Thom S. Rainer
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8 Differences Between Church Giving and Church Dues
It is amazing to hear how church members view their tithes and offerings to their local churches. Though it's cliché to say, the attitudes of their hearts reflect the nature of their contributions to the church.
10 Reasons We Are Starting Revitalize Network
So, why are we starting Revitalize Network? As a starter, allow me to share ten reasons.
What's Next for Me After Lifeway?
Please indulge me for one more blog post about my decision to retire from LifeWay. In my previous post, I shared the reasons why I am retiring, why God is leading me to leave an organization I love deeply. In this post, I will share some of my plans for life post-LifeWay.
Suicide, Depression and Pastors: One Way Church Members Can Help
Most pastors are not suicidal. But most pastors do struggle. They lead churches in a culture that is not friendly to their calling. Three-fourths of them lead churches that are struggling by almost any measure or metric. Many pastors are on the precipice of quitting, and most church members have no idea of their inner turmoil.
15 Common Sacred Cows in Churches
To the delight of some and to the chagrin of others, I conducted an informal social media poll to find out what the audience deemed the most common sacred cows in their churches. The answers were voluminous. Some of the conversations were hilarious. Some people just got mad. Imagine that.
10 Guidelines for Paying and Hosting Guest Speakers and Musicians
Over the years, I have worked with many churches and speakers (and a few musicians) to establish some guidelines for hosting and paying guest speakers. Keep in mind, these are guidelines, not rigid rules. There will always be reasons for exceptions.
Why I'm Retiring From Lifeway
Tonight, during the regularly scheduled meeting of the LifeWay board, I announced my retirement as president and CEO. I will step down when the new CEO is named, or in one year, whichever comes first.
Back to School: 5 Ways Your Church Can Have a Major Impact
Let me share with you what I have heard about great success stories of churches as a new school year approached. They are basic but profound.
5 Ways #MeToo Will Impact Churches
The #MeToo Movement will be one of the historic markers of 2018. Its impact is felt in the entertainment industry, in politics, in businesses and, undoubtedly, in churches.
7 Traits of Healthy Churches
A member of the Church Answers community recently asked about the characteristics of healthy churches today. Immediately, I began to review churches that were having great community impact, whose members regularly had gospel conversations, and whose leaders faithfully preached the Word with power every week.