Learning How to Lead Differently

Watch closely: I am preparing something new; it’s happening now, even as I speak, and you’re about to see it. I am preparing a way through the desert; waters will flow where there had been none.

Isaiah 43:19 VOICE

God has always been in the business of doing something new. Isaiah encourages us to “watch closely,” because even when we don’t see it yet, God is already at work preparing a way where there was none before. This spirit of innovation shows up throughout the Bible and the life of Jesus, and is one we as a church aim to embody. 

Innovation isn’t just about new technology or strategies. It’s about being open to God’s vision, willing to change, and ready to reach people in fresh ways. This scripture reminds us that God doesn’t stay still, and neither should we.

As we think about the future of our church, this is a call to lean into God’s creativity. Let’s look at how we’re learning to live this out together.

Learning to lead differently

“And when I read my Bible, I started seeing Jesus as a great innovator. I started seeing the New Testament Christians as great innovators. And I said, that's what we have to do—back off of traditions. Traditions are not wrong, but they can be limiting, especially when reaching people who are not from your generation, your culture, or your language.”
—Russ Ewell, Learning How to Lead Differently, 95 Podcast

Recently, Russ Ewell, Executive Minister of the Bay Area Christian Church, joined The 95 Podcast for a conversation about “Learning How to Lead Differently.” The 95 Podcast exists to help churches grow, and this episode hits home for anyone who cares about the future of the church.

Today, churches are learning to lead across multiple generations, from Baby Boomers to Millennials to Gen Z. Each generation sees the world differently, and reaching younger generations takes creativity, humility, and a willingness to adapt. In the interview, Russ shares lessons from leading the Bay Area Christian Church and what it takes to attract, inspire, and keep engaged the Millennials and Gen Z generations.

Throughout the conversation, one theme stands out: innovation. As the saying goes, “Necessity is the mother of invention.” Challenges don’t have to hold us back—they can actually push us to think differently and lead with greater faith.

We want to encourage everyone to listen to this conversation and reflect on how God might be calling each of us to lead differently in our families, friendships, ministries, and communities.

Listen to the full episode on Spotify.