10 Questions With Leader Geoff Surratt (Seacoast Church)

Geoff Surratt is part of the church famous Surratt brothers of Seacoast Church. I have had to the privilege of meeting several of them and I am always impressed with their passion for ministry. I sat in a breakout at a conference where Geoff spoke last year. He’s funny, witty, and smart. His latest book, Ten Stupid Things That Keep Churches from Growing, is a frank and honest book that identifies the most common mistakes pastors make. You can follow Geoff on Twitter also.

Here are 10 questions with leader Geoff Surratt:

When you were growing up, is this what you thought you would be doing vocationally? If not, what did you want to do?

I wanted to be a lawyer. They drove big cars, wore expensive suits and were paid to argue with people. It seemed like a great way to make a living. Now I drive an old car, wear old clothes and pray for people. Almost the same.

What’s the most different job you’ve had from what you are doing now and how did that job help you with what you are doing now?

In college I worked in the toy/lawn and garden/bathroom fixture department at Montgomery Wards. (The fact they Montgomery Wards thought those three departments went together might help explain why they went out of business) My job was to put together swing sets, barbeque grills and gas fireplaces while running the cash register. That job has helped me appreciate how difficult it can be to find meaning in your day to day work.

Who is one person, besides Christ, who most helped to shape your leadership and how did they help you?

I’d love to say St Augustine, Ghandi and Spurgeon; but the biggest influence on my leadership has been John Maxwell. His book Developing the Leader Within opened my eyes for the first time to intentional leadership development.

Besides the Bible, what is one book that has most helped to shape your thought process in life and ministry?

It’s tough to narrow it down to one book because it is a continual process. How about if I give three? Honest to God by Bill Hybels, The Life You’ve Always Wanted by John Ortberg and The Divine Conspiracy by Dallas Willard.

What are three words other people would use to describe your work style/ethic?

Spectacular, breath-taking, humble

What is your greatest strength in leadership?

I love to peek around the corner and figure out what is next

What is your greatest weakness in leadership?

I find my greatest weakness is caring too much (ala Michael Scott). Actually I am not great at one-on-one mentoring. I have always adhered to the sink or swim philosophy which seems to be going out of vogue.

What is the hardest thing you have to do in leadership?

Bringing correction. I want everyone to like me and for all of us to just get along, but course correction is probably the second most important task I have as a leader. (Buying Starbucks for my team is obviously the most important task. That and encouragement. Maybe they are the same thing. Hmmm. What was the question again?)

What is one misconception about your position you think people in your church may have?

Some very misguided think that I am older than our senior pastor, my brother Greg Surratt. I am much younger. (And better looking)

If you could give one piece of advice to young leaders from what you’ve learned by experience, what would it be?

Find as many wise mentors in your life as possible. Some mentors you may never meet, but they can mentor from afar. I have mentors in leadership, spiritual growth, business, family life, personal growth. Surround yourself with wise council and you will find the right path.

Thanks Geoff for the look into your leadership life.

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