Getting an entire church to commit to a Bible reading challenge may sound ambitious—but it’s not impossible. In fact, with the right strategy, it can spark lasting spiritual growth and bring your community closer together.
When Pastor Randy Frazee of Westside Family Church in Lenexa, Kansas, asked his congregation to read the entire New Testament in just eight weeks, it wasn’t just about the reading plan. The real success came from how he motivated his people to take on something hard—and stick with it.
Whether you’re launching a short-term Bible study or a churchwide Scripture initiative, here’s how to create momentum and engagement that lasts.
1. Cast a Bold, Clear Vision
The first step? Don’t be afraid to challenge your church. Pastor Randy called his eight-week New Testament plan a “green-beret-level assignment.” He didn’t downplay the difficulty—he leaned into it.
Why? Because people are more likely to commit when they know the goal matters. Set a clear, spiritually meaningful vision, and communicate it with confidence. When your congregation sees that you believe it’s worth it, they’ll be more likely to jump in.
2. Equip People with Tools—and Motivation
A strong plan helps, but motivation is the real driver of success. Pastor Randy didn’t just hand out reading checklists—he connected the readings to weekly sermons and reinforced them in small groups. Every part of the church was aligned and focused.
He also played the role of chief encourager. Through weekly updates and personal engagement, he reminded people that they weren’t alone—and that they could do this.
3. Build Community and Accountability
One of the key factors in Westside’s success was doing it together. Families read at home. Small groups discussed the readings. Friends encouraged each other to keep going.
When people are part of a shared goal, they’re more likely to stay on track. This built-in accountability helped participants turn what could have felt like an individual task into a churchwide movement.
4. Celebrate Progress—Loudly and Often
Recognition matters more than we think. At the end of the eight weeks, everyone who completed the challenge received a certificate and had their photo taken with Pastor Randy (complete with pom-poms!). Photos were shared during services and on social media.
These celebrations weren’t just about rewarding the finishers—they were about inspiring the rest of the community. When people see progress being recognized, it fuels motivation and participation.
Apply These Principles to Any Study
Here’s the real takeaway: This strategy works with any study. You don’t need a specific product or plan to challenge your church—just a bold vision, clear structure, supportive community, and a commitment to encouragement.
But if you’re looking for a ready-made option, the New Testament Challenge Kit includes everything you need to replicate what Pastor Randy did—from sermon outlines and reading plans to small group materials, promotional graphics, and customizable certificates.
Final Thoughts: Lead with Vision and Encouragement
The next time you’re planning a churchwide Bible study or Scripture engagement initiative, think bigger than the content. Consider how you’ll rally your community, support their progress, and celebrate their growth.
Ask them to do something hard. Walk with them as they do it. And cheer them on every step of the way.