How Crosswalk Church grew internationally, about fame and the downfall of megachurches

In this follow-up conversation with Tim Gillespie, we go beyond
the remarkable turnaround of Crosswalk Church and dive into a
surprising next chapter: choosing multiplication over expansion.


Instead of building a bigger building, Crosswalk made a
countercultural decision—to plant churches locally and globally.
Tim shares how that shift happened, what it required, and why it
fundamentally reshaped the church’s identity and future.


We talk openly about the role—and risks—of charismatic leadership
and pastoral fame, why so many megachurches eventually struggle
or collapse, and what structures, habits, and spiritual postures
can help prevent that. Tim also reflects on his own journey:
stepping out of the spotlight, moving into a new season, and why
he now serves at Adventist Health.


The conversation explores deeper systemic questions:
What’s the difference between governance in non-denominational
and denominational churches—and why does it matter?
What can European churches learn from the Crosswalk story when it
comes to church planting?
Why does the future of mission likely depend on diversified
churches—different expressions for different regions, cultures,
and neighborhoods—rather than one-size-fits-all models?


This episode is for leaders, planters, and anyone wrestling with
how the church can stay healthy, humble, and mission-focused in a
complex, post-Christian world.