Dr Paul Allen

Image via Wikipedia The church is the only institution that our Lord promised to build and to bless ( Matt. 16:18) The church is the gathering place of true worshipers ( Phil. 3:3). The church is the most precious assembly on earth since Christ purchased it with His own blood ( Acts 20:28; 1 Cor. 6:19; Eph. 5:25; Col. 1:20; 1 Pet. 1:18; Rev. 1:5). The church is the earthly expression of the heavenly reality (Matt. 6:10; 18:18). The church will ultimately triumph both universally and locally (Matt. 16:18; Phil. 1:6). The church is the realm of spiritual fellowship (Heb. 10:22–25; 1 John 1:3, 6–7). The church is the proclaimer and protector of divine truth (1 Tim. 3:15; Titus 2:1, 15). The church is the chief place for spiritual edification and growth (Acts 20:32; Eph. 4:11–16; 2 Tim. 3:16–17; 1 Pet. 2:1–2; 2 Pet. 3:18).  The church is the launching pad for world evangelization (Mark 16:15; Titus 2:11 The church is the environment where strong spiritual leadership dev

Image via Wikipedia Today I have the privilege of posting a conversation with Bob Russell , senior minister of  Southeast Christian Church  ( Louisville, KY ) for forty years until he retired in 2006. Southeast is the sixth largest church in America, and the church’s leadership transition has been exemplary. I believe we can learn a lot from Bob Russell, one of the most humble and genuine men I have met in ministry. I’m grateful he would take the time to stop by and discuss his new book,  Transition Plan: 7 Secrets Every Leader Needs to Know ,  and why pastors and churches should take responsibility for training the next generation of leaders. Trevin Wax:  It seems like many evangelical megachurches are built around powerful personalities and charismatic leaders. You write about how an inordinate focus on the leader of the church can be dangerous. You write: “Is this church built on the pastor, or is it really built on Jesus Christ ? When Bob Russell is gone, will the church continu