The Pave Podcast

How to Build Trust as a Church Leader (with Sam Rainer)

Episode Summary

Welcome to the PAVE Podcast hosted by Jonathan L. Smith! Join us as we explore innovative, biblical strategies and revolutionary tools to empower you to be a catalyst for church growth. Be inspired by church growth practitioners who are expanding God’s Kingdom in their communities and around the world. In this episode of the PAVE Podcast, Jonathan Smith and Sam Rainer discuss the critical role of trust in church revitalization. They explore how trust is built over time through reliability, confidence, and truthfulness, and emphasize the importance of being present during crises to foster deeper connections with the congregation. The conversation also includes practical tips for pastors to increase trust within their communities, highlighting the need for patience and strategic actions to create a positive impact in church revitalization efforts.

Episode Notes

Takeaways:

• Trust is based on reliability, confidence, and truthfulness.
• Pastors must exhibit reliability and truthfulness over time to build trust.
• Building trust is essential for exercising authority in a church context.
• Leadership is a gift from followers, not a right.
• Trust takes time, often around five years in a typical church setting.
• Leading through crises can accelerate trust-building.
• Showing up for significant life events is crucial for pastors.
• Small victories can help establish reliability and trust.
• Engaging with community leaders is vital for gaining trust.

Quotes:

• "Trust is a gift from followers."
• "It takes time to build trust."
• "Just show up."

Resources: 

Church Revitalization Checklist - Sam Rainer