Episode Details

Though there have certainly been more difficult times in the course of church history for pastors, leading a church today is much tougher than it was 20 and 30 years ago. There have been some demographic and cultural shifts that reflect this reality. But some of the challenges can only be understood in the context of spiritual warfare. On this episode, Thom and Sam discuss six reasons why pastors must be more courageous today.

1. 1. Biblical values are not normative in culture today.
   2. The position of pastor is no longer held in high esteem in many communities.
   3. Church critics can be vicious. Social media has an amplifying effect.
   4. With streaming widely available, anyone can quickly compare your preaching to other, more well-known pastors.
   5. The best church leaders say no to the good so they can say yes to the best. But those who receive a “no” don’t often receive it well.
   6. Church leadership is spiritual warfare. Predators and wolves abound.

Resources:

• Inspire Bible for Kids

• Tyndale House Publishers

• Upward Running

• Upward Sports

• Are Church Members Cussing More Today Than in the Past?

• Church Answers Platinum Membership

• FREE Research Report! New Surprising Insights

• The Hope Initiative

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