In history, we often see turning points. These moments are not always obvious when they happen, but looking back, one can often see a corner turned. The latest datasets seem to indicate Free Will Baptists may have turned a corner. I hope and pray so.
Healthy churches are the natural result of healthy leadership and engaged membership. After years of decline for the denomination, numbers point to signs of stabilization, even growth, in key areas.
Although we, like all other denominational groups in the U.S., continue to struggle from a shortage of pastors, the number of Free Will Baptist deacons rose in 2023 and remained steady in 2024.
In addition, reported Sunday School enrollment (see chart below) reveals growth in 2023 and continuing in 2024. A strong discipleship program is critical, and it can be a pipeline to develop church leaders. Strong leaders lead to strong churches that buy curriculum; produce students, pastors, and missionaries; and help fund Kingdom work.
Reported church membership (see chart below) rose slightly from 2023 to 2024, from a low of 103,653 in 2023 to 109,276 in 2024. Is this a one-year blip, or will it become a trend?
Perhaps a more pronounced measure of growth comes in baptisms. (See chart below.) The number of baptisms has increased steadily since 2020. In 2024, NAFWB churches reported the highest number of baptisms (5,162) in 12 years. This is a clear reversal, for which we praise the Lord.
To build on this momentum, we must remain intentional about equipping believers, prioritizing evangelism, and strengthening discipleship pathways. Below are specific action steps toward church health.
Growing Together. This year, the Executive Office has provided webinars to help churches make a good First Impression, and to equip congregations to identify and help those at risk for suicide. Webinars on the value of deacons are scheduled for September 15, October 20, and November 17 at 6:00 p.m. CT.
Know Your Community. Three hundred fifty-one churches have used Know Your Community. Follow up feedback sessions equip pastors and church leaders to reach their neighborhoods with the gospel.
BLESS. Free Will Baptists have prayed nearly a quarter-million prayers for their neighbors, and adopted 31,000 homes.
The Hope Initiative. Seventy-three churches have participated in The Hope Initiative. This intervention helps churches focus outward to reach those around them with the gospel .
First Aid Ready. Eight churches have participated in the First Aid Readyprocess, which equips congregants to minister to hurting people in their community.
Pray for Harvesters
As we consider turning the corner, we must be ready! Pray for God to call men to preach from your congregations. Approach them about the call. As a reminder of God’s command in Matthew 9:38, we are encouraging everyone to pray daily at 9:38 a.m. or p.m. that God will call laborers into His harvest. Read Dr. Paul Harrison’s discussion on this subject many years ago.
