Andy Addis discusses the unique challenges and opportunities of rural ministry, advocating for a shift from “rugged individualism” to a collaborative strategy of “doing more together.” Drawing from his experience leading a rural multi-site network of 13 locations in Kansas, Addis uses the story of Philip and the Ethiopian eunuch to highlight that rural work is characterized by intentionality, “right now” obedience, and a recognition that God is already in progress in remote areas. He emphasizes that numbers do not equal greatness; rather, the presence of God is the true metric. To combat low resources and isolation, he introduces the Replant Hub, a platform for churches to share and receive free ministry resources.
Key Takeaways
Mental Over Numerical Rurality
Rurality is a mentality defined by school-centric calendars, blue-collar communities, and “big city problems with small town attitudes,” rather than just population size.
The 10% Vision
y aiming to reach 10% of a rural city, a church ceases to be just a local entity and becomes “that city’s church,” effectively shifting the entire local culture.
Gospel with a Capital “Jesus”
Rural ministry should avoid over-complication; if a leader has an open Bible and a mouth, they have sufficient tools to meet the primary needs of their community.
Taking Down Fences
Churches must identify and remove “fences”—outdated bylaws, committees, or traditions—that provide comfort but hinder radical, passionate Gospel work.
Collaborative Resource Sharing
Through the Replant Hub, rural churches can overcome isolation and resource deficits by “dating” (using free resources), “engaging” (coaching), or “marrying” (joining a network).
