Revitalize and Replant

In this episode, Mark Clifton, Mark Hallock, and Dan Hurst discuss an article from Kris Eldridge on some traits of toxic leaders. They are works-filled vs. grace-filled. They are all about their reputation They use people. They surround themselves with “yes” people. Pushback or disagreement are highly frowned upon. They are full of pride. They don’t lead well through change. Their leadership style is autocratic. They are self-absorbed. The fruit of the Spirit seems to be absent in their life. Resources related to this podcast: “10 Traits of Toxic Church Leadership” by Kris Elridge

In this episode, Mark Clifton, Mark Hallock, and Dan Hurst discuss an article from Chuck Lawless about why pastors bear scars from churches they serve. Few pastors fully expect the anguish that church members can sometimes cause. The arrows often come from formerly close friends. Wounds affect not only the pastor, but also his family. Many pastors hurt alone. Some pastors view conflict as ministry failure. Pastoral grief at times stretches a pastor’s theology uncomfortably. Some pastors experience pain in more than one church. Too many pastors are blinded to their own role in the conflict. Some criticism of pastors is simply unfounded. Pastors sometimes refuse to admit they have scars. Resources related to this podcast: “10 REASONS PASTORS SOMETIMES BEAR SCARS OF CHURCH WOUNDS–AND A CHALLENGE TO ADDRESS THEM” by Chuck Lawless

Guests Mark Clifton, Mark Hallock, and Dan Hurst explore growth in non-denominational churches. They discuss evangelism, financial investment, conflict avoidance, and lack of 'name' baggage. Non-denominational churches outpace older denominations, offering a fresh perspective on church growth.

Jonathan Howe, VP of Communications for SBC EC, discusses SBC Annual Meeting logistics, future leadership, Baptist Press impact, and rotating conventions. Insights into managing volunteers, media evolution, and personal anecdotes. Light-hearted discussion on music preferences and funny gift exchanges.

Join Mark Clifton, Mark Hallock, and Dan Hurst as they delve into the crucial topic of conducting exit interviews with church members. They discuss insightful questions to ask departing members, reasons for leaving, maintaining engagement, and fostering a caring community within the church. Learn how pastors can play a vital role in understanding member departures and building relationships to potentially retain them.

Experienced pastors Mark Clifton, Mark Hallock, and Dan Hurst discuss key questions for pastor search teams, including doctrinal alignment, power dynamics, church discipline, staff management, financial transparency, and honest communication. They explore the complexities of church committees, the challenges new pastors face, and the importance of understanding the church's culture and needs.

Mark Clifton and Mark Hallock discuss how pastoring has changed in 30 years. Leadership and interpersonal skills are now crucial. Outreach methods have shifted from getting people to come to church services. The Internet and social media present new challenges. Society's view of pastors and religious affiliation has evolved, with a rise in 'nones.'

Mark Clifton and Mark Hallock discuss the importance of public Scripture reading in church services. They emphasize its authority, protection against heresy, and blessing to those with limited access to God's word.

Mark Clifton discusses the resurgence of smaller churches, the shift towards bi-vocational staff, equipping church members for ministry, new pastor expectations, smaller church budgets, and the need for denominations to adapt. The podcast explores the significance of church size, staffing trends, empowering church members for leadership, search committee preferences, financial challenges, and pastoral calling in smaller churches.

In this episode, Mark Clifton and Mark Hallock discuss effective ministering in older churches, emphasizing drawing future strategies from current members, fostering fellowship, and meeting the needs of the congregation.