The Supernatural Reality for Spiritual Leadership | Episode 3 | Season Three
In this two-part episode, Pastor John Carter and Dr. A.R. Bernard of Christian Cultural Center in Brooklyn, NY discuss how to address the grey matters present in culture when crafting messaging. While it is important to craft relevant and relatable messages, it is more important to ensure that what we are teaching in our pulpits is grounded in the integrity, longevity, and truth of the Bible.
Key Highlights:
Christ in Culture: Dr. A.R. Bernard emphasizes that God is present in all aspects of life, including government, society, and culture. He challenges the notion of a secular-sacred divide, encouraging pastors and Christians to view the world as fully integrated with God’s presence and purpose. He stresses that Christians are called to engage with culture, not withdraw from it.
Navigating Spiritual Warfare: Drawing from his early ministry experiences, Dr. A.R. Bernard discusses spiritual warfare, both in personal encounters with demonic forces and in larger societal structures. He highlights the subtle yet dangerous influence of evil in positions of power and urges pastors to recognize that real spiritual warfare happens in the daily choices between good and evil, not just in the prayer closet.
Engaging Culture through Theology: Dr. A.R. Bernard emphasizes the need for pastors to bring theology out of academia and into everyday life. He encourages church leaders to frame their sermons and teachings around the real challenges and experiences their congregations face, making theological concepts relatable and applicable to current social, moral, and cultural issues.
Responding to a Changing Society: With America becoming increasingly pluralistic, Dr. A.R. Bernard highlights the church’s role in adapting without compromising the gospel. He draws a parallel to the early church in the Roman Empire, which thrived not by controlling society but by living out its distinct values. He challenges pastors to focus on demonstrating the Christian difference through how they live and lead.
Practical Ministry Advice: Dr. A.R. Bernard offers guidance on how pastors can craft messages that address sensitive cultural issues such as race, politics, and morality, without alienating their congregations. He suggests focusing on challenging people’s biases through a biblical lens while maintaining unity within the church. By leading with grace, wisdom, and sensitivity, pastors can help their congregations navigate the complexities of modern culture while staying grounded in Scripture.
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