Lead Time

What does it mean to be Lutheran in today's world? Join us on Lead Time as we sit down with Trevor Sutton, senior pastor at St. Luke Lutheran Church in Lansing, Michigan, to explore this question. Discover how confessional Lutheranism stands apart from its more liberal counterparts, and why confessing Jesus and adhering to the authority of scripture remain central. We discuss the theological shifts within Lutheranism over the decades and their far-reaching implications.Ever wondered if church doctrines should adapt to new trends? We tackle this and more as we examine the practical application of Lutheran confessions, questioning whether they should be treated as unchangeable laws or adaptable guides. From the rise of Pentecostalism to the challenges of online worship, we delve into the concept of a living doctrine that balances tradition with modernity, ensuring faith remains relevant in today's ever-changing landscape.As we face today's existential dilemmas, our conversation shifts to current societal questions like, "What's the point?" We explore how the grand biblical narrative can offer answers and bring meaning amidst modern nihilism and identity crises. From skepticism towards science to the role of technology in sharing the gospel, we navigate these complex issues, stressing the importance of a distinctive Christian life that fosters hope and truth. Don't miss this compelling episode that blends theological depth with practical insights for navigating faith in a fragmented world.Support the showVisit uniteleadership.org

How does a university navigate the complexities of faith, leadership, and legal battles? Join the Lead Time Newsletter! (Weekly Updates and Upcoming Episodes)https://www.uniteleadership.org/lead-time-podcast#newsletterDr. Don Christian, president of Concordia University Texas, joins us to discuss the ongoing lawsuit with the Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod (LCMS) and what it means for the institution's future. You'll get an insider's perspective on the case's current status and timeline, as well as Dr. Christian's personal reflections on being a leader during such a turbulent period. This conversation sheds light on the broader issues of trust and conflict within church systems, making it a must-listen for anyone involved in faith-based organizations.In addition, we delve into the importance of embodying organizational values and creating a culture of recognition and vulnerability. Dr. Christian shares how Concordia integrates its core values into daily operations, fostering a supportive environment through public recognition and open dialogue. We also discuss the crucial aspects of preparing for leadership transitions, with insights from Dr. Christian’s own retirement planning. This episode concludes with a powerful affirmation of God's enduring faithfulness to Concordia, highlighting the potential for continued growth and kingdom expansion. Tune in for a compelling discussion on leadership, faith, and resilience.Support the showVisit uniteleadership.org

What if your journey to finding purpose took a turn you never expected? In this episode of Lead Time, we sit down with Greg Griffith, a seasoned pastor from King of Kings in Omaha, to uncover his unexpected path to ministry. From a seemingly ordinary childhood faith to a profound transformation in college, Greg shares how a mentor's guidance and a divine encounter shifted his aspirations from law to becoming a pastor. Discover the traits that marked him for leadership and the pivotal moments that defined his spiritual journey.Looking for innovative ways to make your church more engaging and welcoming? Greg opens up about practical strategies that have successfully attracted and retained members across generations at King of Kings. Learn about creative events like trunk-or-treats and themed Sundays, and explore how modern worship elements like haze and lighting can enhance the church experience. Greg emphasizes low-barrier invitation opportunities, fostering a vibrant community where everyone feels welcome.Lastly, we tackle the complexities of pastoral transitions and the importance of mutual respect within church leadership. Greg reflects on his own experiences with transitioning into senior pastoral roles, highlighting the significance of readiness and mutual love for the congregation. We also discuss the broader vision of unity among churches, emphasizing collaboration and authentic connections. Tune in for a rich conversation filled with wisdom, practical insights, and a shared dream for a flourishing church community.Support the showVisit uniteleadership.org

What happens when a church community embarks on a profound journey to explore the rich and transformative practice of baptism? Join us as we welcome Pastor Dan Schepmann from Gloria Dei in Nassau Bay, sharing the inspiring story of their recent baptismal remembrance Sunday. Over a powerful four-week sermon series, 48 members of the congregation either embraced baptism for the first time or reaffirmed their baptismal identity, facing theological questions and traditional practices head-on. Pastor Dan's insights not only illuminate the spiritual growth within his community but also challenge us to reflect on our own journey of faith.In our second segment, we confront the difficult reality of sustaining one's baptismal identity in the midst of crises within a church community. False rumors and toxic behavior can be devastating, but responding with grace and understanding is crucial. Through a heartfelt personal story, we emphasize the need for accountability and compassion, even in the face of unjust criticism. This conversation extends to broader societal issues, including identity politics and the use of divisive labels, urging us to foster a community built on mutual respect and understanding.Our final discussion delves into modern identity issues, particularly the experiences of parents with transgender children within the Christian community. By focusing on baptismal identities and avoiding reductive labels, we can create a more inclusive and empathetic church environment. We share a poignant story that underscores the importance of support and open dialogue, drawing parallels to other sensitive topics like miscarriages. Additionally, we explore how empowering church members for ministry can lead to a more vibrant community, supported by scriptural examples and bold pastoral leadership. Join us for a thought-provoking episode that calls for both theological reflection and compassionate action.Support the showVisit uniteleadership.org

Unlock the secrets behind successful church growth and discover the environments that best support adult conversions in the LCMS. This episode features Lyman Stone, a seasoned demographer and LCMS layperson, who shares the motivations and rigorous methodologies behind the recent Lutheran Religious Life Survey. From innovative survey participation techniques to the challenges of interpreting high-response data, Lyman's insights provide a comprehensive look at the current state of Lutheran congregations and the factors contributing to their vibrant community life.Gain a deeper understanding of the role data-driven decision-making plays within LCMS institutions and the importance of benchmarking. We discuss the complexities of interpreting survey results without a comparative framework and the nuanced difference between documenting what is and prescribing what ought to be. Learn about the intricate dynamics of church planting, growth patterns, and the surprising effectiveness of traditional Lutheran practices in attracting new converts. Discover how strategic church placements can maximize visitor engagement and how sacramentarianism might be key to retention.Explore the diverse stories of religious conversion and the impact of generational influences on contemporary Lutheran practices. We delve into the often contentious dynamics within the church, emphasizing the importance of proactive engagement and genuine care for its future. Lyman Stone's perspectives offer a fresh, data-informed look at the challenges and opportunities facing the LCMS today, making this episode a must-listen for anyone passionate about the future of their congregation.Support the showVisit uniteleadership.org

Unlock the secrets of effective church engagement with our special guest, Blue Van Dyke. As an executive pastor with a rich background in global marketing, digital advertising, and venture capital, Blue brings a unique perspective on how business principles can transform church communication and member engagement. From his journey with prestigious firms like Daimler Benz to the development of Studio C, an innovative member engagement system for churches, Blue shares compelling insights into turning congregants into passionate advocates and utilizing data-driven strategies to foster deeper connections within faith communities.Our discussion illuminates the mission of guiding individuals on their spiritual journeys through the strategic use of digital technologies. Drawing parallels to a GPS system, Blue emphasizes the importance of understanding where people are in their faith journeys to offer precise and compassionate guidance. By tailoring activities to meet the unique needs of each individual, churches can create a more personalized and effective approach to spiritual growth, transforming "not yet Christians" into fully committed followers of Christ.Dive into the critical role of data management in church settings with Blue's expert advice on using data responsibly to enhance engagement and avoid missteps. We explore the ethical use of data, address concerns over technologies like AI-powered facial recognition, and underscore the necessity of clear, transparent communication. Learn how to ensure no one falls through the cracks and how to create meaningful, personalized interactions within your church community, all while reflecting on the importance of data hygiene and the power of predictive analytics for future-proof member retention. Join us for an enlightening conversation that promises to revolutionize the way you think about church engagement.Support the showVisit uniteleadership.org

Ever wondered why negative feedback can be the ultimate game-changer for leaders? Join us as we sit down with Ryan Ermeling, leader of Parent Pulse and the Chair of the Board of Regents at Concordia University, Irvine. Ryan unveils the surprising benefits of actively seeking out and embracing negative feedback to foster growth and self-improvement. Listen to personal anecdotes that show how cultivating a culture of open feedback can transform leadership effectiveness and build stronger, more self-aware leaders.We then shift gears to tackle the expanding role of pastors, who now find themselves navigating responsibilities beyond the pulpit. From financial oversight to team development, pastors today need a blend of spiritual and business acumen. Ryan shares practical advice on leveraging lay leaders and engaging with business professionals to form advisory boards that can elevate pastoral leadership. Discover how pastors can benefit from tapping into expertise in finance and risk management to effectively manage growing congregations.Finally, we dive into the art of building effective nonprofit boards, drawing on the rich experiences of Concordia. Ryan explains the elements that make a board successful, emphasizing the need for diverse skill sets and a deep passion for the organization's mission. Learn about the critical relationship between the board chair and the CEO, and how their partnership can drive an organization forward. With stories from Christ Greenfield and CUI, this episode provides valuable insights into the dynamics necessary for a fruitful board-pastor collaboration.Support the showVisit uniteleadership.org

What happens when you bring ministry to an eclectic and diverse mountain town? Reverend Dr. Jeff Skopak shares his remarkable journey serving at Emmanuel Lutheran Church and School in Asheville, North Carolina. Jeff unveils the unexpected joys and unique challenges of ministering in a community where the cultural, social, and political landscape is as varied as the Blue Ridge Mountains themselves. From engaging with pre-Christian families to partnering with Evangelism Explosion, Jeff's stories highlight the profound impact of meeting people where they are—even if that means reaching out near an LGBTQ bar. This episode promises to leave you with a renewed perspective on inclusivity and outreach in modern ministry.Join us as we reflect on the highs and lows of pastoral work, emphasizing the significance of personal connections in ministry. Drawing from experiences in New Jersey, we explore how mental and physical health are crucial for pastors and the unique role they play in people's lives. We also tackle the frustrations of dealing with egos and cleaning up past pastoral messes, while celebrating the growth of faith within communities. Finally, we dive into the complexities of unity within the Lutheran Church–Missouri Synod, underscoring the importance of loving, constructive dialogue to build a more united church body. This heartfelt conversation is not to be missed!Support the showVisit uniteleadership.org

Reverend Erik Gauss from Cross Lutheran Church and School in Illinois, takes us through his 17-year ministry journey, shedding light on his dedication to developing lay leadership. Erik recounts his personal experiences and the various initiatives like huddles, men's groups, and leadership groups that he has spearheaded. We also navigate the unsettling trend of some pastors discouraging lay participation in the Great Commission, probing into its roots and possible ramifications. Have you ever wondered about the burdens pastors carry? In our insightful conversation, we tackle the complex issue of pastoral accountability and the fear it generates. Many pastors feel immense pressure, believing they'll be held accountable in heaven if things go awry in their churches. This chapter delves into finding a balance between pastoral responsibility and church member empowerment. We discuss the historical context and cultural shifts that have influenced this dynamic, and share personal insights into overcoming frustrations with church leadership.As we navigate societal challenges, the church's role in healing cultural ills becomes ever more critical. We discuss the necessity of contextualizing the gospel for modern audiences, and share a transformative story of faith impacting a secular business. The concept of "huddles" as leadership development tools is explored, highlighting the importance of creating safe spaces for spiritual growth. Finally, we touch on the acute shortage of ordained pastors in the Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod (LCMS) and brainstorm potential solutions. Wrapping up, we envision the future of the LCMS, emphasizing the need to refine current challenges while maintaining the purity of the gospel.Support the showVisit uniteleadership.org

Can AI truly transform the way ministry operates within the church? Join us on this thought-provoking episode of Lead Time Hot Topic Friday! We uncover the revolutionary potential of artificial intelligence in ministry alongside my good friend Matt Engel. We dive into the many facets of AI integration, from streamlining administrative tasks like email management and chatbots to enriching sermon content and crafting impactful social media snippets. But it's not all about efficiency; we stress the crucial importance of maintaining human connections and community engagement. We argue that AI should serve as a tool to enhance, not replace, the personal touch that is essential in ministry.We also tackle the broader implications of AI for church leadership and governance. How can we ensure that these advanced technologies align with our theological traditions and ethical standards? Matt and I discuss the necessity of a solid theological framework and the role of church leaders in the thoughtful implementation of AI tools. Moreover, we reflect on historical shifts in technology, such as the advent of spreadsheets in finance, drawing parallels to today’s AI revolution. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the intersection of technology and faith, offering rich insights for church leaders and communities navigating the evolving landscape of AI.Support the showVisit uniteleadership.org