Podcast Show Notes: Shepherding and Chasing the Strays

Opening Paragraph: In this episode of Church as a Team Sport, Lance Wigdon and Jim Putman discuss the essential practice of "chasing the strays" within church communities. Drawing from biblical principles, personal experiences, and lessons from small churches, they emphasize the importance of shepherding as a shared responsibility. This episode unpacks how chasing after those who have disconnected from the church is not just a task for pastors, but a mission for the entire church body. By focusing on building relational connections throughout the week, leaders can create a shepherding culture that fosters long-term spiritual growth and strengthens the church.

Key Points:

1. Shepherding is the foundation of ministry: Jim highlights the biblical mandate for leaders to pursue and care for their flock, referencing Ezekiel 34 and John 10. The focus is not just on those present but on those who are missing, disconnected, or struggling.
2. Ministry happens between weekends: While the weekend service is important, it should serve as a touchpoint for the deeper ministry that happens during the week. True growth happens in relational ministry that equips people to serve and connect beyond Sunday mornings.
3. Building a shepherding culture: The role of a church leader is not to carry all the burden of shepherding, but to equip the church community to take on this responsibility. When everyone is involved, the church becomes a living community where people are known, pursued, and cared for.
4. The danger of isolation: Jim and Lance stress that when people drift away from the church, it often leads to deeper relational and spiritual problems. The sooner leaders and members can reach out and reconnect with these individuals, the easier it is to prevent long-term issues from escalating.
5. Challenges of post-2020 church life: COVID-19 created divisions and led to a decline in in-person attendance. Many became isolated, settling for shallow online connections. However, churches that invested in relational ministry thrived, reinforcing the need for real, personal connections within the body of Christ.

Discussion Questions:

1. How does your church currently keep track of members who may be drifting or disconnected? What systems can you put in place to better pursue those who are missing?
2. How can your small group or leadership team create a more relational, shepherding culture within your church community?
3. How does the idea that 90% of ministry happens between weekends challenge your current view of church involvement?
4. What are some practical ways you can encourage your congregation to be more intentional about building relationships throughout the week?

Actionable Next Steps:

• Develop a team approach: Equip your small group leaders, elders, and ministry team members to take ownership of shepherding and reaching out to people who are disconnected or missing.
• Track attendance and follow up: Implement simple attendance tracking or connection systems so that it’s easy to see who might be slipping away and to follow up with them in a loving and personal way.
• Focus on relationship-building throughout the week: Encourage your church community to be intentional about checking in with each other, offering help, and pursuing those who have been absent.

This episode reminds us that church is not just a weekend event; it’s a community that thrives on relationships. By prioritizing shepherding and pursuing those who have drifted away, we can create stronger, more connected churches. As leaders, let’s be intentional about making disciples who are not only cared for but are equipped to care for others. Join us next time for more insights on building a healthy, thriving church community!