Episode 33: Innovation in ministry with Dave Wahlstedt
Jul 8, 2022
auto_awesome
Dave Wahlstedt, Pastor of The Table in Dallas, Texas, discusses shifting church culture from performance to discipleship. He emphasizes the need for real spiritual formation and engaging scripture in small groups. Wahlstedt also explores the importance of innovative thinking in Christian ministry, highlighted in his book 'Shift: Catalyzing Creative Change in Innovative Christian Ministry'.
The importance of spiritual formation and discipleship in fostering transformation and countering the crisis of discipleship in society and the church.
The need for innovative thinking and change in the church, moving towards a more relational and community-centered approach to ministry to engage millennials and Gen Z and counter the negative impact of a performance-based culture.
Deep dives
Shift: Catalyzing Creative Change in Innovative Christian Ministry
The podcast episode features an interview with Dave Wollstedt, the pastor of The Table in Dallas, Texas, and author of the book 'Shift: Catalyzing Creative Change in Innovative Christian Ministry.' The conversation explores the need for innovative thinking and change in the church to navigate the rapidly changing cultural currents of today. Wollstedt shares his experience of implementing shifts in his own church, moving towards a more relational and community-centered approach to ministry. He emphasizes the importance of spiritual formation and discipleship, as well as the role of small groups in fostering transformation. The book 'Shift' offers practical strategies and hacks for pastors and leaders to navigate and succeed in a changing world while remaining rooted in the unchanging truths of the gospel.
Craft Church and Shifting from Performance-Based Models
Wollstedt discusses the concept of a 'craft church' as an alternative to the big mega-church model that feeds narcissism and performance-based culture. He highlights the importance of engaging millennials and Gen Z through a relational and communal approach to ministry, similar to the way Jesus gathered and engaged with his disciples. Wollstedt also addresses the crisis of discipleship in society and the church, where ideological and political views have taken precedence over theological and Christian views. The conversation explores the potential of the table-style ministry for fostering spiritual formation and countering the crisis of discipleship.
Shifts in Leadership, Congregation, and Community
The discussion delves into the shifts needed in leadership, congregation, and community to effectively navigate and respond to cultural changes as an organization. Wollstedt shares his personal leadership experiences and the importance of risk-taking and being open to failure in order to be surprised by success. The conversation touches on the challenges faced by churches in resisting change and the need for practical strategies to make shifts quickly and effectively. Wollstedt's book, 'Shift,' provides a playbook with 30 identified shifts and accompanying hacks for leaders to implement change in their organizations.
The Book 'Shift' and its Relevance Beyond the EPC
The episode concludes with a focus on Wollstedt's book, 'Shift: Catalyzing Creative Change in Innovative Christian Ministry.' The book is a hands-on resource that offers practical strategies for pastors and leaders to navigate the shifting cultural context and implement innovative change in their ministries. It not only addresses changes needed within the individual leader, congregation, and community but also how churches can effectively position themselves for ministry in a rapidly changing world while remaining faithful to the gospel. The book has been well-received and garnered attention from seminaries and denominations beyond the EPC, indicating its relevance and usefulness in a range of ministry contexts.
Dean Weaver, EPC Stated Clerk, welcomes Dave Wahlstedt, Pastor of The Table in Dallas, Texas, and author of Shift: Catalyzing Creative Change in Innovative Christian Ministry. The two discuss the ministry of The Table as a worshipping community—what Wahlstedt calls a “craft church” surrounded by megachurches in suburban north Dallas—and how spiritual formation became the focus of the ministry. They also talk about how Wahlstedt’s book is a reflection of his ministry experience, and describes ways to innovate in the local church and among its people.
Remember Everything You Learn from Podcasts
Save insights instantly, chat with episodes, and build lasting knowledge - all powered by AI.
