Discussion: Leading through Listening

Words can heal, and words can divide. In church leadership, communication is one of the most powerful tools we have. But it can also be one of the most dangerous when neglected or mishandled. In this discussion, you will reflect on a time when a leader’s communication significantly shaped the direction of a church or ministry either for better or for worse.

This could be a pastor’s sermon that brought healing, an announcement that caused confusion, or a team meeting that either built or eroded trust. The goal is not to assign blame, but to thoughtfully explore how communication shapes culture.

Reflect on a real situation you experienced or observed. You might focus on a pastor, youth leader, ministry director, or church board member. Address the following:

1. The Situation
• Briefly describe the context. What was happening in the church or ministry? Was this during a conflict, transition, vision-casting, or crisis?
2. The Communication
• What was said (or left unsaid)?
• What medium was used (e.g., sermon, email, hallway conversation, public forum)?
• What made the communication clear, courageous, or confusing?
3. The Impact
• How did it affect morale, direction, trust, or conflict?
• Did it bring clarity and unity or disillusionment and division?
• How might a more intentional communication strategy have improved the outcome?

Please ensure your initial post is at least 300 words. After making your initial post, please read through the responses of your classmates and make at least three follow-up comments on a different day than your original post. These responses should contribute meaningfully to the discussion, whether by asking insightful questions, providing additional examples or perspectives, or challenging ideas respectfully. Each follow-up comment should be at least 100 words. This discussion is worth 25 points.