New Creation Conversations 090 - Dr. Sam Barber on Grace and Becoming Disciples of Christ Together
May 10, 2023
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Dr. Sam Barber, District Superintendent, shares insights on collective discipleship inspired by John Wesley's ministry. He discusses personal journey, challenges of discipleship in a postmodern era, and practical disciple-making practices. Emphasizing community, relationship with God, and hope for young adults in the church.
Discipleship is a collective effort, requiring teamwork for spiritual growth and reaching out to others.
Accountability and means of grace are essential in discipleship, emphasizing active responses to God's grace.
Wesleyan principles of loving accountability and means of grace can be applied in modern church contexts for spiritual growth.
Deep dives
The concept of discipleship as a team effort
Discipleship, as explored in the podcast episode, is not an individual pursuit but rather a collective endeavor. Dr. Sam Barber emphasizes the idea that growing in holiness and reaching out to others is best achieved through teamwork. He delves into the importance of engaging in an innovative approach to discipleship, rooted in Methodism and the ministry of John Wesley, highlighting the need for a community effort in nurturing spiritual growth.
The significance of accountability and means of grace in discipleship
Dr. Sam Barber underscores the essential role of accountability and means of grace in the process of discipleship. Drawing inspiration from Wesleyan theology, he stresses the importance of not only receiving God's grace but actively responding to it. By engaging in practices such as prayer, studying scriptures, and participating in the sacraments, individuals can deepen their spiritual journey and foster a sense of community accountability.
Application of Wesleyan principles in contemporary church settings
The podcast episode delves into how Wesleyan principles, particularly the concept of loving accountability and means of grace, can be applied in modern church contexts. Dr. Sam Barber discusses the relevance of Wesley's approach to discipleship, emphasizing the balance between God's grace and human response. By incorporating these principles, churches can create spaces for spiritual growth, communal support, and transformative experiences.
Hope and optimism for the future of the church
Amidst the challenges and complexities of contemporary society, Dr. Sam Barber finds hope in the church and the upcoming generations. He expresses optimism towards the genuine faith and dedication exhibited by church members, especially young adults. Observing a renewed fervor for God and a commitment to community, he believes that the local church remains a beacon of hope and transformation in a changing world.
Encouraging participation in discipleship through practical implementation
Dr. Sam Barber's book, 'A People of Grace, Becoming Disciples Together,' encourages active engagement in discipleship through practical means. By initiating covenant-building sessions, promoting accountability, and fostering a sense of community, the book aims to guide individuals and churches towards a deeper understanding and application of discipleship principles. Through accessible resources and group dynamics, the book intends to empower participants to embody the values of discipleship in their daily lives.
Dr. Sam Barber's message of optimism and unity for the church community
In the podcast episode, Dr. Sam Barber conveys a message of optimism and unity for the church community. His reflections on the transformative power of discipleship, coupled with a vision for collaborative spiritual growth, inspire a sense of hope and purpose within the church. By emphasizing the importance of teamwork, accountability, and practical implementation of Wesleyan principles, Dr. Barber encourages a renewed commitment to the values of faith and community in contemporary church settings.
Welcome to episode ninety of New Creation Conversations. My conversation today is with a great friend and colleague in pastoral ministry, Dr. Sam Barber. Sam is currently serving as the District Superintendent of the South-Central Ohio District for the Church of the Nazarene. Sam is a graduate of Mount Vernon Nazarene University, he has a master’s degree in Christian Ministry and Church Leadership from Malone University, another master’s in theology from Duke Divinity School, and he earned a Doctor of Ministry degree from Nazarene Theological Seminary. He has also been the lead pastor at churches in Troy and Columbus, Ohio as well as at the Kansas City Central Church. He and his wife Jill have become dear friends of Debbie and me over the last several years, and I deeply respect Sam’s heart, mind, and leadership ability.
Our conversation centers around his recently released book, A People of Grace: Becoming Disciples Together (published by The Foundry Press). In the book, Sam explores the exciting adventure of discipleship – following Jesus. However, he argues that discipleship is never something we do alone, it takes a team effort to help each other grow in holiness and reach out to others. In the book, Sam invites readers to participate together in an innovative approach to discipleship that has its roots in the ministry of John Wesley. It’s a very helpful book and a rich conversation. So, thanks for sitting in on this conversation between two old friends.
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