1. How does Terry Walling’s personal journey from pastoring to leadership development reflect the larger shifts happening within church leadership today?
2. Walling suggests that the church is at a “defining moment.” What do you think this defining moment is, and how might it reshape the future of church communities?
3. What are the challenges Walling identifies in changing established church structures and power dynamics, and how can these challenges be overcome?
4. Discuss the concept of “unlikely nomads” in relation to traditional church settings. Who are they, and what do they seek within their spiritual journey?
5. Walling stresses the importance of personal renewal and discipleship before structural changes. Can you share examples of how personal transformation has led to broader organizational change?
6. What does Terry Walling mean by a “bridging church,” and how does it differ from traditional church models in terms of community engagement and resource investment?
7. How can the church create a safe space for open conversations and authentic connections without requiring individuals to conform to existing church expressions?
8. In what ways can learning from other church movements benefit current congregations, and how can we balance maintaining traditions with embracing new practices?
9. How can the concept of “living out the message” and restoring the “love of thy neighbor” principle become more central to contemporary church practices?
10. Terry Walling’s discussion on leadership focuses on the idea of an apprenticeship of Jesus. What does this look like practically, and how can church leaders facilitate this process for their congregations?
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