MINI-SERIES: Tim, Joel and Stu use Berea as a way of investigating the strategy of in-house ministry training.This episode begins with the launch of Tim’s book, The Child in God's Church, which explores theologically integrating children into the life of the church. Rather than seeing young people as a future project or a problem to solve, the discussion emphasises that they are already part of the church today. This shift in perspective shapes how discipleship and involvement of children and young people in the body of Christ take place.A key aspect of the discussion is Berea, Soul Revival's internal ministry training hub, which was designed as an affordable and flexible model to supplement further theological study, disciple people publicly, and foster a collaborative approach to ministry. Berea was where the idea of the Shock Absorber originated, and embraces a teaching model that de-emphasises the expert and allows both top-down and bottom-up contributions. It creates a space where younger people can actively shape ministry while also learning alongside their leaders. By prioritising relationships over rigid institutional structures, Berea ensures that Soul Revival’s culture is passed through generations while remaining firmly rooted in biblical truths and traditional church expressions.The discussion explores the importance of the third place strategy and engaging in training content within the context of community. Ministry is not only about imparting knowledge but also about creating spaces where people can wrestle with and apply theological ideas together.This approach has shaped Soul Revival from its early days, where the permission to explore new ideas became foundational. Berea now functions as the Shock Absorber of the church, balancing tradition with innovation. Drawing inspiration from movements like L'Abri, the 1960s social revolutions at Berkeley, and the Jesus Movement, it fosters an environment where young people's desire and ability to enact change can be harnessed within a biblical framework.Through an emphasis on Christian conviction, character, and competency, Berea unites generations in an ongoing conversation about what it means to be faithful Christians in today’s world and acts as a safeguard for the church’s teaching. Rather than simply replacing thought leadership over time, this model sustains it—preserving the gospel while allowing each generation to engage with it in meaningful ways.00:00 Intro and Tim's recently launched book: The Child in God's Church14:29 A strategy of in-house ministry training27:40 Embracing third place community in training32:53 The designer of holistic church strategy43:01 Continuing thought leadership rather than replacing itDISCUSSED ON THIS EPISODEGet The Child in God's ChurchYouthworksKoorongThe Wandering BooksellerAmazonAppleThe Coming Revolution in Youth Ministry, by Mark Senter IIIBerkeley in the SixtiesCONTACT USShock Absorber Email: [email protected] Absorber Website: shockabsorber.com.auSoul Revival Shop: soulrevival.shopCheck out what else Soul Revival is up to here

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