How to Be a Savvy Follower, The Megachurch & Pop Culture, Navigating the Messy Middle, and Appreciating Volunteers
Episode Summary
In this episode, Derek and Danielle reflect on Hollywood’s influence on megachurch culture, discuss how to reassure a team through the messy middle, dive into what it means to be a Savvy Follower, and explore the importance of honoring volunteers.
SHOW NOTES
MEGACHURCH MEMORIES
- Use of Pop Culture in Church—how movie clips, Christianized media, and sermon illustrations shaped Sunday mornings.
- The rise of Sermon Spice and curated Christian media (now WorshipHouse Media).
- Renting out theaters for The Passion of the Christ—a cultural moment in church history.
- The challenge of using movies—they’re always dirtier than you remember!
TRAINING NOTES
The Messy Middle
- Don’t internalize frustration.
- Avoid gossip and side conversations.
- Don’t fill in gaps with mistrust.
- Make yourself a prototype—demonstrate the change you want to see.
- Celebrate small wins.
- Pray daily for clarity and unity in the church.
Henri Nouwen & The Flying Roudellas
- The flyer must trust the catcher.
- Once the flyer lets go, they can’t grab for the catcher—they must wait to be caught.
- In moments of transition, will we trust God’s timing rather than flailing for control?
REINVENTING CHURCH TOPIC
How to Be a Savvy Follower
- Introducing Pastor Sarah Burtt and Steve Reisenauer.
- Steve’s journey: Born and raised in Erie, attended Grace on 38th Street, life group leader, worship leader in the Commons.
- Dream Disciple Role: Savvy Follower—”I discern God’s voice and follow His lead at the right time in the right way.”
Guest Insights: Sarah Burtt & Steve Reisenauer
- How did Savvy Follower make the list of our 4 discipleship roles?
- What are the key barriers to being a Savvy Follower?
- Who or what has helped you grow as a Savvy Follower?
- What encouragement do you have for those on this journey?
Key Principles of Being a Savvy Follower
- Being “savvy” means being wise, thoughtful, and discerning.
- Spiritual savvy means having the perspective of God on the inside and allowing it to shape your actions.
- Jesus modeled when to host tables, sit at tables, and flip tables.
- Follow the cloud—move only when God moves.
WHAT HAPPENED THIS WEEK?
Honoring Volunteers
- Recognizing the intentionality behind volunteer appreciation events.
- Using storytelling to celebrate volunteers—highlighting impact and faithfulness.
- Kindra Hall’s framework for identifying and sharing meaningful stories in ministry.
- Check out Derek’s The Art of Storytelling Blog Series.
LINKS & RESOURCES
The Art of Storytelling
Beginner’s Guide to Hearing God’s Voice eBook (PDF)
Submit A Question
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