In the past few weeks the North American Mission Board’s research department has released a survivability study for church plants. There are four factors that surfaced as the top factors. They are:

1. Church Plant Expectations
2. Membership Development
3. Church Planter Peer Group
4. Stewardship Plan

As I have been digesting the news of this report for the past few weeks, I believe these factors contribute to the survivability of all churches. Here in the Central Association, we have seen numerous churches die over the years. Many new churches have been started and both young and old ones die regularly in our association and across our state convention.

I believe we would all be wise to study this report closely and ask the Lord what He wants us do to make changes in our ministry. For a full view of the report, you can go to www.missionalresearch.info. May the Lord increase your knowledge and wisdom as you take the time to digest this report and what it means for your ministry setting.