Resources

Key Insights on Church Revitalization from CMBA and SCBaptist Leaders

Key Insights on Church Revitalization from CMBA and SCBaptist Leaders

Church revitalization is a pressing need for many congregations today, and the Columbia Metro Baptist Association (CMBA) and the South Carolina Baptist Convention (SCBaptist) are dedicated to helping churches rediscover their mission and thrive.

In a recent panel discussion, key leaders shared their insights on consistent themes they’ve observed in their work with struggling and declining churches. The panel included James Nugent, Director of Church Strategies and Revitalization with SCBaptist; David Waganer, Church Health and Resources Team Leader with CMBA; Jamie Rogers, Associational Mission Strategist with CMBA; and Joe Copeland, Church Strategy Specialist with SCBaptist. Moderated by Julia Bell, Communications Coordinator with CMBA, the discussion provided practical steps, encouragement, and hope for churches navigating the revitalization process.

Here are five key takeaways:

The Mission of the Church Must Be Central

Churches in need of revitalization often lose focus on their primary mission—making disciples. This drift can result in churches becoming consumed with maintaining programs, budgets, and traditions, leading to stagnation or decline. A renewed focus on God’s mission, as revealed in Scripture, is essential for revitalization.

“God gave one mission to his church and that’s to make disciples in their community to the ends of the earth. And somewhere along the way, churches have gotten off track from that.”

Common Barriers to Revitalization

Consistent challenges faced by declining churches include:

  • Being “stuck in a time capsule” and resistant to change.
  • A lack of leadership and discipleship.
  • Internal conflicts, such as feuds between longstanding members and newcomers.
  • Worship style disagreements.
  • A lack of vision and a failure to adapt to changing community dynamics.

“Sometimes churches get stuck in a time capsule of the past. They continue to do things like they did 30, 40 years ago.”

Honesty and Trust Are Crucial First Steps

Churches must honestly evaluate their current realities, including their health and community engagement. Establishing trust between church members, leadership, and external partners is foundational for successful revitalization efforts. Trust opens the door for objective assessments and collaborative solutions.

“Why is it important for declining churches to be honest about their realities? If they’re not, it’s not gonna get better.”

Revitalization Requires Prayer, Patience, and Practical Steps

Revitalization is a long-term process, not a quick fix. Churches must commit to prayerful dependence on God, take practical steps such as decluttering their facilities, and be patient in waiting for the right leadership and direction. Partnerships with associations, state conventions, and other churches provide vital support throughout this journey.

“First and foremost, they need to pray. There is a God who has an answer, and we need to cry out to him.”

There Is Hope and Help Available

God has a plan for every church, regardless of its current challenges. Revitalization is possible through reliance on his Word, intentional strategies, and the help of resources like Columbia Metro Baptist Association and the South Carolina Baptist Convention.

“You are not in this alone. You have the association helping you and the Convention helping you. There are churches waiting to partner with churches that are struggling.”

Share This Resource