The Roys Report
Unmasking Domination in the Church
Mar 21, 2025
JR Woodward, author of "The Scandal of Leadership," dives into the pitfalls of domineering church leadership and advocates for a polycentric model that encourages shared decision-making. He critiques the celebrity pastor culture and its detrimental effects, emphasizing the need for community engagement and accountability. Woodward discusses how aligning leadership with the teachings of Jesus can transform church dynamics, inviting listeners to rethink leadership in light of the Beatitudes and promote ethical, compassionate practices.
59:50
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Quick takeaways
- Centralized leadership creates vulnerability in communities, highlighting the need for decentralized models to foster responsibility and connection among members.
- Embracing polycentric leadership promotes collaboration and accountability, aligning church governance with Jesus' teachings on humility and collective discipleship.
Deep dives
The Role of Leadership in Community Dynamics
When leadership is centralized in a singular figure, it creates a dependency that can leave communities vulnerable during times of crisis, such as when leaders fall or step back. Instead of a vibrant collective of voices, congregations often look for quick replacements when their lead pastor leaves or fails, leading to feelings of confusion and desperation. This dynamic mirrors ancient biblical narratives and warns against a pattern of reliance on charismatic individuals rather than a shared leadership model. A more decentralized approach encourages responsibility among community members, fostering growth and a deeper connection with one another and with God.
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