In this episode of The Church Planting Podcast, Greg Nettle sits down with Marc Estes, pastor, author, and CEO of Visitor Reach—an AI-driven platform helping churches connect with people in today's digital-first culture.

Marc shares insights from over 40 years in ministry, including his time as senior pastor of Manor House in Portland and his leadership in global church movements that have helped plant churches around the world. Today, his focus is helping churches adapt to a rapidly changing culture—especially in how they engage people spiritually.

At the heart of the conversation is a critical shift: the church must move from a "come and see" model to a "go and be" model. Marc explains that while past generations responded well to invitations, today's culture requires churches to proactively engage people where they already are—relationally, emotionally, and especially digitally, where people spend hours each day searching for meaning, connection, and truth.

Marc also unpacks key ideas from his book, The Road We Must Travel, using the parable of the Good Samaritan to challenge leaders toward a more relational, incarnational approach to ministry. He outlines six key attributes of effective ministry today, including going to people, engaging in healing and discipleship, investing in outreach, multiplying leaders, and building a legacy that extends beyond one generation.

The conversation closes with a hopeful yet urgent challenge: while cultural pressures are rising, so is spiritual openness—with a significant percentage of people searching for answers. Marc believes we may be on the edge of a new spiritual awakening—but only if the church is willing to change how it engages the world.

Resources mentioned:
Visitor Reach: a tool to help you connect with guests and follow up thoughtfully
Use code: STADIA if you decide to try it
Note: This is an affiliate link, and we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Timestamps:

00:00 – 02:00
Introduction to Marc Estes and his ministry background.

02:00 – 05:00
From senior pastor to CEO: launching Visitor Reach.

05:00 – 08:00
Why churches must engage people in digital spaces.

08:00 – 12:00
Cultural shifts: from "come to church" to "go to people."

12:00 – 18:00
The Good Samaritan framework and the "gospel of go."

18:00 – 23:00
Discipleship, healing ministry, and relational investment.

23:00 – 27:00
Funding outreach and prioritizing mission over maintenance.

27:00 – 31:00
Multiplication: measuring success by sending, not seating.

31:00 – 35:00
Are we on the edge of a spiritual awakening? Final thoughts.