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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
Why Your Church Needs a Clear Theology of Giving
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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MORE EPISODES
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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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How Debt Impacts Your Church's Mission
Posted 01/21/25
Imagine a church free to focus entirely on ministry, community, and growth.
For many church leaders, debt can feel like a heavy burden, holding back the full potential of their ministry. In this episode of Next Sunday, Jim and Frank tackle an important question: Should a church be debt free? They explore the impact of debt on a church’s mission, finances, and ability to respond to opportunities.
With practical insights and actionable steps, Jim and Frank guide listeners through strategies for achieving financial freedom. Whether your church is navigating debt now or planning for the future, this conversation will help you step into a new season of opportunity, generosity, and growth.
Key takeaways:
- How debt impacts ministry priorities and long-term financial health.
- Actionable steps to help your church move toward financial freedom.
- The benefits of becoming debt-free and how it can empower your church’s ministry.
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The Biblical Model for Effective Church Leadership
Posted 01/07/25
Senior pastors are often stretched thin by impossible job descriptions, but what if focusing on just five roles could change everything?
In this episode, we break down the five essential roles every senior pastor should focus on for clarity and effectiveness. Drawing from a biblical model, we discuss why sticking to these core responsibilities can help prevent burnout and lead to healthier, more effective leadership. Whether you're a seasoned pastor or just starting out, understanding these key roles can transform your ministry and bring balance to your life.
In this Episode:
- The five roles that every senior pastor should focus on
- How these roles align with the biblical model of prophet, priest, and king
- Practical tips for communicating and implementing these roles in your church
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YOUR HOSTS
FRANK BEALER &
JIM SHEPARD
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.