Pragmatism and Pastoring

This is an excellent podcast on pastoral philosophy, directly addressing a creeping mentality "what works must be right" mentality that has crept into many churches. Juan Sanchez speaks specifically to issues in the SBC, but this is an important consideration for all Baptists.

Two quotes to give you an idea of the discussion: “Sometimes we have a, let's call it a soft prosperity theology. If we do something and it works, if we do something and it shows fruit, we kind of cling to that must be evidence that God is in it and God is blessing it. And the Bible warns us against that.”

And then: "“My concern is that we must do that as God has designed and desired, not building on the foundation of Jesus with materials made of wood, hay and stubble, but with eternal materials, precious stones and precious metal.”

Guarding against unhealthy pragmatism requires constant vigilance. I personally have to stop and ask, "why are we doing this as a church? Is this primarily result oriented or rooted in the Scripture"? Give it a listen - I think you will find it helpful in considering the philosophy try to embrace as a pastor.