Tyranny of the Good
Instructions
· In your initial post, use approximately 250 words and include at least one specific citation in order to receive full credit.
· In your replies, include scholarly questions, additional examples or counterexamples, and/or additional connections to assigned course materials (readings/videos).
Questions
1.
David Platt (2011) asserts, “One of the worst enemies of Christians can be good things in the church” (p. 7). What does he mean and why is this important for ministry leaders to be aware of?
2.
What does this mean for you when it comes to your own life and ministry callings?
3.
What are some principles that we can use to be on guard against busying ourselves with good things that may not be the best things?
The Soul of Your Leadership Journal: Entries 3 and 4
Instructions
During weeks 4–6 & 8 of this course, you will read
Strengthening the Soul of Your Leadership by Ruth Barton. A journal prompt on a select topic will be provided to you via the course site each week. Please write a substantive response of approximately 1.5 pages (about 400 words) to each prompt based on your own processing of the Barton text. What is God saying to you in this area of your life? How might he be challenging you toward further growth?
Entry Prompts
Entry 3, Week 6: After reading chapter 9 in the Barton text, reflect on the role of intercession in the life of the ministry leader. What has been your experience of personal intercession or observing other leaders who were either effective or ineffective in this area? What steps do you feel compelled to take in this area?
Entry 4, Week 8: After reading Chapters 10-11, reflect on the notion of loneliness and isolation in leadership.
1. How do you respond to the idea that any leader who cannot endure profound levels of loneliness will not last long? How does belonging to God sustain us during times of loneliness?
2. How do you experience the great paradox of leadership, that we can be surrounded by people and involved in important tasks but still feel so alone with the burdens we bear?
3. When a leadership community is at its best, which of its practices do you find yourself longing to incorporate into your leadership group? How might this help you move beyond isolation to the community?