The basics—biblical knowledge, theology and the likes—don’t change dramatically. And shouldn’t. That foundation is reliable years, even decades, later.
But there’s a growing gap between what leaders need to know about the culture and what they actually know.
Some seminaries are catching up, but with change happening faster than ever, every leader needs to become a self-learner.
So how do you keep up?
Here are three ways I keep up and try to help you stay current, both as a fellow learner and a content creator.
Avoiding Church Fails #1. Podcasts
Eighteen months ago, I started a Leadership Podcast … largely because the conversations I was having with key leaders were changing how I approached leadership and ministry.
First, I wanted everyone to be able to hear what key leaders were telling me. And second, I wanted an excuse to have more great conversations with key leaders. Hence, the podcast.
You can subscribe to my leadership podcast for free on iTunes or Stitcher. It’s an interview format in which I interview top leaders about church trends on a weekly basis to stay sharp personally, but also to help you.
Other leaders also have their own leadership podcasts: Josh Gagnon, Craig Groeschel, Andy Stanley, Perry Noble, Rich Birch and the great people at Church Leaders. I personally listen to ALL of these podcasts. They help me stay sharp.
Avoiding Church Fails #2. Conferences
Conferences that really dissect practical leadership are also essential.
Rethink Leadership is a brand new conference in Atlanta I’ll be a part of April 27-29. You can sign up now for an intimate, senior-leaders-only gathering with today’s top leaders like Andy Stanley, Pete Wilson, Reggie Joiner, Jeff Henderson, Leonce Crump, Jon Acuff, Brad Lomenick and more live and in-person.
You can register for Rethink Leadership here.
Avoiding Church Fails #3. Current Reading
I read a lot of books. Many are timeless in nature (great leadership is). But there are also few that can help you digest changing trends in leadership.
That’s exactly why I wrote my latest book, Lasting Impact: 7 Powerful Conversations That Can Help Your Church Grow. It’s all about what’s changing in the church and how to respond.
You can learn more about it or pick up copies here.
Bottom line?
However you decide to stay current, you have to stay current.
What’s Leading to Church Fails for You?
So let’s help each other. What’s no longer working for you that used to work?
