Thom S. Rainer's Blog, page 2

15 Findings from 30 Years of Consulting

In the spring 1995 semester, I started my PhD studies under my major professor, Thom Rainer. Not long thereafter, I was part of his team that created what we named then the “Church Health Survey”—now the “Know Your Church Report” available through Church Answers. Thom also taught me the importance of interviewing church staff and laypersons in evaluating a church’s perception of her own health.

Now thirty years later, I am surprised by findings of those early consultations that remain consistent today. Use this list of findings to consider your own church:

Many churches admit their unhealthiness. Most churches that have completed the survey or answered interview questions perceive themselves as “marginally unhealthy” or “unhealthy.” They’re comfortable telling us if the church has seen recent conflict, and they recognize when those conflicts are unresolved. They have no problem admitting when their church has cliques. To Already a member? Log in Unlock premium content!

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The Discipleship of Phones

Discipleship is not just about what we believe; it is about what shapes us day after day. In most churches, when we think about discipleship, we picture Bible studies, sermons, small groups, and prayer gatherings. All of those are essential.

But there is another discipler working quietly, consistently, and often more effectively than the church itself. It sits in our pockets, on our nightstands, and in our hands nearly every hour of the day. Our phones are discipling us.

For many believers, the phone has become a constant companion. It gives direction, fills silence, and creates rhythms of life. The question is not whether our phones shape us, but how. Unless we acknowledge this reality, we risk being formed more by technology than by the truth of the gospel.

Phones as Daily Disciplers

Whether we realize it or not, our phones are active disciplers. They shape our habits, capture our attention, and influence our desires.

The numbers make this clear. A 2023 report from Reviews.org found that the average American checks their phone 352 times per day and spends about 4 hours and 25 minutes daily on mobile devices.

Apple’s Screen Time reports have revealed that many iPhone users unlock their phones more than 80 times a day. Our first instinct in the morning and our last action before bed often involves a screen.

This constant engagement is formative. Every scroll, notification, and vibration trains us in small ways. We begin to live by the rhythms of our devices rather than the rhythms of God’s Word. If discipleship is the process of being shaped into the image of Christ, then for many, phones have become a more consistent discipler than the Bible or the church.

The local church typically offers one or two hours of weekly formation. Our phones offer dozens of hours. Which voice, then, is doing the heavier discipling? The answer is sobering.

The Formation of Attention

Discipleship requires attention. Following Christ means setting our eyes and hearts on him. But phones are designed to fragment our focus. They pull us into constant distraction.

Microsoft released a study in 2015 suggesting that the average human attention span had dropped to 8 seconds, down from 12 seconds in 2000. While some have debated the precision of that figure, the broader trend is undeniable. A 2022 study published in Nature Communications analyzed global Twitter data and found that online conversations now move on from trending topics in half the time they did a decade ago. In other words, our collective attention is shrinking.

Instead of learning to linger over truth, we are conditioned to consume information in short bursts. Reading Scripture feels harder. Sitting in prayer seems longer. Even worship can feel slow compared to the instant stimulation of scrolling a feed.

Our phones disciple us into distraction. The deep work of faith—stillness before God, meditation on his Word, attentiveness to the Spirit—is crowded out by shallow rhythms of digital life.

Identity Through Screens 

Phones also disciple us by shaping how we see ourselves. Identity, for many, is no longer rooted in Christ or community but in digital approval.

The Pew Research Center reported in 2022 that 95 percent of U.S. teens have access to a smartphone, and nearly half say they are online “almost constantly.” In that environment, self-worth is tied to likes, comments, and shares.

A 2019 study published in JAMA Psychiatry found that adolescents who spent more than three hours per day on social media faced significantly higher risks of anxiety, depression, and body image struggles. The opinions of a digital crowd are discipling young people more than their families or their faith.

But this is not limited to teenagers. Adults also curate digital identities on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn. Posts are carefully filtered to present an image of success, happiness, or security. Over time, that image becomes confused with reality.

Phones teach us that visibility and affirmation define our worth. Yet these are fragile foundations. The gospel alone offers an identity that does not rise and fall with notifications.

Phones as False Evangelists

Our phones preach every day. The messages may not sound like sermons, but they shape our beliefs and values all the same. Algorithms are designed to keep us engaged, not necessarily to lead us toward truth.

In 2021, investigative reporters at The Wall Street Journal demonstrated how TikTok’s algorithm could identify a user’s interests within minutes and then flood them with related content, often pushing extreme or addictive material. Similar studies of YouTube have shown that its recommendation system tends to promote more sensational and polarizing videos.

This means our phones are not neutral. They are evangelists, proclaiming visions of the good life rooted in consumerism, self-indulgence, and division. Influencers sell lifestyles. News feeds polarize communities. Advertisements disciple us into equating happiness with what we buy.

Without realizing it, many Christians absorb more teaching from their phones in a single week than from their pastors in a month. The competing gospel is clear: deny nothing, indulge everything, follow trends, and make yourself the center. That is not the way of Christ.

Redeeming the Device

The solution is not to abandon phones entirely. Few people can or will live without them, and they can serve good purposes. The challenge is to reclaim them as tools that support discipleship rather than undermine it.

Some Christians practice a digital Sabbath, turning off their devices one day a week to rest, pray, and spend time with family. Others set boundaries, such as keeping phones out of bedrooms or silencing notifications during meals and devotions. These practices remind us that we are in control of the device, not the other way around.

Phones can also become instruments for spiritual growth. Bible reading apps, prayer reminders, and podcasts can bring God’s Word into daily rhythms. Messaging groups can be used for prayer requests and encouragement. The same device that distracts us can also point us toward God, if we use it intentionally.

The key is to decide who will be the discipler. If we let our phones run unchecked, they will shape us according to the values of the world. But if we use them wisely, they can reinforce the values of Christ. The goal is not escape, but transformation.

Moving to Gospel-Centered Discipleship 

The discipleship of phones is real. They form our habits, redirect our attention, reshape our identity, and preach a false gospel with persuasive power. The danger is not simply that we use them, but that we underestimate their influence.

Yet we are not powerless. With intentional practices, wise boundaries, and a gospel-centered vision, we can redeem the device. We can make it serve our discipleship rather than compete with it.

The psalmist said, “I will meditate on your precepts and fix my eyes on your ways” (Psalm 119:15). That is the posture of true discipleship. Our phones will always demand our eyes. The question is whether we will let them have our hearts.

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The 7 Cs of Leadership: Essential Traits for Effective Ministry

As a preacher, I naturally think in alliterative terms—it’s practically part of my DNA. Recently, while reflecting on leadership, I began jotting down five “C” words. Before long, two more emerged. The result? Seven traits that every Christian leader should cultivate.

1. Clarity. You can only lead people in a clear direction. To be clear (see what I did there), sometimes there are greater degrees of clarity in your vision. However, you must have a minimal degree of direction when seeking to lead people somewhere.

2. Conviction. Are there aspects of your ministry, vision, or leadership about which you refuse to compromise? That’s conviction. Leaders don’t give up simply because something is difficult. They have a resolve to do what is right and to achieve God’s vision for those they lead.

3. Courage. Courage is closely related to conviction. Conviction is knowing that you should not give up. Courage is doing what it takes to actually not give up. Godly leaders are not intimidated, bullied, or bribed. They press on in the face of difficulty. They make the hard choices, even losing popularity when necessary.

4. Compassion. Those who lead like Jesus have a heart for people. They love people. They have compassion. Their love stirs them to do more for people. Compassionate leaders want to lead others toward a better future. Leading with compassion models the life, ministry, and leadership of Jesus.

5. Communication. I believe that the most challenging part of my leadership has been communication. Quite simply, people don’t always hear what you think they hear, and they don’t always say what you think they should say. Further, it’s not common for people to ask the right questions. An effective leader will intentionally seek to communicate well and lead others to communicate well.

6. Collaboration. The people of God should learn how to work well together. After all, the church is referred to as a family and a body. Church leaders should bring others together with a common effort to accomplish God’s mission. Collaboration may seem challenging at times (people are sometimes challenging). However, you and your church will accomplish so much more if you learn to work together.

7. Celebration. What are the good things that your church or ministry has done lately? Have you stopped to think about that question? When you celebrate what God is doing through those you lead, you can build momentum, encourage greater faithfulness, and solidify unity in your church or organization. As a leader, take time to celebrate and see how God uses that.

Leadership isn’t easy, but it is essential to the mission of God. As you grow in these seven “Cs,” you’ll lead more like God wants you to lead. Focus on these traits and watch what God does through you.

Want to learn more about leading like Jesus? Check out my book, Leading the Jesus Way: Learning to Lead from the Master—a practical guide to leading like the greatest leader who ever lived.

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What the Unchurched Really Think About Church (New Research Says…)

I love the process of discovery through research. The journey begins with a question and swerves through multiple twists and turns before finally arriving at an answer. Our team at Church Answers recently conducted a research project that took several months to complete. We wanted to know if unchurched people felt differently about the church than those who are regular attendees. A survey of current research did not yield the results we desired, so we embarked on a study of our own. We found new, surprising insights from the unchurched.

Most of the unchurched are not unfamiliar with churches.

One of the first surprises from our study was that unchurched does not mean unfamiliar. Over 60% of the unchurched individuals surveyed said they attended church regularly as children. These aren’t strangers to Sunday mornings; they’re former attendees. This reality reminds us that evangelism today is often more about reconnecting than introducing something entirely new. The unchurched are not blank slates. Their views of the church are shaped by experience—some of it good, some of it painful, and much of it faded with time.

America is not (yet) a godless nation, but we are clearly becoming a less churched one. However, the presence of childhood exposure to church among the unchurched gives us hope: memories, relationships, and former rhythms can be reawakened. Evangelism begins not just at the edge of belief, but at the edges of remembrance.

The church still matters to the community.

Despite the prevailing narrative that the church is losing relevance, our research shows the opposite: both churched and unchurched individuals believe churches are generally good for their communities. Nearly 6 out of 10 unchurched respondents agreed with this statement. The unchurched aren’t hostile. They’re cautious, indifferent, or disconnected. But they still believe the church can be a force for good.

This perception gives churches an open door. While people in the community may struggle to connect personally with local congregations, the unchurched generally have a favorable opinion of the concept of church. The opportunity lies in turning that abstract goodwill into concrete, local trust.

Local trust in churches is often missing.

Here’s where the challenge becomes clear. While people admire the idea of church, they often don’t trust actual churches in their communities. Only 38% of the unchurched said they viewed local churches favorably. And the trust gap widens further when it comes to church leaders: just 35% trust pastors. Conversely, regular attendees generally trust their churches (81%) and pastors (76%). 

Even more fascinating, the unchurched actually view the church as more relevant today than churchgoers do! While 40% of churchgoers said the church is largely irrelevant, only 27% of the unchurched felt the same. The problem isn’t perceived relevance. The problem is trust. The dichotomy is fascinating.

Churched people: I trust the church, but believe it’s irrelevant today.Unchurched people: The church is still relevant, but not trustworthy.

Why the disconnect? Two factors stand out: insularity and scandal. With less than 1% of churches prioritizing evangelism, the church has become largely inward-focused, relying more on transfer growth than conversion growth. Meanwhile, high-profile scandals have shaped public perception. Unchurched people may like the idea of church, but they’re not sure they can trust the people inside the community church near them.

Friendship becomes the bridge to the community.

Yet, hope persists. More than half of the unchurched believe the church could be a great place to make new friends. However, nearly 60% also say churches feel intimidating when visiting. That intimidation, paired with a lack of personal invitations, keeps them away. Church leaders, take note: the greatest evangelistic tool we have is not a new program or worship style. It’s friendship. A genuine, personal invitation from someone who promises to sit with them through a worship service or small group can change everything. In fact, 8 out of 10 unchurched people say they would attend a church service if invited by a friend who also accompanied them. That single insight should revolutionize how we train and equip our people.

Confusion is a greater barrier to the church than high standards.

Another myth was shattered in our study: the idea that unchurched people avoid church because of rigid rules, moral standards, or high expectations. In reality, confusion is a greater barrier than doctrine. Only 4 out of 10 unchurched respondents said churches had too many rules. But over 60%—and just as many churchgoers—said churches are confusing for outsiders.

People aren’t repelled by theology. They’re puzzled by processes. They don’t understand what we’re doing or why. And this confusion creates distance. The solution? Clarity. A clear membership class that explains the church’s beliefs, structure, and expectations is essential. The more open and understandable we are, the more likely people are to engage.

The church feels unsafe for families.

Because of the confusion and lack of trust, many unchurched people don’t believe the church is a good place to raise a family or discover personal gifts. While regular attendees overwhelmingly believe the church is a good place to raise families (85%) and discover their talents (75%), the unchurched do not share the same perception. Only 44% of the unchurched agree or strongly agree that the church is a good place to raise families. Additionally, only 29% of the unchurched agree or strongly agree that the church is a good place to discover and grow their talents.

These numbers should concern us, but they also offer a call to action. What if your church became known as the safest place in town for families? What if it were the go-to space for helping people discover purpose? This opportunity is ripe for the taking.

Indifference is more common than antagonism among the unchurched.

So why aren’t the unchurched coming to church? It’s not because they’re mad, too busy, or hostile. It’s because they’re indifferent. The most common reasons given were: 1) they don’t see church as necessary, and 2) they simply got out of the habit. This reality is both sobering and empowering. If the main obstacle is apathy, then the answer is intentionality. The solution isn’t to defend the church against attackers; it’s to lovingly engage those who have drifted.

When asked what would prompt them to start attending church again, the unchurched pointed to two things: a spiritual reason (desire to grow spiritually or a prompting from God) and a personal reason (an invitation from a friend or spouse). These answers affirm a powerful truth: evangelism is both divine and relational. God must work. We must be obedient.

Click here to download the entire research report for free.

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They Don’t Hate You: What the Data Really Says About the Nones

One of the reasons I love my work is that I can quantify things that we often only understand through “vibes.” That’s a common refrain I hear in comments from folks: “I feel like this is happening…” And they want me to provide hard data that either reinforces or challenges their perceptions.

I think that’s especially common among Christians. Many feel that a significant share of Americans are against them, their beliefs, and their way of life. There’s a good reason for that: the loudest voices on social media often hold the most extreme views. People calling believers “Christo-fascists” are certainly going to get a lot of shares on Facebook. Still, that kind of rhetoric warps our understanding of how the average person actually feels.

I get the general impression that most evangelicals believe the non-religious really don’t like them. But I’ve been looking at data on perceptions of religion

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Digital Worship Fatigue

When the pandemic arrived, churches around the world had no choice but to pivot to online worship. Sanctuaries were empty, but livestreams and Zoom calls gave congregations a way to stay connected. For a time, the transition felt almost miraculous. Churches that had never considered online ministry suddenly found themselves reaching people far beyond their usual walls.

Some pastors even reported record numbers. Views were counted in the hundreds or thousands. Sermons were being streamed across states and even countries. The excitement was palpable. Many wondered if this was the new normal for the church.

But four years later, the enthusiasm has waned. Online worship remains a tool, but it no longer carries the same momentum. Attendance is down, engagement is weak, and many believers are simply tired of digital church. What began as a lifeline has in many cases become a burden. This growing reality has a name: digital worship fatigue.

Online Worship Is Declining in Popularity

When the pandemic forced churches to close their doors, online worship became the only option. Overnight, pastors scrambled to set up cameras, stream services, and learn new platforms. For a while, it worked. In fact, many churches reported that their digital attendance exceeded their in-person numbers. The thinking was simple: this is the future.

But the data now tells a different story. Pew Research notes that while 92% of regular churchgoers watched services online at least once during the height of the pandemic, fewer than half continued the practice consistently by 2022. Barna’s surveys confirm that the majority of Christians now say they prefer in-person worship and view online church as a secondary option at best.

The novelty has worn off. What felt innovative in 2020 feels thin in 2025. Pastors who once celebrated thousands of views now quietly admit that only a fraction remain. The consumer culture of digital church—easy to start, easy to stop—has proven unsustainable.

The truth is clear: the surge in online participation was not a revolution. It was a survival strategy. And now, people are tired of digital substitutes. What they want most is to gather again.

Screens Cannot Replace Sacred Spaces

Online worship has its place, but a screen can never replicate a sanctuary.

A livestream delivers content—a sermon, a song, a prayer. But worship was never designed to be just information transfer. Worship is embodied. It’s the sound of voices joining together, the atmosphere of prayer, and the physical act of gathering.

A screen strips away much of that. You can watch the music, but you can’t feel the vibrations of voices filling the room. You can hear the sermon, but you don’t sense the collective weight of people leaning into God’s Word together.

Community also suffers. In-person worship allows for chance conversations, hugs in the hallway, and eye contact that reassures someone they are not alone. Online services cannot reproduce those sacred moments.

Even the physical act of showing up matters. Walking into a church building is a declaration: “I’m part of this body. I’m here to meet with God and His people.” Sitting at home in pajamas doesn’t carry the same meaning.

For a season, digital worship was necessary. But over time, the absence of sacred space left many believers spiritually thin. It turns out that screens are a weak substitute for sanctuaries.

The writer of Hebrews captured it perfectly: “Do not neglect to meet together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encourage one another” (Hebrews 10:25). Screens are helpful. Sacred spaces are essential.

The Distraction Dilemma

One of the great challenges of digital worship is simple: distraction.

In a sanctuary, most distractions are limited. A phone may buzz. A child may fidget. But the environment itself is designed to focus attention on God.

At home, distractions are everywhere. The doorbell rings. The dog barks. The laundry buzzer goes off. A text message pops up during the sermon. Worship competes with a dozen other voices.

Even the screen itself invites divided attention. A livestream is just one browser tab among many. The temptation to check email, scroll social media, or glance at the news is constant. The average online viewer rarely gives full, uninterrupted focus for more than a few minutes.

Children in the home add another layer. Parents attempting to watch often juggle breakfast, playtime, or squabbles. What might feel like a calm experience in a pew becomes chaos on the couch.

The result? Worship becomes background noise rather than a sacred encounter. Instead of being immersed in Scripture, prayer, and song, people drift in and out. Some “attend” a full service without truly engaging a single moment.

Pastors know this struggle. Many have received messages like, “I loved the part about forgiveness,” only to realize the person tuned in for five minutes and missed the rest. Online numbers may look strong, but the depth of engagement is weak.

Distraction is not a minor issue—it undercuts the very purpose of worship. Without focus, the heart is rarely transformed.

Convenience Breeds Complacency

Online worship is undeniably convenient. With a few clicks, you can join a service from your living room, your car, or even a beach chair. For those who are sick, traveling, or homebound, this accessibility is a blessing.

But convenience comes with a cost. What begins as a short-term solution can become a long-term substitute. Healthy members often start choosing the easiest path—watching online instead of gathering in person.

When worship is reduced to convenience, commitment weakens. Church becomes optional, something to fit in around errands, sports, or weekend plans. It shifts from a central rhythm of life to a side activity when time allows.

This decline affects more than attendance. Giving drops. Volunteering decreases. Fewer people step into leadership roles. Online worshipers rarely serve on committees, teach classes, or greet at the door. Their engagement is passive rather than active.

Over time, convenience breeds complacency. A casual click replaces the discipline of showing up. A sermon on screen replaces fellowship with others. The church shifts from a community of belonging to a product to consume.

Convenience is not always the enemy. But when it becomes the norm, it erodes the very heart of commitment. The easy option eventually costs the church dearly.

Digital Worship Should Supplement, Not Replace

The digital church is not going away. It still has a role to play in ministry. The key is learning how to use it wisely.

Online services provide access for people who cannot attend in person—shut-ins, the chronically ill, or those traveling. For seekers who are hesitant to step into a building, a livestream can be a gentle first step toward faith. For members who relocate, digital worship can help them stay connected during transition.

The danger comes when churches view digital worship as a permanent replacement. No screen can sustain the long-term spiritual health of a believer. Christianity is designed to be lived in community, not isolation.

The better approach is a both/and strategy. Use digital tools as a supplement, not a substitute. Encourage members to take advantage of online services when necessary, but call them back consistently to embodied community.

Digital platforms can also enhance ministry beyond Sunday morning. They can distribute midweek devotionals, small group resources, and discipleship content. In that sense, the internet becomes a tool for depth rather than just convenience.

But the priority must remain clear: the gathered church is essential. Digital ministry extends the church’s reach, but it cannot replace the church’s core.

The goal should never be to build a digital-only congregation. The goal is to leverage every tool available to bring people together in person, where worship is richest and discipleship is strongest.

Screens are useful servants. But the sanctuary remains home.

The Fatigue Is Real

Digital worship fatigue is real. The decline in online participation is not a sign of failure, but a reminder of how God designed His people. Worship is not just content; it is community. It is not only heard; it is felt.

The church must not abandon digital tools, but it must place them in their proper place—useful, but never ultimate. The greater call is to bring people back into the house of God, where presence matters more than pixels.

The psalmist declared, “I was glad when they said to me, ‘Let us go to the house of the Lord’” (Psalm 122:1). That joy cannot be livestreamed. It must be lived.

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What to Do When Ministry’s a Mess . . .

I pastored a church for 14 years before I became a seminary professor more than 29 years ago. I loved pastoring, and I miss some part of it every day. I miss preaching to the same people each week, baptizing new converts, serving the Lord’s Supper, officiating weddings, overseeing child dedications, and honoring believers and their Lord at funerals. I miss celebrating victories and sharing heartaches with other believers.

On the other hand, my role as a church consultant has also reminded me that pastoral ministry is tough. Our congregations are likely not as messy as the church at Corinth, but they’re still messy. People still sin. Undiscipled people—including some who’ve never become believers in the first place—are still in our congregations. At the same time, our enemy aims his arrows at churches in hopes of turning believers against each other.

So, what do we do when ministry’s a mess? I make no claim that I’ve always been successful in working through the mess, but here’s a response that has helped me recurrently for several decades: return to your call.

I realize that folks debate the nature of a “call,” but I cannot deny what happened to me. I was not raised in a Christian home, and no one in my family (at least to my knowledge) had been praying for me. Certainly, no one was praying that I would be the next “preacher boy” in the family. Nevertheless, it was the first time in church in my life that I sensed my call to preach.

I talked with my pastor at the end of the service, and he helped me pray to be a Christ-follower. As he began to make the closing announcements from behind the pulpit, I sensed clearly in my mind these words: “I want you to preach my word.”

I did not know there was a call to preach, nor did I even know there was a Holy Spirit. All I knew is what I heard in my head and heart. So clearly did I hear these words, in fact, that they have never wavered in 50+ years since I first heard them. Now, it’s hard to estimate how many times I’ve returned to those words over the years.

When church conflict kept me up at night, I returned to my call.When my best church friends turned against me, I returned to my call.When I was tired of living in the fishbowl of ministry, I returned to my call.When my church stopped growing and I grew frustrated, I returned to my call.When others tempted me by dangling more prominent positions in front of me, I returned to my call.When church members fought for their turf and distracted our ministry efforts, I returned to my call.

The words, “I want you to preach my word,” have given me direction, inspired my vision, granted me purpose, and provided me with guardrails in making career choices. Even in the messiest days of ministry, my calling has kept my feet on the ground.

I don’t know what your calling was like. Perhaps it was not as dramatic as mine. Maybe yours was progressive as you learned over time what God wanted you to do. I don’t know the details of your call, but I do know that the God who calls us is also the God who sustains us.

Run to Him, and return to your call when ministry gets messy.

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The “What” and “How” of Spiritual Rhythms

At Rooted Network, we often talk about spiritual rhythms. In fact, the word “rhythm” is essential when thinking about an effective discipleship strategy. 

When we talk about rhythms, we’re referring to the spiritual habits and disciplines outlined in Acts 2, practiced by the early church. The word choice is intentional because these actions were not isolated but rather repeated; they were ingrained into the lives of those early followers and it was through these repeated practices that they grew closer to God, each other, and were formed into the image of Christ. This model of spiritual formation in your church is timeless. 

Spiritual rhythms are essential if we and the people we lead want to move forward spiritually. For true disciple-making to occur, we must commit ourselves to the ongoing and habitual practices of prayer, daily devotion, sacrificial generosity, worship, service, and more. Though most Christians agree with that necessity, comparatively few of them intentionally incorporate these rhythms into their lives with consistency. We are too busy, too committed, too tired, or too complacent to do so it seems. 

This is a primary challenge in modern congregational engagement. 

That means we, as church leaders, are swimming against the tide when we call people to these rhythms. For people to devote themselves to these rhythms, they must sacrifice something else. Sleep, leisure, comfort, money – these things and more represent the price that has to be paid in order to live a spiritually oriented lifestyle. 

So how can we, as leaders, help people make that sacrifice and integrate these rhythms into their lives? 

Here are three practical suggestions for your church leadership toolkit:

1. Model Them: The Power of Pastoral Example in Spiritual Formation

The old adage is true – some things are more caught than taught. That is to say people learn more from observing and imitating others’ actions and behaviors than from formal lessons or explicit instruction, especially when they respect and love those they are observing. This principle is key for authentic leadership. 

One of the most effective ways to help people integrate these rhythms is by demonstrating them ourselves. As pastors and ministry leaders, this is our first call. Are we living the rhythm of worship? Of sacrificial generosity? Of daily devotion? And if we are, are we inviting others to participate with us, or are we only instructing them to do so? People are looking for a leader worth following. 

2. Make Room for Them: Simplifying Church Programs for Deeper Growth

Sometimes, especially in church leadership, we make the mistake of thinking that more is always better. We provide more programs, more opportunities, more studies – and we do so with the best of intentions. But it’s possible that in our attempts to provide more we are actually overburdening people to the degree that they do not have the emotional or logistical capacity to embrace these essential rhythms. This can lead to ministry burnout for both staff and congregation members. 

One way we can demonstrate the importance of these spiritual rhythms is by intentionally freeing up time on people’s capacity. That might well mean eliminating some of the programming opportunities we are currently offering, or at least freeing people of the obligation to participate in all of them. Creating a clear and simple discipleship plan is more effective than a cluttered calendar. 

But as we do so, it’s important we communicate the why behind that schedule trimming. If we demonstrate our willingness to get rid of other opportunities, we are simultaneously communicating the great importance of the spiritual rhythms. This shows a commitment to sustainable ministry over busy activity. 

3. Resource Them: Providing Practical Tools for Spiritual Disciplines

It’s one thing to tell people they need spiritual rhythms; it’s another thing to actually resource them to embrace them. That resourcing comes in multiple ways. This is about equipping the saints for the work of ministry in their own lives. We can provide and recommend Bible reading plans. We can structure our small groups around the expectation of daily devotions rather than weekly participation in a group only. We can build in the expectation of service in the community and provide bandwidth to make it happen. 

Ultimately, by offering these practical discipleship tools, we can create an environment that gives everyone the best possible opportunity to embrace these rhythms. But before building a new strategy, it’s critical to know exactly where you’re starting from. 

For more information on the spiritual rhythms including study experiences built on each one, visit experiencerooted.com/rootedrhythms.

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The Silent Exodus of Senior Adults

For years, church leaders have sounded the alarm about the departure of younger generations. We’ve analyzed the data on Millennials. We’ve debated how to reach Gen Z. Entire conferences are devoted to the “next generation” and what the church must do to keep them engaged.

All of that is needed. But there is another exodus taking place in our churches, one that rarely makes the headlines and seldom finds its way into our strategy sessions. It is the quiet departure of senior adults.

Unlike younger generations, seniors don’t typically leave with dramatic announcements or angry social media posts. They simply fade. A pew that was once filled by a faithful couple is now empty. A Sunday school teacher who served for decades suddenly isn’t there anymore. A widow stops attending after her friends pass away. There is no confrontation, no uproar, just absence.

This overlooked exodus matters. In many congregations, senior adults are the backbone of weekly attendance. They are often the most faithful givers, the most consistent volunteers, and the most reliable prayer warriors. When they drift away, the church feels it in the offering plate, in the fellowship hall, and in the spirit of the congregation.

If we only focus on the losses among younger generations, we risk missing another erosion that is happening right in front of us. The church cannot afford to ignore the silent exodus of senior adults. Their presence is not optional; it is essential.

The Numbers Behind the Trend

When we talk about church decline, statistics usually center on the younger generations. But the numbers tell us something sobering about our older adults as well. Their presence is not as strong as it once was, and the data confirms what many pastors quietly sense: senior adults are slipping away.

Gallup’s research over the past two decades reveals a clear trajectory. In the year 2000, about 60% of Americans over the age of 65 attended church weekly. By 2020, that figure had dropped to 45%.

That is a 15-point decline in just one generation. Pew Research, which has followed the Silent Generation (born before 1946) and older Baby Boomers, reports a similar drop of nearly 10 percentage points in religious attendance within the past decade. These are not just isolated cases. This is a trend.

For smaller churches, the impact feels even sharper. In many congregations under 200 in attendance, senior adults make up the majority of the most faithful members. Their absence is noticed immediately. When one senior couple stops coming, it can represent not just a percentage point on a chart, but the loss of stability, giving, and presence that the church has depended upon for years.

We should not dismiss these numbers as an inevitable consequence of aging. Yes, health challenges and mobility issues play a role, but the consistent decline across demographics shows that something deeper is taking place. Senior adults are quietly withdrawing, and too often, we are not asking why.

Why Seniors Drift Away

The reasons senior adults drift away from church are often complex, but they usually don’t come with loud complaints or angry emails. More often, they are subtle, quiet, and deeply personal.

For many, the most basic issue is mobility and health. Driving at night becomes more difficult. Hearing and vision decline. Even simple steps like navigating parking lots or stairs can feel like barriers. Some seniors serve as caregivers to a spouse or family member, leaving them too exhausted to attend.

Others experience the painful loss of peers. A Sunday school class that once overflowed with friends now has only a few remaining members. Loneliness sets in, and church becomes a reminder of what has been lost. Without the community they once had, seniors may feel less motivated to keep attending.

There is also the reality of shifting church priorities. Many congregations rightly focus on reaching young families, but the unintended consequence is that seniors feel sidelined. They hear constant talk of children’s ministry, youth events, and “the next generation,” but rarely hear their own lives addressed. What was once “their church” now feels like someone else’s.

Finally, changes in worship and leadership can create a sense of disconnection. A new style of music, a different pace of service, or a younger pastor who doesn’t understand their history—any of these can leave seniors feeling like strangers in their own congregation.

Most seniors don’t storm out. They just quietly step back. And too often, no one notices until they are gone.

The Financial and Ministry Impact

When senior adults slip away, the impact is far greater than an empty seat on Sunday. Churches often feel the loss in two major areas: finances and ministry strength.

Financially, older adults are the backbone of giving. The Evangelical Council for Financial Accountability (ECFA) notes that adults over 65 contribute about 40% of all donations to U.S. churches. They are faithful, consistent givers who often view tithing as non-negotiable.

When they drift away, the offering plate feels lighter almost immediately. This decline not only affects day-to-day operations but also missions, benevolence ministries, and outreach efforts that depend on steady funding.

The long-term effect is also sobering. Many churches have benefited from legacy giving, where senior members include the church in their estate plans. But if these same members disengage before those decisions are finalized, the church may lose out on resources that could have fueled ministry for decades to come.

The ministry impact is just as significant. Senior adults are often the most dependable volunteers. They show up early. They stay late. They lead Sunday school classes, staff kitchens, fold newsletters, and provide countless hours of service behind the scenes. Their quiet, steady presence is irreplaceable.

When senior adults step away, churches don’t just lose participants; they lose pillars. The loss is felt in the prayer life of the congregation, in its financial stability, and in its volunteer culture. It is not an exaggeration to say that when seniors drift, churches weaken.

Missed Opportunities for Ministry

One of the greatest tragedies in the silent exodus of senior adults is not only their absence, but also the opportunities the church misses when they disengage. Far from being a burden, seniors represent some of the most underutilized assets in the body of Christ.

Senior adults bring a wealth of wisdom and life experience. They have walked through decades of trials, faith decisions, family struggles, and cultural change. Their stories are testimonies that can inspire younger believers, yet many churches rarely give them a platform to share. Instead, their voices are often muted while newer programs take center stage.

Many also have the gift of availability. Unlike younger families juggling children and careers, seniors often have more time to invest in mentoring, prayer, or hands-on ministry. Paul’s vision in Titus 2—older believers pouring into the lives of younger ones—remains as relevant today as it was in the first century. Yet in too many churches, this opportunity goes unused.

Seniors also embody stability and prayerfulness. They may not always be loud or flashy, but their consistent faithfulness provides an anchor for congregations in a culture of constant change. Ignoring this anchor is like building a ship without ballast—it cannot weather the storm.

The silent exodus of senior adults is more than a problem to solve; it is a missed blessing. If the church does not intentionally draw seniors back in, we will forfeit one of God’s richest resources for discipleship and growth.

How Churches Can Respond

If the silent exodus of senior adults is real—and the evidence shows that it is—then churches must move beyond acknowledgment to action. This is not a peripheral issue; it is central to the health and future of our congregations.

The first step is intentional care. Many seniors need practical help: transportation to services, assistance with technology for communication, or even a friendly visit when mobility is limited. These small acts communicate that they are not forgotten, that they still belong.

Second, churches should design intergenerational opportunities. Too often, ministry is segmented—children over here, youth over there, seniors off to the side. But when generations come together in worship, service projects, and small groups, both young and old benefit. Seniors gain energy and connection; younger believers gain wisdom and perspective.

Third, churches need to invite seniors into visible leadership and mentoring roles. A retired teacher may be the perfect mentor for young parents. A widower who has walked through grief could guide others in their darkest hours. Their stories and faith are powerful tools for discipleship.

Finally, pastors and leaders must speak directly to the struggles seniors face—loneliness, health concerns, caregiving burdens. Just as we address parenting or marriage from the pulpit, we must address these issues with compassion and hope.

If we reclaim our seniors, we don’t just solve a problem—we restore a vital strength to the church. Their voices, prayers, and presence remind us that every season of life matters in God’s Kingdom.

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Did God Really Say? Wrestling with Doubt and Finding Freedom in Truth

In a post-information and internet age, it is becoming increasingly difficult to sift truth from lies. You can find anything online to affirm, or deny, your feelings, your theology, and even your motives. With so many competing voices and endless truth claims, it’s no wonder so many feel disoriented. And perhaps the enemy is seizing the moment—using doubt, Google searches, AI chatter, devastating news cycles, and even tremendous loss to sway people toward believing a lie.

But this is not a new tactic. From the very beginning, in Eden, the serpent asked a deceptively simple question: “Did God really say…?” That one seed of doubt was enough to shake humanity’s confidence in God’s goodness and truth. And it remains the same strategy today. What is remarkable, and perhaps sobering, is how this same subtle strategy remains the chief temptation of our age.

I remember growing up in a faith community where questions weren’t always welcomed. We were taught to take what was said, accept it, and move on. Being a natural questioner and deep thinker, I often felt isolated, like my curiosity was unholy, even rebellious. Wrestling with hard questions left me feeling like I was doing something wrong, rather than engaging with God honestly.

It took me years to realize that doubt itself is not the enemy. In fact, doubt is often a painful but necessary tool God uses to lead us deeper into truth. It forces the question: Why do I believe what I believe? When approached rightly, doubt can become a doorway to freedom and clarity, not a source of shame or deconstruction.

Doubt comes in many forms, and each type presents its own challenges:

Intellectual Doubt: This is when ideas collide and our minds ache for clarity. Maybe it is a passage of Scripture that feels hard to reconcile with what we know, or a concept of God that stretches the limits of our logic. Intellectual doubt pushes us to think deeply, to research, and to wrestle honestly with evidence and theology. We see a glimpse of this in Thomas, who longed for tangible proof of Jesus’ resurrection. What I love is that the Bible does not hide this kind of doubt, and Jesus’ response was not to scold but to meet Thomas with compassion, showing him His hands and feet. Intellectual doubt is not a reason to retreat; it is an invitation to grow.

Emotional Doubt:  Life experiences often stir questions that logic cannot answer. Suffering, disappointment, or unmet expectations can leave us wondering if God is really good, really present, or really trustworthy. Emotional doubt is messy and deeply human, yet it can also become a bridge to empathy, resilience, and a deeper, more authentic faith when we bring our feelings honestly before God. This is the doubt we see in the Psalms, where questions rise raw from the heart and answers do not come in clichés or coffee cup theology.

Moral Doubt: At times, doubt arises because truth conflicts with our current way of living. If we are honest, being a follower of Christ costs us something. God’s Word will often confront our habits, desires, or comfort zones, and that tension can make us want to question or even compromise what we know to be true. Many people wrestle here, choosing to bend their beliefs in order to justify living in a way that goes against Scripture. Moral doubt tests not only what we believe, but also who we want to be and how we want to live. Facing it with courage does not diminish us; it reminds us, as Paul declares, that even when we surrender our own desires and lose what the world prizes, we gain Christ and everything He offers.

So, how do we navigate doubt without being overwhelmed? The answer is not to ignore it, suppress it, or pretend it does not exist. The answer is to anchor ourselves in the Source of all certainty: God Himself and His Word. Scripture is more than a book of rules or ancient stories; it is the living, reliable foundation that illuminates truth in a world of confusion.

Doubt becomes destructive only when it is left unresolved or allowed to lead us away from God. But when we engage it intentionally, being honest about our questions, wrestling with them thoughtfully, and seeking counsel in biblical community, we discover freedom. Freedom to ask hard questions. Freedom to wrestle. Freedom to grow in understanding. Freedom to discern truth in a noisy world. Freedom to live with clarity, confidence, and hope.

Engaging doubt requires both courage and humility. It means admitting where we struggle, recognizing where we need correction, and being open to God’s guidance and the wisdom of others. It means sitting with discomfort instead of running from it, leaning into Scripture as our anchor, and allowing our minds, hearts, and souls to wrestle fully with what we do not yet understand.

I have learned that doubt is not the opposite of faith; it is often the path through faith. When we bring our questions before God, wrestle with them honestly, and walk in humble community, doubt can become a catalyst for deeper trust, clarity, and freedom.

So the next time the whisper comes, Did God really say…? do not recoil. Lean in. Ask. Seek. And let God meet you in the questions with nail pierced hands and feet.

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