Episode 179Aug 20, 2025

Cultivating Zeal in Ministry

John McGee
John McGee
Cultivating Zeal in Ministry image
Zeal is more than emotion. It’s an abiding passion for Jesus that sustains us in both fruitful and difficult seasons of ministry. 

In this episode of the Church Leadership Podcast, John McGee is joined by Dave Bruskas, Emma Dotter, and Kylen Perry to discuss what “zeal” really means, why it matters, and how leaders can cultivate it. Together they talk through: 

  • The difference between “zeal” for results vs. “zeal” for Jesus 
  • The subtle threats that cause zeal to fade—burnout, apathy, distraction, and opposition 
  • Practical ways to reignite your heart and sustain passion for the long haul of ministry 
If your fire feels dim or if you want to keep it burning brighter, this episode is for you. 

 

 

Keep Exploring

Explore more articles and podcast episodes related to this topic.

Is the UK Becoming Pre-Christian? | Stephen Foster image
Episode: 207Aug 19, 2026
Is the UK Becoming Pre-Christian? | Stephen Foster

About this Episode What if the next generation is more open to Jesus than we think? In this episode of the Church Leadership Podcast, John McGee shares an extended interview with Stephen Foster, leader of of St. Aldates Church in Oxford, England. Stephen talks about the shift he’s seeing in the UK, why churches should intentionally invest in younger leaders, how an invitational culture can change a church, and what it looks like to trust the Holy Spirit as people explore Christianity. Watch the full film on YouTube here: Awakening in the UK

Church Leaders Conference

Church Leadership

Next Generation

Evangelism & Missions

Church Culture

Finding Rest in the Middle of Ministry image
Episode: 206Aug 8, 2026
Finding Rest in the Middle of Ministry

About this Episode Who is the sufficient one in your ministry? In this mainstage session from the Church Leaders Conference 2026, Timothy Ateek, Elder and Lead Pastor of Watermark Community Church, teaches through Matthew 11:28–30 and points weary church leaders to Jesus’ invitation to come to him and find rest. Learn how ministry should always be an overview of our dependence on Christ's sufficiency. Church Leaders Conference 2027 - We would love to see you in the room at CLC27!

Church Leaders Conference

Church Leadership

A Conversation with Chuck Swindoll image
Episode: 205Jul 22, 2026
A Conversation with Chuck Swindoll

About the Episode At Church Leaders Conference 2026, John McGee sat down with Chuck Swindoll for a meaningful conversation on ministry, faithfulness, and finishing well. With decades of pastoral leadership behind him, Chuck shares memorable stories, hard-earned wisdom, and honest encouragement for church leaders who want to remain faithful for the long haul. This conversation is a timely reminder to serve with humility, joy, and endurance wherever God has called you. Whether you joined us at CLC 2026 or are hearing it for the first time, we believe this interview will encourage and strengthen your ministry. Church Leaders Conference 2027 - We would love to see you in the room at CLC27!

Church Leaders Conference

Discipleship

Spiritual Formation

Church Leadership

Teaching & Theology

Stay equipped

Keep up-to-date with news and updates on our latest podcast episodes, blog articles, and conferences by subscribing to our newsletter.