Innovative Leadership: Catalysing Change in a New Era of Ministry with Ted Esler

What role does innovation play in the future of global missions, and are we ready to embrace it?

In this episode of the Lausanne Movement Podcast, we sit down with Ted Esler, president of Missio Nexus, to explore the intersection of faith, leadership, and innovation in global mission work. Ted shares his inspiring journey from being a missionary in the Balkans to leading an organization that catalyzes collaboration within the Great Commission community. Learn how innovation is shaping the future of mission work and discover critical insights that can transform your approach to leadership in ministry.

Main Points:

• The Poverty of Imagination in Mission: Ted argues that a lack of creativity and risk-taking is holding back the Church from fulfilling the Great Commission.
• Theological Foundations of Innovation: The conversation explores how Jesus exemplified innovation in His ministry, challenging traditional paradigms and pushing boundaries.
• Practical Steps for Legacy Organizations: Ted provides actionable advice for legacy mission agencies to renew their vision and embrace innovation in their operations.
• Leadership Lessons: How transitioning from the mission field to leadership in North America challenged and refined Ted's approach.
• Innovation in Mission Work: Exploring the importance of innovation and how it drives the effectiveness of global missions today.
• Missio Nexus: Learn about the role of Missio Nexus in fostering collaboration among mission agencies and globally focused churches.

Call to Action:

If you found this conversation insightful, subscribe to our podcast to hear more inspiring stories from mission leaders. Don't forget to leave a review and share this episode with your network to spread the word about the innovative work done in global missions. Visit our website for more resources and updates.

Links & Resources:

• Ted Esler's Book - The Innovation Crisis - https://theinnovationcrisis.com/
• Missio Nexus Website - https://www.missionexus.org/
• Perspectives on the World Christian Movement - https://www.perspectives.org/ 

Guest Bio:

Ted Esler is President of Missio Nexus, the association of mission agencies and churches in the US and Canada. Missio Nexus coaches, networks, and trains churches and other organizations focused on the global Great Commission. Before Missio Nexus, Ted was a field missionary in Bosnia and Croatia, and he held leadership roles with Pioneers for 25 years. Ted has a PhD in intercultural studies from Fuller Theological Seminary and is often asked to speak nationally and internationally.

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