The Church Gap (feat. Josh Davis)

In this episode of Anchored by the Word, Pastor Justin Likens sits down with Josh Davis to talk about his family’s upcoming church plant—Borderlands Family Baptist Church—in El Paso, Texas. Together, they dive into a big question: Do we really need more churches in America? Their answer? Absolutely! But not just more buildings...the need is for healthy, gospel-driven, disciple-making churches.

Together, they explore why church planting is so urgent: population growth is outpacing the reach of existing congregations, many churches close each year, and theological drift is leaving communities spiritually underfed. They discuss the life cycle of churches, how biblical fidelity fuels longevity, and why methods may change but doctrine must not. Healthy church plants, they argue, multiply disciples, strengthen the body, and can even bring struggling churches back to life.

The conversation also addresses megachurches, the dangers of consumer Christianity, and the risk of letting tradition overshadow mission. Whether large or small, churches must keep the gospel central and adapt their ministry approach to their community without compromising truth. Pastor Justin and Josh close with a strong call to view church planting not as a trend, but as a direct command of the Great Commission—growing God’s kingdom one faithful congregation at a time.

Make sure to visit the Borderlands FBC website to sign up for the Davis's mailing list, and to support church planting with a monthly donation if you feel so led! You can also join their Facebook group HERE!