The Rob Skinner Podcast

How a Church of 20 Grew Into a Thriving Ministry in Savannah | Bob Shanks

What does it take to help a small church grow again?

In this inspiring interview from the Healthy Church Growth Conference in Boston, Rob Skinner sits down with Bob Shanks, leader of the Savannah Church, to talk about faith, sacrifice, vision, and building vibrant churches in smaller cities.

Bob shares the incredible story of how the Savannah church grew from around 20 members to more than 50, how a thriving campus ministry is developing, and why he believes small churches can still make a massive impact.

The conversation also dives into:

• The challenge of leading and funding small churches
• Working part-time at Costco to support the ministry
• Building ministry alongside family
• Planting future churches in Hilton Head
• Raising up leaders instead of limiting people’s dreams
• Why mission must stay at the center of church life

This episode is full of practical wisdom, faith-building stories, and vision for the future of church growth.

Key Takeaways

• Small churches can still thrive and grow
• Campus ministries remain critical for church growth
• Sacrifice and faith often go hand-in-hand in ministry
• Mission creates unity and spiritual momentum
• Every disciple should be developed with leadership vision
• Church planting starts with strengthening disciples where they already live

Memorable Quotes

“If we have money, how can we invest it into building the church?”

“Mission creates ministry.”

“I see everybody as a potential leader.”

“We need a church in every neighborhood.”

Topics Covered

• Small church leadership
• Church planting strategy
• Campus ministry growth
• Savannah Church update
• Hilton Head church vision
• Faith and sacrifice in ministry
• Leadership development
• Multiplying disciples and churches