Reconstructing Pastors Podcast

Join us as we welcome our distinguished guest, JR Woodward, the author behind "The Scandal of Leadership". In this episode, we navigate the maze of issues surrounding domineering leadership in the Church, a problem JR insists needs immediate attention. We discuss how these leadership styles align with worldly powers, in stark contrast to Christ's submission to God.

With the Church hemorrhaging from leadership scandals, we discuss the importance of understanding the root cause instead of dismissing these incidents as bad apples. JR shares how his book, "The Scandal of Leadership," explores systemic issues of domineering leadership, in which mimetic desires and rivalry become obstacles to Godly humility.
This episode is for anyone who feels dismayed by the predictability of church scandals! Those seeking hope for the church's future will benefit from JR's discerning robust theological work.
The solution, as JR Woodward put it so eloquently, lies in humble obedience and imitation of Christ. As the church embarks on this canonic journey, it holds the promise of reformation and growth, leading us closer to the non-rivalous Father and fostering a healthier leadership model.
We're so thankful for JR Woodward!
Check him out on https://jrwoodward.com/
You can purchase The Scandal of Leadership on Amazon https://www.amazon.com/Scandal-Leadership-Unmasking-Powers-Domination-ebook/dp/B0C356M3YT/ref=sr_1_1?crid=3MKNLZQA7JA68&keywords=the+scandal+of+leadership+jr+woodward&qid=1698447080&sprefix=the+scandal+of+leadership+%2Caps%2C188&sr=8-1

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Have you ever reflected on the resilience narrative for pastors and how it shapes their pastoral life? We had a riveting conversation with Alex Lang who takes us through his experiences with self-reflection and self-critique. Alex offers insights into how his introspective journey has helped him separate personal struggles from his divine calling. His enlightening perspective on pastoral resilience, has stirred reactions ranging from agreement to disagreement, and even discredit, all of which we discuss in this eye-opening episode.
As church leaders grapple with navigating their congregations through the pandemic, new challenges and opportunities arise. Alex shares his experiences with steering an aging congregation towards a more mission-centric approach in these trying times. He also opens up about his understanding of a pastor's calling, the transformative concept of a 'congregation of one', and the unique perspectives borne out of different denominational backgrounds. We take a rigorous look at the tension between loyalty to a church and the need to scrutinize its methodologies, walking a fine line that many pastors encounter.
In an increasingly isolated society, the rise of mental health issues is a concern we cannot overlook. We delve into the concept of hyper-individualism and the impact it has on communal structures and the church. We also examine the effects of market-driven megachurches, prosperity gospel, and the commoditization of the church on Christianity. Through our conversation with Alex, we explore the transformative potential of meaningful relationships in addressing these concerns. Join us for a thought-provoking dialogue that will challenge your understanding of pastoral life and the church.
Article: https://www.restorativefaith.org/post/departure-why-i-left-the-church

Website: restorativefaith.org

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In this episode, Terry Walling, founder of Leader Breakthrough, is our guest. He's a friend, someone who exudes wisdom and a leader we trust. As someone who's been in Church ministry for over 30 years he is now wanting to finish well by paying it forward. One way he's doing that is through his book (pre-launching September 2023) 'Unlikely Nomads'.
In this episode he shares his insights on how the traditional church is experiencing a deep-seated transition - what he believes is an Abrahamic call to journey towards something radically different. Those heeding the call are what Terry calls the 'Unlikely Nomads' - courageous committed Christ followers who are making the choice to step away from the traditional church and follow the voice of the Shepherd.
We discuss how the journey away from institutionalized faith is not smooth. It's laden with challenges, misunderstandings, and, often, a deep sense of loss. We acknowledge how trusting in God's plan becomes paramount during this transition. It's a journey of surrender, letting go of familiar structures and embracing uncertainty.
We'd love you to tune in to this important conversation.

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Are you ready to redefine your understanding of church and ministry? We bring you an intriguing conversation with Rowland Smith, National Director for Forge America, Director of Pando Collective. We delve into Rowland’s fascinating journey from a musical background, sought after worship leader to a seasoned voice and teacher in missiology and fresh expressions of the church.
This episode presents a thought-provoking discussion on the need to rethink our understanding of success in ministry and the importance of staying true to our calling. Rowland reminds us that in reimagining the church, we must remember who we are as missional people as part of this journey. It's as much about returning to something old as finding something new.
We’re so grateful to Rowland Smith! We'd love you to check out more about him, his ministry, books and more.
https://www.forgeamerica.com/
https://thepandocollective.com/

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We're super grateful for all of you!

Prepare yourself for an enlightening journey as we sit down with internationally acclaimed missiologist and author, Mike Frost. Embrace an intimate narrative of his spiritual transition from a Catholic background to a life-changing evangelical conversion at 19, which carved his leadership path.
Through a plethora of diverse experiences and insights, Mike Frost illuminates the evolution of the church and the essence of its mission. In his new book 'Mission is the Shape of Water', he explores mission through the ages and around the world, pointing out that context is everything and will help us shape our mission expressions today.
Transcending the past and present, our conversation ventures into the future. By addressing the challenges of our time, we shed light on how the Church can respond. The discourse unravels the need for the Church to address key issues such as racial reconciliation, women's inclusion and the climate crisis - all while striving to shape communities in a world that is increasingly hybridized with technology.
Join us for this heartening conversation with Mike Frost. We navigate the complexities and challenges of faith, leadership, and mission in today's world.
If you want to purchase Mike's book (which we highly recommend) you can purchase is here https://www.amazon.com/Mission-Shape-Water-Learning-Inform/dp/1955142408

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Thanks for listening!
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Join the Reconstructing Pastors Cohort
Check out the Bridge & Rhino Coaching Website
We're super grateful for all of you!