Power and Leadership for the Church - Interview With Mark Meynell || SLP474
Sep 13, 2023
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Mark Meynell, co-editor of 'Not So with You: Power and Leadership for the Church', is interviewed by Glen Scrivener. They discuss the importance of power and leadership in the church, the dangers of authoritarianism, and the connection between identity and leadership. They also explore the concept of competitive victimhood and discuss the book 'Are You 100% Sure You Want to be an Agnostic?' along with listener comments.
Power and authority, though often viewed with skepticism and nervousness, are essential for the flourishing of the church, and the goal is not to avoid them, but to use them well.
The inter-trinitarian relationships serve as a model for godly relationships and leadership within the church, emphasizing the importance of understanding the doctrine of the Trinity in power dynamics.
Deep dives
The Importance of Power and Leadership for the Church
The podcast episode discusses the importance of power and leadership for the church. The hosts interview Mark Menel about his new book, 'Not So With You: Power and Leadership for the Church,' which he co-edited with Mark Sterling. They emphasize that power and authority, though often viewed with skepticism and nervousness, are essential for the flourishing of the church. Drawing comparisons to an orchestra needing a conductor, they argue that power can be used for good and ill, and the goal is not to avoid it, but to use it well. They highlight Jesus' teachings on servant leadership and contrast it with authoritarianism and the misuse of power in various church contexts.
Navigating the Complexities of Power and Leadership
The podcast delves into the complexities of power and leadership in the church. It explores the dangers of both abdicating from authority, leading to chaos and factions, and of authoritarianism, resulting in fear and abuse. The podcast emphasizes the need for leaders to navigate the balance between exercising their power responsibly and avoiding the pitfalls on either extreme. It also tackles the challenges of discussing power and leadership in the context of the current cultural moment, where there is a culture war battle over perceived power dynamics. The hosts urge listeners to approach these discussions with a biblical foundation and a willingness to engage with the complex realities of power within the church and society.
The Theological Foundations of Power and Leadership
The podcast examines the theological foundations of power and leadership in the church. It highlights the importance of understanding the doctrine of the Trinity and its implications for power dynamics. The hosts discuss the inter-trinitarian relationships as a model for godly relationships and leadership within the church. They also explore the concept of symbolic capital, which relates to the ways individuals seek credibility and status within a church or subculture. Additionally, they delve into the biblical concept of the Imago Dei, emphasizing the inherent worth and dignity of every human being, and how recognizing this impacts power dynamics within the church.
Personal Experiences and Practical Applications
The podcast features personal experiences and practical applications related to power and leadership. It includes testimonies from individuals who have suffered from power abuse, as well as insights from leaders who have grappled with these issues. The podcast calls for a responsible approach to leadership, encouraging leaders to educate themselves and be aware of the impact they have on others. It highlights the importance of mentoring relationships and the need to create safe spaces within the church. The discussion ultimately seeks to provoke thoughtful reflection and consideration of power dynamics in order to foster healthier and more Christlike leadership within the church.
Glen Scrivener interviews Mark Meynell about the new book that he has co-edited with Mark Stirling: 'Not So with You: Power and Leadership for the Church'.
This was released on our YouTube channel on 8th September 2023.
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