5LQ Episode 336: Scott McConnell – Research on the Biggest Challenges for the Church

In this episode of the 5 Leadership Questions podcast, Todd Adkins and Daniel Im are joined by Scott McConnell, Executive Director of Lifeway Research. During their conversation, they discuss the following questions: Background of the research What is the next level insight gleaned from the research? Discuss what the research said about ethnic diversity. How is women in leadership another significant change or factor? What encouragement would you give the church leaders about something they can do next week in light of this research? BEST QUOTES  “Are we really in love with the church enough that those on the outside would say, ‘I want to be a part of that.’?” “The largest group of pastors, 4 out of 10, indicated that reaching the next generation is the thing they are most concerned about as a church.” “These are the difficult things that pastors are ready to address.” “For a third of pastors, they have had an increase in diversity. Going forward, 62% says they expect it to increase in the next 5 years.” “In light of all this, if you are of the majority culture wherever you’re living, make an intentional effort to go to restaurants where you are going to be the minority and just see how that feels.” “47% of pastors say the number of women in leadership has increased over the last 5 years.” “If your church doesn’t have very many women in leadership roles, how do you cultivate that?” “Wrestling through the why question is an important thing to do.” “Have a next step in mind. If you aren’t taking steps toward the goals you have for your church, you aren’t going to get there.” “Where are we doing well and where do we have room for improvement?” RECOMMENDED RESOURCES Lifeway Leadership Podcast Network 5LQ Episode 278: Scott McConnell on VBS Research 5LQ Episode 294: Scott McConnell on Bible Research 5LQ Episode 299: Research on the Unchurched 5LQ Episode 305: The State of Theology Text “research” to 888111 to receive a link to download this research Group Answers Podcast This Episode’s Sponsor: With Ministry Grid’s library of over 3,000 training videos, it’s now simpler than ever to train every volunteer and leader in your church. And this is training you can trust. Each Ministry Grid video features an experienced ministry leader who has been where you are now. Learn how to get unlimited access for you and your church at MinistryGrid.com.