John Bishop
Editor's Note: "I had never heard of John Bishop before someone recommended I interview him. I do now, after he linked the interview on the mega-church's main webpage. He's doing a great job in Vancouver."
Bio: John Bishop is Lead Pastor of Living Hope Church in Vancouver, WA.
Church: Living Hope Church - Vancouver, WA
Blog: John Bishop
The Leadership Blog Interview Questions
1. John, what gives you the greatest joy in being a leader?
John: "My greatest joy as a leader is seeing potential realized in people. I love calling out of people what God put in them. I think Jesus calls us and believes in our ability to do something way more than we do in ourselves."
2. What is your biggest pet peeve as a leader?
John: "My biggest pet peeve is when someone tells me something can’t be done. Nothing sends me from zero to mach speed faster than a bad attitude. Also it’s difficult for me to be around “the cup is half empty” people. If Chicken Little is in the room I get stressed out. I know we need critical analysis but truth be told; who would have ever thought Peter would or could walk on water? I rest my case."
3. Who made the biggest influence in your life as a leader?
John: "Who’s influenced my life as a leader? So many! Probably, as a leader, Bill Hybels. His passion for the local church years ago is what began in me a stirring of God. I’ve met Bill-in fact a few months before we started Living Hope I went to my very first church conference. Bill was teaching with John Maxwell. I waited in line for ten minutes to say “hi” to Bill, but to my surprise when it was our turn to speak to him he took me and my wife aside and prayed that we would be a prevailing church. I have never and will never forget that day. Secondly, my wife Michelle. She keeps me centered in so many ways. Emotionally, spiritually and relationally. She can and does tell me things that others either don’t or can’t. I love and respect her more than any other human being. That’s all I got to say about that."
4. What books have changed your life?
John: "So many! Of course the Bible. Duh! I read a lot. Andy Stanley’s book “7 Practices of Effective Ministry” was/is life changing. I have bought over 100 copies and given them to pastors in our community. Andy is another guy that has influenced me so much. The other fascinating book is “Blue Ocean Strategy”. Great marketing strategy book! Should I go on-how many books do you want?"
5. What's Your biggest challenge as a leader?
John: "So simple. Leading me. Hybel’s does a great job in his talk “360 degree Leadership” Leading others, leading up, leading peers YET leading me is my biggest challenge. Staying focused, staying in love with God, staying out of God’s way (I hate not being in control), staying balanced, staying healthy…mostly I have to stay disciplined to not get lazy leading myself."
6. What goals do you have as a leader?
John: "My goals as a leader are 1) To finish well-really! I see so many leaders that end up sidelined from ministry. It’s so sad to me. I really want to do whatever it takes to finish well. 2) In relationship to finishing well I want to stay married and in love with Michelle. Marriage takes work. I want to really be best friends for life. 3) I want to “be there” as a father to my three kids. I’m all they have. My dad died when I was five. Growing up I hated seeing other kids go camping etc. with their dads. I felt left out and alone. So I want to really be there! Lastly I want to get through just today. Not to sound over dramatic, but I mean it. Every day has so many challenges. Our church had grown from 1,100 to 2,800 in one year. Now we are a multi-campus church beginning services at our second location in only 8 weeks. It’s just a lot. I want to keep my sanity and really be joyful. H. B. London spoke at our church two weeks ago and I have to say I just love him! I love his heart for pastors. He sent me a book “Pastors at Greater Risk.” I think it’s a hint-what do you think?"
7. Where do you see yourself in ten years?
John: "Ten years ago Living Hope didn’t exist. Ten years ago I would have never imagined anything happening today, so I’ll choose to say I hope I’m doing church, in this church, with the people I love the most. I don’t know what else to say. I love being part of a revolution with leaders who dare to put everything on the line. I love waking up because I love what I get to do. I love the people God has around me. I hope I can still be blessable enough to be used by the one whose name I bare! I want to continually stay out of the way and courageously trust God!"Thanks John for taking the time for an interesting interview!
The #2 Most Popular Leadership Blog Interview of the Year
The #3 Most Popular Leadership Blog Interview of the Year
Perry Noble
Bio: Perry is Senior Pastor of New Spring Community Church with over 4000 in attendance each week. New Spring is one of the 100 Fastest Growing Churches in the U.S.
Church: New Spring Community Church
Blog: Perrynoble.com
The Leadership Blog Interview Questions
1. Perry, What gives you the greatest joy in being a leader?
Perry: "Seeing people “get it!” Leading is awesome—but when people see that they need a relationship with Jesus Christ then that pumps me up. There is no greater joy than seeing people come into the kingdom!"
2. What is your biggest pet peeve as a leader?
Perry: "Narrow minded people who are unwilling to accept the fact that though the Gospel never changes…that the methods do!"
3. Who made the biggest influence in your life as a leader?
Perry: "John Maxwell…I didn’t even know anyone even taught on the subject of leadership until I had the privilege of hearing him in 1995…I have read nearly everything the dude has in print. Also Ed Young…being able to meet and network with him has been one of the greatest privileges of my life."
4. What books have changed your life?
Perry: "Not trying to sound super spiritual—but the Bible! One that rocked my world about the way unchurched people think though was, “Inside the Mind of Unchurched Harry & Mary!” Wow—totally blew my mind…and God used that to ignite the fire that was already burning inside of me to start a church."
5. What's your biggest challenge as a leader?
Perry: "Maxwell says that if you stay one step ahead of people you are a leader…and if you are 10 steps ahead then you are a martyr…so I guess the challenge is LEADING and not just taking off like a bat out of…well…you know where! People need to be led, not pushed or pulled, and that is a challenge."
6. What goals do you have as a leader?
Perry: "I really want to HEAR from God, His plans, His agenda…and then go for it with all my heart. I have been reading the OT lately & I love the response of the prophets—they would hear from God and then go and do what He told them—they didn’t care who they offended or even if they had to put their life on the line. I want to follow His leadership with that passion—that ambition—to have His goals in mind—and not mine!"
7. Where do you see yourself in ten years?
Perry: "Good one—I would have answered that differently about a month and a half ago, but with my recent near death experience I am not taking life for granted. I hope I am the senior pastor of Newspring, that is my current passion and I seriously don’t want to do anything else. However, whatever God wants & whenever He wants it is what I will do! (But once again I REALLY hope it is at Newspring!!!)"
Perry thanks for the great interview. Your passion for God and people have influenced me through your sermon mp3s and your blog. Keep it up!
The #4 Most Popular Leadership Blog Interview of the Year
Mark Batterson
Bio: Mark Batterson serves as lead pastor of National Community Church in Washington, DC. Starting with a core group of 19 people, NCC has morphed into one church with two locations—the movie theaters @ Union Station in Washington, DC and Ballston Common Mall in Arlington, VA. Comprised largely of Capitol Hill staffers, NCC is 80% single and 80% twenty-something. The macro vision of NCC is to meet in movie theaters @ metro stops throughout the DC area.
Mark is the author of ID: The True You; a weekly online evotional; and a daily blog. He also serves as Chief Spiritual Officer of GodiPod.com, a start-up that preloads iPods with sermons, audio devotionals, and music.
Church: National Community Church
Blog: www.markbatterson.com
1. What gives you the greatest joy in being a leader?
Mark: "I love helping people cross the line of faith. Whenever I baptize someone I think internally, "This is what it's all about."I love helping twenty-somethings navigate the quarterlife crisis. NCC is 80% single and 80% twenty-something.I love experimenting with new ways of doing church. If the Kingdom of God were a company, I think NCC would work in the Research & Development Department (R & D). One of our core values is: everything is an experiment. I love trying to say old things in new ways. I love trying to brand sermon series with new wineskins. I love experimenting with new ways of preaching. We meet in movie theater so we've done "trailers" for sermon series for several years, but we're getting into short films as a form of "offsite preaching."
2. What is your biggest pet peeve as a leader?
Mark: "Naysayers.I've learned that every church has a bell curve. There are innovators and adopters who embrace change. But there are also laggards and resisters. I don't love laggards and resisters any less. But sometimes I want to show them a picture of Neil Armstrong getting out of the lunar module and stepping onto the moon. We put a man on the moon. Naysay no more!I think God is glorified when we dream God-sized dreams. Anything less is boring. "
3. Who made the biggest influence in your life as a leader?
Mark: "My father-in-law, Bob Schmidgall, planted a church (Calvary Church in Naperville, IL) and pastored it for more than thirty years. I saw what could happen if you plant yourself in one place and invest your life there. That's what I want to do in Washington, DC. I want to pastor one church for the rest of my life.
4. What books have changed your life?
Mark: "I'm a book-a-holic. On my blog (http://www.markbatterson.com/) I've got a recommended list of 100 of my favorite books in a variety of categories."A few recent reads include: Brand Sense by Martin Lindstrom; i am not but I know I Am by Louie Giglio; and The World is Flat by Thomas Friedman."
5. What's your biggest challenge as a leader?
Mark: "I always feel like I'm trying to catch up with my ideas."
6. What goals do you have as a leader?
Mark: "I have three core convictions:C1: The church ought to be the most creative place on the planet.C2: The greatest message deserves the greatest marketing.C3: The church is called to compete in the middle of the marketplace.Those three convictions are what drives me. I guess I'm more conviction-driven than goal-oriented.Our macro vision is to meet in movie theaters @ metro stops throughout the DC area. There are fifty-seven theaters in the greater Washington area so we've got a ways to go. I do envision NCC becoming a five-digit church. But I'm realizing that impact can't be measured by attendance alone. Our podcast (http://www.theaterchurch.com/) had more than 6500 unique visitors last month. And I used to think my blog (http://www.markbatterson.com/) supplemented my sermons. Now I think it might be the other way around. "
7. Where do you see yourself in ten years?
Mark: "John Chancellor said, "If you want to see God laugh, tell him your plans."I see myself pastoring National Community Church. I also feel as called to write as I do to pastor. One of my personal goals is to write at least one book a year so I hope I've written ten books in ten years. There are also a few "God ideas" that weren't on my radar a few months ago. I'm the CSO of a start-up called GodiPod.com. We'll launch in October 2005 so I have no idea what GodiPod will become in the next month let alone ten years.Those are my plans. I'm sure God is laughing!"
Mark thanks for a great interview!
The #5 Most Popular Leadership Blog Interview of the Year
"We will be counting down the five most popular interviews." -JS
Tony Morgan
Bio: Tony Morgan is Pastor of Administrative Services at Granger Community Church. Granger has over 5000 each Sunday and is one of the fastest growing churches in America. In addition to writing several articles on staffing, technology, strategic planning and leadership for nationally known websites and publications, Tony has collaborated with Tim Stevens, executive pastor at GCC, on a series of books specifically for church leaders:Simply Strategic Stuff Simply Strategic VolunteersSimply Strategic Growth Church: Granger Community Church
Blog: tonymorgan.typepad.com
The Leadership Blog Interview
1. Tony, What gives you the greatest joy in being a leader?
Tony: "You mean after seeing people who were far from God become committed Christ-followers? That's my greatest joy as a leader. That's what drives me in life. I've given my life to reaching the unchurched forJesus. After that, what really pumps me up is seeing people soaring in their families, relationships and in their roles--ministry or marketplace. I love helping people get to a place where they're passionate about their contribution and they're empowered to perform at their highest capacity. I love helping people do what they do best."
2. What is your biggest pet peeve as a leader?
Tony: "Maintenance mode. I hate when I end up having to maintain anything. That probably sounds odd for a guy that's an administrator for a living, doesn't it? What's next? Where do we go from here? How can we make the system more effective? How do we make it happen? Those are always more intriguing questions for me."
3. Who made the biggest influence in your life as a leader?
Tony: "I'm surrounded by great leaders, so that's pretty hard. Mark Beeson, our senior pastor, has taught me more about the power of vision, teams, and encouragement than anyone. Tim Stevens, our executive pastor, has taught me a lot about managing relationships and the process that leads to successful execution. From a distance, BillHybels has really fueled my passion for leadership and the ministry ofthe local church. Then there are countless numbers of leaders that I'mconstantly reading and listening to both in ministry and themarketplace that stretch my thinking. I'm in constant learning mode."
4. What books have changed your life?
Tony: "Well, other than the Bible, of course, number one on the list wouldprobably be Rick Warren's Purpose Driven Church. God used that book toconfirm a calling in my life for ministry. When I read Warren's visionfor the church, I knew I wanted to serve at a church that wasintentional about reaching people far from God and helping thembecoming fully-devoted followers of Christ. Actually--I probably shouldn't admit this--I was reading and re-reading that book so much,my 3-year-old daughter started referring to it as "Daddy's Bible." Part of the reason I gave up my career in city management and became a pastor was because of that book. I guess that's a pretty big life change."
5. What's your biggest challenge as a leader?
Tony: "Dealing with me. There are days when I'm too comfortable with what I can accomplish through my own efforts. There are days when I'm not confident enough in what God can accomplish through me. Either way--it's sin. God's still doing a work in me. I'm still pursuing him."
6. What goals do you have as a leader?
Tony: "Remain faithful and committed to my wife. Raise my kids well. Do something great for God in ministry at my church. Help other churches to be cool so they can more effectively reach people who haven't yetfound Christ. Have fun doing all of that with people I love."
7. Where do you see yourself in ten years?
Tony: "I can't think that far ahead. I'm still trying to figure out what I'm going to do tomorrow."Thanks Tony for taking the time for the interview. Your articles and insight has really inspired me.
Did you know?
1)How long did the Hundred Years War last? 116 years
2) Which country makes Panama hats? Ecuador
3) From which animal do we get cat gut? Sheep and Horses
4) In which month do Russians celebrate the October Revolution? November
5) What is a camel's hair brush made of? Squirrel fur
6) The Canary Islands in the Pacific are named after what animal? Dogs
7) What was King George VI's first name? Albert
8) What color is a purple finch? Crimson
9) Where are Chinese gooseberries from? New Zealand
10) What is the color of the black box in a commercial airplane? Orange, of course.
Merry Christmas!
Isaiah 9:6 (KJV) - For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace.
In Bubble Wrap
If you haven't checked out "In Bubble Wrap", it's a site that gives away free books, do so today! They're giving away a ton of free books today! I've yet to win, so we'll see if this really works.
Leadership Lessons From Michael Jordan
Check out this great post, "Leadership Lessons from MJ" by Dave Ferguson.
And the winner is... Ed Young
I discovered "Googlefight" via Scott and "The Leadership Blog" thumped, I won't name names but Mark Batterson, Gary Lamb, Tony Morgan, Perry Noble, Greg Surratt, just to name a few. I was feeling froggy and tried out "Ed Young" and got whipped! Try it out.
The Leadership Blog Interview: Dr. Joel C. Hunter
Dr. Joel C. Hunter
Bio: Dr. Joel C. Hunter is Senior Pastor of the multi-site church, Northland Church in Longwood, FL.
Church: Northland
The Leadership Blog Interview Questions
1. Joel, What gives you the greatest joy in being a leader?
Joel: "It has to do with seeing people not only come to Christ, but grow to the kind of spiritual maturity that they are changing the world. I love hearing the testimonies of people…not only the ones who say what God is doing in their lives, but testimonies from the community of how non-believers have benefited from the church."
2. What is your biggest pet peeve as a leader?
Joel: "People who think the business of the church is inside its walls."
3. Who made the biggest influence in your life as a leader?
Joel: "Constant reading in an encyclopedic spectrum of works. I read the classics and the current world class literature from great theology to great science to great fiction, and multiple newspapers and magazines every week. "
4. What books have changed your life?
Joel: "Most of the staples in different fields…all of C.S. Lewis, multiple commentaries on the Bible, Drucker in management, The Great Books, and, my favorite in literature, Jane Austin’s Pride and Prejudice."
5. What's your biggest challenge as a leader?
Joel: "Consistently re-building a great leadership team."
6. What goals do you have as a leader?
Joel: "To impact the world for Christ in a way that non-Christians are thankful."
7. Where do you see yourself in ten years?
Joel: "Still leading from this church…I’ve been here since 1985, and I am just getting started. I love this congregation!!!"
Thanks Dr. Hunter for a great interview!
Share The Wealth
I first have to admit to not watching one episode of "The Apprentice" this season, but my wife and I did watch the finale. I was totally suprised by Randal's response after clearly winning the Apprentice and being asked if The Donald should hire Rebecca also. Randal said this is "not The Apprenti" and should therefore only have "one" winner. The Donald acted like he was ready to hire her but didn't after Randal's statement. It made Randal look selfish. What do you think?
GTD Quote
"Those who make the worst use of their time are the first to complain of its shortness." -Jean de La Bruysre
My Christmas Wishlist
There's still time! You can find my wishlist here. I'm still trying to figure out how to add a wishlist badge to blogger. If anyone knows please let me know!
Git R' Done
After reading about "Getting Things Done" and David Allen in the "Cutting Edge" magazine, I ordered the book. I'm just getting started but this seems to be written for me, I have so many projects, plans, etc. in my head that I can't stop thinking about them. But it could just be the ADD. Check out "Getting Things Done" if you haven't!
The Leadership Blog Interview: Mac Richard
Mac Richard
Bio: Mac Richard is the founding pastor of Lake Hills Church. Prior to the establishing of Lake Hills Church, Mac served on the staff of Fellowship Church in Grapevine, TX for seven years. Upon graduating from the University of Texas with a BS in Speech Communications, he attended Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary and received a Masters of Divinity with Biblical Languages.
Mac and his wife Julie have two children.
Church: Lake Hills Church
The Leadership Blog Interview Questions
1. What gives you the greatest joy in being a leader?
Mac: "One more person coming to Christ. Second to that, seeing someone realize potential they didn’t even know they had."
2. What is your biggest pet peeve as a leader?
Mac: "Negativity. I don’t get how self-proclaimed Christ-followers metamorphose into self-appointed watchdogs."
3. Who made the biggest influence in your life as a leader?
Mac: "Ed Young at Fellowship Church. Working with him for 7 years, I learned the inescapable connection between love and accountability."
4. What books have changed your life?
Mac: "I loved Andy Stanley’s Choosing to Cheat and the encouragement God gave through that to leave church work undone so I can go home and engage in a great marriage and parenting."
5. What's your biggest challenge as a leader?
Mac: "Carving out time to chase God with everything I’ve got and creating re-creational time with no guilt."
6. What goals do you have as a leader?
Mac: "To grow and develop a staff of pastors and leaders who grow and develop a church of leaders. Also, I want to write and speak in a way that connects biblical leadership with any leadership environment imagineable."
7. Where do you see yourself in ten years?
Mac: "In 10 years, my wife and I will be launching our youngest child from the nest and enjoying our freedom and theirs to the fullest. Oh, and I’ll be the pastor of Lake Hills Church guiding and mentoring a flock of future leaders who will build on and expand whatever God chooses to do through my leadership."
Thanks Mac for taking time for the interview!
Blogging Sabbatical
Busy Week.. A big church funeral, prep for Christmas series, a few dinners, my two daughter's 4th and 5th b-day... so I'm taking a Blogging Break for a week. Don't worry I'm not quiting.
Megachurch Pastor Punched!
Pastor Joe Daugherty of Victory Christian Center in Tulsa,OK was punched in the face during service. His response was great. Watch his response here. Crazy stuff!
Happy Thanksgiving!
Give Thanks! Stop counting your problems and start counting your blessings!
1 Thess. 5:18 says, "In EVERYTHING give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you."
Church Complaints?
Have you ever had anyone complain? Take a listen to this crazy complaint a pastor received on his voicemail. You won't believe it. Click here to go to the funny audio and afterwards check out the dance remix!
The Leadership Blog Interview: John Bishop
John Bishop
Bio: John Bishop is Lead Pastor of Living Hope Church in Vancouver, WA.
Church: Living Hope Church - Vancouver, WA
Blog: John Bishop
The Leadership Blog Interview Questions
1. John, what gives you the greatest joy in being a leader?
John: "My greatest joy as a leader is seeing potential realized in people. I love calling out of people what God put in them. I think Jesus calls us and believes in our ability to do something way more than we do in ourselves."
2. What is your biggest pet peeve as a leader?
John: "My biggest pet peeve is when someone tells me something can’t be done. Nothing sends me from zero to mach speed faster than a bad attitude. Also it’s difficult for me to be around “the cup is half empty” people. If Chicken Little is in the room I get stressed out. I know we need critical analysis but truth be told; who would have ever thought Peter would or could walk on water? I rest my case."
3. Who made the biggest influence in your life as a leader?
John: "Who’s influenced my life as a leader? So many! Probably, as a leader, Bill Hybels. His passion for the local church years ago is what began in me a stirring of God. I’ve met Bill-in fact a few months before we started Living Hope I went to my very first church conference. Bill was teaching with John Maxwell. I waited in line for ten minutes to say “hi” to Bill, but to my surprise when it was our turn to speak to him he took me and my wife aside and prayed that we would be a prevailing church. I have never and will never forget that day. Secondly, my wife Michelle. She keeps me centered in so many ways. Emotionally, spiritually and relationally. She can and does tell me things that others either don’t or can’t. I love and respect her more than any other human being. That’s all I got to say about that."
4. What books have changed your life?
John: "So many! Of course the Bible. Duh! I read a lot. Andy Stanley’s book “7 Practices of Effective Ministry” was/is life changing. I have bought over 100 copies and given them to pastors in our community. Andy is another guy that has influenced me so much. The other fascinating book is “Blue Ocean Strategy”. Great marketing strategy book! Should I go on-how many books do you want?"
5. What's Your biggest challenge as a leader?
John: "So simple. Leading me. Hybel’s does a great job in his talk “360 degree Leadership” Leading others, leading up, leading peers YET leading me is my biggest challenge. Staying focused, staying in love with God, staying out of God’s way (I hate not being in control), staying balanced, staying healthy…mostly I have to stay disciplined to not get lazy leading myself."
6. What goals do you have as a leader?
John: "My goals as a leader are 1) To finish well-really! I see so many leaders that end up sidelined from ministry. It’s so sad to me. I really want to do whatever it takes to finish well. 2) In relationship to finishing well I want to stay married and in love with Michelle. Marriage takes work. I want to really be best friends for life. 3) I want to “be there” as a father to my three kids. I’m all they have. My dad died when I was five. Growing up I hated seeing other kids go camping etc. with their dads. I felt left out and alone. So I want to really be there! Lastly I want to get through just today. Not to sound over dramatic, but I mean it. Every day has so many challenges. Our church had grown from 1,100 to 2,800 in one year. Now we are a multi-campus church beginning services at our second location in only 8 weeks. It’s just a lot. I want to keep my sanity and really be joyful. H. B. London spoke at our church two weeks ago and I have to say I just love him! I love his heart for pastors. He sent me a book “Pastors at Greater Risk.” I think it’s a hint-what do you think?"
7. Where do you see yourself in ten years?
John: "Ten years ago Living Hope didn’t exist. Ten years ago I would have never imagined anything happening today, so I’ll choose to say I hope I’m doing church, in this church, with the people I love the most. I don’t know what else to say. I love being part of a revolution with leaders who dare to put everything on the line. I love waking up because I love what I get to do. I love the people God has around me. I hope I can still be blessable enough to be used by the one whose name I bare! I want to continually stay out of the way and courageously trust God!"
Thanks John for taking the time for an interesting interview!
Holy War?
Evangelicals and Hollywood are engaged in a battle to claim "The Chronicles of Narnia" for their side. Read the article here.
The Leadership Blog Interview: Dino Rizzo
Dino Rizzo
Bio: Dino and DeLynn Rizzo have been Senior Pastor of Healing Place Church in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, since the church was founded in 1993. They are young and passionate pastors called to bring healing to hurting people.
Church: Healing Place Church
Blog: Dinorizzo.com
The Leadership Blog Interview Questions
1. Dino, what gives you the greatest joy in being a leader?
Dino: "I love seeing the people God has joined me with flourishing, fully alive and having a ton of fun changing the world for Jesus, especially my wife and three kids. When I see DeLynn lead worship and when I get to see my kids experience the joy of helping other people – that’s what I love."
2. What is your biggest pet peeve as a leader?
Dino: "I get pretty fired up when I see people in the body of Christ being impatient with the poor, the hurting, those who are lost and confused, people who are addicted, and those who are far from God. I think it is crazy when someone has been to the cross but still lives with a negative mindset."
3. Who made the biggest influence in your life as a leader?
Dino: "Those up close:· Wayne Austin (my father-in-law) is a man with massive integrity, and Robert Rizzo (my dad) was a giver and he taught me to be the same.
From a distance:
· Mother Teresa – her love for the poor
· John Osteen – his heart for missions
· John Maxwell – the leadership guru
· Bill Hybels – the way he does New Testament church today
· Brian Houston – his passion for the local church
4. What books have changed your life?
Dino:
· Jesus Style by Gale Erwin
· High Adventure in Tibet – the biography of missionary Victor Plymire
· David Wilkerson’s Two of Me
· In the Heart of the World – by Mother Teresa
· Heaven is in This House – Bobbie Houston
· Ted Haggard’s Primary Purpose
5. What's your biggest challenge as a leader?
Dino: "I have a passion for Jesus, for my wife and kids, and for the world from southern Louisiana to Africa and all over. My daily challenge is to focus that passion into the ways God has given me to express it."
6. What goals do you have as a leader?
Dino: · To keep growing as a man and as a pastor of an incredible church
· To see Healing Place Church’s new worship space completed
· To duplicate myself so that I can free up more creative time
· And to lose 30 pounds (can’t forget that one)
7. Where do you see yourself in ten years?
Dino:
· I will be going on year 24 pastoring this church, and I plan to be healthy, hearing from God and dreaming about the next ten years.
· I believe also that I will be supporting my wife’s role in leadership a HPC even more. The next ten years will be a great season for her.
· I believe HPC will be expressing our heart to be a healing place for a hurting world in dozens of environments around the world. I will be on my knees for that and for the excellent staff of Healing Place Church that they will continue to grow in excellence.
· Oh yeah, I expect to be in some PS2 championship because I rock at NCAA Football ’06 – there’s no telling how good I’ll be by 2016.
Thanks Dino for a great interview! You are an inspiration to us for all you did and are doing for the Hurricane victims. You're also lucky that you're not good Madden '06 because I could take you at that! Thanks also to Dan Ohlerking for helping me get the interview.
Get Over The Hump Day Quote
"When one door closes another door opens; but we often look so long and so regretfully upon the closed door that we do not see the ones which open for us." - Alexander Graham Bell
The Leadership Blog Interview: Dave Workman
Dave Workman
Bio: Dave is the Senior Pastor of Vineyard Community Church in Cincinnati, OH.
Church: Vineyard Community Church -Cincinnati, OH
The Leadership Blog Interview Questions
1. Dave, What gives you the greatest joy in being a leader?
Dave: "Two things: I love seeing people come to Christ. That’s a window to heaven. Secondly, seeing the “leadership light” come on for someone. When somebody says, “I could do that”, that means that inspiration and mechanics have converged and leadership has done its primary job."
2. What is your biggest pet peeve as a leader?
Dave: "One dimensional definitions for leadership. Churches that are content with where they are. Believers who are not outward-focused."
3. Who made the biggest influence in your life as a leader?
Dave: "A pastor named Clyde Miller who led me to Christ. I was a musician and druggie/drinker. He took the time and risk to pastor the hippies who were stumbling into his traditional Pentecostal church during the Jesus movement. A classic shepherd.
My friend Steve Sjogren. Our leadership styles are so different, but perseverance is what I have learned and admired from Steve. And he’s the most non-religious Christian I know."
4. What books have changed your life?
Dave: "Currently reading: The Productive Narcissist by Maccoby and The Prophetic Imagination by Brueggeman. But the Big Books over many years: Mere Christianity (yeah, I know, but it’s true…) by the patron saint of evangelicalism. Good to Great by Collins. Watership Down by Adams. How can you not be moved by a massive fictional account of the Exodus story…with rabbits?"
5. What's your biggest challenge as a leader?
Dave: "Maintaining intimacy with Jesus…not running ahead, not getting apathetic. The biggest challenge is always self-leadership, isn’t it?"
6. What goals do you have as a leader?
Dave: "To truly mine the depths of what servant leadership is about. To take bigger risks. To inspire people to do what they may have never considered in their journey with Jesus."
7. Where do you see yourself in ten years?
Dave: "Hopefully becoming a wise old sage, listening to whatever is the hardcore music scene in 2015, and serving my church."
Thanks Dave for a great interview!
I love when science proves the Bible!
Finding Said to Boost Proof of Goliath
"Archaeologists digging at the purported biblical home of Goliath have unearthed a shard of pottery bearing an inscription of the Philistine's name, a find they claimed lends historical credence to the Bible's tale of David's battle with the giant." Link via Brian.
Podcasts?
I'm working on a podcast, has anyone used Ourmedia.org? "Free storage & bandwidth. Forever. No Catches." It just sounds too good be true, any thoughts?
The Leadership Blog Interview: Dave Gibbons
Dave Gibbons
Bio: Dave is the Lead Pastor of New Song Church. One of the fastest Growing churches in America.
Church: New Song Church
The Leadership Blog Interview Questions
1. What gives you the greatest joy in being a leader?
Dave: "I receive great joy from seeing people who make moves towards Christ whether incrementally or radicallly."
2. What is your biggest pet peeve as a leader?
Dave: "My own forgetfulness! I guess i'm a little ADD."
3. Who made the biggest influence in your life as a leader?
Dave: "Henri Nouwen. He understands rhythms, pace, the role of pain and weakness in our lives, and our common leadership dilemmas."
4. What books have changed your life?
Dave: "The Return of the Prodigal Son (Nouwen), In the Name of Jesus (Nouwen), Repentance and the 20th Century Man (Miller)"
5. What's your biggest challenge as a leader?
Dave: "Focus."
6. What goals do you have as a leader?
Dave: "Staying healthy with family, friends and community. Keeping connected with what God wants me to see, act upon and know. Eating cheetos at least once a week."
7. Where do you see yourself in ten years?
Dave: "Living in up to 5 different places globally. Having fun experiencing the new global village and the emergence of a third culture organism that will change the way we do church, corporation and community."
Thanks Dave for the interview.
Who knew?
Sex Scenes Double on Television
“Opinion poll, after opinion poll, after opinion poll say that a large majority of the American people think there’s too much sex on TV. And yet what do we get from the television industry? We get more sex.”
The Leadership Blog Interview: Buddy Cremeans
Buddy Cremeans
Bio: Buddy Cremeans is the Founding and Senior Pastor of Northway Fellowship, one of the fastest-growing churches in the Northeast and soon to be recognized by Outreach Magazine as one of the Top 100 fastest-growing churches in the United States. Located in Malta, NY, Northway has grown from just a handful of people to over 1200 weekly attendees in just three years.
Church: Northway Fellowship
The Leadership Blog Interview Questions
1. Buddy, what gives you the greatest joy in being a leader?
Buddy: "I enjoy igniting and inspiring people to dream their wildest dreams for God. Then, my greatest joy comes from watching them realize the reality of their dreams. It’s simply the best to see people get it….that the God of the Bible, the God of Moses, Elijah, is the same God of today and that He can do more than we could ever imagine, guess or request!"
2. What is your biggest pet peeve as a leader?
Buddy: "My biggest pet peeve is when people make excuses instead of offering solutions."
3. Who made the biggest influence in your life as a leader?
Buddy: "As a young child, I was profoundly affected by the faith of my grandfather. My grandfather was a country preacher in West Virginia who started churches and served Jesus until he was 91. His faith was transplanted in me. My father loves Jesus passionately, and my big bro has always challenged me to be better. In the last five years, as I have grown and developed in my faith, I have discovered Jesus to be the ultimate leader. Every principle from leadership, I don’t care where you get it, comes from Christ. Most recently, in the last two years, Ed Young has helped to release and affirm these leadership principles in me."
4. What books have changed your life?
Buddy: My Utmost for His Highest
Purpose Driven Life
Can We Do That?
Jesus CEO
Best Life Now
An Enemy Called Average
5. What's your biggest challenge as a leader?
Buddy: "Budgeting my energy. There is only so much to go around. I continually ask myself, “Is what I’m doing with my time and energy moving me towards my God given destiny?”
6. What goals do you have as a leader?
Buddy: "My goal is to sharpen my leadership skills by continuing to be a student of success, asking the right people the right questions, and becoming an intense listener."
7. Where do you see yourself in ten years?
Buddy: "In ten years, I will be enjoying a passionate relationship with my bride and watching my kids taking the reigns of their destiny. I will be leading the greatest people I have ever met in my life as their pastor at Northway Fellowship, by then a church of 10,000. I will be starting strategic churches throughout the Northeast, authoring several books, traveling the world, and pouring myself into the next generation."
New Found Blog On The Block
Checked my referral logs today, and it's great to see author & pastor Ed Rowell is blogging. Check him out!
Get Over The Hump Day Quote
"Perhaps the tragedy of our time is that such an overwhelming number of us who declare Jesus as Lord have become domesticated- or if you will, civilized." -Erwin McManus, The Barbarian Way
$4.50 for God's Will???
In preparation for my Sunday message on God's Will, I googled the phrase, "What is God's Will?". I guess someone paid Google Answers, $4.50 to find out! Here's the link: http://answers.google.com/answers/threadview?id=535319 Check it out!
Word of Mouth is Still Best!
According to the WOMMA report, the top ten reasons why word of mouth marketing is gaining momentum is that:
1. The consumer is in control
2. There is a growing distrust of advertising messages
3. Empowered consumers are not just negative, they are fighting back
4. There is a marked increase in online advertising
5. Media fragmentation is causing marketers are shifting from mass advertising to targeting efforts
6. Email and other interactive platforms make it easy to employ viral programs
7. Word of mouth marketing is relatively free advertising
8. New tools can now track and measure online word of mouth
9. Online word of mouth marketing campaigns have a long shelf life
10. Remarkable offline marketing campaigns can ripple on to the web
Via Almost half of all online marketers will engage in some form of word of mouth marketing this year. Next year, a majority of digital marketers will conduct such efforts.
-Via Church of the Consumer
Crazy week...
With over 12,000 visits last week, I would like to say hello to all the new readers. With Christmas coming up, I thought I'd post my Amazon Wishlist, click here. Yeah, I threw on a Video iPod to see if anyone really loves me! Remember, we don't get paid for blogging.
The Leadership Blog Interview: Bob Merritt
Bob Merritt
Bio: Bob Merritt is Senior Pastor of Eagle Brook Church, a church approaching 6000+ in weekly attendance, in 7 different services, in White Bear Lake, MN.
Church: Eagle Brook Church
The Leadership Blog Interview Questions:
1. What gives you the greatest joy in being a leader?
Bob: "When a momentum has been created that's unstoppable and we're taking ground for the kingdom on a daily basis."
2. What is your biggest pet peeve as a leader?
Bob: "Indifference, apathy, laziness."
3. Who made the biggest influence in your life as a leader?
Bob: "Probably my dad and my older brother John."
4. What books have changed your life?
Bob: "Good To Great; Rediscovering Church; Built To Last; 7 Habits of Highly Effective People; Courageous Leadership; Experiencing God; The Life You've Always Wanted"
5. What's your biggest challenge as a leader?
Bob: "Raising money and leadership development of staff"
6. What goals do you have as a leader?
Bob: "To be an effective and faithful leader, teacher and to expand my influence as broadly as I can."
7. Where do you see yourself in ten years?
Bob: "Leading Eagle Brook, adding satellite campuses, writing books."
Thanks Bob for an interesting interview!
Get Over The Hump Day Quote
"It is inbred in us that we have to do exceptional things for God: but we have not. We have to be exceptional in the ordinary things." -Oswald Chambers
Cultural Exegesis
Check out Mark Batterson's interesting recent article called "Cultural Exegesis", he wrote for Ministries Today.
The Leadership Blog Interview: Kyle Lake
"In honor & memory of Kyle Lake, I've decided to re-post his interview for those who didn't know much about him and for the many who are looking for more info on his life."
Kyle Lake
Bio: Kyle Lake is the pastor of University Baptist Church in Waco, Texas and author of Understanding God's Will: How to Hack the Equation Without Formulas and (re)Understanding Prayer: A Fresh Approach to Conversation with God.
Church: University Baptist Church
The Leadership Blog Interview Questions
1. Kyle, what gives you the greatest joy in being a leader?
Kyle: "As of today, I think the thing that probably attracts my attention more than anything is seeing someone genuinely explore an aspect of life, ministry, God beyond the commonly held assumptions that their culture has provided for them. Not for the satisfaction found in being a renegade but because there's an authentic pursuit of truth about the world in which they live."
2. What is your biggest pet peeve as a leader?
Kyle: "Besides waiters singing the birthday song in a public restaurant? That's definitely my biggest pet peeve as a leader. And I guess this too: critique without alternatives given."
3. Who made the biggest influence in your life as a leader?
Kyle: "What a difficult question. At first reading I thought: in what aspect of leadership?? Some of these would be known and many not known. For instance, my friend Brandon Cathey has inadvertently taught me most what a life looks like where pride is not central. And my friend Joel "Bubba" Smith has inadvertently taught me most about selflessness. -Things I know very little about. David Crowder has inadvertently taught me how to center your reality in your mission rather than your reality being rooted in the voices of others. Brian McLaren has taught me many things, foremost the humility he displays despite critique."
4. What books have changed your life?
Kyle: "Since I have such poor retention, I can only speak to the here and now. Right now, The Emotionally Healthy Church by Peter Scazzero. Colossians Remixed by Brian Walsh and Sylvia Keesmaat. Velvet Elvis by Rob Bell."
5. What's your biggest challenge as a leader?
Kyle: "As of today, one of the things I'm learning more and more is to trust my intuitions, my leanings and to lead out in those things."
6. What goals do you have as a leader?
Kyle: "Unsure if these are personal goals or if these goals are related to my leadership position within my particular church? I think I can speak to both since my hope is the same both personally and professionally. I carry the expectation that I will always be (and my church will always be) in a truer place--truer to God, ourselves and our mission year after year...a more thoughtful place year after year...an emotionally-healthier place year after year."
7. Where do you see yourself in ten years?
Kyle: "Hopefully in the same place. Pastor of University Baptist Church in Waco, Texas"
Thanks Kyle for a great interview!
Pastor Kyle Lake electrocuted in church
I was wondering what happened yesterday, the google searches for Kyle Lake were through the roof on my referral logs yesterday, because of his interview. Then in my inbox were several emails with the news. "The Rev Kyle Lake, 33, was standing in water up to his shoulder in a baptismal at University Baptist Church when he was electrocuted, said Jamie Dudley, a church business administrator and wife of another pastor there." Read the article here. Our prayers are with his family and church.
Friday Fun: And the Answer is: "Language"
Out of the several hundred Leadership Blog readers, only 13 got the question right!!
The question was:"Think of words ending in "-gry". "Angry" and "hungry" are two of them. There are only three words in "the English language." What's the third word?"
The question never asked for a third word ending in "gry"! Many people didn't take time and read the question slowly.
Here's the wise folks that got it right:
Jesse Anderson
Jeff Dowdle
Charles Duncan
Phil Gerbyshak
Andy Jack
Darrell Jordan
Chris Marsden
Ian McKenzie
Shane Mullin
Dan Ohlerking
Charlie Pharis
Benjamin Sternke
Kenny Tomlin
Riddle Me This...
"Think of words ending in "-gry". "Angry" and "hungry" are two of them. There are only three words in "the English language." What is the third word? The word is something that everyone uses every day. If you have listened carefully, I have already told you what it is." (Via Email)
No comments please, Email me your answer at leadership.blog@gmail.com. I will post the correct answer tomorrow and will link those who got it right!
The Leadership Blog Interview: Mel Lawrenz
Mel Lawrenz
Bio: Mel Lawrenz is the Senior Pastor of Elmbrook Church with over 6500 in attendance. He has served as a pastor at Elmbrook in a variety of capacities for the past twenty-two years, succeeding Stuart Briscoe as senior pastor in 2000.Mel has authored or co-authored eight books for popular and professional audiences. His newest book is Putting the Pieces Back Together: How Real Life and Faith Connect, published by Zondervan. He also publishes a bi-monthly email essay for spiritual growth which has about 4,000 subscribers in thirty different countries.
Church: Elmbrook Church
Blog: pieces.blogs.com
The Leadership Blog Interview
1. Mel,what gives you the greatest joy in being a leader?
Mel: "Watching people break into the freedom from sin, guilt, and error that Christ brings. REALLY being free."
2. What is your biggest pet peeve as a leader?
Mel: "Just how easily we slip into hypocrisy. How we take the gospel of Christ and tarnish it."
3. Who made the biggest influence in your life as a leader?
Mel: "My wise wife, Ingrid. My mentor, Stuart Briscoe. My favorite author, C.S. Lewis. And the incomparable John R. W. Stott."
4. What books have changed your life?
Mel: "Anything and everything written by Lewis or Stott. Also, a book every Christian leader should read: Richard Lovelace, Dynamics of Spiritual Life; An Evangelical Theology of Renewal "
5. What's your biggest challenge as a leader?
Mel: "Keeping a diverse congregation convinced that the church really is the one place where we need to get our arms around all people."
6. What goals do you have as a leader?
Mel: "Faithfulness to God's leading. Don't rush, don't drag, don't flee, don't manufacture. See things the way God sees things and then influence people to move there."
7. Where do you see yourself in ten years?
Mel: "I've been a pastor for more than 25 years now, and honestly, I take it one year at a time."
Thanks Mel for an interesting interview!
Get Over The Hump Day Quote
Proverbs 26:16 - "Dreamers fantasize their self-importance; they think they are smarter than a whole college faculty." (The Message)
The Leadership Blog Interview: Mark Oestreicher
Mark Oestreicher
Bio: Mark is President of Youth Specialties and he’s written or contributed to numerous books for youth ministry.
Site: youthspecialties.com
Blog: ysmarko.com
The Leadership Blog Interview Questions
1. What gives you the greatest joy in being a leader?
Mark: "This answer has changed dramatically for me in the past 18 months. Previously, I would have said something about seeing people "get it". but these days, I'm more jazzed about sharing power, and find great joy in seeing people understand their potential contribution and realize it. I get ecstatic when our people are empowered and freed to use their gifting; and when those otherwise disperate gifts come together in a synergistic way in alignment with our organizational mission."
2. What is your biggest pet peeve as a leader?
Mark: "Whining. I could expound, but that pretty much says it."
3. Who made the biggest influence in your life as a leader?
Mark: "I'm sure all leaders (at least the good ones) have a plethora of answers for this question. Many have had a great influence on my leadership - some of them in a negative way I've had to undue through years of failure; but even those have shaped who I am and how I lead today. In more recent years, the two biggest influences have been Mike Yaconelli (the late founder of Youth Specialties, who was my boss for my first 5 years here), and Mark Dowds (a youth minister turned entreprenuer in Toronto, who has been consulting with us for the past year). Mike modeled passion and vision for me. Mark has taught me to be curious about other people, and to get over myself and give away power."
4. What books have changed your life?
Mark: "That's a broad question - so I'll narrow it to the books that have changed my perspective on leadership: Good to Great had a huge impact on me - especially the notion of a level 5 leaderMax DePree's books (especially Leading Without Power) have been huge Seth Godin's books (especially Purple Cow and Free Prize Inside) have shifted my thinking All the books by Brian McLaren have caused me to think in new ways"
5. What's your biggest challenge as a leader?
Mark: "Thinking systemically. Anyone can come up with a good idea. It takes a different kind of leadership to be able to see the systemic implications of a good idea."
6. What goals do you have as a leader?
Mark: "Personally, my biggest goal as a leader is to continue growing. I am still so far from being the leader I want to be and need to be. But I'm encouraged that God is doing such a great work in my heart (and leadership abilities) in the past few years - so I believe my best years are still to come.Outwardly, my goals for our organization, as I alluded to above, are to have shared power, freedom to ideate without repercution (conversely, to be lauded), a curious approach to all tension and disagreement, and to continue operating in the blessing of God."
7. Where do you see yourself in ten years?
Mark: "Right here at Youth Specialties. We're in a semi-radical phase of re-invention and change, and I'm excited about seeing what it looks like in ten years! "
Buzz Worthy
The Buzz Conference put on by The Master of Buzz, Mark Batterson and National Community Church is now taking registration. Here's the link for more info.
The Leadership Blog Interview: Todd Hudson
Todd Hudson
Bio: Todd Hudson is Senior Pastor of Southeast Christian Church in Parker, CO with an attendance of over 3000. Todd and SCC were also featured in this month's Vision Mag.
Church: Southeast Christian Church
The Leadership Blog Interview Questions
1. Todd, what gives you the greatest joy in being a leader?
Todd: "I can’t think of a greater joy than to see people’s lives changed. When I get an email or a hear a testimony of how someone’s life was changed through my leadership from the pulpit as they are taught the word of God in a way that makes sense to them and connects with them and life change happens-that to me is what it is all about. When I see that glow in their eyes that says for the first time they really get it and are going to live it that brings greater joy to me than anything else."
2. What is your biggest pet peeve as a leader?
Todd: "There is nothing that gets me fired up more than long time Christians who still think church is all about them. It’s about their needs, catering to their desires, and should be done their way instead of being willing to put their personal preferences on a shelf to reach a whole new generation of lost people for Jesus Christ."
3. Who made the biggest influence in your life as a leader?
Todd: "That’s a really hard questions to answer because many people have influenced me in many different ways both through relationships and from afar. For instance my dad who is a faithful pastor has had a huge influence upon my life as I grew up watching his leadership. I have a great friend named Rod who has been both a successful business executive and pastor and through his mentoring me like an older brother he has taught me a lot about leadership. But then there are also those people who I don’t know personally but have influenced me from afar-people like Ed Young Jr. who challenged me to think more creatively, like Andy Stanley who has a way of taking profound leadership principles and making them very simple, like Bill Hybels who was willing to do church for unchurched people. These and many others have had a profound impact on my life and leadership."
4. What books have changed your life?
Todd: "I can’t answer this as a pastor without saying first the Bible right? And what more life changing book has there ever been than that one. Without the message of hope found there, there really is no life change. Beyond that, there have been many. In the leadership realm particularly, Courageous Leadership by Bill Hybels which taught me the importance of leading up and not just down-of being a 360 degree leader. And the Purpose Driven Church by Rick Warren which took much of what I believed about church growth and leadership and packaged it in a way that really connected with me and made sense."
5. What's your biggest challenge as a leader?
Todd: "I think my biggest challenge is to continually grow myself to the next level as a leader. In the past 15 years I’ve gone from leading a small church to a medium sized church to now an ever growing megachurch. I know I can’t lead the same way tomorrow as I do today. So I constantly try to read and seek counsel of leaders who lead at a higher level so I can continue to grow myself to new leadership levels. I remember years ago, learning from John Maxwell the importance of always having a growth plan as a leader and this is something I constantly strive to do. I know I’m capable today to lead a staff of 35 and a church of 3000 but if I don’t grow I won’t be ready to lead a staff of 60 and a church of 6000."
6. What goals do you have as a leader?
Todd: "I want to walk with God intimately so I can hear His voice always. I only want to lead as a pastor, father, or husband in a way that takes people where He wants us to go. I want to be able to say to everyone in my life, “Follow me as I follow Christ.”
7. Where do you see yourself in ten years?
Todd: "I can’t imagine myself doing anything other than what I’m doing right now. I hope to preach and lead and impact lives for His kingdom for the rest of my life."
Todd, Thanks for taking time for the interview! I look forward to listening to your mp3s on your church site.
Multi-site Revolution
Seacoast Pastor and blogger Greg Surratt is sharing the notes he taught at a recent Multi-site Conference titled "Five multi-site myths". You can check them out and download them here.
The Gospel According to Anne Rice
The former queen of the occult, Anne Rice, now a Christian, will publish "Christ the Lord: Out of Egypt," a novel about the 7-year-old Jesus, narrated by Christ himself. "I promised," she says, "that from now on I would write only for the Lord." It's the most startling public turnaround since Bob Dylan's "Slow Train Coming" announced that he'd been born again. Read the whole article here. Link via Bill.
The Leadership Blog Interview: Dan Kimball
Dan Kimball
Bio: Dan Kimball is the founding pastor of Vintage Faith Church in Santa Cruz, CA. He is also author of "The Emerging Church: Vintage Christianity for New Generations" & "Emerging Worship: Creating Worship Gatherings for New Generations"
Blog: http://www.dankimball.com/
Church: www.vintagechurch.org
The Leadership Blog Interview Questions
1. What gives you the greatest joy in being a leader?
Dan: "Without a doubt it is seeing people understanding the mission God has called us to, and as a community being on the mission together. Each person using their unique gifts and everyone seeing the importance of being in this together and the need for all the gifts, personalities, and dreams functioning as one."
2. What is your biggest pet peeve as a leader?
Dan: "Leaders who are afraid of change. I don’t mean change without thinking about it, or change for change sake (which also can be a pet peeve as this means trendy change). But when there is need for change and evidence for it, yet leaders still cling on to what they find as familiar to them, this is damaging. Or to only cling onto things that worked in the past, so it must still be good for today – this is a huge downfall in allowing effective mission to happen as well it will discourage listening to new ideas and understanding values from emerging leaders."
3. Who made the biggest influence in your life as a leader?
Dan: "Different people have influenced me in different ways, but without thinking too much on this, ones who comes to mind are Stuart Allen, a 83 year old pastor of a tiny, tiny church in England who took me under his wing when I was a pretty new Christian and taught me the importance of mentoring another, seeing past their façade or dress and believing in them. Another is my father-in-law Rod Clendenen who taught me the importance of worshiping throughout the week. Another is Dr. Mitchell, who was a 93 year old professor and founded Multnomah Bible College who met with me while I was a student and taught me to love the Scriptures. My parents shaped my view of marriage and family which does impact me as a leader today. So many people every week that I meet shape me and influence me, people in the church, the staff at my church etc. So, I see influence as being molded constantly. Of course, the correct answer to this is “Jesus” as the biggest influence, but that is almost too cliché to even say and an assumption under this all.
4. What books have changed your life?
Dan: "Too many. I think of them more as influenced my thinking and perspective, not a single one that changed my life. And it depends on what part of my life and during what phase of my life. Some books that I know impacted me significantly when I read them are: Missional Church by Darrell Guder, The Divine Conspiracy by Dallas Willard, Too Busy Not to Pray by Bill Hybels, The Catcher in the Rye by by J.D. Salinger and of course, can’t forget the Bible. "
5. What's your biggest challenge as a leader?
Dan: "To always keep at the forefront the role of leadership in a church to be fully understood by the people in a church. What I mean by this, is that if the paid staff leaders truly are Ephesians 4:11-12 equipping others for the work of the ministry, then it means that the staff has to view their role different and the people of the church need to view the staff and themselves differently. This is hard to do, and even with non-Christians coming in from the outside, they still have perceived understandings of what the “pastor” is that also needs to be re-taught. From this, time then becomes the challenge. How to best leverage and spend time to build a church who is on a mission together, rather than a church built around the personality and gifts of the lead pastor. Also, with this approach it is critical to have a healthy leadership culture where people serving are truly cared for and supported and not just used by the church and burnt out. We are in great sin in my opinion when we allow this to happen to people serving on the mission of the church."
6. What goals do you have as a leader?
Dan: "To walk with God in a such a way where I can be sensing His leading in all areas of my life and continually be growing in my love for Him and other people. This is the ultimate goal which impacts everything I do as a husband, father, pastor, leader."
7. Where do you see yourself in ten years?
Dan: "Encouraging people to “be the church on a mission” rather than “going to church” and to be training and building leaders for the mission Jesus has the local church on."
Thanks Dan for an interesting interview!
My Creative Team: What's God's Will?
You can join my Creative Team for the day. We're planning, working on, and brainstorming for a new series on "What's God's Will" at church. What questions do people have or what questions need to be answered concerning God's will? Leave Your questions, comments, or ideas in the comments, please. Thanks.
Here's a short list of the main questions, we're focusing on so far:
-Why God's Will?
-What about when God's Silent?
-What about God's timing?
-What if I'm out of God's Will?
200+
Went over the 200 post mark on "The Leadership Blog" this weekend. Time flies when you're having fun! Woo-hoo!
The Leadership Blog Interview: Dr. Neil T. Anderson
Dr. Neil T. Anderson
Bio: Neil T. Anderson is the president emeritus of Freedom in Christ Ministries and a much sought–after speaker on Christ–centered living. Besides the bestselling books The Bondage Breaker®, Victory over the Darkness, and Daily in Christ, he has authored The Bondage Breaker® Series. He has also coauthored many books, including Getting Anger Under Control and Breaking the Bondage of Legalism.
Site: discipleshipcounselingministries.org
The Leadership Blog Interview Questions
1. What gives you the greatest joy in being a leader?
Neil: "I receive the greatest joy when God works through me to set captives free from their sin and their past and bind up their broken hearts."
2. What is your biggest pet peeve as a leader?
Neil: "My biggest pet peeve is when arrogant “Christian” leaders reduce our walk with God down to an intellectual exercise and insist that others must be wrong when they don’t agree with them. Where is the gracious humility, love and compassion that reveals the life of Christ?"
3. Who made the biggest influence in your life as a leader?
Neil: "I thank God for John, a simple maintenance man who worked at the same plant that I did when I was an engineer. This humble servant helped me see in my early Christian walk that leadership is not about gifts, talents, intelligence, or position; it is all about Godly character."
4. What books have changed your life?
Neil: “The Training of the Twelve” helped shaped my understanding of the gospels and the life of discipleship."
5. What's your biggest challenge as a leader?
Neil: "My biggest challenge is to keep my first love fresh and exciting by staying in a righteous relationship with my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ."
6. What goals do you have as a leader?
Neil: "My goal is to be the person God created me to be."
7. Where do you see yourself in ten years?
Neil: "If I am still on this planet in ten years, I hope to be a resource to the body of Christ in any way that God leads."
Thank you Dr. Anderson for taking time for the interview. Your books have impacted my life and ministry.
Like a kid on Christmas
Tim Elzea, my new buddy and Mark Batterson's new Assistant, just sent me a "popcorn box" full of National Community Church Material in the mail. Included were several series invites and postcards, Mark's book and a sermon series and all kinds of goodies. I love the "popocorn box" idea since they meet in a Movie Theater. I have to say this stuff is top of the line, better than some megachurch stuff I've seen. Mark and NCC are doing it with excellence and are buzzworthy. After seeing this, I want to attend their Buzz Conference in May.
Review: A+
If any other churches, want to send me stuff, contact me for my address. =)
The Leadership Blog Interview: Ed Rowell
Ed Rowell
Bio: Ed Rowell is the senior pastor of Tri-Lakes Chapel in Monument, Colorado. He’s a former editor of Leadership Journal and Preaching Today. His books include Preaching with Spiritual Passion, Go the Distance, and a novel, Emma’s Journal.
Church: Tri-Lakes Chapel
The Leadership Blog Interview Questions
1. Ed, what gives you the greatest joy in being a leader?
Ed: "It is gratifying to look around and see things in existence that might not have been had a leader not heard God’s voice, put forth the vision, laid out a strategy, and called people to action. New believers, new ministries, maturing Christ-followers, improved facilities, all these bring great satisfaction.
2. What is your biggest pet peeve as a leader?
Ed: "Pettiness. Petty behavior, whether it is in me, or in others, is evidence that we’ve lost focus on the big picture and are beginning to focus on self."
3. Who made the biggest influence in your life as a leader?
Ed: "There have been several influences, both up close and from a distance. But I’d say Bill Hybels continues to challenge me and remind me why I need to stay in the game like no one else. I first attended a Willow Creek conference in 1987, and have been strengthened, challenged, and encouraged by Bill ever since."
4. What books have changed your life?
Ed: "I read 30-50 books every year and have gleaned from all of them. But there are a few I go back to virtually every year to reread. Celebration of Discipline by Richard Foster, Life Together by Dietrich Bonhoeffer, and the Lord of the Rings trilogy by J.R.R. Tolkien—these books always touch me deeply and I believe are having lasting impact in my actions and attitudes."
5. What's your biggest challenge as a leader?
Ed: "Battling discouragement and cynicism. I’m like a doctor who keeps getting bent because all his patients act like sick people. Effective self-leadership is my biggest struggle."
6. What goals do you have as a leader?
Ed: "To finish well, not to burn out or grow too discouraged to make the journey."
7. Where do you see yourself in ten years?
Ed: "I hope to still be leading Tri-Lakes Chapel, but to have expanded my writing significantly."
Thanks Ed for a great interview!
The Leadership Blog Interview: Greg Rohlinger
Greg Rohlinger
Bio: Greg Rohlinger is Senior Pastor of Palm Valley Community Church.
Church: Palm Valley Community Church
The Leadership Blog Interview Questions
1. What gives you the greatest joy in being a leader?
Greg: "Life change, I’m addicted to it. I love looking around and seeing people whose lives have been changed. I can’t believe God lets me be a part of this. I also love seeing people who didn’t think they had much to offer, now being used by God is big ways. That’s my story, so I love to see God’s power unleashed in the lives of others."
2. What is your biggest pet peeve as a leader?
Greg: "People who aren’t sold out to building the Kingdom. It drives me crazy when staff or volunteers act like they’re entitled to something. I’d be glad to clean toilets at Palm Valley (and I have). I don’t do well with people who are lazy or complain about having to go the extra distance. They don’t last long with us."
3. Who made the biggest influence in your life as a leader?
Greg: 1) Don Engram. Nobody knows him, but he’s my father in law. When I was a new believer he took me under his wing and discipled me. He pastored 3 churches in his life, all of them experienced significant growth. He just retired after 55 years of ministry, but he’s still involved in his church.
2) Rick Warren. Rick opened my eyes to what a church could be. I was stuck in the traditional mold, and dying. My first trip to Saddleback unleashed my potential. I’ve learned a ton from Rick about building a healthy church. If it wasn’t for Rick’s influence I don’t think I would have ever started Palm Valley Church.
3) Ed Young. Ed’s an incredible visionary leader. Spending time with him is like drinking from a fire hydrant. I love that he speaks his mind and doesn’t pull any punches. He’s challenged me to be more creative, and to never settle for “good enough”. I’ve been able to spend a little time with him this year and it’s been the most valuable ministry growth moments in the past two years for me. I am however, a better dresser than him. =)
4. What books have changed your life?
Greg: 1) The Bible. I know, cliché, but it’s changed my life.
2) Purpose Driven Church, taught me what a New Testament church looked like and gave me confidence to start one.
3) Treasure Principle by Randy Alcorn. Opened my eyes to my giving potential and priorities. Great little book.
5. What's your biggest challenge as a leader?
Greg: "Prioritizing time. As our church grows the demands for my time grow. I’m a pastor at heart, so it’s hard for me to say no, but I have to. I’m learning to get people around me who are good at blocking for me."
6. What goals do you have as a leader?
Greg: 1) To become more like Christ. I see the areas I need to grow, and I want to become mature.
2) To lead Palm Valley to become a prevailing church in the west valley of Phoenix. I want to see us reach thousands upon thousands for Christ, and disciple them to maturity in their faith.
3) I want to find new, creative ways to grow God’s Kingdom. I love some of the cutting edge stuff happening in the Church realm today, and I want to be in the lead.
7. Where do you see yourself in ten years?
Greg: 1) Spending a ton of time at my kids games. I’ve got 3 boys who will be in jr/sr high school in 10 years, I expect to be in the stands cheering them on. 1 girl on the way, so I’ll probably be hitting some ballet sessions also J
2) Pastoring Palm Valley Church. I love being a pastor, and I love the people of our church. I’ll be standing on the curb each Saturday/Sunday high 5’ing kids as they walk in, and teaching God’s Word in creative (hopefully) ways.
3) Writing. I’d love to share my journey with others. I think I’ve learned a lot of valuable lessons, and I’d love to help young leaders maximize their potential for the Kingdom.
Greg, Thanks for a great interview!
Are you in?
-About 70,000 new blogs are created every day
-About a new blog is created each second
-As of October 2005, Technorati is now tracking 19.6 million blogs
Read the whole "State of the Blogosphere" report here. Link via Terry.
How to Keep Your Pastor
-40% of the church's leaders are thinking about bailing out
-90 percent of pastors work more than 46 hours a week.
- 80 percent believe their ministry negatively affects their family.
- 70 percent have a lower self-esteem now than when they started.
- 40 percent have a serious conflict with a congregant at least once a month.
- 70 percent do not have someone they consider a close friend.
Read the whole article here link via Brenton.
Largest Church in Kentucky
Last night, Rupp Arena became the largest church in Kentucky, where basketball is a religion, when Kentucky's Big Blue Madness happened. My wife, 8 year old son, and I were one of the 23,174 fans who filled Rupp Arena to watch the Wildcats practice basketball. That's right, it was just a practice!
The Leadership Blog Interview: Ed Stetzer
Ed Stetzer
Bio: Ed Stetzer has trained pastors and church planters on five continents and has planted churches in New York, Pennsylvania, and Georgia. He has been a seminary professor, author, and ministry consultant. He serves as Research Team Director and Missiologist at the North American Mission Board. He has two books forthcoming in April '06, Planting New Churches, 2nd edition and Breaking the Missional Code.
Site: www.namb.net; www.newchurches.com
The Leadership Blog Interview Questions
1. Ed, what gives you the greatest joy in being a leader?
Ed: "I wish there was a more eloquent way to put it, but there probably is not. So... I would say that I love to see when people "get it"-- when they grasp the concepts that matter. For me and the ministry call God has on my life, that means they embrace a "missional" perspective on the gospel, church, and life. By "missional," I mean that they choose to engage in ministry that is an incarnation of Christ, indigenous to their context, and intentionally engaging people in culture with the truth claims of the gospel. There is nothing more exciting to me than to see that moment when people grasp the kingdom implications of gospel-centered ministry. "
2. What is your biggest pet peeve as a leader?
Ed: "Wet blankets. It seems that every group, church, and denomination has a self appointed person or group who consider it their job to criticize. I don't think criticism is bad, it just is usually offered by the "wet blanket" types with such joy and enthusiasm! I like those whose mission is to help make things better, not to attack those who are trying to make them better."
3. Who made the biggest influence in your life as a leader?
Ed: "Steve Morgan is one. Not because he was a great leader or incredibly well known, but because he poured his life into me. He challenged me to read Bonhoeffer's Cost of Discipleship when I was 16 years of age and it changed my life. On other is Mark Terry. Mark knows more about mission than anyone I know. I dedicate one of my books to him describing how I came in as a guy who knew how to plant a church, but he molded me into a missiologist. In the dedication I wrote, "I knew the 'hows' of church planting, but you taught me the 'whys' of missions."
4. What books have changed your life?
Ed: "Beyond the scriptures, the most influential books for me are some obscure books that most normal people probably don't know. I would say Roland Allen's Spontaneous Expansion of the Church and Bosch's Transforming Mission were impactful on my life. I mentioned The Cost of Discipleship before and that was a tremendous influence at a young age."
5. What's your biggest challenge as a leader?
Ed: "I do not do well taking care of my own physical health. I get too excited reading, writing, speaking that I neglect my health. I hate exercise... and love communicating, so it is obvious which one I choose. That is a bad long term strategy."
6. What goals do you have as a leader?
Ed: "I will share three. My first goal is to be a more committed disciple and to lead myself better-- in personal spiritual formation and physical health. My second goal is to be a godly leader of my home, loving my wife and three daughters. My third goal to help evangelicals to move out of a self-affirming subculture and proclaim and radical gospel in the cultures of North America."
7. Where do you see yourself in ten years?
Ed: "I will answer that from a ministry standpoint, since I dealt with the personal issues above. First, I will be actively connected to the life of a local church. God convicted me that I have been flying around the world talking about church and mission, but not really connected to the mission of my own church. So, I partnered with two very gifted guys, Philip Nation and Travis Vaughn, as co-pastors planting Lake Ridge Church. In ten years, I plan to be pouring my life into that church (or its daughter churches)-- and still learning from Travis and Philip.
Second, I have a great mission agency where I serve, the North American Mission Board of the Southern Baptist Convention. Right now it seems that people in the SBC (and evangelicalism) are asking many of the right questions-- how do we reach people in culture?, how can our churches continue to proclaim a faithful gospel but become more missionally effective in emerging culture? As long as we are asking those questions, I will stay here at the North American Mission Board and continue to serve as Missiologist and Research Team Director. It is a great privilege to work with a group of people who ask everyday, "how can we reach people for Christ?"
Thanks Ed for taking time for the interview.