This is NOT DiY – #5 Rebuilding, Restarting, or Starting Fresh?
When the Foundation Needs Repair
Hebrews 12:1-4 — “Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith.”
Every church goes through seasons. Some are good. Other seasons are hard. And some seasons are so hard that the church has to ask: Should we rebuild, restart, or start fresh?
The Three Options
Rebuilding means taking what you have and making it better. Restarting means hitting the reset button. Starting fresh means planting a new church.
The North American Mission Board has seen an increase in church replants — 83 replants in 2024 alone. A replant is when a struggling church is revitalized with new leadership, new vision, and new energy.
How to Decide
Is the foundation sound? Is the congregation willing to change? Is there a core group of committed believers? What is the community need?
Whatever you decide, the process is similar: Pray. Assess. Plan. Act.
The Promise
Hebrews 12 tells us to look to Jesus, “the founder and perfecter of our faith.” He is the one who starts the work. And He is the one who completes it.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does this apply to rural churches?
Every rural church is different. Adapt these ideas to your specific context.
What first step should we take?
Start a conversation. Identify one practical change you can make this month.
Where can we find more resources?
RuralThinkTank.com and MinistryPlace.net offer resources for small and rural churches.