Episode 31: Kingdom Ecclesiology | The Weight Pastors Carry—and the Gifts We Don’t

The “Between Heaven and Earth” podcast with Justin and Amy Howard examines church leadership and challenges the modern expectation that pastors do everything. They introduce spiritual formation practices and Encounter Life cohorts that help believers grow in their relationship with God.

The episode reframes “pastor” as a function within the fivefold ministry rather than a title, advocating for shared leadership among elders and deacons. It addresses burnout caused by unrealistic demands and calls the church to move from consumerism to active discipleship, equipping all believers to participate in God’s kingdom work.

Highlights
🌟 Modern pastoral expectations are unrealistic and contribute to burnout.
📖 Pastor is a function within the fivefold ministry, not a title.
🤝 Healthy leadership involves shared responsibility among elders and deacons.
💔 Emotional dependency on pastors fuels burnout and unhealthy dynamics.
🛠️ Encounter Culture Mission Collaborative offers cohorts for spiritual growth and renewal.

Micro Churches & Missional Communities

The Tampa Underground 

The Kansas City Underground

The Underground Network

 

Book Resource

The Starfish and the Spirit

 

Five-Fold Ministry (Ephesians 4)

5Q | Alan Hirsch