Bethlehem Baptist Church in Minneapolis chose to completely replant itself as City Church Minneapolis after facing declining attendance following founding pastor John Piper's retirement after 40 years. Their story demonstrates how legacy churches can choose gospel-centered renewal over nostalgia when faced with the question of whether their best days are behind them.
• After John Piper left, the church faced declining attendance despite his influential 40-year ministry
• The downtown campus made the bold decision to replant rather than continue declining
• Not closing or launching a satellite, but dying to self and starting over with new identity
• Process took years of meetings, prayer, and asking difficult questions about leadership and future
• The new City Church Minneapolis is smaller but healthier, younger, and more focused
• Faithfulness beats flashiness and health beats hype in church ministry
• Churches don't need to wait for decline to consider replanting or revitalization
• Sometimes embracing a smaller congregation can lead to stronger ministry
If your church is considering a replant or revitalization effort, reach out to us at podcast@chemistrystaffing.com for guidance through the discernment process.
Have questions or comments? Send to podcast@chemistrystaffing.com
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