The Upside-Down Kingdom - Leadership and Movement in the Way of Jesus
Episode Summary
In this weighty and passionate kickoff to a new series, Cory and Brian set the stage for a deep dive into leadership in the way of Jesus. They reflect on what they’ve been seeing in Scripture, their own leadership journeys, and what’s emerging globally in disciple-making movements—especially in contrast to the hierarchical, platform-driven models prevalent in the West. This episode unpacks why rethinking leadership is not just theological, but deeply missional and personal.
Key Themes & Takeaways
1. A Weighty Conversation on Leadership
This series emerges from a growing tension between the leadership models of Jesus and those seen in American church culture.
The intro is deeply personal—highlighting how God has been pressing themes of servant leadership, downward mobility, and decentralized influence into their lives.
2. Leadership in the Global Church
Corey reflects on his time with global DMM leaders and Western theologians in Cyprus.
Movements are thriving in the Global South where leadership is decentralized, family-based, and Spirit-dependent—often led by women, youth, and bivocational leaders.
3. Biblical Foundations for Jesus-Shaped Leadership
Mark 10:42–45: “Not so with you.”
Philippians 2: The hymn of Jesus’ humility and servanthood.
John 13: Jesus washing his disciples’ feet as an embodiment of leadership from beneath.
4. The Danger of Hierarchy and Platform Culture
The Western model often elevates strategy, charisma, and centralization over spiritual maturity and servanthood.
Corey and Brian call out the celebrity culture in churches that leads to burnout, consumerism, shallow discipleship, and eventual moral collapse.
5. Personal Stories of Surrender and Healing
Corey shares a vulnerable story of sabbatical, healing from pride, and God’s invitation to surrender the desire for fame and platform.
Examples from leaders like Neil Cole and Brandon illustrate the beauty of hiddenness and humility.
6. Why This Series Matters Now
With 70% of Christians projected to live in the Global South by 2050, the future of the Church is already being shaped by models that prioritize obedience, not hierarchy.
Gen Z and Gen Alpha are drawn to collaboration, equity, and authenticity. Leadership must shift if we want to reach and walk with them.
7. Topics Coming in the Series
Alan Hirsch on kingdom frameworks and yeast-like influence.
Servant vs. celebrity leadership with Roy Moran.
Flattened leadership models with Neil Cole.
Obscurity over fame with Rob Wegner.
Biblical leadership roles with Tim (TBD).
Jesus and the powers (politics + mission).
Suffering as a fuel for movement.
Final Thoughts
This isn’t just a series for pastors or leaders in formal roles. It’s a call to all followers of Jesus to rethink what kind of culture we are reproducing. Leadership is not about control or charisma—it’s about surrender, service, and shared authority. The question is: Are we willing to lead in the way of Jesus?
