Which Strategy Should You Start With?
You don’t have to implement all six strategies at once. Some churches have experienced turnaround by focusing on just one or two. Others have successfully implemented all six and more.
Start here: Begin with corporate prayer and fasting (Strategy #1). This reorients your church’s dependence on God and prepares hearts for the work ahead. From there, assess which strategy fits your context:
- Small church with limited resources? Focus on Strategy #4 (inviting) and Strategy #6 (community service)
- Church with strong small group culture? Emphasize Strategies #2 and #5 (starting and growing groups)
- Church with facilities and leadership capacity? Consider Strategy #3 (new worship services)
The Underlying Truth
None of these strategies work as mechanical formulas. Each requires genuine heart change—in leadership first, then throughout the congregation. You’re not just changing tactics; you’re changing culture.
The churches I’ve studied that successfully reversed decline didn’t just implement new programs. They rediscovered their mission. They remembered why the church exists: to glorify God by making disciples who make disciples.
Your turn: What breakout approaches has your church used? Share your story in the comments—it might be exactly what another struggling church needs to hear.
