129 - Ryan Visconti on War Time Ministry

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Summary

Ryan Visconti, a pastor from the Assemblies of God (AG) background, shares his journey and the shifts in his ministry approach. He discusses his early years as a pastor's kid and his initial reluctance to enter ministry. Ryan's encounter with God in Iraq led him to embrace his calling and become a pastor. He talks about the shift in his ministry approach in 2020, where he started addressing controversial cultural issues and taking a stand against progressive ideologies. Ryan also shares his experience of speaking out against Andy Stanley and the challenges he faced within the AG culture. The conversation explores topics such as avoiding the perception of marketing strategy, adapting to the times and leading boldly, post-denominationalism and denominational distinctives, theological distinctives in the Assemblies of God, the role of charismatic gifting in the church, women in ministry and complementarianism, navigating the tension between charismatic and complementarian views, understanding the Assemblies of God's view on women in ministry, navigating differences in church practices, and linking arms despite theological differences.

Takeaways

Ministry approaches can evolve and shift over time based on personal experiences and convictions.
Addressing controversial cultural issues can lead to growth and unity within the church.
Speaking out against false teachings and ideologies requires courage and a commitment to biblical truth.
Categorizing people based on their commitment to biblical truth rather than denominational affiliation can foster unity and collaboration. It is important to avoid the perception of using marketing strategies or being a 'weathervane Christian' while adapting to the times and reaching people with the gospel.
Leading boldly and remaining convictional is crucial in avoiding the mistakes of previous generations and effectively reaching the lost.
While there is a move towards post-denominationalism, denominational distinctives can provide grounding and stability for individuals in a transient culture.
The Assemblies of God has a mix of theological positions, including both Arminian and Calvinist perspectives, and a range of views on women in ministry.
Charismatic gifting can bring life and vibrancy to a church, but it is important to maintain order and focus on the primary goal of salvation.
Navigating the tension between charismatic and complementarian views requires understanding and respect for different theological perspectives.
The Assemblies of God has a cooperative fellowship that supports and credentials women in ministry, but the number of female lead pastors is still relatively low.
It is important to differentiate between churches that embrace women in ministry due to feminist ideology and those that do so based on their interpretation of scripture.
Despite theological differences, it is important for churches to link arms and work together for the greater cause of the gospel.
To learn more about Generations Church and Ryan Visconti's ministry, visit generation.church or follow him on social media.