Discussion Questions:
- Pastoral Challenge: How does Alan Fadling’s question, “What thirst of my soul am I bringing to my congregation in hopes that they’ll meet me there,” challenge the traditional role of pastoral leadership?
- Acknowledging Needs: Tod Bolsinger discusses the importance of leaders acknowledging their needs. Why does he believe that failing to do so can lead to getting needs met illegitimately?
- Legitimate vs. Illegitimate: What are some examples of legitimate vs. illegitimate ways leaders can seek to have their needs met, according to Tod Bolsinger?
- Scriptural Integrity: How does the concept of needing approval from the congregation potentially hinder a leader’s ability to deliver the full counsel of scripture?
- Divine Fulfillment: In what ways does bringing one’s needs to God first enable a leader to bring abundance to their congregation?
- Mission vs. Approval: How does the drive to please people conflict with staying true to God’s mission, as discussed by Tod Bolsinger?
- Pleasing God: Tod Bolsinger mentions Paul’s words about pleasing humans versus pleasing God. How can this perspective help leaders navigate their responsibilities?
- Self-awareness: Discuss Tod Bolsinger’s statement that leaders being unaware of their needs might subconsciously seek approval from their congregation. How can leaders become more self-aware in this context?
- Appropriate Support: Tod Bolsinger talks about the importance of finding appropriate places to meet personal needs. What might some of these appropriate places be for leaders?
- Practical Steps: Reflecting on the entire discussion, what are some practical steps leaders can take to ensure they are bringing their needs to God and not relying solely on their congregation for validation?