To reject conformity to this age (aion) is to actively resist patterns of domination that distort our humanity.

JR WOODWARD

Summary

In this episode of the Right Side Up podcast, hosts Danielle Strickland and James Sholl engage with JR Woodward, the National Director of the V3 Movement and author of 'The Scandal of Leadership.' They explore the burdens of leadership, the powers at play within institutions, and the temptations leaders face regarding identity and purpose. The conversation emphasizes the importance of community, the deceptive nature of powers, and the necessity of imitating Christ in leadership. Woodward discusses the scapegoat mechanism and the call to resistance against systemic issues, urging leaders to reflect deeply on their roles and the impact of their decisions.

Takeaways

* The burden of leadership often feels heavy and requires deep reflection.

* Understanding the powers at play in leadership can help navigate challenges.

* Institutions can shape leaders in ways that may not align with their values.

* Living in the world requires discernment to not be of the world.

* Leaders face temptations that challenge their identity and purpose.

* The powers can be deceptive, leading to justifications for unethical behavior.

* Imitating Christ is essential for authentic leadership.

* The scapegoat mechanism can create temporary peace but leads to deeper issues.

* Community and proximity to people are vital for effective leadership.

* Resistance to the powers is a necessary call for leaders today.

Links:

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the Right Side Up Podcast

02:26 The Burden of Leadership and Writing The Scandal of Leadership

06:12 Understanding Powers and Principalities in Leadership

10:02 The Role of Institutions and Ideologies

14:11 The Temptations of Leadership and Identity

18:16 Unmasking the Powers in Today's Context

22:08 The Call to Church Leaders and Overcoming Evil

29:51 The Impact of Interpretation on Scripture

31:10 Navigating Deception and Humility in Leadership

32:11 Understanding Mimetic Desire and Its Implications

35:33 The Scapegoat Mechanism in Society

39:10 Imitating Christ: A Path to Overcoming Powers

42:59 The Role of Honor and Identity in Leadership

46:35 Proximity to People: A Key to Authentic Leadership

50:40 The Dangers of Exceptionalism in Leadership

53:34 Faithful Resistance: Embracing the Journey of Self-Emptying

56:39 educational-intro-high-short.wav

In this engaging conversation, Danielle Strickland, James Sholl, and Aaron White explore the themes of powers and principalities, the harrowing of hell, and the complexities of the gospel. They discuss the sacredness of life, the corruption of good systems, and the idolatry of self, while emphasizing the importance of aligning with the marginalized and understanding the true nature of God's power. The conversation challenges traditional views on hell and encourages a deeper exploration of liberation theology and the good news of Jesus. In this conversation, the speakers explore the themes of death, judgment, and the nature of hell, emphasizing the influence of Dante's imagery on contemporary beliefs. They discuss the biblical stories of the rich man and Lazarus, the concept of refinement and transformation, and the significance of Jesus' descent into hell as a means of liberation. The dialogue also touches on the nature of free will, the role of mercy in justice, and the importance of recognizing and liberating those trapped in shadows of despair. Ultimately, they advocate for a vision of good news that emphasizes love, liberation, and the relentless pursuit of God.

Takeaways

* The power of babies serves as a reminder of sacredness.

* Powers and principalities are often misunderstood in evangelicalism.

* The harrowing of hell reveals the depths of God's love and justice.

* Good systems can become corrupted and serve self-interests.

* Idolatry often stems from a desire for self-preservation.

* Jesus invites us to die to our self-serving agendas.

* The true power of the gospel liberates and transforms lives.

* Understanding hell requires a nuanced theological perspective.

* Liberation theology emphasizes the voices of the marginalized.

* The conversation challenges traditional views on God's judgment and mercy. We often create an allegiance with death and judgment without realizing it.

* Dante's portrayal of hell has shaped modern Christian beliefs.

* The story of the rich man and Lazarus illustrates a great reversal.

* Refinement and transformation are essential aspects of faith.

* Jesus' descent into hell signifies victory over death and liberation for captives.

* Free will is directed towards the good, but many remain trapped in shadows.

* Jesus is the bait that leads to the liberation of souls from hell.

* Justice is ultimately trumped by mercy in God's economy.

* Evil is a shadow, and light must shine to remove it.

* The call to action is to harrow hell and liberate those in despair.

Titles

* Exploring Powers and Principalities

* The Harrowing of Hell Explained

* Understanding the Gospel's True Power

* The Corruption of Good Systems

* Idolatry and Self-Preservation

* The Invitation to Die with Jesus

Summary

In this episode of the Right Side Up podcast, host Danielle Strickland and co-host James Sholl engage with James Stinson, who shares his journey from Australia to the UK and his involvement with Alpha International, focusing on youth ministry. The conversation explores the challenges and opportunities in reaching today's youth, particularly through the lens of recent research on the 'open generation.' Stinson discusses the importance of authenticity, empowerment, and connection in engaging young people, as well as the role of the church in addressing their needs and questions. In this conversation, Danielle Strickland and James Stinson discuss the nature of Jesus, the importance of social justice, and how to effectively communicate the gospel in today's context. They emphasize the need to empower the next generation, innovate church leadership, and the critical role of food in ministry. The dialogue highlights the challenges faced by the church and the ongoing relevance of Jesus's message in a world seeking good news.

Takeaways

James Stinson moved to the UK to pursue football and ended up in youth ministry.

Stinson emphasizes the importance of local church involvement for newcomers.

Alpha International aims to reach marginalized youth through innovative approaches.

The new Alpha Youth series focuses on engaging Generation Z and Generation Alpha.

Research shows that young people are spiritually open and curious about Jesus.

Authenticity is a key value for today's youth, who can see through inauthenticity.

Young people desire empowerment and autonomy in their faith journeys.

The church must listen to young people's needs and perspectives.

Connection without control is essential for engaging youth today.

The research on the open generation reveals a longing for safe spaces to explore faith. The character of Jesus is central to understanding his message.

Contextualizing the gospel is essential for reaching today's generation.

Empowerment over control is key for engaging young people in the church.

Innovative approaches are necessary for effective church leadership.

Food plays a significant role in building community and sharing faith.

The next generation is focused on social justice and helping others.

Church leaders should be willing to take risks and innovate.

Building relationships through meals can facilitate deeper conversations about faith.

The gospel remains relevant even amidst challenges in the church.

Good news must be communicated in a way that resonates with people's experiences.

Sound Bites

"We're a church for the city."

"They want to own things."

"Is God good?"

"Blow the roof off."

"Jesus responds to their faith."

"Food is central to the gospel."

"Good news in a good way."

"Share more meals together."

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Background of James Stinson

03:32 Journey into Youth Ministry and Alpha International

08:30 The Role of Alpha in Reaching Youth

12:39 Research Insights on the Open Generation

19:22 Empowerment and Connection in Youth Engagement

20:10 Exploring the Nature of Jesus

23:02 The Importance of Contextualizing the Gospel

24:31 Empowering the Next Generation

30:00 Innovative Approaches to Church Leadership

37:11 The Role of Food in Ministry

39:03 The Good News Amidst Challenges