The Unholy Trinity, and Why Jesus Has Left the Building: A Discussion with Dr. Dave Miles (Part 3)
- Matthew Bohling
- Aug 18
- 2 min read
The Church Renewal Podcast recently featured a profound conversation with Dave Miles from Vital Church Ministry, focusing on what he terms the "unholy trinity" plaguing many churches today: idolatry, conflict, and power. This insightful discussion revealed how these three elements often prevent churches from experiencing true renewal and fulfilling their mission in a post-Christendom world.
Miles shared a revealing anecdote about an elder who became deeply upset when a pulpit was moved on Easter Sunday, demonstrating how physical objects and traditions can become idols that supersede the true purpose of worship. This story exemplifies how churches often develop unhealthy attachments to symbols, traditions, and structures that ultimately hinder their spiritual growth and effectiveness. The conversation highlighted how idolatry manifests in congregational life when elements of church culture become more sacred than Christ himself.
Beyond the unholy trinity, Miles introduced two additional concepts hindering church health: "hypostatic disunion" (institutionalization) and the lowering of the theological bar. Institutionalization occurs when a church's vision becomes subordinate to its ministries, even when those ministries are no longer effective. Meanwhile, many churches have replaced deep theological teaching with moralistic messages, resulting in what Miles describes as "shallow spirituality." This drift from theological substance to practical moralism has created congregations that can function entirely without reference to Christ.
The podcast explored how family systems theory provides a framework for understanding church dynamics. When transitional pastors challenge established patterns or question longstanding traditions, anxiety naturally rises within the congregation. The key to effective transitional ministry lies in maintaining a non-anxious presence while still addressing the essential issues that require change. This delicate balance requires wisdom, courage, and a commitment to facilitating what the Spirit is saying to each church.
Looking toward the future of church renewal, Miles presented both challenges and opportunities. With an anticipated wave of pastoral retirements and fewer seminary graduates pursuing senior pastor roles, the landscape of church leadership is rapidly changing. The conversation acknowledged a painful but necessary "winnowing" process, with thousands of churches closing annually. Yet amid this challenging reality, Miles emphasized the importance of seeing church renewal work through a pastoral lens rather than merely as organizational consulting.
The conversation concluded with a powerful reminder that despite the serious challenges facing many congregations, the gospel message remains one of love and invitation. Drawing from Jesus' parable of the prodigal son, they reflected on how God continues to call his people back to himself, offering the riches of his presence to churches willing to return to their first love. This message of hope underscores the ultimate purpose of church renewal work: not merely institutional survival, but authentic spiritual vitality centered on Christ.
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