https://youtu.be/mt_fKp9lTSk
Discussion Questions:
1. How do you see the concept of fear impacting contemporary Christian communities? Could you share specific examples where fear of loss overshadowed potential positive outcomes?
2. What are some practical ways churches can shift their focus from what they are against to what they are for? Can you think of any successful examples of this in action?
3. How does leading from a place of anxiety affect a church community? What strategies can pastors use to lead from a place of vision rather than from fear?
4. Tod Bolsinger mentioned “helicopter parenting” as a metaphor for overprotective leadership. How can church leaders balance protection and empowerment within their communities?
5. According to the episode, discussing what is great about living in the community can help focus the church’s mission. What do you think are the unique strengths of your community, and how can your church leverage them for positive impact?
6. Fear can easily rally people together, but so can strong, positive vision. What techniques or initiatives could your church undertake to rally people around a positive mission?
7. Brad Strawn and Warren Brown bring psychological and brain science insights into the discussion. How can modern churches integrate scientific understanding into their theology and practice?
8. If contemporary Christianity in the U.S. is known more for what it is against, how can churches actively work to change this public perception? What steps can be taken immediately and in the long term?
9. In the episode, Bolsinger mentions a missed opportunity where churches didn’t rally to stop homelessness. What are some issues that your local churches could collaborate on to create meaningful change in your community?
10. How can church leaders develop and communicate a vision that focuses on positive, community-enriching goals? What role do congregational members play in this vision crafting process?
