Church Life Archives - Page 5 of 97

The maturing years of congregations can be treacherous

September 3, 2025

If I ask you about your teenage years, you might tell me you were the perfect adolescent. If so, I know you also lie about other things.

First person: Caring for your pastor

September 2, 2025

Good pastors are hard to find. Some churches that are without a pastor have spent two years or longer in a search for their next one.

First person: Why the foyer of a church matters

September 1, 2025

Here’s why this place in your church matters more than you might think.

First person: Churches and TV commercials

August 31, 2025

I’m always thrilled when local churches make the decision to share their story on local TV.

Discipleship: Is it a priority at your church?

August 25, 2025

Pastors have a lot of thoughts about discipleship, but they aren’t sure it’s happening in their churches.

The multiplying years of congregations are about more than growth

August 20, 2025

You can help new congregations succeed beyond their first generation by supporting them during two critical early stages.

Study: Why do pastors leave the ministry?

August 13, 2025

Few pastors leave the pulpit each year, but those who do mostly say it was a personal decision, according to a Lifeway Research study.

Characteristics of strong worship

August 12, 2025

I preach in a lot of churches. Sometimes the portion of worship prior to the sermon is superb, and sometimes it’s not so good. I admit that my assessment is entirely subjective.

Americans’ trust in the Church making rebound?

August 11, 2025

While most Americans remain distrustful of the church, a growing number say they have confidence in the institution. Currently, 36% say they trust the church, according to Gallup’s annual tracking poll.