When the Digital World Forgets You — Building Ministry That Outlasts the Algorithm

In this conversation, Jess and Thom discuss the fleeting nature of digital influence. Algorithms shift, platforms fade, and online visibility is temporary. What happens when your church—or your ministry—disappears from the feed? This episode explores how to build something lasting in a world designed to forget.

1. 1. Digital Decay: Why every online platform eventually buries even the best content.
   2. Presence Over Platform: How personal relationships still outlast digital reach.
   3. Legacy Leadership: Building ministries that endure beyond algorithms and branding trends.
   4. The Return to Analog: Why the most future-proof ministry may look a lot like the first-century church.

Resources:

• Wesley Biblical Seminary

• Upward Running

• “The Revival of the Analog World” by Thom S. Rainer – coming soon!

• “The Millennials: How We Missed the Largest Living Generation — and Why It’s Not Late” by Thom S. Rainer and Jess W. Rainer – coming soon!

• The Hope Initiative

• Church Answers Membership

• FREE Research Report: New Surprising Insights

Episode Sponsor:

• Wesley Biblical Seminary is focused on developing trusted leaders for faithful churches.
  • They offer certificates, bachelor’s degrees, master’s degrees, and doctoral degrees.
  • Since 1974 WBS has been faithfully fulfilling its mission.
• Fully committed to the inerrancy of Scripture and the transforming power of the Holy Spirit.
• Flexible online format that fits your schedule.
• Equipping men and women called by God.
• An array of programs to help you take the next step. You can do it!
• If you’d like to learn more, visit Wesley Biblical Seminary.

Upward Running for Adults: Your Church’s Next Step in Outreach

• Offer a 5K Challenge for adults at your church (engage your adults in 2026): Inspire your congregation and engage your community with a meaningful running ministry. Upward provides:
  • Tailored training plans to help your runner or walkers move from the couch to completing a 5k.
  • Access to the new RunClub app for tracking progress and building community.
  • A fully customizable program that fits your church’s timeline — all led by your run coach who will be fully equipped with the Upward Running materials to lead.
• Simple to Start: With just one passionate leader and no facility needed, your church parking lot can become the starting line for life transformation.
• Build Stronger Connections: Use running to foster relationships, promote healthy habits, and grow spiritually while expanding your church’s impact.
• Upward Sports is ready to help you start this at your church: Visit Upward.org/Runcoach to get started today!

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