In this episode of the Ministry Rhythms Podcast, the team welcomes new Church Renewal Strategist Nick Lingle to unpack what true church renewal looks like—moving beyond strategy and structure to rekindle a deep, spiritual love for Jesus at the heart of congregational life. With insights from Andy Davis and practical reflections, the conversation centers on restoring spiritual health through biblical means.

Resources Mentioned:

• Revitalize by Andy Davis

• Gospel Way Catechism – Thomas West & Trevin Wax

• Falling in Love with Jesus – David Jackson (Free via NAMB)

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Episode Timeline & Key Moments:
[00:00 – 01:00] Welcome & Updates

• Hosts return after a hiatus

• Introduction of new staff: Nick Lingle, Church Renewal Strategist (Westwood Pastor, started June 1)

[01:00 – 02:00] Why Church Renewal Matters

• 80% of SBC churches (including 151 locally) need some degree of renewal

• Renewal can be slight or extensive

[02:00 – 03:30] Defining Church Renewal

• Andy Davis’ Definition:

  “The effort to restore by biblical means, a once healthy church from a present level of disease to a state of spiritual health as defined by the Word of God.”

• Focus: Both means (biblical methods) and target (spiritual health)

[03:30 – 05:00] Renewal vs. Church Planting

• Difference between building from scratch and restoring something broken

• Renewal requires reintroducing Scripture-based methods into stalled structures

[05:00 – 07:30] The Heart of the Church

• Warning signs of needing renewal:

  • Activity without love (Revelation letters, especially Ephesus)

  • Doctrinal correctness but relational coldness

• Key question: “Has your love for God grown?”

[07:30 – 09:30] Role of Worship & Affections

• Worship gatherings should magnify the risen Christ

• It’s not just about saying “good sermon,” but being moved by Jesus

• Leaders must evaluate and nurture affections, not just actions

[09:30 – 12:00] Discipleship & Love for Jesus

• Renewal is hindered by deficient discipleship

• Resources mentioned:

  • Gospel Way Catechism by Thomas West & Trevin Wax

  • Rhythms: Worship, Scripture, daily spiritual discipline

• It’s not about Sunday alone, but continual spiritual rhythms

[12:00 – 14:30] What Crowds Out Spiritual Renewal

• Concerns like finances, facilities, and survival often take center stage

• Renewal must begin with spiritual vitality, not just strategic change

[14:30 – 16:30] The Pastor’s Heart

• Healthy churches begin with healthy pastors

• Leaders must maintain their own vibrant walk with Christ

• Organizational skill ≠ Spiritual leadership

[16:30 – 18:30] Being With Jesus

• Phrase from Tim Wheat (NAMB): “Be with Jesus”

• Pastors must be spiritually present—not just programmatically active

• Prioritizing time with Christ fuels authentic ministry

[18:30 – 20:30] Lessons from a Child

• Nick shares a conversation with his 8-year-old daughter:

  • “I love Jesus, I think about him, and I want to please him.”

• A simple model for personal spiritual health

[20:30 – 22:00] Final Thoughts & Resources

• Books mentioned:

  • Revitalize by Andy Davis

  • Falling in Love with Jesus by David Jackson (NAMB – free resource)

• Structural changes are helpful but secondary

• True renewal is spiritual—it begins with the heart