Transforming Mission Leadercast With Tim Bias & Sara Thomas

Episdoe 382 invites you to begin an exploration of God's grace in the Wesleyan tradition. That exploration begins with prevenient grace, the grace that goes before us, through the lens of John 1:1–9. Long before we act, plan, or even believe, God is already at work. That’s the heart of prevenient grace. It reminds leaders that ministry isn’t about starting something new, but discerning how to join what God has already begun. Through Scripture, Wesleyan theology, and personal stories, this conversation invites you to reframe leadership as an act of cooperation with God’s initiative. From the light that “shines in the darkness” to the relationships and moments where grace is already at work, this episode will help you see leadership through the lens of divine presence and participation. Listen now and rediscover how prevenient grace transforms how you lead, serve, and live. Learn more at transformingmission.org/382

In this episode of the Transforming Mission Podcast, Sara and Tim unpack Jesus’ parable of the rich man and Lazarus from Luke 16 to help Christ-centered leaders rethink who’s at their “gate.” Rather than a story about money, this parable challenges us to notice people at the edges of our leadership circles and respond before the “chasm” becomes unbridgeable. Drawing from their own experiences—everything from literal church parking-lot traffic patterns to ministry with people living with HIV/AIDS—Sara and Tim explore how churches and leaders unintentionally create “gates,” the fears that fuel them, and the ways we can open our neighborhoods wider. You’ll hear practical questions to guide your week: Who is at your gate? What chasm is God calling you to cross? How can you amplify voices at the margins? Packed with Scripture, real-life stories, and a call to action, this conversation will equip you to see every person as made in the image of God and to lead with courage, compassion, and hope in a divided world. R

In this week’s episode of the Transforming Mission Podcast, Tim and Sara dive back into Luke 15:11–32, the parable most of us call “The Prodigal Son,” but Tim calls “The Running Father.” Together they talk about what it really means to lead with grace in a critical world. As they unpack the story, you’ll hear why grace moves first, why it costs something, and how it keeps the way home open for people who’ve wandered off. You’ll also discover the trap of the older brother’s resentment — and why fairness isn’t God’s metric — plus why celebration itself is an act of grace. If you’ve ever felt unworthy, unappreciated, or caught in score-keeping leadership, this conversation will remind you: unworthy never means worthless. Join Tim and Sara for a hopeful, honest look at how leaders can absorb the cost, resist resentment, and throw a party when grace shows up. TimeStamp 00:53 Reading the Parable of the Prodigal Son 04:18 Discussion on the Younger Son's Actions 05:24 The Father's Grace and Leadership Lessons 08:59 E

People Over Programs: Lessons from Luke 15 In Luke 15:1–10, Jesus shares two parables that continue to speak to leaders today, the parable of the lost sheep and the lost coin. On the surface, these are simple stories of something missing being found. But beneath that simplicity lies a challenge: God values people more than programs, systems, or even our best-laid ministry plans. Continue Reading at https://transformingmission.org/379

In this episode of the Transforming Mission Podcast, Tim and Sara explore one of Jesus’ teachings in Luke 14:25–33 - the call to count the cost of discipleship. What does it mean for leaders to put God’s priorities first in a world that often prizes convenience, comfort, and control? Through practical stories, everyday analogies, and honest reflection, they unpack the difference between personal preferences and God’s priorities, the importance of alignment in leadership, and what cross-shaped leadership looks like today. Whether you’re leading a church, a team, or in your everyday relationships, this conversation challenges you to pause, do a “priority audit,” and rediscover what it means to lead faithfully in God’s economy. Listen in and be encouraged to embrace the costly but life-giving path of discipleship.  Read more and listen at https://transformingmission.org/podcast

In Episode 377 of the Transforming Mission Podcast, Tim and Sara unpack Jesus’ words in Luke 12:32–34: “Where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” Together, they explore what it means to lead in God’s economy of abundance, trust, and generosity. This conversation contrasts the world’s economy of scarcity and possessions with God’s call to prioritize people, mission, and love. From church budgets to personal leadership decisions, Tim and Sara challenge us to examine what we treasure, because our hearts always follow. Listen in for practical steps to: -Shift from fear to trust in leadership -Recognize how budgets reveal our values -Focus on people over possessions -Lead with open hands and kingdom priorities Discover how God’s economy shapes faithful leadership today. Read more and listen to episode 377 at https://transformingmission.org/377   Timestamp:  00:00 Introduction and Scripture Reading 00:47 Comfort and Challenge of God's Economy 01:59 Contrasting God's Economy with Worldly Economy 03:45

Isaiah 43:18–19 reminds us that the future isn’t a repeat of the past—God is making something new. In this episode, Tim and Sara explore what it means for leaders to release nostalgia, embrace God’s surprises, and trust the process of transformation. Through personal stories of moving, ministry transitions, and unexpected people stepping into leadership, they invite you to notice where God is already at work and join in.

Looking for practical, inspiring ways your church can collaborate with others and build stronger community partnerships? In this episode, you’ll discover five creative strategies for church collaboration, including bartering skills, co-hosting events, creating shared resources, and more. You’ll learn how to lighten the load of ministry, amplify your impact, and live out the body of Christ in action. Whether you’re leading a congregation or serving in your community, this conversation will equip you with actionable ideas and spiritual encouragement to take your next step. Listen now and be inspired to collaborate with purpose: https://transformingmission.org/375 ⏱️ Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction and Recap 01:03 Creative Collaboration Ideas 03:15 Practical Collaboration Strategies 05:43 Bartering Skills and Services 13:47 Hosting Collaborative Events 18:19 Final Thoughts and Encouragement

How can your church collaborate more faithfully and effectively? In this episode of the podcast, we explore five practical ways churches can partner with others to make a real impact. Whether you’re launching a new ministry, serving your city, or strengthening school partnerships, collaboration is more than a trend. It’s a theological calling and a leadership strategy. Sara and Tim reflect on the power of partnerships, from highlighting community nonprofits to curating resource guides, telling transformation stories, and supporting new church plants.  You’ll learn: Why collaboration isn’t just transactional—it’s transformational. How to build relationships that lead to lasting ministry impact. What it means to share your platform and amplify others’ good work. How storytelling and shared leadership shape a vibrant faith community. And why *now* is the time for churches to step into the gap.

 Words that Matter: Love  In this encore episode of the Transforming Mission podcast, Tim and Sara explore why love is one of the most important words for followers of Jesus. Beginning with 1 John 4, they dive deep into how Scripture defines love—not just as a feeling, but as a transformative, self-giving action rooted in God’s very nature. You'll discover: Why “God is love” isn't just a phrase, but a foundation for Christian life How the Hebrew word *hesed* and the Greek word agape shape our understanding of love  The relational nature of love and its essential link to action  What Jesus meant when he commanded us to love God and love our neighbor How the Gospel of John uses love more frequently than any other gospel—because love is central to the story of Jesus If you’ve ever wondered how to live a life shaped by love or how to better reflect God’s love in relationships, this conversation is for you.

Faith, Leadership & Legacy: What 2 Timothy Teaches Us Today  When your faith feels like a faint ember, you don’t need to start over—you just need to rekindle the gift already within you. In this episode of the Transforming Mission Podcast, explore what it means to lead with power, love, and self-control as you reflect on your spiritual legacy and embrace your God-given calling. You’ll be encouraged to remember those who passed the faith down to you, respond to the Spirit’s whisper, and lead with courage—even in the midst of resistance or weariness. Whether you’re a pastor, ministry leader, or simply longing to live with renewed purpose, this episode offers practical encouragement and biblical wisdom for rekindling your faith and leadership.

You are Evidence of the Resurrection - John 21 In this episode of the Transforming Mission Podcast, explore John 21 and discover how the risen Jesus meets you in failure, fatigue, and uncertainty. You’ll reflect on the story of empty nets, the grace-filled breakfast on the shore, and Jesus’ powerful conversation with Peter that redefines love, leadership, and restoration. Whether you're a pastor, church leader, or follower of Jesus, this episode reminds you that your leadership isn’t about perfection—it’s about becoming the living evidence of the resurrection. Read more and listen at https://transformingmission.org/371  

Where will you encounter Jesus today? In this special episode, explore Luke 24:13-35 and discover how the risen Christ walks beside you in unexpected ways. Learn how to recognize Jesus in everyday moments, meet him in the faces of strangers, and follow him into a hurting world. If you long to deepen your faith, see God at work around you, and experience the living Christ, this message will inspire and challenge you. Don't miss this reflection on the Road to Emmaus — a powerful reminder that Jesus is alive, loose in the world, and inviting you to follow him. Listen now and open your heart to see where Jesus is moving! Show notes can be found at https://transformingmission.org/370 Full worship service can be viewed here: https://www.youtube.com/live/EspAM2fNkNM?si=PjKwggzGvqglOrrR  

What does it mean for you to truly live the resurrection? In this episode of the Transforming Mission Podcast, explore how the surprising hope of Easter transforms not only your faith but also your leadership. You’ll discover practical insights for becoming living proof of the resurrection through courageous, compassionate, and grace-filled leadership.

Have you ever wondered if your ignorance can truly be forgiven? In this reflective conversation, explore how Jesus' radical prayer, "Father, forgive them," from Luke 23:34, challenges you as a Christian leader. Discover the strength found in forgiveness, understand the risks of intentional ignorance, and learn practical steps to lead with compassion and courage in the face of injustice. Join the journey to transform your leadership and inspire meaningful change. Listen to Episode 368 and read the show notes at https://transformingmission.org/368 Timestamps: 00:44 The Context of Forgiveness 03:01 Exploring Ignorance and Leadership 04:33 Intentional Ignorance and Social Justice 07:41 The Challenge of Forgiveness in Leadership 11:16 A Litany of Forgiveness 12:58 Conclusion and Call to Action

Discover powerful biblical leadership insights in Luke 22:39-46, as Jesus prays under extreme pressure at the Mount of Olives. Learn practical lessons about spiritual discipline, resilience, and leading with compassion and grace, even in tough times. For show notes and to listen to this episode, head over to https://transformingmission.org/367 Time Stamp for Episode 367: 00:49 Reading from Luke 22:39-46 01:45 The Human Experience of Jesus 02:48 The Importance of Spiritual Practices 04:23 Leadership Under Pressure 07:47 Grace and Compassion in Leadership 12:53 Final Thoughts and Encouragement 16:33 Conclusion and Sending Off

"You don’t have to be perfect. You just have to trust the One who sends you." — Transforming Mission Podcast, Episode 366

In this episode of the Transforming Mission Podcast, explore how Jesus feeding the 5,000 in Luke 9 offers powerful leadership lessons for today. Learn how trusting God with what you have, embracing abundance, and making room at the table reflect sacred leadership. Could feeding people be as holy as Holy Communion? Discover how ordinary acts of compassion and generosity become sacred when you follow Jesus' example.

Discover Christ-centered leadership lessons from Luke 9 that will inspire and equip you to lead with clarity, courage, and purpose—whether you're on the mountaintop or deep in the valley. In this episode of the Transforming Mission Podcast, we explore the turning point in Jesus' ministry when he asks, "Who do you say that I am?" (Luke 9:20). This question is central to your identity and calling as a leader. How you answer shapes how you live, lead, and love in your church, community, and family. You’ll also learn how the Transfiguration (Luke 9:28-36) prepares you for the valleys of leadership. We unpack practical insights for leading with hope in the messy, hard places where leadership gets real. ✅ This episode is for you if: You’re seeking clarity about your leadership calling.  You struggle with public opinion and want to stay grounded in Christ. You desire to lead with hope, even in times of suffering or uncertainty. You want to understand the deeper meaning of the mountaintop and valley experiences in l

Jesus, even at the height of his influence, didn’t stay in the spotlight. He withdrew to pray. What about you? Do you take time to step away, or do you push through exhaustion? In this episode, we look at the prayer life of Jesus during Lent, focusing on Luke 5:15-16. Join Sara and Tim as they explore why Jesus prayed amid growing popularity and what it teaches us about retreat, renewal, and resisting the temptations of fame. Jesus' regular practice of withdrawing to pray offers vital lessons for maintaining clarity, purpose, and alignment with God's will in our own lives and ministries. As you listen, reflect on pivotal questions about popularity, God's direction, and how prayer can shape our actions and restore our focus. A powerful episode for anyone seeking to strengthen their spiritual journey during Lent. Listen to Episode 363: The Prayer Life of Jesus - The Power of Stepping Away at https://transformingmission.org/363 TimeStamp 00:00 Introduction and Overview 00:21 Exploring Luke 5:15-16 01:42 Jesus' R