Unseen Leadership Unseen Leadership Episode 83: Garrett Kell on Leadership, Revitalizing Churches, and Stewarding Influence
In this episode of the Unseen Leadership Podcast, Chandler Vannoy and Dan Iten are joined by Garrett Kell, who serves as the Lead Pastor of Del Ray Baptist Church in Alexandria, Virginia. During this podcast, he discusses his leadership journey and his role in revitalizing Del Ray Baptist Church. Garrett also shares insights into being a leader guided by God, the importance of relationships, and the use of social media to share the gospel in a relatable way. He also discusses his experiences in various leadership roles before and after becoming a Christian, emphasizing the value of stewarding influence and pointing people toward Jesus. Kell provides insights into church revitalization, focusing on the need for intentional change, preaching the Word, and prayer.
QUOTES FROM EPISODE 83
“Be led by God before you lead others. Whatever area of influence God has placed you in, He’s put you there to be faithful with whatever is entrusted. But it’s always in the context of relationships. So whether you’re a pastor or a plumber, whether you’re a politician or whatever it is that you do, you should seek to be led by God so that as you’re influencing others, you’re influencing them toward Him, and not away from Him.” – Garrett Kell
“In one sense, whether you’re planting a church or revitalizing being a part of revitalization, you’re pastoring. And the question is, do you want to make your own mess or clean up someone else’s mess?” – Garrett Kell
“Be careful with your words and seek to serve people, not use them as props.” – Garrett Kell
“Disconnect from social media regularly to minimize distractions and be present in the moment.” – Garrett Kell
“Part of being a pastor is being willing to be led by the Word and let God do the work, even when it’s uncomfortable.” – Garrett Kell
“I think serving and ministering out of a place of passion is important. Don’t try to replicate something everybody else does.” – Garrett Kell
The safest people for me love me and care about me. They want me to love God, love my family, and make it to heaven, and they are not impressed with me.” – Garrett Kell
RECOMMENDED RESOURCES
A Time to Mourn: Grieving the Loss of Those Whose Eternities Were Uncertain by Will Dobbie
Overcoming Apathy: Gospel Hope for Those Who Struggle to Care by Uche Anizor
You’re Not Crazy: Gospel Sanity for Weary Churches by Ray Ortlund, Sam Alberry, and Russell Moore
Delighting in the Trinity: An Introduction to the Christian Faith by Michael Reeves
No Greater Love; A Biblical Vision for Friendship by Rebecca McLaughlin