Rainer on Leadership

The popularity of mid-size churches is growing. Mid-size churches are too big for one person to lead but not big enough for a full staff. These churches have unique leadership challenges and opportunities. On this episode, Thom and Sam discuss some tips for leaders in mid-size churches. Metrics, delegation, and the ability to pivot are especially important. Shift your mindset: Mid-size churches ar...

Thom and Sam discuss five reasons for the amazing phenomenon of the smaller church becoming the church of choice today. Reason number four may surprise you. 1. The demographic reality: the younger the generation, the more likely they are to prefer smaller gatherings. 2. The COVID reality: people gathering for worship have come to appreciate smaller gatherings more. 3. The facility reality: more ch...

Most leaders will not want to be in a position where they have to apologize publicly, but it is likely to be necessary at some point. Thom and Sam look at key issues to consider when you need to apologize publicly. Make certain it is the right time and the right place. Go directly to the heart of the issue without excuses. Do not use prefatory comments like, "If I offended anyone . . . " Keep in m...

Nobody is certain of the future, but this year is more uncertain than most. On today’s episode of Rainer on Leadership, Thom and Sam discuss ways to lead your church forward in an uncertain year. Nobody is certain of the future, but this year is more uncertain than most. The importance of spiritual disciplines and discipleship remains, but they alone are not leadership.  Identify your new baseline...

Like people in other professions, pastors are exhausted and struggling with decision fatigue. A great reshuffling is occurring. Many pastors and church staff  are considering a transition. On today’s episode of Rainer on Leadership Thom and Sam interview Dee Ann Turner about how you can successfully transition to a new role.    Dee Ann Turner CEO, Dee Ann Turner & Associates, LLC Dee Ann is a 33-y...

1. They have not been trained to handle personal finances. 2. They don't practice money milestones. 3. They are busy serving others. 4. They have an attitude of "It can wait." 5. They don't have an "emergency kit."   Resources: How Your Church Can Reach People In a Post-COVID World Ebook  "The Essential Emergency Binder" More Than Money Podcast ArtRainer.com The Money Challenge More Than Money Pod...

Every leader experiences seasons of exhaustion. It is important to discern between exhaustion and burnout. Do not let the urgent make you lose sight of the important. Temporarily avoid the people who drain your energy. Create a strict schedule that includes enough rest and stick to it. Dedicate more time to prayer, God's Word, and something that you are passionate about. Do not internalize setback...

Many churches did not hold in-person Easter services last year, but this year we are expecting the majority to do so. While the priority of celebrating the resurrection remains, this Easter may feel differently for people. For some, it will be their first Sunday back in over a year. On this episode, we discuss a few ways to prepare for in-person Easter services and what you can expect from those w...

On today’s episode of Rainer on Leadership Sam Rainer and Thom Rainer discuss five major ways church giving has changed. * Ten percent plus givers are becoming fewer quickly. * Giving to vision has never been more important. * Denominational support is waning dramatically. * Churches must behave more like other nonprofits to seek sufficient financial support. * Attendance decline is the single gre...

On today’s episode of Rainer on Leadership, Sam Rainer and Thom Rainer discuss four mindset changes church leaders must make in 2021. 2019 is not coming back. Evangelism is not just another ministry. You can't hold on to all of your members at any cost. Giving will not be the same. Resources mentioned in today's podcast: * Evangelism in the Early Church by Michael Green * How Your Church Can Reach...

Eric Geiger is the Senior Pastor of Mariners Church in Irvine, California. Before moving to Southern California, Eric served as senior vice-president for LifeWay Christian Resources. Eric received his doctorate in leadership and church ministry from Southern Seminary. Eric has authored or co-authored several books including the best-selling church leadership book, Simple Church. Eric is married to...

Thom and Sam have a fascinating discussion regarding the number one missing ingredient in church leadership. Accountability: It's more than a system. It's more than theology. It's a spiritual discipline. Pray that God will introduce people and situations to keep you accountable. Don't rely on just your church for accountability.  Make accountability a priority. Create overlapping circles of accoun...

As a pastor, you are part of the body of Christ. Within the body, friendship is important, even for pastors. Thom and Sam discuss friendship with church members and offer sound advice for pastors.  Yes! But we've all been burned... badly. Friends outside the church are necessary but often too distant. Every pastor should have at least one close friend inside the church. Discern your true friends t...

Depending on your definition, most churches fall into the category of established. Thankfully, It is no longer uncool to lead an established church. Thom and Sam talk through five often-overlooked benefits of established churches. Current revenue stream (you have at least some resources) Predetermined location (you already know where you are called) The existing commitment level of people (belongi...

Toni Nieuwhof joins Thom and Sam to share what every church leader needs to know about the messiness of divorce. Toni Nieuwhof is an attorney, pharmacist and church leader who, along with her husband, Carey Nieuwhof, founded Connexus Church north of Toronto Canada. Already a published author in the legal field, Toni’s first general release book on marriage will be published in 2021. Toni has spoke...