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Welcome back to our series unpacking the core values of the Soma family of churches! In this episode, hosts Justin Westcott and Paul Dean dive into one of our most easily misunderstood convictions: Always Being Reformed.

Paul and Justin clarify that this value is not about tribal Calvinist-versus-Arminian theological debates. Instead, it reflects a posture of radical devotion to the Word of God and a humble willingness to follow wherever Scripture leads. Rooted in Colossians 3:12–13, they explore how theological stewardship requires patience, mutual submission, and the grace to make allowances for each other’s blind spots. They distinguish between unchanging, non-negotiable "hills to die on" (historic creeds and the Lausanne Covenant) and secondary forms that must adapt across generations to serve the mission of Jesus.

In the second half, Justin sits down with Jared Pickney, lead pastor of The Crossing in Paragould, Arkansas. Jared shares his journey of church planting in his rural hometown and leading through cultural shifts. He tackles the danger of turning missional models into untouchable "sacred cows," explaining how his church equipped missional communities with practical discipleship pathways.

Jared unpacks his five essential ingredients for continuous kingdom reformation: Humility, Curiosity, Creativity, Adaptability, and Audacity. Drawing from Canoeing the Mountains and the wisdom of childlike faith, Jared and Justin remind leaders that God is seeking our perfection —He is a loving Father who delights in partnering with us as we build, adapt, and experiment in His name.

In this episode, you’ll discover:

• What "Always Being Reformed" Really Means: Posture over tribalism, guided by Scripture and Colossians 3.
• Function vs. Form: Honoring biblical commands while having the freedom to adapt outdated structures.
• Dismantling Sacred Cows: Why church planters must avoid imposing rigid, one-size-fits-all missional models.
• The Five Ingredients of Reformation: Humility, Curiosity, Creativity, Adaptability, and Audacity.
• Childlike Faith Over Perfectionism: Embracing the freedom to experiment and fail forward in ministry.
• Spiritual Gifts & Calling: Discovering God's design through holy passion, burden, and community practice.

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