What if the pastor everyone blames isn’t the problem at all? We pull back the curtain on how church systems—not just personalities—shape culture, power, and discipleship. With guest Dave Miles, we explore how a non-anxious presence, rooted in the gospel, helps leaders see beneath the surface, disrupt unhealthy homeostasis, and guide congregations from being “right” toward being reconciled.
We start by naming a familiar pattern: a prideful, inward culture that prizes correctness over love and leaves leaders burned out. Dave shares field-tested insights on reading anxiety in the room, refusing to overfunction, and creating space for real responsibility. We dig into governance where dysfunction often hides—unclear roles, strong personalities that shut down dissent, and “safe” hires who keep systems stuck. You’ll hear practical counsel on accepting resignations without drama, re-vetting boards, and choosing self-differentiated, grace-filled leaders who can hold ground without hostility.
Together, we connect family systems theory with robust biblical theology. Identity in Christ enables differentiation without defensiveness; Paul’s counsel to a tribal Corinth offers a gospel map for modern factions. We talk genograms, emotionally healthy discipleship, and diagnostics that mirror truth back to churches. The goal isn’t therapy for its own sake—it’s discipleship that forms people who confess, forgive, and act with integrity. As anxiety lowers, churches regain an outward focus, engage non-Christians without coming unglued, and make hard calls with clarity and compassion.
If you lead through transition, face a reactive board, or simply want a healthier pathway for your team, this conversation gives language, tools, and hope to move forward. Subscribe, share this with a fellow leader who needs courage today, and leave a review to help more churches find a way toward calm, clarity, and mission.
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