In this episode, Jim chats with Dr. Robert Kim about the ins and outs of church planting in today's world. An experienced pastor and professor, Dr. Kim sheds light on the challenges and exciting opportunities in this field. They also discuss the concerning trend of dechurching and the urgency of living out our gospel identity as we reach the nations. Whether you're a pastor or someone in the pew, this conversation will inspire you to stay connected to Jesus and actively contribute to advancing the Kingdom. Don't miss this chance to be encouraged and equipped for the journey ahead!

In this episode, they discuss… 

• A new take on “Networking” from a mission-oriented lens (10:16)
• The vital difference between “stated” theology and “functional” theology (18:36)
• What is the current state of church planting in the US? (38:01)
• What can heal the gap between churches planted and churches closed? (40:07)
• How to encourage a burned-out church planter (45:28)
• What is the top qualification for a church planter? (50:32)

Thank you for listening! If you found this episode helpful, please share it with your friends and loved ones. Or please leave us a review—it really helps!

Referenced in this episode:

• Visit this page for information about international church planting with Serge
• Books: Outgrowing the Ingrown Church by Jack Miller; Departure: Why I Left the Church by Alexander Lang
• Mission to North America (MNA), Covenant Theological Seminary (CTS), Reformed Theological Seminary (RTS)
• Bible passages: Matthew 16:18,  John 4, John 15, 1 Corinthians 15:10

Credits: 

Our guest for this episode was Dr. Robert Kim, a Serge board member and Associate Professor of Applied Theology and Church Planting at Covenant Theological Seminary. This episode was hosted by Jim Lovelady. Production by Anna Madsen, Aaron Gray, and Sunny Chi. Music by Tommy L. 

𝑮𝒓𝒂𝒄𝒆 𝒂𝒕 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝑭𝒓𝒂𝒚 𝑷𝒐𝒅𝒄𝒂𝒔𝒕 is produced by SERGE, an international missions agency that sends and cares for missionaries and develops gospel-centered programs and resources for ongoing spiritual renewal. Learn more and

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