I often get the question “What do we change, or not change, when we start a replant?”
Look, if you are coming into a struggling church, the reality is there are things that need to change.
Sometimes we want to change things we don’t like, but remember you are the new person, it is unwise to make changes on preference when you haven’t been there long. (Of course, if it’s a sin issue, you must do what the Bible tells us to do.)
Over the years, I have been told, “In the first year, a new pastor or leader should not make any big changes.” We often are advised to prioritize listening, learning, and building relationships before initiating significant changes.
This approach allows for a deeper understanding of the church’s culture, needs, and potential challenges before making adjustments. It also helps to gain trust and avoid unnecessary resistance.
1. Remember: You are yourself a change
Think about this for minute! You are a change. You are something different.
It is rare, at least in my experience, but there are churches out there that know they are struggling and they want change; they just don’t know how to take the first step. In fact, the majority of churches I have worked with believe the church is struggling because of someone else:
“It’s the last pastor. He did not lead us well.”
“It’s the community. They never come to our events.”
“It’s the culture. They just don’t see a need for Jesus.”
But you are a big change for the church. You are the pastor who is here to take over. You are not a previous loved and admired pastor.
You need to have tactical patience.
Gaining trust and being able to truly understand what is going on takes time. A new pastor or leader needs time to build relationships with the congregation, understand their needs, and identify any potential issues.
Change requires careful and prayerful planning. When change is necessary, it should be approached with careful planning, communication, and consideration for the church’s needs.
A while back, I was watching a video of people calling out to flock of sheep, but the sheep would not listen to them. As soon as their shepherd called, however, the sheep raised their heads and the flock came to him.
Please understand you are new. You have not built trust yet. Let me say it this way: The flock does not know your voice or your heart.
Pastor / leader, do not make the mistake of thinking you are the solution, and that this struggling church needs you to be their savior. What this church needs is to remember their first love, Jesus, and to remember there are lost people around them who need a Savior!
2. Help others understand the ‘why’ for change
I have met pastors and leaders who if asked “why,” they immediately feel they are being attacked. Their reactions are fueled by insecurities. Pastor / leader, don’t let your insecurities lead the ministry. Make sure Jesus is leading.
Pastor / leader, you will not understand why change needs to happen unless you know what is really going on. When you can clearly explain and describe what is going on, then you will be able to clearly communicate the need and reason for change.
Let me give you a key to communicating the need for change.
When people understand the “why,” they will have to choose whether to stay the same. When people don’t understand the “why,” they will get protective. They will protect their church from that change because they may think that is the right thing to do.
Pastor / leader, please don’t assume you are always dealing with wolves in sheep’s clothing. Those may not be wolf fangs you see, but pain, stress, and fear. Take the time to lead to a place of healing. Take the time to help them understand the “why.”
3. Be the example of patience
I have seen so many leaders ruin whole ministries because they were not patient. Being able to demonstrate patience, while maintaining respect and consideration for others, is key for leaders. Impatient people tend to be disrespectful people. Do not lead your sheep with disrespect! Lead them with patience, love, and God’s Word.
Paul’s letters to Timothy and Titus outline the qualifications for elders (pastors) and deacons, and patience is consistently mentioned as an important characteristic. “Preach the word; be ready in season and out of season; correct, rebuke, and encourage with great patience and teaching.” (2 Tim. 4:2 CSB)
Pastor / leader, remember that patience is one of the fruits of the Holy Spirit. (Gal. 5:22-23) I pray that God equips pastors with this trait to effectively lead their congregation.
Ministry is not easy and leading a renewal of a church is not easy. That is why I like what Charles Spurgeon says: “Growth can be painful, change can be painful, but nothing is as painful as staying stuck somewhere you don’t belong. Anxiety does not empty tomorrow of its sorrow; it only empties today of its strengths.”
God could have called anyone to this church, but He called you! Now you just have to be willing to continue to follow Him.
Published June 17, 2025
