NEXT SUNDAY

Shaping the Churches of Tomorrow, Today

Welcome to Next Sunday, more than just a podcast—it's your vibrant community of forward-thinking church leaders. Our episodes are crafted to serve as a dynamic field guide for bridging generations, cultivating generosity, and inspiring transformation within the church. Together, we will tackle challenges head-on, celebrate our victories, and possibly ruffle a few feathers because what happens next Sunday could change everything.

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BI-WEEKLY EPISODES: A NEW EPISODE IS RELEASED EVERY OTHER TUESDAY

MOST RECENT EPISODE

Is 29 Too Young to Lead a Church

At just 29 years old, Luke Lezon stepped into a senior pastor role in the middle of a church split, facing doubt, criticism, and immense pressure. Now, with thousands attending each weekend, he shares what it takes to lead when no one thinks you’re ready. Joined by his mentor, Jim Sheppard, this conversation dives deep into the challenges and triumphs of young leadership.

In this episode:
- How Luke handled skepticism and criticism as a young leader
- The biggest lessons from leading through a church split
- Why age doesn’t determine your ability to lead

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The Missing Piece in Your Church's Financial Future

Posted 03/18/25

Does your church have the financial leadership it needs to thrive? Many churches overlook a critical role that could unlock new opportunities and secure their financial future.

In this episode, Jim and Frank dive into the importance of having a dedicated CFO in your church. They explore how this role goes beyond managing budgets and bookkeeping to becoming a strategic partner in aligning your church's finances with its vision. Whether you're a small church just starting out or a growing multi-campus ministry, this episode will give you practical steps to strengthen your financial foundation.

In this Episode:
- Why the CFO role is essential for growing churches
- How to identify financial gaps and plan for the future
- Tips for hiring or outsourcing the right financial leadership

Let’s ensure your church is positioned for long-term success!

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The Hidden Trap That Derails Church Leaders

Posted 03/04/25

Leadership isn’t just about the big moments—it’s the small, daily choices that determine your legacy. But one compromise, one overlooked warning sign, and everything can change in an instant.

While sanctification requires discipline and intention, drifting away from it is easier than we think. In this episode, we unpack the hidden traps that derail church leaders, exploring the guardrails, self-awareness, and accountability needed to protect both influence and soul. Plus, we react to a powerful conversation between Matt Chandler and Lecrae, test our Bible knowledge, and debate some hot-button church finance topics.

In this episode:
- The subtle ways leaders drift from sanctification—and how to stay on course.
- Why accountability and spiritual discipline are non-negotiables for church leaders.
- A fun (and slightly controversial) game of Hot or Not on church finances.

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Why Your Church Needs a Clear Theology of Giving

Posted 02/18/25

Does your church have a clear theology of giving? Without it, you could be leaving your congregation confused and disengaged.

In this episode, we explore why a well-defined theology of giving is the foundation for a thriving and generous church. Discover how aligning your leadership team and congregation around this crucial topic can foster spiritual growth, trust, and transformational generosity. It’s time to move beyond transactional giving and create lasting impact.

In this Episode:
- The dangers of unclear messaging about giving in the church.
- How to align your staff and congregation around a shared theology.
- Practical steps to create clarity and inspire generosity.

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What Makes Gen Z Say Yes to Church Leadership

Posted 02/04/25

In today’s episode of Next Sunday, Jim and Frank explore a pressing question for church leaders: How can we attract Gen Z to church leadership roles? They discuss the generational differences that often create barriers and share practical strategies to make leadership opportunities appealing to young leaders.

Drawing from their own experiences and observations, Jim and Frank dive into the importance of inclusivity, intentional mentorship, and creating meaningful roles that resonate with Gen Z’s values. This conversation will inspire you to rethink how your church engages the next generation, ensuring a vibrant and thriving future for your ministry.

Key takeaways:
- Why understanding generational differences is essential for church leaders.
- How to create leadership opportunities that align with Gen Z’s passions.
- The role of intentionality in making ministry roles attractive to young leaders.

Whether you’re a seasoned church leader or just beginning to explore generational engagement, this episode offers actionable insights to help you connect with and empower the next wave of church leadership.

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Frank Bealer

Frank is a distinguished leader and innovator in organizational leadership, church ministry, and family-centered development. As the Co-Founder of Phase Franchise Partners, Frank has demonstrated a profound commitment to creating environments that support family growth and community engagement.

He also serves as an advisor and Chief Strategy Officer at Generis. Frank leverages his diverse background to serve churches and non-profit organizations to help maximize their potential through effective stewardship and generosity strategies.

Frank is a devoted husband and father to six children with many other notable professional endeavors that have informed his extensive leadership. His family is at the heart of everything he does, inspiring his work and his dedication to creating positive change in the lives of others.

Jim Sheppard

Jim Sheppard is CEO & Principal of Generis, a consulting firm passionate about helping churches inspire and cultivate generosity through giving development, coaching, and strategy.

Jim is a student of generosity and is passionate about spreading it throughout the Church. For the last 30+ years, he has devoted his life to coaching pastors especially in navigating the resource limitations that restrict their ministry potential. Jim understands the financial challenges that churches face today; annual giving, debt, capital projects, and planned giving. He is a positive force in bridging these needs with the power of spiritually motivated stewardship. Cumulatively, Jim has partnered with his clients to raise over $2 billion for local church ministry. Jim is a frequent writer and speaker on generosity and ministry funding. He is co-author of Contagious Generosity: Creating A Culture Of Giving In Your Church.

Jim and his wife, Nancy, live in the Atlanta, GA area and they have two married daughters. He is actively involved in his church where he serves as an elder and provides guidance to the Generosity Ministry Team.

NEXT SUNDAY

Is 29 Too Young to Lead a Church

The Missing Piece in Your Church's Financial Future

The Hidden Trap That Derails Church Leaders

Why Your Church Needs a Clear Theology of Giving

What Makes Gen Z Say Yes to Church Leadership

FRANK BEALER &

JIM SHEPARD

Frank Bealer

Jim Sheppard

Accelerating Generosity Towards God-Inspired Vision