Thom Rainer

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8 unforced errors churches make

An “unforced error” is a term borrowed from sports, especially tennis, meaning a mistake made due to one’s own lapse rather than being forced by an opponent. In everyday language, it refers to an avoidable mistake or misstep, typically resulting from a lack of attention or care rather than external pressure.

At what age should a pastor retire? Ten diagnostic questions.

There are a lot of us Baby Boomer pastors and Christian leaders around. And it’s cliché, but we aren’t getting any younger. It’s a quiet question that many are asking, but they are asking it nonetheless: What age should I retire?

Five reasons Millennial pastors are not moving to larger churches

They are the second largest generation in America’s history. At 74 million persons, they are only surpassed in size by the Boomer generation. Born between 1980 and 1997, they are shaping our businesses, our government, and our culture.

Why a pastor did not survive a difficult church: An interview

There are great rewards in the pastoral call. And there are times that there is great pain. In this article, I have asked a pastor to share his experiences in a difficult church, one where he eventually left under pressure. I wrote the interview verbatim while allowing the pastor to remain anonymous. 

Five reasons why 2025 will be a pivotal year for many churches

There seems to be a convergence of issues that could have a profound effect on churches in 2025. Frankly, I could name at least a dozen issues, but these five seem to be the most likely.

If I had to choose five church metrics to use and follow

A sincere pastor asked me this question: If I only had to measure and follow five church metrics, what would be my top five choices? 

The anatomy of the firing of a pastor

This article reflects on seven phases of the firing of a pastor. I have worked with countless pastors who shared their stories with me. These phases are common in many of them. Also, I will use a recent conversation to provide a real narrative of a real pastor in a real church. I made some slight adjustments to protect the identities of the pastor and the church. 

Four reasons why evangelism is often misunderstood in the local church

One of my research-based answers is that many church members are confused about the meaning of church-based evangelism. The confusion often lies in understanding what constitutes an evangelistic ministry in a church.

7 reasons we should encourage people to avoid using smartphones or tablets during worship services

Several years ago, I decided to become a real church member. Let me explain. For over 30 years, I was the preacher each Sunday at whatever church I attended. I preached as the pastor, the interim pastor, or guest preacher. I never viewed the church on Sunday mornings from the pews or the chairs. I […]

8 key decisions churches must make concerning groups

Groups are vital to the health of a church. Church leaders must make key decisions about the purpose of groups as they plan for them.