Ep. 18 / Reimagining Faith Leadership for Modern Times ► Carey Nieuwhof

02/24/25 • 32 min

What if your life took a sharp turn from a promising legal career to leading a church? Join us as we uncover the fascinating journey of Carey Nieuwhof, a renowned leadership specialist whose podcast has reached over 34 million downloads. Carey shares how a supernatural call to ministry led him to swap law books for sermons. Through his recounting, listeners will gain insight into how the critical thinking skills developed during his law school days have been pivotal in his ministry work, transforming three small churches into the thriving Conexus Church. His story is an inspiration for anyone contemplating unexpected paths in their faith journey.
As we navigate the complex world of church leadership in the aftermath of COVID-19, Carey and I dissect the shifting landscape of ministry. From technological advancements to cultural shifts that challenge traditional structures, we explore pressing issues like burnout among pastors and the urgent need for new evangelism strategies. The episode also sheds light on the critical gap in practical leadership training in seminaries, reflecting a broader issue seen in various professions. These discussions provide valuable insights for leaders facing the evolving demands of shepherding a modern congregation.
Identity anchors have shifted dramatically in today's world, and as we explore these changes, we draw on the wisdom of figures like Tim Keller and Rick Warren. The discussion moves into the heart of modern evangelism, where familiar frameworks have given way to transient identity markers and secular pressures. In a culture increasingly detached from Christianity, Carey offers practical advice on rooting identity in Christ and inspiring others by living out the gospel. This episode is a beacon of encouragement for those striving to authentically express their faith in a rapidly changing society.

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Ep. 17 / Holiness Here: A Warm Invitation ► Karen Stiller

Ever wondered how holiness fits into the hustle and bustle of everyday life? Join me, Brian Stiller, as I sit down with the brilliant Karen Stiller to explore this profound topic. Karen, an acclaimed writer, shares her spiritual journey and insights from her latest book, "Holiness Here: Searching for God in the Ordinary Events of Everyday Life." Together, we challenge the rigid stereotypes of holiness, viewing it instead as a dynamic and transformative journey. Our discussion touches on the perceptions that came with her late husband’s role as a minister and how these shaped her understanding of holiness as an ongoing process rather than an immediate state of being.
We also tackle the complex themes of blame and shame, drawing connections to the biblical story of Adam and Eve and emphasizing the power of community support in overcoming these challenges. Through personal stories, we highlight the importance of patience, vulnerability, and the transformative power of generosity. Karen’s candid reflections on writing amid personal loss reveal how suffering can deepen one's understanding of holiness and community. This episode invites you to reconsider holiness as an active, relational journey, encouraging a deeper connection with both yourself and the world around you.

Karen Stiller's website

Karen Stiller's book - Holiness Here

Publisher's website

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Ep. 19 / Cultivating Faith Amidst Frustration ► Ajith Fernando (Part 1)

Often called the "John Stott of Asia," Ajith Fernando has become a global influencer—not only by building a thriving youth ministry in Sri Lanka but also through his theological writings, where he unpacks biblical texts and deepens our understanding of discipleship.
Step into a profound exploration of ministry and faith as we engage with Ajith Fernando, renowned for his impactful work in Sri Lanka. Ajith’s journey is one of resilience and dedication, shaped by his upbringing in a Christian family where foundational beliefs were instilled early on. He shares his experiences growing up during turbulent times, illustrating how these circumstances impacted his spiritual growth and ministry outlook.
Throughout our conversation, Ajith provides insights into the complexities of leading a ministry amidst ethnic tensions and civil unrest. He emphasizes the power of dialogue, the necessity for cultural sensitivity, and the incredible strength that can arise from addressing frustrations head-on in community. Ajith's candid reflections on living a life devoted to service illuminate the framework of ministry that prioritizes community, particularly among the poor and marginalized.
As we navigate through the compelling stories of Ajith's experiences, listeners are encouraged to examine their own understanding of God's call and their role within their communities. This discussion serves to inspire us all to consider what it means to embody faith with courage and conviction, regardless of the challenges we face.
Join us for this enlightening episode that promises to inspire and challenge your perspective on leadership and community in the modern world. Share this episode with friends and reflect on how you can step into God’s calling in your life today.

evangelical 360° - Ep. 18 / Reimagining Faith Leadership for Modern Times ► Carey Nieuwhof

Transcript

Brian:

00:10

Hello and welcome to Evangelical 360. My name is Brian Stiller, global Ambassador for the World Evangelical Alliance and host of this new podcast series. On Evangelical 360, I interview leaders, writers and influencers about contemporary issues impacting Christian life around the world. My hope is that it will not only be a global meeting place where faith is explored from different perspectives, but that each person listening will come away informed,