What can we learn from recent secular literature about the practice of Christian pastoral leadership? 

Head of Ministry at Sydney’s Moore Theological College Archie Poulos looks at how the 'The Infinite Game' concept, popularized by Simon Sinek, can be applied to ministry.  Sinek explores the consequences of short and long term thinking in business and life. Long term success is more likely when an infinite perspective is taken. 

Then we examine Loran Nordgren and David Schonthal’s book ‘The Human Element: Overcoming the resistance that awaits new ideas.’

Archie considers the emotional and psychological hurdles (inertia, effort, emotion, and reactance) that congregations face when change is suggested. 

We look back to ‘After the Ball’ by Marshall Kirk and Hunter Madsen, a 1989 secular play book for effecting LGBTI societal acceptance.  Archie suggests there are lessons from aspects of that strategy for Christian mission. 

Plus Archie talks about what impressed him about Andrew Heard’s soon to be released book ‘Growth and Change - The danger and necessity of a passion for church growth. 

Purchase/download links to the books discussed this week:

• Growth and Change - by Andrew Heard - The danger and necessity of a passion for church growth

• The Infinite Game - by Simon Sinek - Exploring the consequences of short and long term thinking in business and life

• The Human Element: Overcoming the resistance that awaits new ideas - by Loran Nordgren and David Schonthal

• After the ball - by Marshall Kirk and Hunter Madsen

• Human Sexuality and the Same-Sex Marriage Debate - by Mark Thompson (Editor)