
Rainer on Leadership What Growing Churches Actually Do to Reach and Keep People
How does a church grow without relying on people transferring from other congregations? Thom and Sam take a dive into this topic.
What happened to the culture of invitation?
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- The cancellation of outreach programs 30 years ago.
- The lack of new equipping mechanisms in the church.
- Many churches have lived off the remnants of cultural Christianity for the last three decades.
- Transfer growth is more common than other forms of growth.
- An increasingly polarized and insular society.
What growing churches actually do:
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- Focus on conversion growth rather than transfer growth.
- Create consistent rhythms for outreach (seasonal campaigns, not one-offs).
- Build a fun and encouraging culture — joy motivates more than guilt.
- Equip people to make inviting normal, not awkward.
- Set clear expectations for members through your membership class.
- Systematize follow-up with guests through trackers or outreach teams.
- Pray intentionally for opportunities with neighbors.
Resources:
- “The Anxious Generation” by Jonathan Haidt (affiliate link)
- “The Anxious Generation Goes to Church” by Thom S. Rainer (affiliate link)
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