Healthy Churches Multiply: How to Assess Church Health Before It’s Too Late

Healthy churches do not happen by accident. In this episode of the Brentwood Baptist Leadership Podcast, Brian Coates sits down with Fady Al-Hagal to talk about what church health really looks like and why multiplication begins with healthy leadership, healthy culture, and healthy disciple-making rhythms. Together, they unpack common warning signs of decline, false indicators of success, and practical ways churches can assess their health honestly. From fractured leadership to mission drift, this conversation offers practical tools for pastors and ministry leaders who want to lead with clarity, humility, and purpose. If you’ve ever wondered whether your church is truly healthy or simply staying busy, this episode will help you take an honest look at what matters most. In this episode, you’ll learn: - Why busyness is not always a sign of health - The difference between healthy growth and mission drift - Common false indicators churches rely on - How fractured leadership and culture can lead to decline - The three marks of a healthy church: make, mature, and multiply disciples - Why healthy rhythms matter more than scattered programs - How the “5Gs” can create clarity in your discipleship pathway - Practical next steps for churches that need revitalization or renewal - Why pastors need trusted voices, cohorts, and healthy accountability - Real examples of churches that experienced renewed health and growth Meet the Guests - Brian Coates – Brian leads church growth and campus strategy at Brentwood Baptist and helps churches think strategically about leadership, multiplication, and health. - Fady Al-Hagal – Fady serves as Multiplication Minister at Brentwood Baptist, helping churches across Middle Tennessee assess health, strengthen leadership, and move toward revitalization and multiplication.