Nicky Gumbel on His Succession at HTB, a Vision to Train 10,000 Pastors, and the Significance of April 17, 2033
Our guest today is Nicky Gumbel, pioneer of the Alpha Course and former Vicar of Holy Trinity Brompton (HTB) in London. After nearly two decades in senior leadership, Nicky shares his experience of navigating leadership transitions, empowering new leaders, and ensuring a healthy succession process in ministry.
In this conversation, Nicky reflects on the importance of trusting the next generation, embracing change without resistance, and equipping pastors from diverse backgrounds through initiatives like the Caleb and Peter Streams. He also casts a bold vision for global evangelism, aiming to see the gospel reach 99.6% of the world’s population by 2033.
His insights offer encouragement for leaders in seasons of transition, reminding us that passing the baton well and staying passionate about evangelism are essential for the future of the Church.
Jerry Sittser On the Early Church “Third Way”, Re-introducing a Christian Imagination, and Navigating Grief through a Redemptive Lens
How do we form resilient followers of Jesus in a culture where faith is no longer assumed?
In this episode, Jerry Sittser, professor emeritus at Whitworth University and author of Resilient Faith, joins Jason Ballard to explore how the early church thrived in a post-Christian world. He unpacks the lessons we can learn from the first Christians, the importance of discipleship over cultural Christianity, and how pastors can cultivate a church culture that shapes whole-life disciples. Jerry also shares personal reflections on grief, loss, and carrying both pain and joy with hope.
Jonathan Smith On Nurturing Change in Churches with Compassion, Embracing the Vitality of Pruning for Church Growth, and Recognizing the Essential Role of Spiritual Mentors
How do church leaders navigate change while building for the next generation?
In this episode, Jonathan Smith, a seasoned pastor with over 30 years of experience, joins Jason Ballard to share insights on leading through transition. From planting a church at 23 to guiding an established congregation, Jonathan unpacks what it takes to sustain vision, embrace innovation, and create space for young leaders. He reflects on the challenges of change, the importance of mentorship, and how churches can remain faithful while adapting to a shifting culture.
Jeff Vanderstelt on The Dealing With Criticism, Navigating Toxic Church Culture, The Crisis of Discipleship, and Dallas Willard’s Last Unanswered Question
How can discipleship become a way of life rather than just another church program?
In this episode, Jeff Vanderstelt, Executive Director of Saturate and founding leader of the Soma Family of Churches, joins Jason Ballard to explore what it means to lead with gospel fluency and mission in everyday life. Jeff shares his journey of mentoring leaders, navigating criticism, and learning to lead with open hands. He also reflects on his experience guiding a fractured church through healing and the profound impact of Dallas Willard’s final unanswered question.