Ep. 010 - Is Your Church a Cult, But You Don't Even Know It?

Church Made Simple

Welcome back to the Church Made Simple podcast, where we strive to demystify the complexities of church life. I'm your host, Stephan Kilgore, and today's episode delves into a crucial aspect: values.
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You might have noticed a brief hiatus in our episodes. Well, during this break, I've been pondering some exciting developments for the podcast. More on that later.
Now, let's talk values. They're not just buzzwords; they're the backbone of your church's culture. Think of them as guiding principles that steer your mission and vision. But what exactly are values, and why are they crucial?
First off, let's address a common misconception: culture isn't about inclusivity—it's exclusionary by nature. Shocking, right? But stay with me. Just as Jesus crafted a culture that wasn't for everyone, your church's culture won't resonate with every individual. And that's okay.
Consider the Sermon on the Mount—Jesus didn't sugarcoat His message. He set a high standard, and many walked away. Sound exclusionary? Absolutely. But here's the kicker: exclusivity isn't necessarily negative. It's about aligning with your mission and purpose.
So, what are the benefits of a healthy, exclusionary culture?
Firstly, it weeds out those prioritizing personal preferences over purpose. Your church isn't a buffet—it's a mission-driven community. Secondly, it safeguards against scriptural distortion. If someone's peddling personal theology, your culture acts as a guardrail, protecting the integrity of Scripture.
But here's the real eye-opener: a healthy culture doesn't just exclude; it redirects. Sometimes, individuals don't fit your church's mission—and that's okay. By acknowledging this, you guide them toward communities where they can thrive.
Moreover, a robust culture attracts like-minded individuals. It's a beacon for those ready to champion your mission and vision. And yes, detractors may label you a "cult." But here's the truth: a strong culture isn't cultish—it's intentional.
Now, about those podcast developments: I'm thrilled to announce some exciting changes. We're revamping the podcast with a fresh logo and branding. Plus, we're upgrading to a studio setup, allowing for engaging guest interviews.
And here's where you come in: I need your support. Pray for wisdom and divine connections as we embark on this journey. And if you're able, consider contributing financially to help us realize these podcast enhancements.
Whether it's through upgrading equipment or establishing a nonprofit ministry, every contribution counts. Together, let's simplify church life and empower communities to thrive.
Stay tuned for our upcoming episodes as we delve deeper into simplifying church dynamics. And remember, let's keep it simple.

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