

S1 E29. The Problem with Church: Recovering from power, politics, scandal and abuse
16 snips Sep 17, 2024
Mike Cosper, a journalist and podcaster known for his insights on church scandals, joins to discuss the dramatic decline of influential church leaders. The conversation delves into the impact of charismatic leadership, systemic issues in evangelicalism, and the need for transparency in the wake of serious misconduct allegations against Ravi Zacharias. They explore the politicization of faith and its effects on church communities while emphasizing the importance of humility, community engagement, and potential renewal amid ongoing challenges.
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Driscoll Interview and Downfall
- Justin Brierley interviewed Mark Driscoll in 2012, during Mars Hill's peak.
- Driscoll's controversial comments, including criticizing "hippie" portrayals of Jesus and questioning the efficacy of women in church leadership, gained notoriety.
Narcissistic Leadership at Mars Hill
- Mike Cosper's podcast, "The Rise and Fall of Mars Hill," explored Driscoll's leadership style.
- Cosper highlighted Driscoll's narcissistic tendencies, where reality conflicting with his ideals resulted in harsh consequences for others.
Charisma Over Character
- Church growth movements often prioritize charismatic leaders and rapid expansion.
- This can lead to neglecting accountability and spiritual maturity in favor of numerical growth and excitement.