The Church Answers Podcast

The Rainers continue the 6-part series called “The Future Church.” Over the next episodes, we’ll explore how the landscape of ministry is changing—and how leaders can prepare with wisdom, courage, and hope.

Thom and Jess discuss how churches are making evangelism more than a slogan or a sermon topic—how to make it visible, tangible, and celebrated in the life of the congregation. Most believers genuinely want to share their faith, but they often need reminders, encouragement, and creative ways to stay focused on the mission. In this episode, Thom and Jess offer four practical ideas any church can implement to highlight the importance of evangelism every week.

Bring the Game to Your Church

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Thom and Jess continue the “Future Church” series with an episode focused on one of the most important—and most misunderstood—topics in today’s congregations: evangelism.

The way people come to faith is changing, and so are the methods churches use to share the gospel. Attendance patterns are different. Communities are more skeptical of institutions. And more often than not, the first place someone encounters the church is online, not in person. In this conversation, the Rainers look at how evangelism is evolving, why it still matters deeply, and four major trends shaping how local churches reach people today.

Bring the Game to Your Church

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Welcome back to The Church Answers Podcast and to our ongoing series called “The Future Church.” In each episode, Thom and Jess unpack the shifts shaping tomorrow’s congregations—and how pastors and leaders can prepare today.

In this episode, we’re looking at a subject every church feels: money. The financial landscape of ministry is changing rapidly. Attendance patterns have shifted, giving habits have evolved, and the next generation is thinking about generosity in completely new ways.

So, what will funding look like for the future church? Thom and Jess explore four emerging models that are helping churches stay healthy and mission-focused in a changing economy.

Start Preparing Now for 2026! Sports that Bring People Together.

The post Future Church Series – Episode 2: The Economics of the Future Church appeared first on Church Answers.

Welcome to a brand-new series on The Church Answers Podcast called “The Future Church.” Over the next six episodes, we’ll explore how the landscape of ministry is changing—and how leaders can prepare with wisdom, courage, and hope.

In this first episode, Thom and Jess begin by looking at one of the most intriguing movements shaping the future: the rise of the microchurch. This small, mission-driven model is gaining traction across the United States and around the world. What exactly is a microchurch, how is it structured, and why is it so different from other forms of church? Let’s find out.

Start Preparing Now for 2026! Sports that Bring People Together.

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Jess interviews Thom in this fascinating behind-the-scenes look at Church Answers. They examine the evolution of resources from the company’s inception to the present day.

Upward Running for Adults: Your Church’s Next Step in Outreach

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Jess interviews Thom in this fascinating behind-the-scenes look at Church Answers. How did Church Answers begin? What is its primary thrust? Who is a part of Church Answers?

Upward Running for Adults: Your Church’s Next Step in Outreach

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It would not be a surprise if over one-half of your church members need personal financial counseling. Jess and Thom interview Art Rainer, president of Christian Money Solutions, to find out how you can help those church members.

Start Preparing Now for 2026! Sports that Bring People Together.

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How can I lead my church toward greater generosity? We hear that question often. Thom and Jess interview Art Rainer, president of Christian Money Solutions, to get some highly practical advice.

Start Preparing Now for 2026! Sports that Bring People Together.

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In this conversation, Jess and Thom discuss the fleeting nature of digital influence. Algorithms shift, platforms fade, and online visibility is temporary. What happens when your church—or your ministry—disappears from the feed? This episode explores how to build something lasting in a world designed to forget.

Upward Running for Adults: Your Church’s Next Step in Outreach

The post When the Digital World Forgets You — Building Ministry That Outlasts the Algorithm appeared first on Church Answers.

Thom and Jess tackle the growing challenge of polarization inside and outside the church. As cultural extremes grow louder, pastors often find themselves without a safe “middle ground.” How can church leaders stay faithful, gracious, and clear in such an environment?

Upward Running for Adults: Your Church’s Next Step in Outreach

The post The Death of the Middle — How Polarization Is Reshaping Church Leadership appeared first on Church Answers.