Pastor Mark Cullum's Bio

What is a leader?

What is a leader? I guess that depends who you ask.  Jesus had some pretty insightful words on leadership when he said,

“And whosoever will be chief among you, let him be your servant" -Matthew 20:27

Biblical leadership should be viewed as a servant role. I remember having the opportunity to meet a well known pastor by the name of Jack Hayford. As I introduced myself he asked me a question that has stayed with me many years now and has also helped to shape my understanding of my role as a pastor. His question was simply, “Where do you serve?” As I serve as a leader I am reminded that my role is to be fulfilled through the heart of a servant.

True leadership

The Biblical model of leadership is a contrast to the top down society we live in. Our culture says the more people you have serving your agenda the greater you are. True leadership serves the interest of others while fulfilling the specifics of a mission.

God honoring

We seldom have an opportunity or even a need to write down any real degree of detailed information about ourselves. Given the occasion to do so, I would want people to know that living in a way that is God honoring is the most intimate detail and greatest desire of my life.

True success

The great Apostle Paul gives a vivid picture of how God views real accomplishment.

2 Timothy 4:7-8 "I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith: Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing." A heavenly reward is reserved for those who keep the faith, by the power of the Spirit. Paul realized that without the Spirit of God working in him he could do nothing.

John 15:5 "I am the vine, ye are the branches: He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for without me ye can do nothing."  True success is doing what God has called us to do. No matter the task. If we’re not doing God’s will our efforts are futile. Real accomplishment is when Gods plans for our lives are fulfilled.

Something I want people to know about me:

I believe the highest compliment I can be paid is “what a great family I have.”

Why I am serving in ministry:

The number one reason is in regards to personal calling. Ministry is not something we choose as much as it is something that chooses us. The fact that I sense God’s call to ministry is the thing that keeps me going even when there have been dark times of dryness. Calling is foundational. Without that, you’re on your own. In addition to that, apart from my role within my personal family (wife and three children), I feel it’s the best use of my life in this world. I would add to these that, It should come as no surprise to us that when we are obedient to God’s will (no matter what it is) for our lives we experience the highest levels of gratification and fulfillment possible.

Interests:

Yowza!...That’s a loaded question. I’m an eclectic. I probably have way too many interests to list or at least that others would be interested in hearing about. But here goes. Anything outdoors, I love wide open spaces. Good food of any kind. I’ve yet to find a culture that doesn’t have at least one food that I like. I love art of all kinds. I’m amazed at people’s creativity. I love classical music. I think it has something to do with the whole, “music calms the savage beast” thing. Doing things with my family. Doesn’t matter what. Going out to dinner, cleaning the house, having quiet time. I just thoroughly enjoy being with them.

Something people wouldn’t think about me:

I like spending time alone.

Favorite books:

Biographies, History. Pretty much anything by Tozer or C.S. Lewis. Writings of The Church fathers. Sorry, I know you’re probably looking for titles.

Music interests:

Live worship, classical, instrumental jazz.

Favorite Movies/TV series:

Deadliest Catch, Castaway (never say die!), A man called Peter, documentaries…on anything. Seriously, I’ll watch a documentary on how pencils are made. Lone Ranger, The Waltons. My kids and I have seen every episode known to man…about 50 times!

Pastor Mark Cullum

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