How to Make Your Church the Best Church in the World

How to Make Your Church the Best Church in the World In this inspiring and deeply practical episode, Pastor Brian Houston shares timeless principles on what truly makes a church flourish—not from the top down, but from the inside out. Drawing on over 40 years of pastoral experience, Pastor Brian explores how every believer can actively contribute to creating a church that feels like the best church in the world. From cultivating a unified spirit and building a healthy church “soul,” to being easy to lead, committed to vision, and fostering a fun, faith-filled atmosphere—this episode is packed with insight for pastors, leaders, and passionate church members alike. You’ll learn: Why your spirit, attitude, and faith play a critical role in your church’s health How to contribute to a dynamic, faith-charged atmosphere The power of a volunteer spirit and outward-focused culture What it means to find your place in a contagious vision Why building authentic community matters more than ever Whether you're in church leadership or simply love your local church, Pastor Brian’s message will challenge, equip, and encourage you to bring your best—and in doing so, help your church become all that God has called it to be. 🔔 Don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review. Leadership and Other Stuff with Brian Houston — equipping leaders and communicators with wisdom, faith, and practical tools for real-life impact. Subscribe to Leadership & Other Stuff with Brian Houston on YouTube. Support Our Ministry JesusFollowersTV: If you feel led to partner with us, your generosity will help us continue our work. Visit our Website. If you would like Pastor Brian to speak at your church or conduct a Leadership Roundtable, you can send an email with your inquiry at [email protected] Connect with Us: https://www.brianandbobbie.com/contact  

In this insightful and personal episode, Pastor Brian Houston unpacks ten powerful influences every leader needs to thrive, grow, and endure through the seasons of life and leadership. With a mix of biblical wisdom, personal stories, and decades of ministry experience, Pastor Brian shares the kinds of people and environments that shape a strong leader. From the importance of a mentor who truly believes in you, to the value of truthful friendships, a companion who completes you, a team that strengthens you, and an environment that encourages you—this episode is a heartfelt and practical guide to building a leadership life that lasts. Whether you’re leading in ministry, business, or any sphere of influence, this episode will challenge and inspire you to evaluate the voices, relationships, and communities you're surrounding yourself with. Highlights include: Why spiritual fathers and mothers matter more than ever The difference between flattery and faithful wounds How companionship can turn into a leadership advantage Building a healthy, non-manipulative network Why every leader needs encouragement, resilience, and input that grows them Stick around to the end to hear Pastor Brian’s thoughts on mentorship—and how you might get personally mentored if you're ready to go deeper. Leadership and Other Stuff with Brian Houston — equipping leaders and communicators with wisdom, faith, and practical tools for real-life impact. Subscribe to Leadership & Other Stuff with Brian Houston on YouTube. Support Our Ministry JesusFollowersTV: If you feel led to partner with us, your generosity will help us continue our work. Visit our Website. If you would like Pastor Brian to speak at your church or conduct a Leadership Roundtable, you can send an email with your inquiry at [email protected] Connect with Us: https://www.brianandbobbie.com/contact

In this follow-up to a powerful conversation on preaching and teaching culture, Pastor Brian Houston dives into Part 2 of the 30 foundational principles that shaped the communication culture at Hillsong Church. This episode is packed with practical wisdom for preachers, teachers, and communicators—from the importance of delivering messages with confidence and humility to understanding the balance between transparency and faith, preparing messages with purpose, and knowing how to preach to both a room and a global audience. Pastor Brian unpacks the final 15 points that governed the preaching team during his leadership at Hillsong, offering real, raw insight into what makes a message effective, transformative, and Christ-centered. Whether you're a senior pastor, emerging communicator, or simply passionate about church leadership and spiritual growth, this episode is rich with value. Key Takeaways Include: Why delivery is just as vital as content The role of humour, notes, and time sensitivity in preaching How to speak with authority—and when to stay in your lane Why every message should point to Jesus and end with a call to salvation The power of reflection, note-taking, and leaving Sunday behind on Monday Tune in for a deeply practical and spiritually grounding session that will inspire you to grow in your calling, sharpen your message, and serve your audience with authenticity and excellence.   Interested in coaching or mentoring with Pastor Brian? Visit www.brianandbobbie.com to learn more. Leadership and Other Stuff with Brian Houston — equipping leaders and communicators with wisdom, faith, and practical tools for real-life impact. Subscribe to Leadership & Other Stuff with Brian Houston on YouTube. Support Our Ministry JesusFollowersTV: If you feel led to partner with us, your generosity will help us continue our work. Visit our Website. If you would like Pastor Brian to speak at your church or conduct a Leadership Roundtable, you can send an email with your inquiry at [email protected] Connect with Us: https://www.brianandbobbie.com/contact

In this insightful and practical episode, Pastor Brian Houston dives into the foundational culture of preaching and teaching that helped shape Hillsong Church over decades of ministry. Drawing from a landmark talk he once gave to his staff, Pastor Brian shares the first 15 of 30 principles that guided the platform at Hillsong — principles designed not only for his team, but for any communicator wanting to grow in their effectiveness and impact. From the importance of staying positive, faith-filled, and biblically grounded, to honoring people's time, living what you preach, and preparing with diligence, Pastor Brian unpacks the key traits that contributed to a thriving culture of preaching. You'll hear personal stories, reflections on mentoring young leaders, and why your message should always help people—on their Mondays, not just their Sundays. Whether you're a pastor, communicator, or simply passionate about ministry, The Culture of Preaching and Teaching – Part 1 offers timeless, practical guidance to elevate your calling.   Key Takeaways: Why every message should be life-giving and never reactionary The role of preparation, meditation, and authenticity in preaching How to preach from a New Testament perspective—even when teaching the Old Avoiding the trap of self-focus in communication The importance of aligning with your church’s doctrinal and cultural values   Don’t forget to subscribe for Part 2, where Pastor Brian shares the next 15 points!   Interested in coaching or mentoring with Brian? Visit www.brianandbobbie.com to learn more. Leadership and Other Stuff with Brian Houston — equipping leaders and communicators with wisdom, faith, and practical tools for real-life impact. Subscribe to Leadership & Other Stuff with Brian Houston on YouTube. Support Our Ministry JesusFollowersTV: If you feel led to partner with us, your generosity will help us continue our work. Visit our Website. If you would like Pastor Brian to speak at your church or conduct a Leadership Roundtable, you can send an email with your inquiry at [email protected] Connect with Us: https://www.brianandbobbie.com/contact

  In this thought-provoking episode of Leadership & Other Stuff, Pastor Brian Houston unpacks what might be one of the most countercultural ideas in leadership today: the power of being beautifully boring. Drawing inspiration from Solomon’s unexpected prayer for wisdom over wealth, fame, or power, Brian challenges leaders to reconsider what truly brings lasting influence and divine blessing. With characteristic warmth and humor—plus a few surprising stories (including a run-in with a former Prime Minister)—Brian explores the leadership qualities that may not grab headlines but build legacy: faithfulness, patience, obedience, holiness, servanthood, humility, sacrifice, and consistency. These “unsexy” virtues, as Pastor Brian calls them, might not be flashy, but they are foundational. In a world chasing charisma and excitement, maybe it's the quiet, steady path that holds the greatest reward. Whether you’re leading in ministry, business, or life—this episode is a refreshing reminder that God's blessing often follows those who simply keep showing up, choosing wisdom over wow. Take a breath. Slow down. Choose beautifully boring.   Subscribe to Leadership & Other Stuff with Brian Houston on YouTube. Support Our Ministry JesusFollowersTV: If you feel led to partner with us, your generosity will help us continue our work. Visit our Website. If you would like Pastor Brian to speak at your church or conduct a Leadership Roundtable, you can send an email with your inquiry at [email protected] Connect with Us: https://www.brianandbobbie.com/contact

In the powerful conclusion of Pastor Brian Houston’s candid conversation with Pastor Jonathan Shuttlesworth, this episode dives into ministry, marriage, leadership, loyalty, and what it really takes to go the distance in both life and calling. From hilarious commentary to deep insights on building lasting ministry impact, this episode balances humor, honesty, and heart. Pastor Jonathan and Brian discusses creating a joyful and life-giving ministry culture, raising leaders and identifying the "gold" in people and what truly limits ministry growth. Plus, practical advice for young leaders, evangelists, and couples entering ministry together—and how to lead without becoming "mean" along the way. Raw, relatable, and full of wisdom (with a few curveballs and laughs), this finale is a must-listen for anyone passionate about leadership, church growth, and finishing well. Subscribe to Leadership & Other Stuff with Brian Houston on YouTube. Support Our Ministry JesusFollowersTV: If you feel led to partner with us, your generosity will help us continue our work. Visit our Website. If you would like Pastor Brian to speak at your church or conduct a Leadership Roundtable, you can send an email with your inquiry at [email protected] Connect with Us: https://www.brianandbobbie.com/contact

In Part 2 of this dynamic 3-part interview, Pastor Brian Houston continues his in-depth conversation with Pastor Jonathan Shuttlesworth offering rare insights into the mindset, moments, and ministry decisions that shaped one of the most influential church movements of our time.   This episode goes far beyond surface-level leadership talk. Pastor Brian opens up about the internal shifts that changed how he saw God—and how that revelation transformed the way he led people. Moving from a performance-based, fear-driven view of God to one rooted in grace, favor, and vision marked a turning point not just in his preaching, but in the very culture of Hillsong Church.   Together, Pastors Brian and Jonathan discuss the difference between simply attracting a crowd and building a healthy, sustainable church community. Brian shares why some leaders rise with momentum but fade without maturity—and how Pastor Brian cultivated a sense of mission that kept key leaders grounded, loyal, and thriving long-term. The conversation touches on the challenges of growth, the dangers of ego, and the subtle line between leading a ministry and letting it lead you.   The episode is rich with practical wisdom on vision, legacy, and what it means to lead with both power and humility in a rapidly changing world.   Whether you’re in ministry, business, or simply passionate about building something that matters, this conversation will inspire you to think bigger, lead better, and believe deeper.   If you missed Part 1, be sure to go back and listen—then stay tuned for the powerful conclusion in Part 3 next Wednesday!    Subscribe to Leadership & Other Stuff with Brian Houston on YouTube. Support Our Ministry JesusFollowersTV: If you feel led to partner with us, your generosity will help us continue our work. Visit our Website. If you would like Pastor Brian to speak at your church or conduct a Leadership Roundtable, you can send an email with your inquiry at [email protected] Connect with Us: https://www.brianandbobbie.com/contact

In this powerful first installment of a special three-part interview on Leadership and Other Stuff with Brian Houston, Pastor Jonathan Shuttlesworth sits down with Pastor Brian for an unfiltered conversation about ministry, leadership, and what it truly means to obtain the promises of God. From receiving his call to ministry as a 5-year-old in New Zealand to planting churches across Australia, Pastor Brian shares the formative stories that shaped his leadership journey. Hear about his humble beginnings, early frustrations after Bible school, and the spiritual breakthrough moments that marked the start of what would become a global church movement. Whether you're in ministry, leadership, or just passionate about seeing God do big things, this candid interview will leave you inspired and challenged. Don’t miss Part 2 of the interview next week, only on Leadership and Other Stuff with Brian Houston. Subscribe to Leadership & Other Stuff with Brian Houston on YouTube. Support Our Ministry JesusFollowersTV: If you feel led to partner with us, your generosity will help us continue our work. Visit our Website. If you would like Pastor Brian to speak at your church or conduct a Leadership Roundtable, you can send an email with your inquiry at [email protected] Connect with Us: https://www.brianandbobbie.com/contact

In this powerful follow-up to last week’s episode, Pastor Brian continues his honest reflection on what it means to fall—and what comes after. Using the Humpty Dumpty metaphor, he opens up about his own very public leadership failure, the personal and spiritual cost, and the journey toward healing. He shares candidly about the pain of isolation, the impact on his family, and the challenge of forgiveness when anger and injustice feel overwhelming. Pastor Brian also explores the difference between looking to people to put you back together—and turning to the King who truly can. This episode is a heartfelt encouragement to leaders, pastors, and anyone navigating regret, loss, or unexpected transition. It’s about humility, honesty, and hope—and the road back from brokenness. The King’s horses and the King’s men couldn’t put Humpty together again—but the King can.   Subscribe to Leadership & Other Stuff with Brian Houston on YouTube. If you would like Pastor Brian to speak at your church or conduct a Leadership Roundtable, you can send an email with your inquiry at [email protected] Support Our Ministry JesusFollowersTV: If you feel led to partner with us, your generosity will help us continue our work. Visit our Website. Connect with Us: https://www.brianandbobbie.com/contact

In this heartfelt and deeply personal episode of Leadership & Other Stuff, Pastor Brian Houston steps into vulnerability with raw honesty. Drawing from the nursery rhyme Humpty Dumpty, Pastor Brian unpacks what it means to fall—publicly, painfully, and as a leader. Pastor Brian shares lessons learned the hard way. He reflects on the fallout of failure: humiliation, the torture of what might have been, gossip, abandonment, and the numbing feeling of being "becalmed" while life around you moves forward. Through it all, Pastor Brian continues to hold onto faith, redemption, and a renewed vision for the future. Whether you’re a pastor, leader, or just navigating life’s complexities, this episode is a sobering yet hopeful reminder of why integrity matters, how fragile credibility can be, and how redemption begins with humility.    Subscribe to Leadership & Other Stuff with Brian Houston on YouTube. If you would like Pastor Brian to speak at your church or conduct a Leadership Roundtable, you can send an email with your inquiry at [email protected] Support Our Ministry JesusFollowersTV: If you feel led to partner with us, your generosity will help us continue our work. Visit our Website. Connect with Us: https://www.brianandbobbie.com/contact