In today’s episode, we dive into the transformative impact of coaching for church leaders. Join Ben Borgman, Executive Director of discipleFIRST, as he sits down with Pastor Craig Etheredge and Pastor Randy Brown to discuss the unique challenges pastors face—whether it’s navigating crises, leading staff, or building a culture of multiplying disciples.
Coaching offers pastors a fresh perspective to help them stay focused on what truly matters, work through real-world challenges, and create healthy environments for disciple-making. Learn about discipleFIRST’s approach to coaching, which goes beyond just the principles of making disciples, adapting to the individual context and needs of each leader.
Listen as Pastor Randy Brown shares his story of how coaching through discipleFIRST helped him lead a multiethnic congregation in East Texas. He’ll dive into key components of a successful coaching relationship—like honest feedback, accountability, and a clear action plan. Whether you’re a pastor feeling overwhelmed or a leader seeking growth, this episode is packed with practical insights to help you lead by example and ignite disciple-making movements.
Don’t miss this inspiring conversation that’s sure to equip and encourage you on your leadership journey!
Overview:
- 00:00 Real-world application of coaching in churches.
- 03:34 Translating Jesus’ principles for pastors through coaching.
- 07:48 Coaching leaders; friendly ministry in East Texas.
- 11:39 Guide by questioning rather than instructing adult children.
- 15:14 Coaching helps prioritize urgent but non-essential issues.
- 18:17 Seek coaching regularly; learning opportunities are invaluable.
- 20:47 Monthly meet-ups provide encouragement and valuable feedback.
- 25:14 Pastors should use six clarity questions when coaching.
- 28:42 Define goals and timeline; increase community engagement.
- 30:07 Six questions provide clarity and drive growth.
- 34:45 Seek mentorship yearly to enhance growth skills.
- 36:52 Coaching for leadership and disciple-making context.
Discussion Questions:
- How can church leaders overcome these fears and embrace the benefits of coaching?
- Discuss some broader challenges pastors face that holistic coaching can address effectively.
- Can you share examples from your own church that illustrate this issue, and how can coaching help address it?
- Can you share a situation where feedback has significantly impacted your personal or professional growth?
- What strategies can leaders employ to become more secure and open to constructive feedback?
- Discuss how the GROWTH questions (Goal, Reality, Options, Will, Timeline, Help) can be practically applied in your current leadership setting. Provide examples of how you would utilize these questions.
- How can this coaching approach be beneficial in developing long-term leadership skills?
- How can these elements be incorporated into your current initiatives to ensure progress and effectiveness?
- Why is it essential for a pastor to change first for broader church transformation, and how can this change be initiated?
- What are some practical ways leaders can cultivate and demonstrate authenticity to build credibility and foster a genuine spiritual environment in their church?
