Seven Reasons for Optimism in American Churches

Podcast Episode #217Discussion about why we are optimistic about the state of the church in North America. The sky is not falling, and here are seven particular reasons why that is the case. And we even snuck an Al Gore reference into today's episode.Some highlights from today's episode include: * The influx of church planters has been a good thing for the state of the church in North America. * Church splits are no longer the most common way new churches start, and that's a good thing. * Church planters are starting more churches with evangelistic DNA than ever before. * New churches have the opportunity to have a more intentional evangelistic DNA than established churches. * Millennials are pushing churches toward more of a community emphasis. * One of the main reasons the American church has been unhealthy over the past few decades is because of its inward focus. * It's hard to say a church is about others when it spends all of the church's money on the members.The seven reasons for optimism in American churches we discuss are: * New churches replacing dying churches * New churches truly becoming evangelistic * Balance of practical and classical training for pastors and staff * Better use of facilities * Millennials moving church members to the community * Re-examination of church budgets * Church revitalizationEpisode SponsorsMidwestern Seminary, located in the heart of the Midwest, is one of the fastest growing seminaries in North America and offers a fantastic array of academic programs, including multiple online and residential options at the undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral levels. Midwestern’s new 81-hour Mdiv program, online program, and doctoral program have all been recognized as some of the most innovative and affordable in the country. There has never been a better time to begin your seminary education. Midwestern Seminary trains leaders 'For The Church.’Visit them online at MBTS.edu and start your ministry training today.Vanderbloemen Search Group is the premier pastor search firm dedicated to helping churches and ministries build great teams. They’ve helped hundreds of churches just like yours find their church staff and are uniquely geared to help you discern who God is calling to lead your church.Find out more about Vanderbloemen Search Group by visiting WeStaffTheChurch.com.FeedbackIf you have a question you would like answered on the show, fill out the form on the podcast page here on Church Answers.Resources Mentioned in Today's Podcast * How Do I Know if My Church Is Evangelistically Effective? * I Am a Church Member