The Starting Well Podcast

On this season finale of the podcast, we review why starting well is so important, along with the five priorities to do so. As mentioned in the episode, here are the Kentucky Baptist Convention's Regional Consultants who stand ready to assist you in your ministry:Central Region: Barry JeffriesEast Region: Dr. Jason LoweNorth Central Region: Dr. Andy McDonaldSouth Region: Dr. Andrew DyerSouth Central Region: Tommy TapscottWest Region: Dr. Ian Carrico____Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):https://uppbeat.io/t/mark-july/your-wayLicense code: ARFPJQDQLF0BSBR8

Starting Well focuses on helping pastors get off to a good start during the early season of your ministry. However, there are other seasons as well. On this episode, we cover the five general seasons that every pastor experiences during his ministry, and why starting well is critical to finishing well. ____Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):https://uppbeat.io/t/mark-july/your-wayLicense code: ARFPJQDQLF0BSBR8

As you seek to implement change in your church, you and your congregation will likely go through a predictable set of emotions. In this episode, we discuss the five stages of this "emotional cycle of change," along with three real-life ministry examples that illustrate it. Special thanks to the Replant Bootcamp podcast for inspiring this episode. You can check out the original discussion they had about this topic here.____Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):https://uppbeat.io/t/mark-july/your-wayLicense code: ARFPJQDQLF0BSBR8

How much change can your church handle at any given time? The answer is probably, "It depends." On this episode, we discuss how to determine your church's "change tolerance" by identifying the degree and pace of changes you plan to make.____Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):https://uppbeat.io/t/mark-july/your-wayLicense code: ARFPJQDQLF0BSBR8

Even if the change you are considering is necessary, it doesn't mean your church members will immediately embrace it. That's why it's important to determine your church's readiness or openness to change. On this episode, we discuss ten questions that will help you do so.____Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):https://uppbeat.io/t/mark-july/your-wayLicense code: ARFPJQDQLF0BSBR8

As your church's new pastor, you will implement changes from time to time. However, if you want to lead well through those changes, you'll want to determine if the change is absolutely necessary right now. On this episode, we discuss 6 questions to help you identify the necessity of the change you wish to make.____Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):https://uppbeat.io/t/mark-july/your-wayLicense code: ARFPJQDQLF0BSBR8

As your church's new pastor, you will implement changes from time to time. However, if you want to lead well through those changes, you need to begin by understanding the nature of any change you want to make. On this episode, we discuss 10 general categories of changes you may attempt to implement in your new church.This is episode is based on the article, "10 Categories of Changes You Might Make in Your New Church," written by Jason Lowe.____Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):https://uppbeat.io/t/mark-july/your-wayLicense code: ARFPJQDQLF0BSBR8

Every church has a vocal minority who will often voice their disapproval of a pastor's leadership. However, every church also has a silent majority who will not express either approval or disapproval. If you want to start well, you'll want to listen to this silent majority to see how the people feel about the church's direction. This episode discusses four ways you can listen well when nothing is being said.This episode is based on the article, "Listening Well When Nothing is Being Said," written by Jason Lowe.____Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):https://uppbeat.io/t/mark-july/your-wayLicense code: ARFPJQDQLF0BSBR8

Discerning God's vision for your new church is only half the battle. After discerning that vision, you must communicate and implement it effectively. In this episode, Jason Lowe is joined by Alan Witham to discuss tips on how to communicate and implement God's vision for your church. This episode is based on the article, "Communicating and Implementing God's Vision for Your New Church," written by Alan Witham. Other resources mentioned in this episode include:KBC Regional Consultants____Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):https://uppbeat.io/t/mark-july/your-wayLicense code: ARFPJQDQLF0BSBR8

Pastors are often tempted to begin their ministry at their new church by implementing a predetermined vision that has worked for them in a previous ministry or one they have observed in another church. In this episode, Jason Lowe is joined by Alan Witham to discuss why a key to starting well is to listen well to discern God's vision for your new church. This episode is based on the article, "Discerning God's Vision for Your New Church," written by Alan Witham. Other resources mentioned in this episode include:Breakout Churches by Thom RainerThe Power of Vision by George BarnaDeveloping a Vision for Ministry by Aubrey Malphurs____Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):https://uppbeat.io/t/mark-july/your-wayLicense code: ARFPJQDQLF0BSBR8

Pastors are never meant to serve in isolation, even if you are the only pastor in your church. In this episode, Jason Lowe is joined by Andy McDonald to discuss why inviting others to speak into your life and ministry, and listening well to what they have to say, are critical to your success in ministry.This episode is based on the article, "Inviting Others to Speak Into Your Life and Ministry," written by Andy McDonald. Other resources mentioned in this episode include:The Solo Pastor by Gary McIntoshFaithful Leaders and the Things That Matter Most by Rico Tice____Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):https://uppbeat.io/t/mark-july/your-wayLicense code: ARFPJQDQLF0BSBR8

Church constitutions, policies, and procedures are not the most glamorous part of pastoral ministry, but they are necessary. In this episode, Jason Lowe is joined by Ian Carrico to discuss an adaptable framework to assist you as you review and potentially revise your church's governing documents.This episode is based on the article, "Strategies for Reviewing and Revising Your Church's Governing Documents," by Ian Carrico. Other resources mentioned in this episode include:KBC's Guide to Rewrite a Constitution & BylawsChurch Administration by Robert WelchAdvanced Strategic Planning by Aubrey Malphurs____Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):https://uppbeat.io/t/mark-july/your-wayLicense code: ARFPJQDQLF0BSBR8

The health of your pastoral ministry is deeply tied to the health of your family life. That's why it's critical to serve your new church well without neglecting your family. On this episode, Jason Lowe is joined by Harold Best, who provides 10 practical suggestions to help you maintain a healthy balance between ministry and family during the early days of your pastoral journey.This episode is based on the article, "Balancing Ministry & Family in Your New Church," by Harold Best. Other resources mentioned in this episode include:Dangerous Calling by Paul David TrippBoundaries by Henry Cloud & John TownsendKBC Pastoral Wellness Resources____Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):https://uppbeat.io/t/mark-july/your-wayLicense code: ARFPJQDQLF0BSBR8

On this Thanksgiving episode, Jason Lowe shares 10 reasons you, as a new pastor, can be thankful for your new church. Take a listen, and have a Happy Thanksgiving!____Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):https://uppbeat.io/t/mark-july/your-wayLicense code: ARFPJQDQLF0BSBR8

As the holidays approach, every new pastor will encounter holiday traditions that are unique to his new church. On this episode, Jason Lowe is joined by Josh Schmidt, pastor of Burlington Baptist Church in northern Kentucky, to discuss strategies for navigating those traditions with wisdom and grace at Christmas and during other holidays throughout the year.____Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):https://uppbeat.io/t/mark-july/your-wayLicense code: ARFPJQDQLF0BSBR8

As you get settled into your ministry at your new church, you will quickly discover its current reality. On this episode, Jason Lowe is joined by Alan Witham to discuss several practical tools that can help you learn that reality. We also discuss what to do if the current reality you find doesn't match the reality that was described to you by the Pastor Search Committee.This episode is based on the article, "Learning Your New Church's Current Reality," written by Alan Witham. Other resources mentioned in this episode include:NAMB's Community Demographics ReportKentucky's 2020 Lostness ReportAnnual Church ProfileRe-MAP Resource (by KBC Staff)Breaking Barriers in Smaller Church (by KBC Staff)____Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):https://uppbeat.io/t/mark-july/your-wayLicense code: ARFPJQDQLF0BSBR8

As you begin serving in your new church, it is essential to recognize that the church's history is deeply tied to its community. Therefore, if you want to start well, you'll need to learn about the church's community. On this episode, Jason Lowe is joined by Eric Allen, who provides several practical and strategic suggestions for doing so.This episode is based on the article, "Learning Your New Church's Community," written by Eric Allen. Other resources mentioned in this episode include:NAMB's Community Demographics ReportSeed To OaksThe Externally Focused Church by Eric Swanson and Rick Rusaw____Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):https://uppbeat.io/t/mark-july/your-wayLicense code: ARFPJQDQLF0BSBR8

As you begin serving in your new church, you'll likely know less than anyone else about the church. That's why it's so important to learn well about your new church in the early days of your ministry. In this episode, Steve Rice and Jason Lowe continue last week's conversation and discuss five more practical tips you can learn about your new church's history and culture.This episode is based on the article, "Learning Your New Church's History and Culture," written by Steve Rice. Other resources mentioned in this episode include the following:Leading Major Change in Your Ministry by Jeff IorgLet this Mind Be In You by James DewWhat Every Pastor Should Know by Gary McIntosh____Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):https://uppbeat.io/t/mark-july/your-wayLicense code: ARFPJQDQLF0BSBR8

As you begin serving in your new church, you'll likely know less than anyone else about the church. That's why it's so important to learn well about your new church in the early days of your ministry. In this episode, Steve Rice joins Jason Lowe to discuss five practical ways you can learn about your new church's history and culture.This episode is based on the article, "Learning Your New Church's History and Culture," written by Steve Rice. Other resources mentioned in this episode include the following:Concentric Circles of Concern by Oscar Thompson____Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):https://uppbeat.io/t/mark-july/your-wayLicense code: ARFPJQDQLF0BSBR8

Every pastor makes mistakes. The question is, how do you respond whenever you do so? On this episode, we cover why owning up to your mistakes is a great way to love your church well, along with practical tips for how you can do so. Resources mentioned on this episode include:Resolving Everyday Conflict by Ken Sande and Kevin JohnsonThe Peacemaker by Ken Sande____Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):https://uppbeat.io/t/mark-july/your-wayLicense code: ARFPJQDQLF0BSBR8

One of the best ways for new pastors to love their church well is through intentional prayer and meaningful follow-up. On this episode, Jason Lowe and Alan Witham continue their conversation with five more practical ways for a new pastor to pray for their flock.This episode is based on the article, "Praying for Your Flock," written by Alan Witham. Other resources mentioned in this episode include:Praying the Bible by Donald WhitneyThe Hour That Changes the World by Dick EastmanStrengthening Congregational Prayer by KBC StaffPocket Guide to Prayer-walking by KBC StaffAnd the Place was Shaken by John Franklin____Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):https://uppbeat.io/t/mark-july/your-wayLicense code: ARFPJQDQLF0BSBR8

One of the best ways for new pastors to love their church well is through intentional prayer and meaningful follow-up. On this episode, Jason Lowe is joined again by Alan Witham, who shares ten practical ways for a new pastor to pray for their flock.This episode is based on the article, "Praying for Your Flock," written by Alan Witham. Other resources mentioned in this episode include:Praying the Bible by Donald WhitneyThe Hour That Changes the World by Dick Eastman____Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):https://uppbeat.io/t/mark-july/your-wayLicense code: ARFPJQDQLF0BSBR8

A common nightmare among pastors is to forget an important event in the life of a church member. That's why it's essential to take and maintain good notes of your pastoral care. On this episode, Jason Lowe and Jeff Crabtree discuss why taking good notes is important, what types of notes to take, and practical tips for how to record those notes. This episode is based on the article, "Maintaining Good Records of Your Pastoral Care," by Jeff Crabtree. Other resources mentioned in this episode include:Notebird Pastoral Care appPlanning Center Church Management softwareWhat Every Pastor Should Know by Gary McIntoshThe 10 Key Roles of a Pastor by Gary McIntosh____Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):https://uppbeat.io/t/mark-july/your-wayLicense code: ARFPJQDQLF0BSBR8

A new pastor's preaching ministry will be one of his first connections with his new church family. In this episode, Ian Carrico and Jason Lowe discuss how to love your church well through the illustrations and applications you use in your sermons, as well as some ways you might fail to love as well as you could through your preaching ministry.The digital copy of the resource mentioned in this episode can be downloaded here:Practical Preaching Handbook____Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):https://uppbeat.io/t/mark-july/your-wayLicense code: ARFPJQDQLF0BSBR8

A new pastor's preaching ministry will be one of his first connections with his new church family. In this episode, Ian Carrico and Jason Lowe discuss five ways to love your church well through your preaching ministry.This episode is based on the article, "Love Well Through Your Preaching," written by Ian Carrico. ____Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):https://uppbeat.io/t/mark-july/your-wayLicense code: ARFPJQDQLF0BSBR8

One of the most effective ways a new pastor can demonstrate love to his church is by practicing pastoral hospitality. In this episode, Andy McDonald and Jason Lowe discuss several practical suggestions for doing so.This conversation is based on the article, "Practicing Pastoral Hospitality," written by Andy McDonald. Other resources mentioned in this episode include:Small Church Essentials by Karl VatersLead to Revitalize by KBC staff____Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):https://uppbeat.io/t/mark-july/your-wayLicense code: ARFPJQDQLF0BSBR8

Pastoral care visits are a vital aspect of ministry, especially during the early days at a new church. In this episode, Harold Best and Jason Lowe discuss some key "Do's" and a few "Don'ts" to help guide you in making your visits both meaningful and helpful, and to communicate your love for your flock.This conversation is based on the article, "The Do's and Don'ts of Pastoral Care Visits," by Harold Best. Other resources mentioned in this episode include:The Deacon Ministry Handbook by Kentucky Baptist Convention staff____Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):https://uppbeat.io/t/mark-july/your-wayLicense code: ARFPJQDQLF0BSBR8

Whether in a brief encounter or a meeting with individual members and church families in their homes, you can gain valuable insight into people's lives by asking some simple questions. In this episode, Jason Lowe and Andy McDonald discuss several potential questions to get to know your church members and love them well.This conversation is based on the article, "Essential Questions to Ask to Get to Know Your Church Members," by Andy McDonald. Other resources mentioned in this episode include:BLESS by Dave Ferguson & Jon FergusonOne Size Doesn't Fit All by Gary McIntosh____Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):https://uppbeat.io/t/mark-july/your-wayLicense code: ARFPJQDQLF0BSBR8

As you begin to serve in your church, you'll find that implementing some changes or new ministries is easier than others. This episode includes the remainder of a conversation between Jason Lowe and Ian Carrico as they discuss some potential early wins that you may pursue to build relationships, trust, and momentum during the early days of your ministry. The early wins discussed on this episode include:Identifying an evangelist in the congregation.Celebrating life change.Relating to the community.Evaluating and maximizing communication.This conversation is based on the article, "Potential Early Wins for a New Pastor." Other resources mentioned in this episode include:Revitalize & Replant Podcast by Mark CliftonLead to Revitalize by KBC StaffWhat Every Pastor Should Know by Gary McIntosh____Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):https://uppbeat.io/t/mark-july/your-wayLicense code: ARFPJQDQLF0BSBR8

As you begin to serve in your church, you'll find that implementing some changes or new ministries is easier than others. This episode includes the first half of a conversation between Jason Lowe and Ian Carrico as they discuss some potential early wins that you may pursue to build relationships, trust, and momentum during the early days of your ministry. The early wins discussed on this episode include:Making prayer imperativePrioritizing your calendarDiscovering the church's current realityBuilding relationships and trust in the congregationIdentifying men to discipleThis conversation is based on the article, "Potential Early Wins for a New Pastor."____Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):https://uppbeat.io/t/mark-july/your-wayLicense code: ARFPJQDQLF0BSBR8

Change in a church is a given. However, it can have unintended consequences if implemented haphazardly. This episode includes the second half of a conversation between Jason Lowe and Jeff Crabtree in which they discuss strategic questions that pastors should ask before implementing major change in their new church. The questions discussed on this episode include:How does this change affect our mission and vision?What is the speed of change for our congregation?How will we know the change is beneficial?Resources mentioned in this episode include:To Dream Again by Robert DaleLead to Revitalize by KBC StaffWhat Every Pastor Should Know by Gary McIntoshLook Before You Lead by Aubrey Malphurs40 Days of Prayer for Church Revitalization by KBC Staff____Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):https://uppbeat.io/t/mark-july/your-wayLicense code: ARFPJQDQLF0BSBR8

Change in a church is a given. However, it can have unintended consequences if implemented haphazardly. This episode includes the first part of a conversation between Jason Lowe and Jeff Crabtree in which they discuss strategic questions that pastors should ask before implementing major change in their new church. The questions discussed on this episode include:Have I prayed about this change?Who will be responsible for making this decision about change?What will this change cost?Resources mentioned in this episode include:Leading Major Change in Your Ministry by Jeff IorgWho Moved My Pulpit? by Thom Rainer____Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):https://uppbeat.io/t/mark-july/your-wayLicense code: ARFPJQDQLF0BSBR8

In a fallen world, conflict is inevitable, and church conflict is no exception. As you begin your ministry in a new church, you will encounter conflict sooner or later. However, some conflict will be necessary, while some of it will be unnecessary. In this episode, we identify five common causes of unnecessary church conflict. Those causes include:Conflict over third-order doctrinesConflict over opposing preferencesConflict due to implementing too much change too fastConflict due to a lack of communicationConflict due to a lack of emphasis on the starting well priorities

In a fallen world, conflict is inevitable, and church conflict is no exception. As you begin your ministry in a new church, you will encounter conflict sooner or later. However, some conflict will be necessary, while some of it will be unnecessary. In this episode, we identify four additional scenarios when church conflict is necessary. Those scenarios include:Conflict is necessary when church members are at odds with one another.Conflict is necessary when church members oppose the church's mission.Conflict is necessary when financial problems need to be addressed.Conflict is necessary when helping the church recognize its current reality.Resources mentioned in this episode:Resolving Everyday Conflict by Ken Sande and Kevin JohnsonWhen Church Conflict Happens by Michael Hare

In a fallen world, conflict is inevitable, and church conflict is no exception. As you begin your ministry in a new church, you will encounter conflict sooner or later. However, some conflict will be necessary, while some of it will be unnecessary. In this episode, we identify four scenarios when church conflict is necessary. Those scenarios include:Conflict is necessary when engaging in spiritual warfare.Conflict is necessary when major doctrines are challenged, denied, or opposed.Conflict is necessary when there is blatant sin in the church.Conflict is necessary when preaching challenging texts in the Bible.

Many new pastors begin their ministry by casting vision, developing strategies, and implementing changes. While those tasks have their place, they will only be effective if the pastor first establishes trust with the congregation. In this episode, we talk about three reasons why trust is essential for starting well:Trust grants leadership permission.Trust allows you to make mistakes.Trust minimizes unnecessary conflict.

Pastors can sometimes get so busy serving others that they forget to care for themselves, often leading to burnout. In this episode, we identify five key areas where new pastors should build healthy habits to avoid ministry burnout. By setting intentional boundaries and practicing appropriate self-care, you can live well outside the church and serve well inside your church.The five areas we discuss include:Your spiritual healthYour emotional healthYour relational healthYour physical healthYour financial health

Leadership is essential if you want to start well in your church. In this episode, we discuss six strategic ways to lead well early in your ministry. Those ways include:Lead prayerfully.Lead patiently.Lead humbly.Lead collaboratively.Lead optimistically.Lead strategically.

If you want to start well in your church, you must be quick to listen and slow to speak (James 1:19). This episode helps new pastors identify five voices to listen to discern God's vision for the church and effective strategies for carrying out that vision.Those voices include:Listen to the Lord.Listen to other godly church leaders.Listen to other pastors.Listen to the congregation.Listen to your wife and family.

Effective leaders are learners. This episode identifies seven essential details that pastors should learn about their church during their first year, which will help them lead well in subsequent years. Those details include:Learn about your church's history.Learn about your church's culture.Learn about your church's community.Learn about your church's governing documents.Learn about your church's influencers.Learn about your church's current reality.Learn about the changes you'll want to make in the future.Resources mentioned in this episode:Look Before You Lead by Aubrey MalphursReclaiming Glory by Mark CliftonNAMB Demographic Report Request (for SBC churches)Current Reality Assessment

The cliche that "people don't care how much you know until they know how much you care" certainly applies to pastoral ministry. They also won't follow your leadership until they know how much you care. Therefore, if you want to start well in your new ministry assignment, you must love your church well. This episode covers six practical ways you can do so.Resources mentioned in this episode:Questions to Ask During "Get to Know You" Visits

In this week's episode, Jason Lowe identifies the four foundational priorities to help pastors start well. While focusing on these priorities will not guarantee the absence of conflict or other challenges, not focusing on them will certainly increase the chances for problems early in your ministry at the church.

In this debut episode, author, blogger, and church consultant Jason Lowe identifies one of the biggest mistakes new pastors often make when they begin serving at a church, along with six potential negative outcomes that may result.