WHEREAS, The Southern Baptist Convention exists for the purpose of “eliciting, combining, and directing the energies of the denomination for the propagation of the gospel” (Preamble to Constitution of the Southern Baptist Convention); and
WHEREAS, Many local Southern Baptist churches face significant challenges, including declining attendance, conflict, lack of discipleship, and lack of community impact; and
WHEREAS, Church revitalization and replanting are biblical and strategic approaches to address the decline and restore the spiritual health, vibrancy, and missional effectiveness of local congregations; and
WHEREAS, Scripture exhorts believers to persevere in their commitment to the local church, admonishing them to encourage one another, to spur one another on toward love and good deeds, and not to neglect meeting together (Hebrews 10:24-25); and
WHEREAS, Southern Baptists acknowledge the diverse approaches and models of church revitalization and replanting and recognize that effective strategies may vary depending on the unique circumstances and the needs of individual congregations; and
WHEREAS, Local associations, state conventions, and the North American Mission Board (NAMB) have committed time, resources, and manpower to strengthening churches through revitalization and replant initiatives; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That the messengers to the Southern Baptist Convention meeting in New Orleans, Louisiana, June 13-14, 2023, affirm church revitalization and replanting as an important component of fulfilling the Great Commission and advancing the kingdom of God; and be it further
RESOLVED, That Southern Baptists encourage our churches to prayerfully consider the urgency and significance of church revitalization and replanting, prioritizing the spiritual health, discipleship, and missional engagement of their congregations, and ways their churches might engage in helping other churches in this work; and be it further
RESOLVED, That Southern Baptists are encouraged to continue providing robust resources, training opportunities, and support systems to assist churches in their revitalization and replanting efforts through NAMB and partnership with state conventions and local associations, including the development of relevant curriculum, conferences, mentorship programs, and partnerships with experienced practitioners in the field; and be it finally
RESOLVED, That we fervently pray for the Holy Spirit’s guidance and empowerment in the work of church revitalization and replanting, that His transformative power may revive and restore countless congregations, enabling them to effectively fulfill their mission to reach their communities and the world with the love and truth of Jesus Christ.