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.