EP 302: Christ Centered Church with Richard Blackaby
Here we are, back at the Bootcamp! I’m excited to have a returning guest and good friend, Dr. Richard Blackaby, join me live from the REVIVE Conference in Daytona Beach. In this episode, we talk about the updated version of Flickering Lamps—now titled Developing a Christ-Centered Church—and the heart behind its message.
Richard shares the story of how the book came to be, the influence of his father, Dr. Henry Blackaby, and how the principles in this book continue to impact struggling and healthy churches alike. We discuss why true church renewal isn’t about strategies or quick fixes—it’s about realignment with Christ as the Head of His Church.
We also dig into Richard’s new Christ-Centered Church course through the Blackaby Bible Institute, how pastors can use it with their teams, and why isolation and insecurity are some of the greatest dangers facing pastors today. Richard offers deeply personal insight into how God set him free from insecurity and reminds us that our identity must be rooted in being a child of God, not in ministry performance or church size.
Key Topics:
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The story behind Flickering Lamps and its new edition, Developing a Christ-Centered Church
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The difference between revitalization strategy and spiritual renewal
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Why Christ-centered leadership changes everything
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The importance of authentic community and safe pastoral friendships
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Overcoming insecurity and finding identity in Christ
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How to use the new course at Blackaby.org to guide your church or team
Quotable Moments:
“The risen Christ overcame death, Satan, and hell—surely He can overcome the problems your church is facing. You just have to do it His way.” – Richard Blackaby
“God is under no obligation to resource your plans for His church, but He will spare no expense to resource His.” – Henry Blackaby
“You don’t have to prove to anybody that you’re somebody. You’re not a big deal—but you’re a child of God. And that’s all you need to be.” – Richard Blackaby
Resources Mentioned:
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Developing a Christ-Centered Church (updated edition of Flickering Lamps)
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The Blackaby Bible Institute: blackaby.org
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Experiencing God by Henry Blackaby
