https://youtu.be/2fyq2UV2WK8 Proverbs 22:1 makes clear, "Choose a good reputation over great riches; being held in high esteem is better than silver or gold." (NLT) How can a church recover after a scandal? What are some ways a congregation can begin to rebuild a reputation? Thom and Sam discuss some steps forward for these churches. If the scandal is rooted in sin, the church must publicly repent as a first step. If the scandal is derived from a stance on truth, the church must stand firm. The scandal's size and impact of the scandal should determine your response. Quickly remove church leaders from their positions of authority if necessary. Humility and service to the community over time will reduce the impact of the scandal. * When there are victims, seek fair restitution proactively. Do not sue others as a way to save face or retaliate. Put Christ in the middle of your response and seek the Holy Spirit's guidance through prayer. Resources: * Upward Sports * California Baptist University Church Answers Central Know Your Beliefs “It Is Time to Stop Celebrating Church Transfer Growth” by Thom S. Rainer The Everything Church Resource Directory * The Hope Initiative * Get your FREE tool! Attendance Growth Projector Episode Sponsors: Upward Sports equips churches to run self-sustaining sports ministries in their communities.  Whether you are a sports fanatic, or on staff at a church, Upward Sports will give you all the tools you need to run a first-class sports ministry that allows you to reach families in your community.  Upward Sports offers basketball, soccer, flag football, cheerleading, volleyball, baseball and softball through league and camp offerings. At Upward Sports, we want to help your church make a difference, and give you increased opportunities to share the gospel.  Learn more today at Upward.org/ChurchAnswers. **As a partner of Rainer or Leadership, Upward Sports is offering a $500 sports start up grant to listeners. Head over to Upward.org/ChurchAnswers and schedule a call… tell them we sent you! Your sports grant will assist you in a 2024 LEAGUE! Did you know that fewer than 20% of Southern Baptist pastors have a bachelor’s degree? That is according to a past Pew Research study. How can this be combated and how can we prepare our churches for the future? California Baptist University has a solution. CBU offers a full breadth of courses through its online degree programs. Whether you’re looking to start your degree, finish your degree, or prepare leaders in your church for advancement opportunities,