Mark Sayers on Leadership and Suffering: A Theology of Resilience, Cultivating Spiritual Authority Over Charisma, and The Call of the Church in a Changing World

The Pastorate Podcast

Our world is changing at a rapid pace, and for many, it’s hard to make sense of it all—let alone carry the weight of shifting expectations and uncertainty. That’s why we’re grateful for voices like Mark’s—leaders who cut through the noise with a prophetic edge, distill complex cultural trends, and speak to the Church with a non-anxious presence.

Today, we’re joined by Mark Sayers—pastor, author, and cultural commentator—known for his sharp insights into secularism, leadership, and the Church’s evolving role in a rapidly changing world.

In this conversation, Mark shares:

• The personal and pastoral challenges he has faced, including his wife Trudy’s battle with cancer and how it has reshaped his leadership and faith.
• What it means to remain faithful over decades of ministry and how suffering forms resilience.
• Why secularism is weakening and the new spiritual openness emerging globally.
• The Church’s role in navigating political, economic, and social shifts in the years ahead.
• Platforms to Pillars, Mark’s upcoming book that explores the dangers of platform-driven leadership versus the biblical vision of being a ‘pillar’ in the temple of God.

For those leading in uncertain times, this episode offers wisdom, perspective, and encouragement to help you stay faithful and navigate what’s ahead.

Biography

Mark is the senior leader of Red Church in Melbourne, Australia. He is passionate about spiritual renewal and the future of the church. Mark is the author of a number of books including Strange Days and Reappearing Church. Mark lives in Melbourne with his wife, Trudi, his daughter, Grace, and twin boys, Hudson and Billy.

Show Notes

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Guest Notes

• Red Church
• Rebuilders Podcast
• Mark’s Website

Show Notes

• Website⁠
• Blog and Episode Write Up⁠
• ⁠Youtube⁠
• ⁠Instagram⁠