Church Revitalization

Episode 260 – The Long Work of Church Revitalization with Brian Croft

Center for Preaching and Pastoral Leadership | November 09, 2026
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In this episode of Pastor Matters, we are joined by Brian Croft, founder of Practical Shepherding. He shares lessons from his experience in church revitalization and reflects on pastoring a church for 17 years after nearly being fired three times during his first five years there. Brian offers encouragement for pastors engaged in church revitalization, discusses common obstacles to revitalizing a church, and shares wisdom for overcoming those challenges. We conclude the episode with final words of encouragement for pastors and recommendations for helpful resources.

We hope this episode is encouraging to you today!

Resources in today’s episode:
Practical Shepherding
Biblical Church Revitalization: Solutions for Dying & Divided Churches 

Let us know how this episode encouraged you or share any feedback you have by emailing us at [email protected].

Pastor Matters is produced by Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary. Find out how Southeastern can equip you to GO by visiting sebts.edu.

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Timothy Scholars

Students who have a calling to pastoral ministry in a local church can complete a Bachelor of Arts and Master of Divinity in five years through the Timothy Scholars program (BA to MDiv). Students in this program must have a passion for learning and maintain a 3.0 GPA or higher. Timothy Scholars (BA to MDiv) students also have the opportunity to complete coursework under the leadership of a local church pastor, complete mission hours both nationally and internationally, and experience ministry first hand

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Center for Preaching and Pastoral Leadership

The Center for Preaching and Pastoral Leadership exists to equip and encourage pastors to lead healthy, disciple-making churches for the glory of God around the world.

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