Rainer on Leadership

https://youtu.be/Tw0dwfa0Dc0

The Bible changes lives and getting it into the hands of those in need is mission-critical. On today’s episode of Rainer on Leadership Thom and Sam talk with Jeff Hilliard about answering the call to send hope to troops.

Can you tell us about Operation Worship and how it got started?

How do military members actually receive these Bibles?

What were some of the biggest challenges in getting Operation Worship started? What are the ongoing challenges?

Why should someone consider donating to Operation Worship right now?

Jeff Hilliard, is the President & CEO of Compudigital Industries, located in Rocklin, CA. God used a t-shirt cannon and stuffed monkeys to call Jeff to be an inspirational speaker and distributor of FREE camo Bibles to the military through Operation Worship and the Open Window Foundation. Jeff resides in California with his wife, Patti. 

 

Resources:

* Donate Bibles to our troops

 

Episode Sponsors:

Southeastern is committed to helping you get the training you need to pursue your ministry from anywhere around the world. That’s why we’re waiving the application fee to any of our programs for Church Answers listeners. Use the code “CHURCHANSWERS” and we’ll waive the fee. No matter what stage of life’s journey you find yourself in, we want to help you take your next step in getting equipped to disciple and teach others. In coming to Southeastern, you’ll find that seminary isn’t just about theological education; it’s about ministry preparation. Explore degrees, schedule a visit, or apply today at sebts.edu.

 

Tyndale is partnering with Operation Worship to get Bibles into the hand of our troops.

Every day, thousands of soldiers and military families ask for God's Word to fight fear, stress, anxiety, and depression.

This holiday season, you can give hope to our troops by sending them an Operation Worship Bible.

Just $6 is enough to put a Bible into the hands of a military member.

Bibles are printed in the U.S. then shipped to military chaplains throughout the world, who then deliver them directly to our brave service members.

More than 1.5 million Operation Worship Bibles have been distributed to military personnel around the world.

Visit deploybibles.com right now to make your tax-deductible donation.

https://youtu.be/r9nxMu_0cVQ

For many Christians, the Christmas season is a time of spiritual reflection on the important foundations of the Christian faith. On today’s episode, Thom and Sam talk to former Harvard physics instructor, Dr. Michael Guillen, about his journey from Atheism to Christianity and how he discovered that faith is the mightiest power in the universe. 

1. Why do so many people believe that science and religion are enemies?

2. Do scientists (even atheist scientists) rely on faith, too? How so?

3. What do you say to someone who dismisses faith as a weakness? Who claims to not rely on faith whatsoever?

4. What is your hope for anyone who reads this book?

Michael Guillen, PhD, is a graduate of UCLA and Cornell University and holds degrees in physics, math, and astronomy. The former Science Editor for ABC News, he was also a physics instructor at Harvard for eight years, host of the History Channel series "Where Did It Come From?" and producer of the award-winning family movie Little Red Wagon, currently on Amazon Prime. He hosts the weekly podcast Science + God with Dr. G, sponsored by K-LOVE and Air1 radio networks, runs a film and television production company, and shares the stage with best-selling author Rice Broocks at speaking engagements on college campuses worldwide.

Dr. Guillen has a new book with Tyndale titled, Believing Is Seeing: A Physicist Explains How Science Shattered His Atheism and Revealed the Necessity of Faith

 

Resources:

Believing Is Seeing: A Physicist Explains How Science Shattered His Atheism and Revealed the Necessity of Faith - by Michael Guillen

Dr. Michael Guillen

Science and God podcast with Dr. Guillen

Brown Church Development Group

The One Year Pray for the Persecuted Bible

 

Episode Sponsors:

The One Year Pray for the Persecuted Bible

With The One Year Pray for the Persecuted Bible, you will read through the whole Bible in one year as you also pray daily for believers around the world who are suffering because of their faith. This Bible provides the structure to help you read God’s life-changing Word in the trusted New Living Translation in just 15 minutes a day. It includes daily prayer prompts to help you intercede for people who are persecuted because of their faith in Jesus Christ and full-color designed pages that feature the stories of six persecuted Christians who boldly witness for Christ amid great risk and adversity. The One Year Pray for the Persecuted Bible will help you apply the principles of God’s unchanging Word to effective prayer. Learn more at Theoneyearbible.com.

 

Southeastern is committed to helping you get the training you need to pursue your ministry from anywhere around the world. That’s why we’re waiving the application fee to any of our programs for Church Answers listeners.

https://youtu.be/SHBYNTRMwGw

We are alarmed at the number of pastors and church leaders who are struggling right now. If you feel like you are at a crossroads, you are not alone. Don't give up. You can get the help you need, and one of the best ways to find help is through a leadership coach. 

* Wisdom comes from proactively seeking an outsider's perspective.

* A coach can encourage without giving platitudes.

* Venting is necessary but dangerous with people inside your church.

* A coach can offer a refreshing and unbiased assessment.

* Ongoing coaching arrangements provide stability for the chaos of ministry.

* A coach can help be a calming presence when you're in a storm.

 

Resources:

The One Year Pray for the Persecuted Bible

Church Answers Platinum - email [email protected]

 

Episode Sponsors:

Southeastern is committed to helping you get the training you need to pursue your ministry from anywhere around the world. That’s why we’re waiving the application fee to any of our programs for Church Answers listeners. Use the code “CHURCHANSWERS” and we’ll waive the fee. No matter what stage of life’s journey you find yourself in, we want to help you take your next step in getting equipped to disciple and teach others. In coming to Southeastern, you’ll find that seminary isn’t just about theological education; it’s about ministry preparation. Explore degrees, schedule a visit, or apply today at sebts.edu.

 

The One Year Pray for the Persecuted Bible

With The One Year Pray for the Persecuted Bible, you will read through the whole Bible in one year as you also pray daily for believers around the world who are suffering because of their faith. This Bible provides the structure to help you read God’s life-changing Word in the trusted New Living Translation in just 15 minutes a day. It includes daily prayer prompts to help you intercede for people who are persecuted because of their faith in Jesus Christ and full-color designed pages that feature the stories of six persecuted Christians who boldly witness for Christ amid great risk and adversity. The One Year Pray for the Persecuted Bible will help you apply the principles of God’s unchanging Word to effective prayer. Learn more at Theoneyearbible.com.

 

https://youtu.be/ZrEUFPj6K-s

On today’s episode of Rainer on Leadership we are celebrating the release of Keith and Kristyn Getty’s new album, “Confessio - Irish American Roots”. Thom and Sam discuss the inspiration for the album, the Getty family’s recent year-long trip to Ireland, and what’s next for Getty Music.

Keith and Kristyn Getty occupy a unique space in the world of music today as preeminent modern hymn writers. In re-inventing the traditional hymn form, they have created a catalog of songs teaching Christian doctrine and crossing the genres of traditional, classical, folk, and contemporary composition which are sung the world over.

The Getty’s have a new album, Confessio - Irish American Roots, that was released on October 29, 2021. 

 

Resources:

Confessio - Irish American Roots

“It is Well with My Soul” with Kristyn Getty music video

Sing! An Irish Christmas tour

2022 Sing! Conference

Southeastern Seminary - Use the code “CHURCHANSWERS” to have your registration fee waived.

Another Gospel by Alisa Childers

Tyndale

 

Episode Sponsors:

Another Gospel by Alisa Childers, detailing her journey seeking truth in response to progressive Christianity, has hit a nerve across the country

* Lee Strobel calls it “the most influential book you will read this year.”

* Alisa had dedicated her life to God but all of that was deeply challenged when she met a progressive pastor. Another Gospel describes her journey as she wrestled with questions that struck at the core of the Christian faith and found her way back to the truth.

* Readers will learn how to stand firm in their biblical beliefs in the face of progressive Christianity.

* Learn how to respectfully identify and respond to false beliefs that are infiltrating the church and threatening historic Christianity

* In a culture of endless questions, we need solid answers.

* Check out the book here:  https://www.alisachilders.com/anothergospel.html

* For interviews contact: Katie Dodillet - Tyndale 630-784-5275

 

Southeastern is committed to helping you get the training you need to pursue your ministry from anywhere around the world. That’s why we’re waiving the application fee to any of our programs for Church Answers listeners. Use the code “CHURCHANSWERS” and we’ll waive the fee. No matter what stage of life’s journey you find yourself in, we want to help you take your next step in getting equipped to disciple and teach others. In coming to Southeastern, you’ll find that seminary isn’t just about theological education; it’s about ministry preparation. Explore degrees, schedule a visit, or apply today at 

https://youtu.be/3q71RsuEuVc

 

We are in the midst of a great reshuffling of ministry positions. Many pastors are considering leaving their churches, and many churches are looking to fill open positions. Most churches still require a resume to be considered as a candidate. What should you include in your resume? On this episode, Thom and Sam discuss the essentials of a great ministry resume. 

Follow the instructions when applying for a specific ministry position.

Keep your resume to two pages.

Including a photo of your family is a common practice, but make it a good one.

Put your ministry goals and objectives in a cover letter, not on the resume.

The most common grammatical mistake is the use of random capitalization.

Hyperbole will lead potential employers to question your character.

Tell a story about your ministry. Don't just use numbers.

Never use the phrase “references available upon request.”

 

Resources:

* Southeastern Seminary - Use the code “CHURCHANSWERS” to have your registration fee waived

* Another Gospel by Alisa Childers

Tyndale

Church Answers YouTube Channel 

 

Episode Sponsors:

Southeastern is committed to helping you get the training you need to pursue your ministry from anywhere around the world. That’s why we’re waiving the application fee to any of our programs for Church Answers listeners. Use the code “CHURCHANSWERS” and we’ll waive the fee. No matter what stage of life’s journey you find yourself in, we want to help you take your next step in getting equipped to disciple and teach others. In coming to Southeastern, you’ll find that seminary isn’t just about theological education; it’s about ministry preparation. Explore degrees, schedule a visit, or apply today at sebts.edu.

 

Another Gospel by Alisa Childers, detailing her journey seeking truth in response to progressive Christianity, has hit a nerve across the country

* Lee Strobel calls it “the most influential book you will read this year.”

* Alisa had dedicated her life to God but all of that was deeply challenged when she met a progressive pastor. Another Gospel describes her journey as she wrestled with questions that struck at the core of the Christian faith and found her way back to the truth.

* Readers will learn how to stand firm in their biblical beliefs in the face of progressive Christianity.

* Learn how to respectfully identify and respond to false beliefs that are infiltrating the church and threatening historic Christianity

* In a culture of endless questions, we need solid answers.

* Check out the book here:  https://www.alisachilders.com/anothergospel.html

https://youtu.be/A5HdmKbf5No

Every Christ-follower is meant to be connected to the church. You are not here by accident. God has a plan for you, and that plan includes being a faithful and active part of a local church. Church membership includes seven basics of belonging. Embrace the seven basics of belonging and serve God more through the church. You need your church, and your church needs you. 

1. Worship: Saying “yes” to God

2. Grow: Making disciples who make disciples

3. Serve: Reaching outward beyond yourself

4. Give: Honoring God with your offering

5. Pray: Prioritizing God’s will through prayer

6. Seek unity: Keeping the main thing the main thing

7. Sacrifice: Putting others before yourself

 

Resources:

Tyndale

The New Living Translation

Church Growth Services

The Complete Membership Class Toolkit

The 7 Basics of Belonging: The Meaning of Church Membership by Sam Rainer

* Another Gospel by Alisa Childers

 

Episode Sponsors:

Another Gospel by Alisa Childers, detailing her journey seeking truth in response to progressive Christianity, has hit a nerve across the country

* Lee Strobel calls it “the most influential book you will read this year.”

* Alisa had dedicated her life to God but all of that was deeply challenged when she met a progressive pastor. Another Gospel describes her journey as she wrestled with questions that struck at the core of the Christian faith and found her way back to the truth.

* Readers will learn how to stand firm in their biblical beliefs in the face of progressive Christianity.

* Learn how to respectfully identify and respond to false beliefs that are infiltrating the church and threatening historic Christianity

* In a culture of endless questions, we need solid answers.

* Check out the book here:  https://www.alisachilders.com/anothergospel.html

* For interviews contact: Katie Dodillet - Tyndale 630-784-5275

 

Southeastern is committed to helping you get the training you need to pursue your ministry from anywhere around the world. That’s why we’re waiving the application fee to any of our programs for Church Answers listeners. Use the code “CHURCHANSWERS” and we’ll waive the fee. No matter what stage of life’s journey you find yourself in, we want to help you take your next step in getting equipped to disciple and teach others. In coming to Southeastern, you’ll find that seminary isn’t just about theological education; it’s about ministry preparation. Explore degrees, schedule a visit, or apply today at sebts.edu.

https://youtu.be/zMMvI-5Jw5k

We are in the midst of a great reshuffling in churches. Pastors are considering leaving their churches in numbers we have not seen in recent memory. Aging Boomers and the pandemic are two reasons, but there is more happening. Thom and Sam discuss what you should consider before leaving your church.

1. Don't make a decision based on weariness or decision fatigue.

2. Just because your church is in decline does not mean you need to leave.

3. The push, pull, and pray factors. You need all three before making a move!

4. The polarization of people and workload of ministry are not likely any better at another church.

5. Your family situation is a legitimate reason to make a move.

 

Resources:

Southeastern Seminary’s MA in Church Revitalization 

Join the Church Answers Community

Church Answers YouTube Channel

 

Episode Sponsors:

Southeastern is committed to helping you get the training you need to pursue your ministry from anywhere around the world. That’s why we’re waiving the application fee to any of our programs for Church Answers listeners. Use the code “CHURCHANSWERS” and we’ll waive the fee. No matter what stage of life’s journey you find yourself in, we want to help you take your next step in getting equipped to disciple and teach others. In coming to Southeastern, you’ll find that seminary isn’t just about theological education; it’s about ministry preparation. Explore degrees, schedule a visit, or apply today at sebts.edu.

https://youtu.be/3-B5cqCi9fg

Churches are still growing despite the struggles of many congregations in a post-COVID era. Thom and Sam look at seven key ways churches have broken the most common attendance barriers in the past several months.

1. The pastor has re-committed to an outward focus.

2. The pastor has engaged at least one other person for this outward focus.

3. There has been an intense re-engagement with the community.

4. Leadership has established metrics for accountability.

5. The calendar has become a blank slate.

6. The pastor has learned to let go.

7. There has been a re-commitment to groups.

 

Resources:

Know Your Community

Southeastern Seminary’s MA in Church Revitalization

Evangelism in the 21st Century: The Critical Issues by Thom S. Rainer

Church Answers YouTube Channel

 

Episode Sponsors:

Southeastern is committed to helping you get the training you need to pursue your ministry from anywhere around the world. That’s why we’re waiving the application fee to any of our programs for Church Answers listeners. Use the code “CHURCHANSWERS” and we’ll waive the fee. No matter what stage of life’s journey you find yourself in, we want to help you take your next step in getting equipped to disciple and teach others. In coming to Southeastern, you’ll find that seminary isn’t just about theological education; it’s about ministry preparation. Explore degrees, schedule a visit, or apply today at sebts.edu.

https://youtu.be/1b8kzWSZw20

Stress, burnout, and being overcommitted and overworked have become a part of everyday life for many people. But, what can you do about it? On today’s episode, Thom and Sam talk with Carey Nieuwhof about how to reclaim margin in your busy life.

1. Almost everyone, including pastors and church leaders, feels overwhelmed, overcommitted, and overworked. How did we end up here as a culture?

2. You write that people get caught up in a Stress Spiral. Can you explain what the Stress Spiral is and what it does to people?

3. Burnout is becoming an epidemic in our culture. What’s at stake if people don’t change and start living at a sustainable pace?

4. You argue that vacations and Sabbaticals aren’t enough. Why not? What do you mean?

5. As a pastor, it is often hard to say “no.” How do you say no to people nicely, without losing friends or influence?

Carey Nieuwhof is a bestselling leadership author, speaker, podcaster, and former attorney. He hosts one of today’s most influential leadership podcasts. His podcast, blog and online content are accessed by leaders over 1.5 million times each month. He speaks to leaders around the world about leadership, change, and personal growth. 

His new book, At Your Best, outlines a detailed, proven strategy on how to get time, energy, and priorities working in your favor. It's designed to help leaders move past being constantly overwhelmed, overcommitted, and overworked and reclaim margin in their lives.

Carey and his wife, Toni, live north of Toronto, Canada.

 

Resources:

Walk Thru The Bible

Carey Nieuwhof

At Your Best: How to Get Time, Energy, and Priorities Working in Your Favor by Carey Nieuwhof

Amusing Ourselves to Death: Public Discourse in the Age of Show Business Paperback by Neil Postman

Church Answers

Church Answers YouTube Channel

 

Episode Sponsors:

 

 

 

 

For 45 years, Walk Thru the Bible has helped people overcome obstacles to knowing and living God’s Word. Our innovative live events and high-quality biblical resources inspire passion for reading God’s Word and advance biblical literacy in 130 countries. Our otLIVE and ntLIVE events help people discover and understand the big picture storyline of God’s grand story of redemption. In just 2½ hours, a trained, certified Walk Thru the Bible instructor leads a church or group in a fun and unforgettable Bible experience event that teaches the major events, people, and chronology of the Old or New Testament. Post event, 75% of participants commit to reading their Bible on a regular basis. Millions of people around the world have experienced a Walk Thru the Bible live event—we can help bring an unforgettable Bible experience to your church. For more information:

https://youtu.be/xKbieUH0F3A

Racial tensions still exist in the United States, and there are certain demographic realities that must be addressed. The country is becoming more diverse and will continue to do so at an increasing rate. On this episode, Thom and Sam discuss how demographic changes will impact all-white churches in America. What can we expect the happen to them in the next ten years?

Two trends tell the story: The white population is in decline for the first time since 1790, and the youngest generation is minority white.

Birth rates in all-white congregations have slowed, and all-white churches will become significantly older.

Gen Z is the most diverse generation and will gravitate towards churches that look like their schools.

All-white megachurches with large campuses in suburban areas face the steepest declines.

Some all-white congregations will continue to thrive in areas where they reflect the community.

Healthy multi-ethnic churches will grow gradually, not exponentially, as they intentionally make an effort to equip, train, and hire people of color.

Geography will matter less in the future than in the past. Diversity was once an urban reality, but it is now everywhere.

 

Resources:

Brown Development Group

“What Will Happen to the All-White Church in America? Ten Trends in the Next Ten Years” by Sam Rainer 

Know Your Community

Bridges of God: A Study in the Strategy of Missions Paperback by Donald McGavran

Walk Thru The Bible

Church Answers YouTube Channel 

 

Episode Sponsors:

Southeastern is committed to helping you get the training you need to pursue your ministry from anywhere around the world. That’s why we’re waiving the application fee to any of our programs for Church Answers listeners. Use the code “CHURCHANSWERS” and we’ll waive the fee. No matter what stage of life’s journey you find yourself in, we want to help you take your next step in getting equipped to disciple and teach others. In coming to Southeastern, you’ll find that seminary isn’t just about theological education; it’s about ministry preparation. Explore degrees, schedule a visit, or apply today at sebts.edu.

 

 

 

 

 

For 45 years, Walk Thru the Bible has helped people overcome obstacles to knowing and living God’s Word. Our innovative live events and high-quality biblical resources inspire passion for reading God’s Word and advance biblical literacy in 130 countries....