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.