The “Three Legged Stool” for Ministry

Brian presents a practical “three legged stool” framework to stabilize pastors during the demanding work of church revitalization. Declining churches often create imbalance through conflict, low energy, or unrealistic expectations. The three legs are: (1) faithful, expository preaching of Scripture as the core nourishment; (2) genuine, relational shepherding to care for souls; and (3) personal dependence on God via prayer, holiness, and rest to prevent burnout. All three must stand together—neglect one, and ministry collapses. Brian urges pastors to apply this personally first, then guide the congregation toward balance. Rooted in his experience, this counters quick-fix approaches, promoting steady, God-centered stability for long-term renewal.

The Power of the Word and Spirit in Revitalization

Brian emphasizes that true, lasting revitalization comes only from the Word of God, empowered by the Holy Spirit—not programs, personal charm, or strategies. Dying churches are suffering from spiritual deadness; only Scripture convicts, renews, and revives (Hebrews 4:12; Ezekiel 37). He calls pastors to prioritize consistent gospel preaching, prayer for the Spirit's work, and reliance on ordinary means of grace over trendy methods. Just because God’s word is powerful does not mean it works fast (Mark 4:1-20). Knowing this, pastors must embrace the fact that progress may be slow, but this honors God's sovereignty and calling for Christ’s under-shepherds. Pastors must patiently proclaim truth, trusting divine power for transformation rather than manufacturing results.

Identifying Who Really Runs the Church

Brian advises incoming revitalization pastors to discern actual power dynamics, which often lie with unofficial influencers—long-time members, families, or financial gatekeepers—rather than official leaders as defined by Scripture. These hidden forces often resist change due to distrust of authority or the fear of losing influence. He urges humble, prayerful observation to identify them early, understand motivations, and address issues biblically with grace. This prevents naive conflicts and helps realign authority under Christ, fostering healthier church governance.

Committing to a Minimum Five-Year Tenure

Brian recommends pastors commit to at least five years when entering a church revitalization ministry. Short stays deepen instability and cynicism. Sustained presence builds trust, gives time to navigate resistance, and allows planted seeds to yield fruit. This “rule” reflects faithfulness over convenience, patience over immediate results, and calls pastors to trust God’s timing for gradual renewal.

Christ’s Leadership Structure — Pastor and Deacon

Brian outlines the biblical church leadership model: two offices—pastor/elder/overseer (shepherding, teaching, spiritual oversight) and deacon (practical service, mercy). Based on 1 Timothy 3, Titus 1, and Acts 6,. Elders lead and protect while deacons support the logistical needs of the church, preserving unity and freeing elders to focus on their God-ordained responsibilities. In revitalization, restoring qualified leaders in these roles clarifies responsibilities, prevents overload or abuse, and aligns with Christ's design for ordered, servant leadership.

What True Church Membership Means

Brian corrects misconceptions about membership in congregational churches: it's not about individual rights to vote or dominate, but covenantal mutual love, submission, edification, and accountability (Hebrews 10:24-25). Consumerist views fuel division; biblical membership builds a body that serves Christ together. Revitalization requires re-teaching this to shift from entitlement to gospel-shaped community.

Identity in Christ and Faithfulness Over “Success”

Brian helps pastors anchor identity in Christ, not outcomes—especially if church closure looms. Worldly "success" metrics can devastate; biblical faithfulness (obedience, perseverance) endures. He encourages gospel security and humble stewardship, even (and especially) in painful endings, trusting God and obeying him.

Building Friendships with Local Pastors

Brian encourages intentional friendships with nearby pastors for mutual support, prayer, counsel, and encouragement. Church revitalization isolation leads to pastoral burnout; shared wisdom and accountability among shepherds provides needed strength to endure in the noble but challenging calling when a pastor does not yet have other pastors alongside him in a church.

Adversaries Can Become Advocates

When entering into revitalization ministry, a pastor needs to have thick skin, a soft heart, and be animated by gospel hope. Drawing from 1 Corinthians 16:9, Brian offers a light for the embattled pastor’s path: opposition often signals an open door for effective ministry and can turn to support through patient faithfulness, love, and time. Personal experience has proven that critics can become allies as trust and fruit emerge.

Including Your Wife in Ministry Suffering

Brian warns against completely shielding wives from ministry hardships, which causes loneliness. Wives desire to share burdens as partners. Openness, mutual support, and inclusion in some of the hardships encountered in life and ministry fosters unity, resilience, and deeper connection during trials.