Shows
Rainer on LeadershipHow to Discard a Worn-Out Bible Properly
Many Christians feel uneasy simply throwing away a damaged or worn Bible. While there are no official rules, Josh and Sam discuss several thoughtful and reverent ways to handle a copy of Scripture that has served its purpose.
Reverent Burial
One historic approach—rooted in Jewish tradition—is burial. Christians may wrap the Bible, pray a short prayer of gratitude, and bury it in a meaningful place. This option is especially fitting for highly sentimental or family Bibles.
Respectful Burning
Like the respectful retirement of a wo...
2026-04-2318 minRainer on LeadershipWhat 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?
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:
Focus on conversion growth rather than transfer growth.
Create consistent rhythms...
2026-03-2323 min
Unique Noise Presents: Who Are You?Another Aaron, Another PlanetThis episode was recorded on 3/7/26"A person isn't who they are during the last conversation you had with them - they're who they've been throughout your whole relationship."- Rainer Maria RilkeWhere's the intro?, Daiso taste test, Still no intro?, Relationships and modern dating, Finally finished the intro, Cursed children’s YouTube, The Barbie discussion, Shoes, Feeling safe, Feeling close to people, Complimentary personalities, Optimist pessimist, or realist?, Splurging on things, and more!Email Sam!sam@uniquenoise.comPr...
2026-03-172h 19
Pastor MattersEngaging Your Community with Dr. Sam Rainer - EP232In this episode of Pastor Matters, we are joined by Dr. Sam Rainer, president of Church Answers, to discuss the concept of the neighborhood church and how pastors can better understand and engage with their communities. The conversation highlights the importance of demographic awareness and building real relationships outside the office to foster meaningful ministry. The episode concludes with encouragement for pastors to enjoy ministry, network with community leaders, and live out their faith in daily encounters, demonstrating what it means for a church to be integrated into its community.
We hope this episode is encouraging to...
2026-03-1635 minRainer on LeadershipWhy Guests Don’t Come Back to Church After a Big Ministry Event
Big events can be a way for churches to reach people, but they often fail to draw people back once the event is done. Thom and Sam unpack what it actually takes to turn community events into gospel opportunities.
Friendliness is not the same as connection. Relationships form when members sit with guests, ask questions, follow up, and invite people into their lives, not just back to a program.
Evangelism cannot be outsourced to the pastor or the event. Many churches assume that hosting something big equals outreach, but true evangelism happens...
2026-03-0923 minRainer on LeadershipWhy Small Churches Matter More Than Ever
While big cities often dominate attention and resources, it is the small towns and rural communities where congregations are disappearing fastest and where the church’s presence is most at risk. Thom and Sam explore why revitalizing and supporting small churches is essential for the future of Christian witness and how these congregations uniquely embody relational, community-anchoring ministry that larger models simply cannot replicate.
Small towns are the real American norm and a massive mission field. With 76% of incorporated places under 5,000 people, the typical American community is small. When churches disappear from these towns, en...
2026-03-0225 minRainer on LeadershipThe Silent Exodus of Senior Adults (What’s Happening in Churches?)
In this episode, Thom and Sam shine a light on a trend few church leaders see: the silent exodus of senior adults. While much attention is given to reaching Millennials and Gen Z, an equally significant group is slowly drifting away: older adults who once formed the backbone of many congregations. Their departure isn’t loud or dramatic. It’s subtle: an empty pew, a missing volunteer, a longtime member who quietly stops attending.
The impact is profound. Seniors are often the most faithful givers, steady volunteers, and prayer warriors. Losing them weakens the church both spir...
2026-02-0921 minRainer on LeadershipThe Best Ways to Encourage a Discouraged Church (Your Next Three Steps)
In this episode, Josh and Sam explore what happens when a church becomes discouraged and how God restores hope in a congregation that feels stuck, tired, or overwhelmed. Discouragement drains energy, distorts reality, and slowly turns a church inward. Encouragement is both spiritual and strategic. It starts with leaders who refuse to catastrophize and instead cast vision. Pessimists predict failure. Realists describe what is. But optimistic, faith-filled leaders show what could be.
Return to reality. Discouragement distorts reality. Discouraged churches often slide into emotional fog: overgeneralizing, catastrophizing, and believing “nothing works.”
Celebrate faithfulness, not just fruit. God...
2026-01-2924 minRainer on LeadershipRevisiting Simple Church: What Worked, What Didn’t
In 2006, Simple Church encouraged churches to streamline programming, clarify discipleship pathways, and focus on moving people toward spiritual maturity rather than filling calendars with activities. The book had a significant impact, shaping how thousands of pastors thought about ministry systems and structure. Nearly two decades later, Thom and Sam take a fresh look: What principles stood the test of time? What challenges emerged in practice? And how should churches apply Simple Church today in a ministry landscape that’s more complex, digital, and post-pandemic than ever?
Churches never attain the ideal, but the process is what ma...
2026-01-2624 minRainer on LeadershipWhen Should a Church Hire an Executive Pastor?
As churches grow, leaders often reach a tipping point where the senior pastor can no longer carry the full weight of vision, preaching, pastoral care, administration, staff oversight, and organizational leadership. That’s when the question arises: Is it time to hire an Executive Pastor? In this episode, Josh and Sam unpack what an Executive Pastor actually does, why this role has become more common across church sizes, and how to know whether your church is ready for one.
Capacity is the trigger, not attendance: The need for an XP has more to do with complexity th...
2026-01-1523 minRainer on LeadershipDigital Worship Fatigue: Why Online Church Can’t Replace the In-Person Gathering
Many are tired of online worship. What happened? When the pandemic forced churches online, digital worship seemed like the future. Congregations grew virtually, and pastors reached audiences they never imagined. But five years later, that momentum has faded. The church is discovering what technology can—and cannot—do for worship. On this episode, Thom and Sam explore why online engagement has declined and how churches can find balance between digital convenience and in-person community.
The Hype Has Faded: What began as a lifeline during lockdowns has lost its luster. Most believers now prefer in-person wors...
2026-01-1222 minRainer on LeadershipWhy You Should Leave Your Church (A Pastor’s Perspective)
Most of the time, church hopping for convenience (better music, cooler programs, or a coffee bar) reveals more about our consumer culture than about spiritual growth. But Sam and Josh explain that there are also good, biblical, and even necessary reasons to leave one church for another.
Geography – When you move to a new city or neighborhood, find and commit to a local church where you can serve and be known.
Theology – If your church changes its beliefs, or you come to hold different convictions, it may be wise to join a cong...
2025-11-2723 minRainer on LeadershipThe Top Reasons Why It’s Painful for Pastors to Lose Church Members
One of the more painful aspects of ministry is losing church members. Sometimes these departures are for good reasons, like moving to another town or planting a church. More often than not, pastors struggle with the reasons why people leave. Josh and Sam discuss why pastors experience pain with the loss of members, and they explore some ways to cope with the accompanying sadness.
When people leave the church, it feels personal because it often is.
Most pastors genuinely love their church members, even the difficult ones.
The time invested in people can feel like a...
2025-11-2022 minRainer on LeadershipThe Unchurched Are Not Angry with You (But They Are Indifferent)
Why don’t unchurched people attend church? It’s not because they’re mad or too busy. The top reason is simple: they just don’t see the point. Indifference is the enemy of engagement. In today’s episode, Josh and Sam share why that’s actually good news—and how the combination of spiritual conviction and a personal invitation can break through the apathy.
Don’t argue with indifference—disrupt it with love and presence.
Personal invitations still work and remain the #1 reason people attend.
Start with a relationship, not a program.
Pray for spiritual openness—then act...
2025-11-0619 minRainer on LeadershipThe Church Number: From 137 to 60 The Shrinking Median Church in America (2000–2023)
Since 2000, one of the most reliable sources of data on congregations in America has been the Faith Communities Today study, often referred to as FACT. It’s been conducted every five years, with the most recent survey in 2023 representing tens of thousands of congregations across every major faith tradition.
The FACT research gives us a clear picture of what the ‘typical’ church looks like over time. And here’s one of the most striking trends: in 2000, the median church in America had 137 people in attendance at weekly worship services. By 2023, that number had dropped to just 60...
2025-11-0324 minRainer on LeadershipHow to Get Families in Your Church to Read the Bible Together
Sam welcomes Amanda Jass to the Rainer on Leadership podcast. Amanda serves as the general editor for the NLT GO Bible and is a gifted writer, editor, illustrator, and encourager. She has a passion for creating content for all ages, with a special focus on resources for kids and families.
Why is it important for multiple generations to read God’s Word together?
In a time when generations often seem at odds, how can churches model a better way?
How can the New Living Translation and resources like the GO Bible help foster multigenerational relationships?
Children’s mi...
2025-10-2022 minRainer on LeadershipThe Least Appreciated People in Your Church (And What To Do About It)There are many underappreciated people in your church. If you are in leadership, you must ensure they receive the proper recognition, encouragement, and resources. Josh and Sam discuss several groups that fly under the radar but are critical to everyday ministry.
Nursery workers
People rolling off of teams or committees
First-time givers (and longtime faith givers)
Custodians and those who help clean the facility
Small group leaders
Staff spouses
Resources:
Doctor of Ministry, The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary
Smart Church Solutions
FREE Research Report! New Surprising Insights
Church Answers Central
The Hope Initiative
Episode Sponsors:
2025-10-1620 minRainer on LeadershipThe Legacy Life with David Green, Founder and CEO of Hobby Lobby, and Bill High, CEO of Legacy Stone
Thom and Sam welcome David Green, founder and CEO of Hobby Lobby, and Bill High, CEO of Legacy Stone, to the Rainer on Leadership podcast. Hobby Lobby employs 50,000 people at 1,000 stores in 48 states and grosses nearly $8 billion a year.
Author of The Legacy Life, Leadership Not by the Book, and The Leader’s Devotional, Green received the World Changer award and the Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year Award. David, his wife, Barbara, and their children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren all live in Oklahoma City.
Legacy Stone is a ministry dedicated to he...
2025-10-1327 min
Ossom Sessions™Ossom Sessions // 10.10.2025 // by Rainer Nlv1. Masaki Morii - Southern Street (Original Mix) NU ONE Records
2. Wearing Shoes - That's What He Said (Original Mix) Soulstar Records
3. Chanwill Maconi - Keep On (Original Mix) Oh So Coy Recordings
4. Rob Redford - Beyond X (Original Mix) Boogie Cafe Records
5. Lee Andre - Space Groove (Original Mix) Vibes And Pepper Records
6. Pat Bedeau & Nita Funk - Music Is The Answer (Extended Deep Instrumental) Bedfunk
7. Colm K - A Blue Line In A Red Sky (Slxm Sol Remix) Soul Quest Records
8. Jeremy Sylvester & Sam Rogers - Organic Deep (Original Mix) Garage Paradise
9. El Bravo - I Speak Soul (Original...
2025-10-1000 minRainer on LeadershipHow We’re Using AI in Sermon Prep Ethically and Efficiently
In this episode, Josh and Sam explore five practical ways pastors can use AI to improve their sermon prep. How should you balance being efficient with being ethical? If you’ve ever stared at a rough draft and thought, “Something’s off,” this episode will give you new ways to sharpen your message and preach with clarity.
Use AI for stylistic feedback, not content.
Refine complex points that your church may not grasp.
Suggest places to shorten the word count and sermon length.
Give insight into the tone of the message.
Identify areas that could be controve...
2025-10-0928 min
Healthy Church PodcastReCharge p. 2 - Sam Rainer - HCP 274ReCharge p. 2 with Sam Rainer - HCP 274On this episode, we have a recording of the first session in Memphis of ReCharge 2025. It includes Sam Rainer and Larry Barker on stage in the second part of the Men's breakout.You can email us at info@healthychurchpodcast.com orTo find more information about The Healthy Church Podcast go to:http://www.healthychurchpodcast.com
2025-10-0726 minRainer on LeadershipThe Unknown Connection Most Unchurched Have with the Church
Most unchurched people have some past connection to church—often from childhood. Our research found that 63% of the unchurched used to attend regularly. Their current indifference isn’t based on ignorance; it’s often rooted in real, past experiences. This means our efforts to reach them aren’t starting from zero. In this episode, Thom and Sam unpack what it means to engage the “dechurched”—those who’ve drifted away—and why this group might be more receptive than you think.
Assume familiarity, not hostility, when engaging the unchurched.
Past church experiences—good or bad—shape current attitudes.
Hol...
2025-10-0624 minRainer on LeadershipSix Essential Pastoral Meetings No One is Scheduling For You
It’s easy to focus on what is right in front of you—the fires, the squeaky wheel, the pop-in visit. However, a pure reactive management style does not help a church move forward. Josh and Sam discuss some meetings that take initiative but will pay many dividends.
Work on the work
Sermon series overview with your team
The low-maintenance influencer
Monthly to-do checklist with key leaders
Personal counseling
Sermon prep at least one quarter ahead
Resources:
Doctor of Ministry, The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary
Smart Church Solutions
FREE Research Report! New Surprising Insights
Chur...
2025-10-0225 minRainer on LeadershipThe Burge Report: The Kids Aren’t Alright—And Church Student Ministry Might Actually Help
From diapers to dating, parenting never stops presenting hard questions. But today’s concern is different: Gen Z teens are experiencing a full-blown collapse in social connection. Dating is down. Friend time is down. Jobs are down. According to Monitoring the Future, the percentage of antisocial high school seniors quintupled from 3.5% in 1995 to nearly 16% in 2022. But here’s the twist: the one group that remained more socially engaged? Teens who attend church monthly. In today’s episode, Ryan, Thom, and Sam unpack the surprising role of religion in keeping kids socially healthy—and what churches can do to help...
2025-09-2931 minRainer on LeadershipWhat Really Scares People Away from Church
Doctrine, expectations, and high standards do not scare people away from church. Confusion is the main enemy. According to Church Answers Research, over 60% of unchurched people agree or strongly agree that churches are confusing for outsiders—and shockingly, 60% of churchgoers say the same.
Higher confusion and lower trust levels mean the unchurched have doubts about raising their families and discovering their talents in the context of the church.
While attendees overwhelmingly believe the church is a good place to raise families (85%) and discover their talents (75%), the unchurched do not share the same perception. Only 44% of the un...
2025-09-2529 minRainer on LeadershipThe Big Front Door for Guests Just About Every Church Misses
Most churches miss this front door, not because of a lack of awareness but because of a lack of effort. Over half of the unchurched believe church could be a great place to make friends, but nearly 60% say it’s too intimidating to visit alone. That’s a huge opportunity. Today’s episode highlights how friendship, follow-up, and one key ingredient—an invitation—can lower the barrier and open the door for gospel conversations. Thom and Sam discuss some key takeaways from their new research.
Don’t just invite—offer to sit with them.
Make your church more re...
2025-09-2226 minRainer on LeadershipBuilding a Worship Ministry that Excels On and Off the Stage
Sam talks with worship leaders Tara Banks and Nate Davis about building thriving, long-lasting worship ministries. Together, they unpack how to develop leaders who excel both on stage and in organization, create healthy pipelines for team recruitment and onboarding, and refine systems that support excellence in worship. With decades of ministry insight, Tara and Nate share practical steps for sustaining your own leadership while fostering teams that are united, prepared, and spiritually vibrant.
Tara is a worship pastor and has served at Seacoast Church for 32 years. She is married with two boys, author of two...
2025-09-1831 minRainer on LeadershipThe Top 6 Gripes About Church Curriculum (and What to Do About Them)
If you’ve ever heard someone say, “I just don’t get anything out of that study,” you’re not alone. In today’s episode, Sam interviews Michael Kelley, Executive Director of the Rooted Network, and they dive into the top six frustrations people have with church curriculum.
It’s too shallow.
It’s not relatable.
It’s poorly written.
It’s not our church doctrine.
It’s too long.
It’s boring.
These gripes aren’t just personal preferences; they signal that our discipleship strategy might need a tune-up. Good curriculum doesn’t just inform—it transforms. We tal...
2025-09-1526 minRainer on LeadershipThe Trust Gap: Why Outsiders Won’t Step Inside Your Church
Here’s a shocker: The unchurched think the church is more relevant than many regular attenders do. But they don’t trust it. While 81% of churchgoers trust their church, only 30% of the unchurched say the same. The dichotomy is fascinating:
Churched people: I trust the church, but believe it’s irrelevant today.
Unchurched people: The church is still relevant, but not trustworthy.
In this episode, Josh and Sam explore how insularity and public scandals have eroded trust—and what your church can do to rebuild it without compromising the gospel.
Relevance isn’t your problem—tr...
2025-09-1129 minRainer on LeadershipFive Reasons Churches Should Still Try to Reach Boomers
In this episode, Thom and Sam dive into five compelling reasons churches should still prioritize reaching Baby Boomers. Despite cultural shifts, Boomers remain a vital part of many communities—and churches. They’re often more open to spiritual conversations, have time and resources to invest in ministry, and bring deep life experience that can benefit younger generations. Boomers still matter, and your church can more effectively reach and disciple them.
Boomer Nones are declining (from 28% to 24% in one year).
Boomers will likely be a significant portion of the church’s volunteer base.
Boomers will likely be higher...
2025-09-0823 min
Better TogetherMoving Attenders to Members – Sam RainerSam Rainer discusses best practices of ways for a church to assimilate regular attendees of church into becoming church members by using “The Complete Membership Class Toolkit.” He also discusses the “Good News Neighbors Toolkit,” a simple plan for every size church to reach its community with the Gospel.
Sam is President of Church Answers. Through a partnership with Church Answers, member churches of the NAFWB are able to get these toolkits for 50% off the regular price: https://churchanswers.com/partner-page-national-association-of-free-will-baptists/. #NAFWB #BetterTogether #Church #Outreach #Gospel #Neighbors
2025-09-0814 minRainer on LeadershipRealistic One-to-Two-Year Objectives for Small-Church Revitalization
In this episode, we explore realistic 1–2 year objectives for small-church revitalization—practical steps that can create lasting momentum without overwhelming your congregation. We unpack three key priorities:
Presence, by launching a quarterly outreach emphasis to build visibility in your community.
Power, by uniting your church through an intentional prayer focus woven into worship.
Precision, by concentrating efforts on one or two strategic community hubs where families already gather, such as local schools.
Rev. Chad Brooks rejoins the show with Josh and Sam to discuss how these focused, attainable goals can help small churches make meaningful prog...
2025-09-0430 minHealthy Church PodcastGuest Sam Rainer - HCP 269Guest Sam Rainer - HCP 269On this episode of the HCP, Larry and Drew welcome Sam Rainer, who leads Church Answers (a ministry for churches and church leaders). Sam is a Pastor, Author and Church strategist. Sam, with his father Thom Rainer (former lead for Lifeway Research) lead Church Answers and other businesses that help support, train and equip church leaders for effective ministry. Sam will be the featured speaker at this years ReCharge Conference in Memphis. Sept. 29-Oct 2.To Register:https://bmaamerica.org...
2025-09-0235 minRainer on LeadershipWhich “Higher Standard” Measures Actually Make Sense for Pastors
Pastors are often held to a “higher standard,” but not every expectation placed on them is biblical or even wise. In this episode, Josh and Sam explore which higher standards actually make sense for pastors and why. They cut through unrealistic pressures and focus on the standards that truly align with Scripture and healthy leadership.
Decorum in public life, especially with social media
Greater knowledge of Scripture and theology
Emotional self-control and humility
Financial stewardship and transparency
Commitment to family and personal health
Resources:
Smart Church Solutions
The Revitalization at Shadowbrook Church
Doctor of Educ...
2025-08-2823 minRainer on LeadershipHow Your Building Shapes Your Ministry: Five Ways the Baptist T Still Shapes (and Limits) Your Ministry
Sam is joined by Todd Brown and Isaac Brown of Brown Church Development Group, who are “The Church Facility Experts.” In this second episode, they discuss how the Baptist T design still affects churches decades later–often in ways leaders don’t realize. Here are five ways this design limits ministry today and what can be done to use your facility as a tool for mission, not as a monument to the past.
Hospitality and connection
Assimilation problems
Discipleship challenges
Volunteer limitations
Passive culture
Resources:
Brown Church Development Group
Church Master Planning
How Your...
2025-08-2724 minRainer on LeadershipHow Your Building Shapes Your Ministry: The Baptist T – When Building Design Limits Ministry
Sam is joined by Todd Brown and Isaac Brown of Brown Church Development Group, who are “The Church Facility Experts.” The design of your church might be shaping your culture more than you think. Building styles reflect ministry priorities–but if the building doesn’t adapt, those priorities can become limitations. In this first episode, they explore the ‘Baptist T’ (a common church layout from the 1960s to 1980s) and how it was built for a ministry model that no longer fits.
The origin of the Baptist T
Why it worked then
Why it doesn’t work now
2025-08-2722 minRainer on LeadershipThe Burge Report: Do Churchgoers Want More or Less Politics in the Pulpit?
Studies on the content of sermons exist, and most indicate that pastors include some political topics in their sermons. But which topics? Ryan, Thom, and Sam reveal the answer. When asked about politics and the pulpit, few congregants say their pastors often speak about political issues. But is that really the case?
Much depends on the issue. For example, Catholics and evangelicals talk more about abortion.
More is said in the pulpit about poverty and racism, though evangelical pastors mention poverty less than mainline pastors.
Among evangelicals, just 9% of them think that their congregation is more...
2025-08-2529 minRainer on LeadershipThe Loneliness Epidemic Among Pastors
Research from Barna reveals the top two reasons pastors consider quitting are stress and loneliness. This same study demonstrated an increase in pastoral loneliness—from 42% of pastors saying they felt frequently or sometimes lonely in 2015 to 65% of pastors in 2023. The church is supposed to be a place of belonging and hope, but many church leaders experience the opposite—isolation and discouragement. Josh and Sam examine this problem and offer their solutions.
The people you lead—by design—are not supposed to solve your problems.
There is an expectation that pastors must always have the answers and be spiri...
2025-08-2130 minRainer on LeadershipThe Non-Legalist Reasons for Weekly Church Attendance
Too many church leaders shy away from encouraging weekly worship. They don’t want to sound legalistic. But that hesitation is a big mistake. In just 16 years, weekly church attendance has dropped sharply. Sam and Matt McCraw discuss why weekly church attendance is the best practice for everyone.
The weekly core has declined from 31% of Americans to 25% between 2008 and 2024. Those who never attend have risen from 20% to 34% during the same time period.
The importance of social capital: Churches foster relationships among people who might otherwise never connect. They create networks of mutual support, encourage trust among me...
2025-08-1825 minRainer on LeadershipWho in the Church Should Hold Pastors Accountable?
Scripture gives clear qualifications for the characteristics of pastors. But who in the church should hold pastors accountable to these qualifications? Josh and Sam dive into the best practices for pastoral accountability.
Every pastor needs accountability from within the body.
Outside governance is ill-advised and dangerous.
Do not conflate authority with accountability.
You can have authority over a group of people and also be accountable to them.
Some denominations have a hierarchical structure that facilitates accountability.
Congregational churches need more clarity on accountability.
What about deacons? They help with spiritual accountability.
What about a personnel committee...
2025-08-1429 minRainer on LeadershipWeekly Church Attendance Patterns by Generation: 2016 to 2024
In this episode, Sam and Matt McCraw unpack weekly church attendance trends from 2016 to 2024 across four generations. While Boomers slightly increased from 27% to 28%, Gen X dropped from 24% to 22%, Millennials from 26% to 22%, and Gen Z saw the sharpest decline—from 29% to 24%. What do these shifts mean for the future of church engagement, discipleship, and ministry strategy? We explore the implications for leadership, generational outreach, and the need for intentional connection points that resonate with each group.
WEEKLY church attendance trends 2016 to 2024:
Boomers: 27% to 28%
Gen X: 24% to 22%
Millennials: 26% to 22%
Gen Z: 29% to 24%
Source: Ryan Burge, “Reli...
2025-08-1124 minRainer on LeadershipThe Johnson Amendment Reversal: Endorsing Political Candidates from the Pulpit
On this episode, Sam and Josh unpack a landmark development for churches: the Internal Revenue Service’s shift on the 1954 Johnson Amendment. In a joint court filing with two Texas churches and the National Religious Broadcasters, the IRS now affirms that clergy can endorse political candidates from the pulpit without risking their tax-exempt status. The IRS reframes such endorsements as comparable to a “private family discussion” within the congregation during worship—with statements made via usual church communication channels not qualifying as political intervention.
In practice, enforcement has been mild but still possible.
Advocates: It’s the right...
2025-08-0728 minRainer on LeadershipWhy the NLT Might Be the Best Bible You’ve Never Considered
Sam welcomes Dan Block to the Rainer on Leadership podcast. Dan is a Senior Translator for the New Living Translation. They discuss why the New Living Translation is the best choice for those seeking a Bible that is accurate, understandable, and audibly enjoyable.
What is the process for translating Scripture?
What makes the NLT accurate?
How do you handle linguistic nuances or cultural concepts that don’t directly translate into modern English?
What makes the NLT understandable?
How does the auditory experience of the NLT influence its translation?
What is a meaning-for-meaning translation?
Resources:
Ne...
2025-08-0427 minRainer on LeadershipSermon Illustrations that Connect to the Bible Text (And Your Church!)
In this episode, Josh and Sam explore a fresh way to approach sermon illustrations. Instead of building a massive database with search tools and tags, consider categorizing your illustrations by type—like recent personal stories, historical examples, and visual aids. The goal isn’t to store every idea, but to know what kind of illustration you’re looking for and then go find it. Plus, we talk about how tools like ChatGPT can help you brainstorm the right type of illustration for your message.
Recent personal stories
Historical examples
Quotations of well-known people
Critiques of culture
Visual...
2025-07-3127 minRainer on LeadershipThe Burge Report: Is Gen Z More Religiously Engaged than Their Parents?
New religious data in the United States was released recently, and Ryan Burge joins the show with Sam to discuss the details. In 2024, Gen Z showed relatively strong religious attendance compared to other generations. Twenty-four percent of Gen Z reported attending religious services weekly—two percentage points higher than both Millennials and Gen X. While 53% of Gen Z attend less than once a year, that’s actually the lowest percentage of infrequent attenders among all the generations analyzed.
What factors might be contributing to Gen Z’s higher weekly religious attendance compared to Millennials and Gen X?
How...
2025-07-2831 minRainer on LeadershipThe Limits of Pastoral Care: When Counseling Isn’t Appropriate
Pastors provide spiritual guidance, but there are times when counseling crosses into territory best handled by trained professionals. In this episode, Josh and Sam explore the limits of pastoral care—when ethical, legal, and practical concerns make it necessary to refer someone elsewhere. From mental health crises to marital conflicts beyond a pastor’s expertise, knowing when to step back is crucial for both the pastor and the person seeking help. We’ll discuss red flags, healthy boundaries, and how pastors can support without overstepping.
Substance abuse and addiction
Children, teens, and other vulnerable people
Meeting with o...
2025-07-2430 minHealthy Church PodcastHCP - 263 - ** Repost of Podcast 232 with Sam RainerHCP - 263 - **Repost Podcast with Sam RainerSam will be the speaker at ReCharge 2025.To Register:https://bmaamerica.org/recharge/Sam RainerSamRainer.comChurchAnswers.comGuest Sam Rainer - HCP 232On this podcast Larry and Drew welcome Pastor, Author and Church strategist Sam Rainer. Sam, with his father Tom Rainer (former lead for Lifeway Research) lead Church Answers and other businesses that help support, train and equip church leaders for effective ministry.
2025-07-2244 minRainer on LeadershipThe Top 5 Legal Issues Churches Face Today
Churches may be spiritual communities, but they operate in a legal world. And many aren’t prepared. In today’s episode, Sam interviews Ryan June of Castañeda + Heidelman LLP, and we unpack the five most common legal issues churches face: child protection, property disputes, employment law, governance and bylaws, and intellectual property. Ignorance of the law is not a spiritual gift. Whether your church is 50 years old or just starting, these legal risks can’t be ignored.
Create and enforce a written child protection policy—it’s your frontline defense against liability.
Keep your property deeds, insu...
2025-07-2130 min
POP TalkHow to Make Your Church Safe: POP Talk Radio Interview with Dr. Sam Rainer With so many church leaders falling, is there a way to prevent this from happening and keep our churches safe? In this POP Talk Television interview, Dr. Lisa Burkhardt Worley, Renee Rollins, and Dr. Michelle Burden will speak with Dr. Sam Rainer, author of "Make My Church Safe." Dr. Sam also co-hosts the popular podcast, "Rainer on Leadership," and is the lead pastor at Bradenton Baptist Church in Bradenton, Florida. Dr. Rainer will provide some practical ways to make our churches safe for those who come through their doors.
2025-07-2027 minRainer on LeadershipTen Quiet Disrupters in American Church Life (Part 2)
Many of the disruptions in local church life are widely known. For example, most congregants and church leaders can clearly see the impact of COVID several years ago. But there have been a number of “quiet” disruptions that don’t get much attention. Thom and Sam look at ten of them over two episodes.
6. Mobility rates of younger families and neighborhood churches.
7. Greater awareness of mental health issues.
8. Greater access to theological education.
9. Data-driven ministry changes the landscape of practical ministry.
10. Decentralization of communication.
Resources:
R...
2025-07-1724 minRainer on LeadershipTen Quiet Disrupters in American Church Life (Part 1)
Many of the disruptions in local church life are widely known. For example, most congregants and church leaders can clearly see the impact of COVID several years ago. But there have been a number of “quiet” disruptions that don’t get much attention. Thom and Sam look at ten of them over two episodes.
1. Evolving expectations for spiritual authority.
2. Blurring the lines between personal and private faith.
3. Digital natives redefine community.
4. Micro-communities become a greater influence.
5. Donation dynamics change.
Resources:
Upward Sports
Upward Sports: Pickle...
2025-07-1421 minRainer on LeadershipWhat Young Families Really Want in a Church
Most every church desires to grow with young families. But what do they look for in a church? Josh and Sam discuss a few key ways to attract and retain families with children.
An indicator of health: 25% of Sunday morning attendance should be 18 and under.
An indicator of investment: The children’s and student ministry budgets should be more than the worship ministry budget.
Clear policies and procedures that prioritize child safety.
Family-friendly service start times (9:30 or 10:00 a.m.) and service length (one hour).
Age-segmented discipleship programs for children, students, and adults.
Full programming for the en...
2025-07-1024 minRainer on LeadershipSeven Occasions When You Should Not Hire More Church Staff
Hiring staff can strengthen a church—but not always. In this episode, Thom and Sam discuss seven times when adding staff is a mistake, from removing ministry opportunities from the laity to financial missteps and agenda-driven hires. Learn how to make wise, mission-focused staffing decisions for your church’s health.
When it takes ministry away from the laity.
When you add staff according to the way you’ve always done it.
When it’s not a smart financial decision.
When a particular group in the church pushes its own agenda.
When a friend needs a job.
When it’...
2025-07-0724 minRainer on LeadershipHow Much Money Should a Pastor Make?
A pastor’s salary is determined by several factors, including church size and budget, geographic location, cost of living, education, experience, and responsibilities. While there is no universal answer, Josh and Sam discuss general guidelines and what pastors should expect from their churches.
Remember, everything is negotiable on the front end. Don’t go to a church and negotiate after you accept the position.
Some denominations are known to pay better than others.
Most pastors are underpaid, but few get paid far too much.
The median household income of a community is typically not where pastors shou...
2025-07-0326 minRainer on LeadershipThe Future of America’s Largest Churches: An Interview with Eric Geiger
The future of America’s largest churches (specifically megachurches—2,000+ weekly attendees) is a complex mix of momentum, innovation, and cultural headwinds. Eric Geiger from Mariners Church joins Sam on the show to discuss the reality facing large churches. Will they keep growing? Some will, but many are plateauing or entering slow decline.
What are the biggest challenges facing large churches today?
What is different now than in the 1990s and early 2000s when megachurch growth peaked?
Why do many large churches base their ministry strategies on charismatic leadership models?
How will the declining Baby Boomer population affe...
2025-06-2630 minRainer on LeadershipThe Shifts in How Churches Choose Small Group Curriculum (What You Need to Know): An Interview with Michael Kelley
In this episode, Sam interviews Michael Kelley, Executive Director for the Rooted Network and a seasoned writer of church small group curriculum. As churches adapt to evolving discipleship needs, small group materials are also transforming. We’ll explore what’s driving these changes, how new approaches are resonating with different congregations, and practical insights for church leaders who are choosing curriculum in today’s landscape.
What are some of the most significant shifts you’ve seen in church small group curriculum over the past few years?
How have changing cultural dynamics influenced the topics and formats of small...
2025-06-2328 minRainer on LeadershipThe Best Bible Translation for Preaching
Many people are passionate about Bible translations and have strong opinions about which one is the best. Pastors are no exception. Josh and Sam discuss what translations they believe are best suited for preaching.
Formal equivalence, dynamic equivalence, and optimal equivalence are helpful terms but ultimately just marketing language.
Word-for-word translations are not necessarily more accurate than other translation philosophies.
Some churches require certain translations like the KJV.
The HCSB was excellent (capitalized pronouns!) and missed.
Sam prefers the NLT because it’s highly readable and highly accurate. Scripture should be read in church, and the NL...
2025-06-1924 minRainer on LeadershipFour Kinds of Church Leaders Who Will Not Lead in Revitalization
In this episode, Thom and Sam explore four types of church leaders who are unlikely to lead effectively in revitalization:
Fearful leaders who avoid risk.
Leaders in denial who ignore decline.
Comfortable leaders who resist change.
Coasting leaders who have lost their drive.
Each of these leadership postures hinders momentum, blocks vision, and stalls renewal. Recognizing these patterns is the first step toward raising courageous, honest, and mission-focused leaders who can guide the church forward.
Resources:
NLT Large Print Pew Bible
Church Connect
Tyndale House Publishers
Upward Sports
Upward Sports: Pickleball
Going...
2025-06-1625 minRainer on LeadershipWhat Should I Do After Getting Fired from a Church?
One of the most challenging parts of ministry is the rejection of getting fired by a church. Josh and Sam discuss the immediate next steps pastors can take to begin the healing process.
Was the action by the church warranted? If so, seek the spiritual and emotional help you need.
If the action was not warranted (most cases are not), you should still talk to a professional counselor, mentors, and friends.
Don’t be afraid to ask for a large severance if you have the opportunity.
You will discover your true friends through the ordeal. Others wi...
2025-06-1223 minRainer on LeadershipFour Common Reasons Most Churches Aren’t Breakout Churches
What stops a church from having a breakout? Thom and Sam discuss four primary reasons they often see in their consultations and research.
Lack of leadership development. Most pastors have little training or background in leadership. But they are expected to lead a church. Some may have extensive theological and biblical training, but they are weak in leadership. Aaron had to tell Moses that his leadership approach was all wrong. Moses was headed for a leadership disaster.
Unbiblical understanding of church membership. Basically, an unbiblical understanding of church membership is self-centered. Members have an attitude that...
2025-06-0925 minRainer on LeadershipFive Key Tips to Teach Your Church to Tithe
Sam received a message from a friend recently. His question was simple: How many people typically give in a church? Statistically, about 75% of people will give in a typical church. In his case, only 50% of the church was giving regularly. Josh and Sam discuss some ways to teach church members about the importance of tithing. The 10% mark can be controversial, but committing to give regularly should not be.
Communication: You become what you celebrate. Encourage your church to give with stories of success.
Operations: Options, options, options—Giving boxes, passing the plate, an...
2025-06-0526 minRainer on LeadershipEight Causes for a Ministry Slump
No church grows week after week and year after year. Additionally, our spiritual growth has highs and lows. A slump is inevitable in churches and people. Thom and Sam discuss some causes of a ministry slump and what you can do to stop the slide.
Failure to spend time in the Word and the Bible. “Anytime I neglect my personal quiet time, my ministry becomes less effective. You would think I would have learned that lesson by now.”
The cumulative effect of criticisms. “You know, the critics just wear me down. I’ve been at the church f...
2025-06-0227 minRainer on LeadershipIs There Any Hope for Revitalizing Mainline Churches?
The long, slow death of mainline churches is well documented and goes back to the 1970s. In the mid-twentieth century, approximately half of all Americans were identified as members of one of the seven mainline denominations. Today, it’s between 10% and 15%. Not much is said about revitalizing these churches, but there is hope. Josh and Sam interview one mainline Methodist elder, Chad Brooks, who has a plan to solve this problem.
What is your view of the “mainline decline,” and how does it inform your strategies today?
How aware are church members of the pervasiveness of the pr...
2025-05-2930 min
The Pave PodcastHow to Build Trust as a Church Leader (with Sam Rainer)Takeaways:Trust is based on reliability, confidence, and truthfulness.Pastors must exhibit reliability and truthfulness over time to build trust.Building trust is essential for exercising authority in a church context.Leadership is a gift from followers, not a right.Trust takes time, often around five years in a typical church setting.Leading through crises can accelerate trust-building.Showing up for significant life events is crucial for pastors.Small victories can help establish reliability and trust.Engaging with community leaders is vital for gaining trust.Quotes:"Trust is a gift from followers.""It takes time to...
2025-04-0728 min
Sneacast - Dein Sneaker PodcastStage Dives feat. SauconySneaksFolge 274
Stell dir mal vor, du startest 2014 eine Idee namens 'SauconySneaks' um deine Wertschätzung der Saucony Sneaker nach außen zu tragen und 11 Jahre später steht deine eigene Collab auf dem Shadow 6000 in den hiesigen Sneakerstores.
Genau so erging es Rainer aka SauconySneaks, den wir ja im Oktober 2023 bereits zu Gast hatten, wo er sich und das ganze 'Projekt' SauconySneaks mal vorgestellt hatte.
Doch wie genau kommt man an seine eigene Saucony Collab und wie sehen die Abläufe und vielleicht auch die nicht so schönen Erfahrung im Herstellungsprozess aus?
All das und vieles mehr besprechen wir heute...
2025-03-181h 08
More to the Story with Andy Miller IIIChurch Answers with Sam RainerSam Rainer is the president of ChurchAnswers.com, a ministry resourcing local churches with practical skills for fulfilling the great commission. Sam is also a co-vocational pastor. We talk about the distinction between co-vocational and bi-vocational. He joins me to talk about ChurchAnswers. Youtube - https://youtu.be/DWmxm8fO0qwAudio - https://andymilleriii.com/media/podcastApple - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/more-to-the-story-with-dr-andy-miller/id1569988895?uo=4https://churchanswers.com/If you are interested in learning more about my two vi...
2025-02-2041 min
MinistryWatch PodcastEp. 436: Sam Rainer on Making Our Churches SafeEvery church should be a safe space for everyone who comes in. Every church should also be equipping people to confront the powers of darkness and help those in trouble. Unfortunately, far too many churches are unsafe internally, which leaves them unprepared to confront external dangers. An unsafe church creates a toxic environment that works against the gospel. A safe church is battle-ready to combat the worst of the world’s problems. Make My Church Safe by respected pastor, Sam Rainer, is designed to be a brief and general overview of the best practices regarding church safety for a broa...
2025-02-1233 min
God‘s Story PodcastSam Rainer – Make My Church Safe‘If there’s anything a church should be, it’s safe. But as recent struggles in the church have shown, that’s not always the case’.
Brent talks with Sam Rainer about his new Tyndale House book ‘Make My Church Safe: A Guide to the Best Practices to Protect Children and Secure Your Congregation from Harm’.
Sam is the president of Church Answers and also co-hosts the popular podcasts Rainer on Leadership and Est. church and he has authored several books.
(1:20) Why safety is often not prioritized in our churches;
(2:30) Why the church has so much abuse?
(5...
2025-01-2127 minGod‘s Story PodcastSam Rainer – Make My Church Safe‘If there’s anything a church should be, it’s safe. But as recent struggles in the church have shown, that’s not always the case’.
Brent talks with Sam Rainer about his new Tyndale House book ‘Make My Church Safe: A Guide to the Best Practices to Protect Children and Secure Your Congregation from Harm’.
Sam is the president of Church Answers and also co-hosts the popular podcasts Rainer on Leadership and Est. church and he has authored several books.
(1:20) Why safety is often not prioritized in our churches;
(2:30) Why the church has so much abuse?
(5...
2025-01-2127 min
The Last Service PodcastThe Neighborhood Church: Revitalizing Ministry Where It Matters Most with Sam RainerIn this episode of the Last Service Podcast, Matt welcomes Sam Rainer, pastor, church consultant, and president of Church Answers, for a candid discussion about the state of the American church. Together, they explore the challenges facing congregations today, from declining membership to generational shifts in engagement. Sam shares actionable insights on how churches can revitalize, stay relevant, and impact their local communities. Whether you're a pastor, church leader, or member, this episode is packed with wisdom to inspire and guide your ministry.
Key Takeaways:
Community-Centered Ministry: Churches thrive when they shift focus from attracting crowds...
2025-01-0759 minHealthy Church PodcastHCP 232 - Guest Sam RainerGuest Sam Rainer - HCP 232On this podcast Larry and Drew welcome Pastor, Author and Church strategist Sam Rainer. Sam, with his father Tom Rainer (former lead for Lifeway Research) lead Church Answers and other businesses that help support, train and equip church leaders for effective ministry.You can find Sam’s books wherever books are sold.You can email us at info@healthychurchpodcast.com orTo find more information about The Healthy Church Podcast go to:http://ww...
2024-12-1744 min
More Than MoneyEpisode 308 | He Went Through A Hurricane To Help Others | Guest: Dr. Sam RainerWhat is it like to experience a hurricane? Dr. Sam Rainer, a pastor, went through a hurricane so that he and some church members could help those impacted by the storm. In this episode, he shares his story about generously caring for his church and community.Resources:8 Money MilestonesAsk a Money Question!
2024-10-2136 min
Revitalize and ReplantA Conversation with Sam RainerMark Clifton welcomes Sam Rainer, Pastor at West Bradenton Baptist Church and President of Church Answers.
Here are some highlights from this episode:
Sam’s story of revitalization at West Bradenton.
What it means to believe that your church address is not an accident.
The value of church fostering.
2024-09-2000 min
Family Church PodcastIs the lack of evangelism the biggest problem in American churches? Special guest Sam RainerIn this thought-provoking episode, we delve into a pressing issue facing many American churches today: the apparent decline in evangelism. Join us as we explore whether this trend represents the most significant challenge to church vitality and growth. Our special guest, Sam Rainer, brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the discussion. Sam is the president of Church Answers, lead pastor at West Bradenton Baptist Church, and a co-host of the Est.Church podcast. He brings insights from his extensive academic background in finance, marketing, missiology, and leadership studies, as well as his practical experiences in church revitalization...
2024-05-0223 min
The Living SENT PodcastInterview: Sam Rainer, The Surprising Return of the Neighborhood Church (Reaching and Loving Your Neighbors, Shifting Culture, and Discovering God's Purpose for the Church) Are you a member of a church within the heart of a neighborhood? Then your church may be primed to reach your neighbors and experience a profound movement of God. Sam Rainer, president of Church Answers, shares how.
2024-03-0638 minSneacast - Dein Sneaker PodcastSchule, Schuhe und SauconySneaks feat. RainerFolge 204
Heute dürfen wir einen der größten Saucony-Heads auf dieser Welt begrüßen.
Mit SauconySneaks hat Rainer gemeinsam mit einem Freund eine Gruppe ins Leben gerufen,
um der Leidenschaft zu Saucony Ausdruck zu verleihen.
Mittlerweile ist SauconySneaks eine der größten Sneaker-related Instagramseiten und wir wollen natürlich erfahren, wie es dazu gekommen ist.
Checkt SauconySneaks auf Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/sauconysneaks/
Abonniert uns bei Spotify und Apple Podcast, folgt uns bei Instagram und lasst ein Abo bei YouTube & Tik Tok da!
Danke für euren Support.
Tuesday is Shoesd
2023-10-241h 08
Rainer on LeadershipThe Story of the Neighborhood Church That Could: An Interview with Sam RainerSam Rainer takes a different role in this podcast as Thom interviews him about the remarkable story of West Bradenton Baptist Church, a neighborhood church that is making a big difference in its community.
2023-08-1728 min
Leaders in Living RoomsLILR 082 | Thom and Sam Rainer on Leading Church Transitions and Renewing Evangelism“Pastors tend to overestimate the value of vision and underestimate the value of strategy.” Meet Thom S. Rainer, and his son, Sam Rainer. With much experience in church consulting and transition, Thom and Sam are CEO and President (respectively) of Church Answers, an organization providing resources for pastors experiencing the ups and downs of ministry. Today’s podcast gives us a glimpse into practical roles an interim pastor should be filling as well as encouragement for all churches to revive their passion for evangelism and reach the lost. It’s as simple as Sam explains it, “Evangelism will never die in your ch...
2023-06-0647 min
200churches Podcast: Ministry Encouragement for Pastors of Small ChurchesEpisode 422 - The Necessity of the Neighborhood Church with Sam RainerJeff talks with Sam Rainer, Pastor of West Bradenton Baptist Church in Florida, the President of Church Answers, and the author of the new book - The Surprising Return of the Neighborhood Church.Sam is a great example of a 200church pastor who refuses to imagine a limit on his impact based on the size of his church. This is an encouraging conversation! Sam and his father Thom are co-hosts of the Rainer On Leadership Podcast - check it out. Their podcast is also on YouTube.
2023-04-2654 min
Student Ministry MattersEpisode 125 - Successful Student Ministry with Dr. Sam RainerListen in as Dan Carson and Chris Vines talk with Dr. Sam Rainer about the characteristics of successful student ministry.
Church Answers - churchanswers.com
West Bradenton Baptist Church - fortheneighborhood.com
Sam on Twitter - twitter.com/SamRainer
Podcast Partner:
Central Baptist College -- www.CBC.edu
501-329-6872 / info@cbc.edu
Become a Patron at https://patron.podbean.com/StudentMinistryMatters
Hosts:
Dan Carson - info@studentministrymatters.com
Chris Vines - youthpastor@gmbchope.org
Stud...
2022-08-0140 min
Spill The SauceEp. 27 Chilly ToothpasteGet ready for this heater!!!
No freal, this episode was by far one of the most interesting ones we've ever done. You thought sauce was the limit??? Nope no way Jose, this Chilly Toothpaste is here to take spicy where its never been.
Chilly Toothpaste is an experience you don't want to miss. Now don't let the name fool you, this isn't just some spicy paste you brush your teeth with and feel pain everywhere. Founder Rainer walked us through how Chilly Toothpaste came to life, what inspired him, and much mor...
2022-03-0437 min
The Stetzer ChurchLeaders PodcastSam Rainer: The Number One Rule of Church RevitalizationGet notes on this podcast here: https://churchleaders.com/podcast/414056-sam-rainer-church-revitalization.html Sam Rainer joins the Stetzer ChurchLeaders Podcast to share highly practical advice for how ministry leaders can go about revitalizing their congregations. ► Listen on Apple: ChurchLeaders brings you the latest headlines and expert tips on faith, ministry and leading the church. Subscribe to our channel for exclusive content. Visit ChurchLeaders Website: https://churchleaders.com Find ChurchLeaders on Facebook: https://facebook.com/churchleaders Follow ChurchLeaders on Twitter: https://twitter.com/ChurchLead Follow ChurchLeaders on Instagram: https://instagram.com/churchlead/ Follow ChurchLeaders on Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/churchleaders/
2022-01-0536 min
The Stetzer ChurchLeaders PodcastSam Rainer: The Number One Rule of Church RevitalizationGet notes on this podcast here: https://churchleaders.com/podcast/414056-sam-rainer-church-revitalization.html Sam Rainer joins the Stetzer ChurchLeaders Podcast to share highly practical advice for how ministry leaders can go about revitalizing their congregations. ► Listen on Apple: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/the-churchleaders-podcast/id988990685 ChurchLeaders brings you the latest headlines and expert tips on faith, ministry and leading the church. Subscribe to our channel for exclusive content. Visit ChurchLeaders Website: https://churchleaders.com Find ChurchLeaders on Facebook: https://facebook.com/churchleaders Foll...
2022-01-0536 min
The Stetzer ChurchLeaders PodcastSam Rainer: The Number One Rule of Church RevitalizationGet notes on this podcast here: https://churchleaders.com/podcast/414056-sam-rainer-church-revitalization.html Sam Rainer joins the Stetzer ChurchLeaders Podcast to share highly practical advice for how ministry leaders can go about revitalizing their congregations. ► Listen on Apple: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/the-churchleaders-podcast/id988990685 ChurchLeaders brings you the latest headlines and expert tips on faith, ministry and leading the church. Subscribe to our channel for exclusive content. Visit ChurchLeaders Website: https://churchleaders.com Find ChurchLeaders on Facebook: https://facebook.com/churchleaders Foll...
2022-01-0536 min
Think Biblically: Conversations on Faith & CultureThe Church Revitalization Checklist (with Sam Rainer)Should we be hopeful about the post-pandemic church or concerned? Are churches growing today or dying? In this episode, we talk with Sam Rainer, a pastor and church growth expert, about these questions and more. He gives specific ways to revitalize a church regardless of its current state. Sam Rainer is the lead pastor at West Bradenton Baptist Church. He is a speaker, consultant, and the author of multiple books including The Church Revitalization Checklist. Read a transcript of this episode at: https://www.biola.edu/blogs/think-biblically/2021/church-revitalization-checklist ==========Think Bibl...
2021-11-2829 min
Translating the World with Rainer SchulteEp. 19: Sam HazoSpanning six decades and circling the globe, Dr. Samuel John Hazo’s creative work includes poetry, fiction, drama, essays, and various works of translation. Listen to his conversation with Sarah and Rainer to learn about the remarkable founder and director of the International Poetry Forum, which ran from 1966 until 2009 in Pittsburgh. Sam Hazo recalls insightful memories about his experiences hosting hundreds of distinguished poets and performers from around the world, from poets like Yevgeny Yevtushenko to Nobel Prize winners like Octavio Paz to public figures such as the Princess Grace of Monaco. This episode also features Hazo’s beautiful poet...
2021-10-2244 min
Here FirstEp.19 (Pt.2) "The Pros and Cons of the Pray & Go Ministry (Sam Rainer)"On this weeks installment of CFBC's podcast "Here First" we have for the second week in a row Dr. Sam Rainer on the show. He shares with us what the Pray & Go ministry looks like in the established church...
2021-07-0212 minHere FirstEp.18 (Pt.1) "The Pros and Cons of the Pray & Go Ministry (Sam Rainer)"On this weeks episode of Here First we have a very special guest Sam Rainer, and we talk about the Pray & Go ministry.
2021-06-2716 min
Chapasam PodcastChapasam faz BECK2BECK com Iegor Rainer e comprova que ele é DUMAL #45Estréia do quadro BECK2BECK, entrevista e bate bola com o dj/produtor Iegor Rainer. No Beck2Beck, o nosso convidado dará sugestão de três tracks: uma de warm up, uma da hora do frito e uma de música dahora! Iegor Rainer ainda conversa um pouco sobre seu projeto solo e de seus projetos paralelos Quarto Dimensões e DuMal.
Instagram do Iegor Rainer: https://www.instagram.com/iegorlima/
Spotify do Iegor Rainer: https://open.spotify.com/artist/1tkjJ0GDB5ChcopV7DsFfp?si=LzzF-msDSCi2vTlRY4T29Q
Soundcloud do Iegor...
2020-07-2850 min
Great Commission LeadershipEp. 15 – Sam RainerThanks for listening to the Great Commission Leadership Podcast!
Don't forget to hit SUBSCRIBE and CONNECT with us on Twitter and Instagram: @gclpod.
This episode features Sam Rainer. Sam is the Lead Pastor of West Bradenton Baptist Church in Bradenton, FL. He is also the President of Church Answers and Revitalize Network. In this episode, we talk about leading in the established church and church revitalization. You can connect with Sam on: Twitter • Instagram
Ad: O'Donnell Financial Coaching
RESOURCES FROM THIS EPISODE:
West Bradenton Baptist Church
Church An...
2020-05-0633 min
Not Another Baptist PodcastSPECIAL: Adam Greenway and Sam RainerKNUCKLEHEADS IN ISOLATION, DRINKING BLACK COFFEE is a daily (Monday through Thursday) chat over coffee where Kyle and Matt welcome pastors and SBC leaders from all over the country to offer some laughs and encouragement as we face the Coronavirus Pandemic––together. This edition features the audio from our chats with Adam Greenway and Sam Rainer, which we recorded on Wednesday and Thursday, April 29 and 30, and has now concluded. We hope they were an encouragement.
2020-05-0544 min
Church Leadership PodcastSeason 2: Ep 53 - Sam Rainer on Church Revitalization, Leading in the Established Church, Bivocational Ministry, Loving the Church, & MoreEpisode 53 is brought to you by our sponsor, Incite Ministries.On this week’s episode of The Church Leadership Podcast, Mark and Andy get to spend some time talking with Sam Rainer. Sam serves as Lead Pastor of West Bradenton Baptist Church, and co-hosts the Est. Church podcast. He is the president of Church Answers, the co-founder and co-owner of Rainer Publishing, and the president of Revitalize Network. Find out more about Sam here - https://samrainer.comFollow Sam on Twitter here - @samrainer
2020-02-2625 min
Restore PodcastRestore-Episode 42-Sam Rainer: Church RevitalizationSend us a Text Message - include e-mail or phone number in your message to receive a response.In episode 42, we are delighted to have Pastor Sam Rainer with us. He's the pastor of West Bradenton Baptist Church. Our conversation is all about church revitalization as Sam is currently going through a church revitalization and helps other churches/pastors do so as well.Sam is also co-host of the Established Church Podcast, president of Church Answers, co-founder and co-owner of Rainer Publishing, and president of Revitalize Network.Show Notes/Links/Resources
2019-12-0249 min
The Aerospace Engineering Podcast#29 – Samson Sky is building the first truly useful flying carSam Bousfield is the founder and CEO of Samson Sky, a company that is developing the first truly useful flying car. Sam is an architect by training, but a passion for aviation led him to work on a supersonic aircraft with Boeing. Out of this experience came the idea of building a flying car called the Switchblade. Harking from an architectural background, Sam approached the problem of designing a flying car slightly differently. Rather than asking the question of how you could make a car fly, Sam and his team focused on the architectural question of how a vehicle...
2019-04-1656 minThe Aerospace Engineering Podcast#29 – Samson Sky is building the first truly useful flying carSam Bousfield is the founder and CEO of Samson Sky, a company that is developing the first truly useful flying car. Sam is an architect by training, but a passion for aviation led him to work on a supersonic aircraft with Boeing. Out of this experience came the idea of building a flying car called the Switchblade. Harking from an architectural background, Sam approached the problem of designing a flying car slightly differently. Rather than asking the question of how you could make a car fly, Sam and his team focused on the architectural question of how a vehicle...
2019-04-1656 min
The Aerospace Engineering PodcastPodcast Ep. #29 – Samson Sky is Building the First Truly Useful Flying CarSam Bousfield is the founder and CEO of Samson Sky, a company that is developing the first truly useful flying car. Sam is an architect by training, but a passion for aviation led him to work on a supersonic aircraft with Boeing. Out of this experience came the idea of building a flying car called the Switchblade.
Harking from an architectural background, Sam approached the problem of designing a flying car slightly differently. Rather than asking the question of how you could make a car fly, Sam and his team focused on the architectural question of how a vehicle that...
2019-04-1600 min
5 Leadership Questions Podcast on Church Leadership with Todd Adkins and Dan Iten5LQ Episode 298: Sam Rainer, Micah Fries, and Josh KingIn this episode of the 5 Leadership Questions podcast, Todd Adkins and Daniel Im are joined by Sam Rainer, Micah Fries, and Josh King, the co-hosts of the Established Church Podcast. During their conversation, they discuss what advice they would have given their younger selves about preparing to lead and what it means to be an established church.
BEST QUOTES
"I workout for my mind. The physical health benefits are an aside. It's to clear my head."
"Daily I will read a couple of chapters of fiction. It helps my brain to shut down before I go to sleep."
"I would t...
2018-12-0636 min
Ossom Sessions™Ossom Sessions // 07.06.2018 // by Rainer Nlv1. James Wolfgang Rassakas - Whadup Son (Instrumental) Lejal Genes
2. Baltimore Chop - Do Your Thing (Original Mix) SubUrban
3. Sam Irl - Split River (Original Mix) Freerange
4. olywok - Maintain (Original Mix) Beats Of No Nation
5. Khotin - Aloe Drink (Original Mix) Public Release Recordings
6. Roberto Rodriguez - Look Straight In The Eye (Original Mix) Poetry In Motion
7. Vincenzo - Loose Yo (Dub Mix) Be Adult Music
8. DJ Xoli - Who Am I? (Original Mix) Lilac Jeans Records
9. Homero Espinosa & Phaze Dee feat. Mikey V - The Way You Dance (Original Mix) Strictly Rhythm
10. Kapal - Mind Your Step (Original Mix...
2018-06-0700 min
Ossom Sessions™Ossom Sessions // 25.05.2017 // by Rainer Nlv1. Move On (Original Mix) by Sam Irl
2. Shake Time (Original Mix) by Samma Lone
3. Porgy House (Original Mix) by Agent Blak
4. Future Ghost (Chocky Dub) by Future Ghost
5. You're The One (Original Mix) by Francis Inferno Orchestra
6. If Needed (Original Mix) by Hugo LX
7. 1000 Memories (Fred Everything Remix) by Jullian Gomes & Sio
8. Sugar (Verma´s Shaggy Remix) by Black Alley
9. Faith (Original Mix) by Sebas Ramis & Tutsi Girl Play House
10. Lose Myself (Denace 2 Society Mix) by DJ Ndo-C & Vincent Inc
11. Alizee (Original Mix) by Lightone
www.ossomrecords.com
DON’T KNOCK, THIS IS OSSOM.
2017-05-2500 min