223. Discovering Where God is Already at Work, a Quick Conversation with Tod Bolsinger and Markus Watson

Markus Watson and Tod Bolsinger engage in a discerning conversation about the leadership and mission implications of the idea that God is already pesent in every culture. They consider the respect and humility required when entering new cultures and relationships, especially with the understanding that God's presence and work precede us. Through personal stories and theological insights, they explore the posture of listening and joining in what God is already doing, rather than imposing our preconceptions.

Tod Bolsinger and Markus Watson discuss this quote from Justin Bailey in Episode 173, The Art of Interpreting Culture:

“You never go to another culture where God is not already present and at work.”


THIS EPISODE'S HIGHLIGHTS INCLUDE:

• God actively engages in all cultures even before we arrive, as highlighted by Justin Bailey's insight that one never enters a culture where God isn't already present and working.
• Leaders enhance their missions by respectfully listening first, acknowledging God's presence in every context, as emphasized by Tod Bolsinger's agreement with Justin Bailey.
• Christian engagement with others thrives when it begins with humility and recognition of God's preexisting activity, instead of approaching with a colonial mindset of bringing God to an empty space.
• Spiritual encounters flourish when the approach is invitational and inclusive, as demonstrated by Markus Watson's open communion table welcoming all individuals to participate.
• Adaptive leadership calls for joining in what God is already doing within a community, rather than imposing a preconceived agenda, thus resonating with an organic and responsive mode of spiritual leadership.

Did you know Spiritual Life and Leadership has been named the #1 Spiritual Leadership Podcast by the Feedspot Podcasters Database? Check it out HERE!