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Having close relationships with individuals who exhort and hold you accountable on a daily basis is crucial in preventing the hardening of the heart caused by sin. This fellowship helps to keep you grounded and aware of potential blind spots or areas of weakness.
There is a tendency to focus on the talents and abilities of leaders rather than the fruit of the Spirit in their lives. This can lead to a cult of personality where individuals are drawn to charismatic figures, mistaking their gifts for true spiritual grace. It is essential to discern between what is a God-given gift and what is evidence of spiritual fruit and character.
As a leader, it is crucial to guard against an inflated ego, blind spots, and becoming consumed by the pressures of success. Maintaining a vibrant prayer life, seeking genuine communion with God, and continually mortifying besetting sins are essential practices in navigating the challenges that come with success. These practices keep you focused on the pursuit of godliness and allow you to experience the presence and love of God.
The key to longevity and endurance in ministry is living a vibrant Christian life. This includes engaging in regular prayer, seeking God's face, confessing sins, and actively mortifying besetting sins. It is not enough to simply go through the motions but to actively pursue communion with God, allowing His love, grace, and comfort to transform and guide your life.
The most important form of accountability comes from experiencing God's presence, love, and grace. This deep communion with God acts as a safeguard for your heart and helps align your desires with His. Regular fellowship and accountability with others are beneficial, but the ultimate accountability comes from living in intimate communion with God.
Bonus Episode: A Conversation With Tim Keller
Mike Cosper sits down with Tim Keller for reflections on leadership, the troubles with networks, and the essential need for communion with God.
Tim Keller moved to New York City in 1989 to plant Redeemer Presbyterian Church. In the three decades since, he’s become one of the most influential voices in American evangelicalism. Several of his books have become bestsellers. City to City, the church planting network he co-founded, has planted more than 800 churches. He also co-founded The Gospel Coalition (TGC), an alliance of pastors and theologians with a shared theological vision. Today, TGC hosts events around the world, draws thousands to its national conferences, and publishes resources online that serve millions of readers, viewers, and listeners.
In this conversation, Keller reflects on the challenges of movements, denominations, and networks, as well as his connections with Mark Driscoll, both at the Spanish River Church Network and in The Gospel Coalition. He talks about the limits of institutions, as well as the limits of accountability, and how the only reliable way to guard your heart in ministry is a wholehearted commitment to the pursuit of God in prayer.
This conversation was recorded in early May, 2022.
“The Rise and Fall of Mars Hill” is a production of Christianity Today
Executive Producer: Erik Petrik
Producer, Writer, Host, and Mix Engineer: Mike Cosper
Editor: TJ Hester
Associate Producers: Joy Beth Smith and Azurae Phelps
Music and Sound Design: Kate Siefker
Graphic Design: Bryan Todd
Social Media: Kate Lucky
Editor in Chief: Timothy Dalrymple
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