An invitation to critique and debate the current state of the church, challenging its assumptions and calling for a reformation. The speaker, Matt Skolnik, expresses his deep love for the church while highlighting the need to question inherited power dynamics and fundamental beliefs. He references historical contexts, such as Martin Luther's 97 Theses, to emphasize the importance of challenging assumptions. Skolnik calls for substantial debates within the church and invites participation in what he terms "Our 97," with the goal of fostering a more faithful and just Christian community. The description concludes with a prayer for unity and humility in pursuing positive change.

In this episode, the panel delves into an engaging conversation about power in the church and society, featuring insights from Lindsay Anderson, Ajah Hales, Heather Johnston, and Matt Skolnik. The discussion covers the church's historical relationship with power, the struggle with white supremacy in the Presbyterian denomination, and rethinking monetary stewardship. Practical steps for addressing power issues, including developing genuine and reciprocal relationships, having mentors, and letting go of white guilt, are also explored. 00:12 Introduction to Power in the Church and Society 00:30 Historical Context: Constantine and the Church's Struggle with Power 01:20 Panel Discussion: Historical Misuse of Power and White Supremacy 01:59 Opening Prayer by Lindsay 02:42 Introduction of Panelists 02:51 Panelists' Experiences and Initial Thoughts on Power 05:10 The Struggle with White Supremacy in the Presbyterian Denomination 06:05 Theological Reflections on Power and Control 10:03 Financial Stewardship and Racial Capitalism 11:36 Challenges of Small Churches and Pastoral Leadership 12:30 Confusing Control with Power 15:00 The Role of Wealth and Privilege in the Church 21:19 The Church's Relationship with Empire and Oppression 26:32 Power in Numbers and the Future of the Church 26:59 Addressing Racism and Social Justice in the Church 32:46 Understanding Leadership and Society's Expectations 33:10 Biblical Insights on Pride and Help 34:12 The Spiritual Cost of Oppression 36:39 Personal Stories and Reflections on Racism 38:59 Practical Steps for Anti-Racism Work 39:45 The Role of White Guilt in Anti-Racism 42:01 The Importance of Genuine Relationships 45:06 Building Racial Resilience 47:31 Addressing Poverty and Control 55:36 Final Thoughts and Actionable Steps 57:19 Closing Prayer for Unity and Compassion

In this episode, Matt sits down with Sara Dingman, the executive of the Synod of Lincoln Trails in Indiana and Illinois. Together, they delve into the topic of self-imposed constraints within the church. As their conversation unfolds, they explore the idea of the Presbyterian Church supporting pastors in starting their own businesses as a way to foster community relationships, develop organizational leadership skills, and fund ministry. Sara and Matt both share a belief in finding a balanced approach to addressing any concerns about the intersection of business and the church. What are your thoughts on this? Who do you know who has business and leadership skills who could help design a training? Who do you know that can help navigate resources that we already have that could help? But more importantly, what is God calling us to do? Sit back, start praying, and share this conversation with others. Let's get started! 00:00 Introduction and Welcome 00:03 Introducing Sarah Dingman and the Topic of Self-Imposed Constraints 00:56 Exploring Self-Imposed Constraints in the Church 03:46 Identifying and Overcoming Upper Limits 05:17 Coaching and Breaking Boundaries 08:10 Rethinking Pastoral Roles and Assumptions 11:28 The Concept of Multi-Vocational Ministry 16:35 The Benefits and Challenges of Multi-Vocational Ministry 24:11 Encouraging Entrepreneurial Spirit in Pastors 29:34 Conclusion and Final Thoughts #pcusa #reformation #constraints #limits #coaching #pastoralroles #business #church #businessandchurch #amish #organizationalleadership #multivocationalministry