Kicking off Season 9 of Intentional Churches, Doug is joined by IC co-founder, Bart Rendel, for a behind-the-scenes look at Intentional Churches, their leadership rhythms, and the realities many pastors face today. Bart introduces “the spanking machine”—a vivid and humorous metaphor born out of ministry burnout. Together Bart and Doug explore the constant pressure church leaders face from the unrelenting pace of weekend ministry and the need to name it honestly.

The heart of the episode centers on the remarkable story of First Christian Church in Newburgh, Indiana. Once a thriving congregation, FCC faced deep decline after leadership transitions, financial hardship, and even a tornado. When the Intentional Churches team engaged with them, they found a deeply committed leadership team willing to lean in and realign around the Great Commission. 

Bart and Doug close the episode by reflecting on signs of spiritual awakening across the country, highlighting churches seeing dramatic growth and salvations—not because of gimmicks, but because of alignment with Jesus’ mission. This is an episode for pastors who feel weary, discouraged, or unsure of what’s next. It’s a reminder that the spiritual moment is here—but the church must be ready.

New to Intentional Churches? Start here: 
https://intentionalchurches.com/radical-alignment

CHAPTERS:
00:00 Revival Requires Two Things
01:44 Bart Hates Vacations
02:56 The Origin of “The Spanking Machine”
06:47 Courageous Leadership Stories
07:49 The Comeback of FCC Newburgh
12:06 COVID Super-Spreader Story
16:27 What’s Happening at FCC Now
19:24 Prayer, Pain, and Progress
20:40 Other Signs of Spiritual Momentum
21:52 Bart and Doug’s Random Thoughts
24:46 Are We Ready for Revival?
25:16 The Need for Great Commission Alignment

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