Episode 974
What If Church Leadership Looked More Like Serving Others?
In this discourse, we delve into the profound intricacies of leadership as portrayed in the scriptural text from Titus 1:1-9. The salient point of our discussion centers on the notion that genuine leadership is predicated not upon the exercise of authority, but rather upon the principles of love and service. We articulate a progressive interpretation of church leadership that emphasizes empowerment and authentic connection, transcending traditional hierarchies. Through reflective examination, we identify that the characteristics of effective leaders—such as being welcoming, wise, and fair—are fundamentally about serving others and fostering a nurturing community. As we engage with these themes, we invite listeners to consider actionable steps they can take to challenge conventional power structures and promote inclusivity within their own spheres of influence.
The discourse encapsulated in this podcast episode elucidates the concept of leadership as articulated in the biblical text from Titus. Dr. Brad Miller embarks on a profound examination of the qualities that define effective church leadership, advocating for a model that emphasizes service over authority. He articulates that true leadership is characterized by attributes such as being welcoming, wise, and fair, which foster a nurturing environment within the community. This perspective challenges the prevailing paradigms of leadership, urging listeners to consider the implications of serving others rather than wielding control. Through this lens, Dr. Miller invites a reevaluation of what it means to be a leader in contemporary society.
Furthermore, the episode engages in a critical discourse on the necessity of dismantling traditional barriers that inhibit inclusive practices within church leadership. Dr. Miller draws on his personal experiences to illustrate that partnership and collaboration should supersede hierarchical structures. He posits that modern leaders must be recognized for their positive influence beyond the confines of their congregations, advocating for shared responsibilities and mutual respect. This thematic exploration resonates with progressive ideals, promoting an inclusive vision of leadership that values diverse contributions and perspectives.
As the episode progresses, actionable steps are presented, encouraging listeners to actively participate in their communities in ways that challenge established norms. Dr. Miller invites individuals to reflect on how they can serve in ways that amplify underrepresented voices and foster inclusivity. This call to action encapsulates the essence of authentic leadership, emphasizing that every person plays a vital role in the collective journey towards building a compassionate and equitable community. The overarching message is one of hope and empowerment, urging listeners to embrace a transformative approach to leadership that aligns with the teachings of love and service exemplified in the Christian faith.
Takeaways:
- The podcast emphasizes the importance of redefining leadership within religious contexts to foster community and inclusiveness.
- We are encouraged to view leadership not as a means of control, but rather as an opportunity to empower and uplift others.
- Listeners are invited to identify actionable steps that challenge traditional power dynamics within their communities.
- The emphasis on church leaders being welcoming and wise reflects a progressive understanding of leadership values.
- Truth is presented as a guiding tool for growth and understanding, rather than as a weapon to divide.
- The episode concludes with a prayer that highlights the importance of service and building inclusive communities.
Links referenced in this episode:
The "Daily Bible Refresh" is presented each day by Rev. Dr. Brad Miller who has a goal of speaking a bit of the bible into two million ears (one million people) in three years (2025-2028).
He is the author of "The A, B, C-1,2,3 Bible Study Guide" Free to you by clicking HERE.
Brad served as a local church pastor for forty years and has a background in radio and podcasting. Moreover, he is a life-long student of The Bible.
He believes in the words of Jesus that “scripture is fulfilled in your hearing” (Luke 4:21)
The "Daily Bible Refresh" is available seven days a week by 6:00 am ET. The episodes are no longer than ten minutes long and are...
- Understandable: A reading from the New Testament (usually the Gospel) selected from the Revised Common Lectionary using "The Message" translation.
- Relatable: You will have a couple of "points to ponder" from the text which will relate to your life
- Applicable: Every episode includes a way you can take action based on the reading
- A recommended resource to help you go deeper in biblical study and spiritual direction.
- A prayer for your day.
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Transcript
Foreign.
Speaker B:Dr. Brad Miller here with the Daily Bible Refresh.
Speaker B:This is your daily reading of the Bible from a progressive point of view.
Speaker B:In a bit I will read the New Testament lesson selected from the Revised Common Lectionary for this very day.
Speaker B:The reading is understandable.
Speaker B:I use the message version relatable.
Speaker B:Please listen to the points to ponder and applicable with action steps you can take.
Speaker B:We pray and are done in less than 10 minutes.
Speaker B:It's all brought to you by voiceofgod daily.com which is the home of your free personal Bible Study Guide, the ABC1.
Speaker A:23 Bible Study Method.
Speaker B: lionaires a million people by: Speaker B:You can help by saving and subscribing to the podcast and tagging your friends.
Speaker B:Here's today's reading.
Speaker A:So our reading Today is from Titus 1:1:9 and we're reading from the message.
Speaker A:I, Paul, am God's slave and Christ agent for promoting the faith among God's chosen people.
Speaker A:Getting out the accurate word on God and how to respond rightly to it.
Speaker B:My aim is to raise hopes by.
Speaker A:Pointing the way to to life without end.
Speaker A:This is the life God promised long ago and he doesn't break promises.
Speaker A:And then when the time was ripe, he went public with his truth.
Speaker A:I've been entrusted to proclaim this message by order of our Savior, God Himself.
Speaker A:Dear Titus, legitimate son of the faith, receive everything.
Speaker A:God our Father and Jesus our Savior.
Speaker A:Gives you a good grip on the I left you in charge in Crete so you could complete what I left half done.
Speaker A:Appoint leaders in every town according to my instructions.
Speaker A:As you select them, ask is this man well thought of?
Speaker A:Is he committed to his wife?
Speaker A:Are his children believers?
Speaker A:Do they respect him and stay out of trouble?
Speaker A:It's important that a church leader responsible for the affairs in God's house be looked up to.
Speaker A:Not pushy, not short tempered, not a drunk, not a bully, not money hungry.
Speaker A:He must welcome people, be helpful, wise, fair Reverend, have a good grip on himself and have a good grip on the message.
Speaker A:Knowing how to use the truth to either spur people on in knowledge or stop them in their tracks if they oppose it.
Speaker A:Well friends, in this episode we're talking about leadership through love and service.
Speaker A:My name is Dr. Brad Miller and here we're exploring this fascinating passage from Titus that really challenges our traditional understanding of church leadership.
Speaker A:Reminds me of things I've learned while raising my three kids that leadership isn't always about control, it's about creating space for growth and authenticity.
Speaker A:So let's get into some points to ponder.
Speaker A:The first one is about redefining religious leadership.
Speaker A:This passage talks about qualities of church leaders, but let's look at it deeper.
Speaker A:In my Cancer Support podcast, we focus on authentic connection over rigid structures.
Speaker A:Paul's emphasis isn't on maintaining power, but on fostering community.
Speaker A:Notice how these qualities listed being welcoming, helpful, wise and fair are about serving others rather than about controlling them.
Speaker A:This speaks to progressive understanding, where leadership is about empowerment, not authority.
Speaker A:The second point is about breaking traditional barriers.
Speaker A:While Paul's letter reflects his historical context, we can extract principles that resonate with inclusive values.
Speaker A:Just as my wife and I have Learned over our 33 years of marriage, it's that partnership triumph trumps hierarchy.
Speaker A:Modern church leadership should embrace diversity and shared responsibility.
Speaker A:The emphasis on well thought of suggests leaders should be known for their positive impact on the broader community, not just within the church walls.
Speaker A:Truth as a Tool for Growth the text mentions using truth to spur people on in knowledge.
Speaker A:This reminds me of doing hiking and walks with my granddaughters.
Speaker A:We need to pause and look at the flowers and the maps to make sure we're heading in the right direction.
Speaker A:Truth isn't meant to be a weapon, but a compass guiding us toward greater understanding and compassion.
Speaker A:Sometimes I like to share dad jokes and even groaners.
Speaker A:It's not about creating connections, not it's about creating connections and not divisions.
Speaker A:Here's your action step this week.
Speaker A:Identify one way that you can serve your community that challenges traditional power structures.
Speaker A:Maybe it's amplifying marginalized voices or supporting inclusive initiatives, or simply listening to a perspective different than your own.
Speaker A:Maybe think of it like a basketball game.
Speaker A:I'm a great Indiana Pacers fan.
Speaker A:I know something about how their teamwork comes into play.
Speaker A:Everyone has a vital role to play, regardless of their position.
Speaker A:Let's have a closing prayer.
Speaker A:Loving God, help us.
Speaker A:Reimagine leadership as you intended it.
Speaker A:Like the joy I find in my granddaughter's laughter, May we find delight in lifting others up rather than holding power over them.
Speaker A:Guide us in creating communities where everyone's gifts are celebrated and valued.
Speaker A:When we're tempted to build walls, remind us of your call to build bridges like a well marked trail in a state park.
Speaker A:Show us the path to authentic service and inclusive love.
Speaker A:Give us courage to challenge old structures and wisdom to create new ones based on your radical love.
Speaker A:Amen.
Speaker B:My friend, I am delighted you chose to join me for today's reading.
Speaker B:The daily Bible refresh is completely listener supported.
Speaker B: on years, a million people by: Speaker B:I would be so grateful if you would go to voiceofgodddaily.com and share your gift of any amount.
Speaker B:Thanks much.
Speaker B:My name is Dr. Brad Miller and I'll be right here tomorrow with your daily Bible refresh.
Speaker B:Please subscribe and tag your friends until tomorrow.
Speaker B:Remember, God's loyal love doesn't run out.
Speaker B:His merciful love hasn't dried up, gets created new every morning.
