Three Types of "Gatekeepers" in Your Church

Jun 17, 2026

In this episode of the Church Revitalization Podcast, Scott and A.J. break down three distinct types of "gatekeepers" that show up in churches and how each one can quietly block healthy growth and mission. From information filters to change blockers to ego-driven power players, this conversation gives church leaders the language and insight to identify what might be holding their church back. The discussion is practical, honest, and backed by real consulting experience.

Scott Ball and A.J. Mathieu are lead consultants at the Malphurs Group, a church health and revitalization consulting ministry that has worked with hundreds of churches across the country. Each week on the Church Revitalization Podcast, they bring field-tested insights to help pastors and church leaders navigate the real challenges of leading a church toward health and mission. Whether you are a longtime listener or just finding the show, you will find their conversations to be direct, grounded, and genuinely helpful.

• [1:20] Defining what a gatekeeper actually is in a church context
• [5:50] Gatekeeper Type 1: The person who controls what the pastor gets to hear
• [8:47] Gatekeeper Type 2: The person or group that blocks change before it can happen
• [14:33] Gatekeeper Type 3: The leader whose ego or insecurity becomes a barrier to progress
• [26:02] How to actually work around the gatekeeper problem in your church

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