****** - Verified Buyer
4.5
Joel Gregory gives a self deprecating yet minimally disclosing account (of others) as he relates his experience as a, or a would be, pastor of a super mega church. The particular church is one of great history, wealth and costly mismanagement both physically, spiritually, and relationally. He accepts the position offered to him against the advice of many friends and some pastors of the same flavor, including the iconic Adrian Rogers (Pastor of Bellevue in Memphis, TN at that time). Part of the difficulty involves an iconic pastor who himself is ambiguous about his own retirement timetable and who does not wish to give up his reign or the prestige of his position. Meanwhile the ministry, already suffering there, continues to suffer. This is a great resource for learning from the multiple mistakes of many individuals, many roles, many departments and committees, and of one system. How "not to manage conflict" and how "not to be a church or church leader" are all lessons to be garnered. Related insights into the SBC conflict are also present including insights into one particular Baptist seminary and its president at that time - resulting from one aspect of many in the fallout of this church conflict. The allure of prestige and the dangers and hurtful consequences of power over and above others is clear. The dangers of inaction may be less clear, but are clearly evident as well. A revision or fresh reflection from Gregory would be a welcome additional resource for the Church and her leaders of today. The need for grace for the Church as well as for those she would attract is demonstrated.
