving? Without it, you could be leaving your congregation confused and disengaged.

In this episode, we explore why a well-defined theology of giving is the foundation for a thriving and generous church. Discover how aligning your leadership team and congregation around this crucial topic can foster spiritual growth, trust, and transformational generosity. It’s time to move beyond transactional giving and create lasting impact.

In this Episode:

• The dangers of unclear messaging about giving in the church.
• How to align your staff and congregation around a shared theology.
• Practical steps to create clarity and inspire generosity.

In today’s episode of Next Sunday, Jim and Frank explore a pressing question for church leaders: How can we attract Gen Z to church leadership roles? They discuss the generational differences that often create barriers and share practical strategies to make leadership opportunities appealing to young leaders.

Drawing from their own experiences and observations, Jim and Frank dive into the importance of inclusivity, intentional mentorship, and creating meaningful roles that resonate with Gen Z’s values. This conversation will inspire you to rethink how your church engages the next generation, ensuring a vibrant and thriving future for your ministry.

Key takeaways:

• Why understanding generational differences is essential for church leaders.
• How to create leadership opportunities that align with Gen Z’s passions.
• The role of intentionality in making ministry roles attractive to young leaders.

Whether you’re a seasoned church leader or just beginning to explore generational engagement, this episode offers actionable insights to help you connect with and empower the next wave of church leadership.