In this Episode, Austin interviews his pastor Dennis Anderson about pastoring at a young age, keys to leading a debt-free church, hiring church staff, and the difference between leadership and lordship.

About Dennis Anderson:

Dennis Anderson has served as Senior Pastor at Apostolic Faith Tabernacle in Pearcy, Arkansas since 1985. He served the Arkansas District UPCI as Superintendent from 2009-2017.

Key Takeaways from this Episode:

Advice to those pastoring at a young age (he started pastoring at 23):

• You must overcome the mindset that you're too young.
• It’s not your Church, it’s Gods Church.
• You’re not alone. God has got your back.
• The anointing brings respect and relevance.
• The anointing breaks the yoke. The "yoke" could be your inferiority complex.
• Preach the Word and let God confirm it. He will back you up.
• Don’t take things personal. Be who God has called you to be.
• Lean on God’s call on your life and His anointing.

On keys to leading a debt-free church:

• Focus on what God really wants from your church. Resources come.
• The Church is a living organism and it tells you what it needs.
• Take it one step at a time like you would eat a steak one bite at a time.
• Numbers tell the truth. Act on faith, but be aware of reality.
• Don’t let others pressure you into stepping over your head into debt.
• The best time for you to get in the best financial position is before you get committed.
• People will give when they can see the need. You can’t see a monthly payment the same way you can see the need for a building.

On Leadership instead of Lordship:

• Love God and Love People.
• Inspire people to do right instead of aggressively pushing people.

These are just a few notes from this conversation. We pray it encourages, equips, and challenges you in your leadership.

Episode Links and Resources:

• "Failing Forward" by John Maxwell
• "Total Church Growth" by Tim Massengale