David Platt & Mike Kelsey

About The Episode

In this episode, Sean engages with Mike and David, co-lead pastors at McLean Bible Church, as they share their experiences of transitioning into a unique shared leadership model. David reflects on how Mike’s leadership was essential to the church’s growth, prompting him to take a step back to focus more on global missions. Mike, in turn, reflects on the importance of cultivating a personal relationship with God, especially for ministry leaders. Together, they explore the challenges and benefits of co-leading and how God’s guidance has shaped their journey.

Welcome to Episode 118 of the Leaders in Living Rooms Podcast with Sean Morgan. 

INSIGHTS FROM DAVID & MIKE 

Co-Leadership Dynamics: 

David and Mike provide insight into their shared leadership model, highlighting how they both hold lead pastor roles but with Mike taking a more primary leadership position.

Transitioning Leadership: 

David shares his conviction to step back from certain leadership responsibilities to focus on global missions, while Mike steps up to lead the church locally.

Spiritual Discernment: 

Both pastors emphasize the importance of prayer, fasting, and seeking the Holy Spirit’s guidance in their leadership decisions.

Plurality of Leadership: 

The model at McLean Bible Church reflects a commitment to shared leadership and decision-making through a collective of pastors and elders.

Personal Influence: 

David expresses deep respect for Mike’s leadership, showing how their personal connection and mutual support have made the transition smoother.

The Power of Stepping Back: 

Leading effectively alongside other strong leaders requires knowing when to sit back and say nothing. This leadership skill promotes humility and allows others to shine.

Trust is Foundational: 

Trust between co-leaders is essential for shared leadership to work. It allows leaders to defer to one another and create space for collaborative decision-making.

Navigating Leadership Dynamics: 

In situations where leadership is shared, clear communication and defined roles are critical for the team’s confidence and direction. Mike and David had to be intentional with the church and staff understanding their roles clearly.

Deferment is Key: 

Recognizing when to defer to a more experienced or Spirit-led leader shows maturity and wisdom. It’s not about rank but about the collective goal of serving the church well.

God’s Leadership Above All: 

Trusting that God is leading the church and both leaders is central to their leadership style. This trust allows them to relinquish control and let God’s spirit work through each leader.

Personal Retreats with God are Essential: 

Both Mike and David highlight the significance of dedicating intentional time to be alone with God, without distractions. This practice strengthens their personal faith and leadership.

Leadership Depends on Spiritual Intimacy: 

David shares how leading from a place of spiritual emptiness is not only dangerous but can distort ministry. True strength and leadership come from abiding in God and cultivating an intimate relationship with Him.

The Sweetness of Time with God: 

Time spent with the Lord should not just be a preparation for ministry but valued for its own sake. God is the ultimate goal, and ministry should flow out of this relationship.

Encouragement for Leaders: 

Leaders should not see time with God as a way to be more productive but as their primary vocation, leading to more meaningful and fruitful ministry.