Show Notes for The Other Pastors Podcast - Interview with Geron Davis
**Links Mentioned:**
- [CommissionedClothing.com](https://commissionedclothing.com)
- [DownloadYouthMinistry.com](https://downloadyouthministry.com)
- [OtherPastors.com](https://otherpastors.com)
Geron Davis and Kindred Souls: https://www.gerondavismusic.com/
View full video at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ES0PPYimBwI
**Episode Overview:**
In this episode of the Other Pastors Podcast, hosts Pastor Colt Straub and Pastor Jonathan Brem interview worship music legend Geron Davis, discussing his extensive career in music ministry, songwriting, and his impact on worship music across denominations.
**Key Highlights:**
1. **Personal Background:**
- Raised as a pastor's kid in Savannah, Tennessee
- Oldest of four siblings, started singing at a very young age
- Geron and his wife Becky have been in ministry for over 40 years
- Recently celebrated their 42nd wedding anniversary
- Learned piano at age 5, primarily playing by ear
- Influenced by diverse musical styles from Christian and secular music
2. **Musical Legacy:**
- Written numerous worship songs including:
- "Holy Ground"
- "In the Presence of Jehovah"
- "Send It On Down"
- "Mercy Saw Me"
- "Holy of Holies"
3. **Notable Achievements:**
- Songs recorded by artists like:
- Michael W. Smith
- Gaither Vocal Band
- Britney Spears
- Israel Houghton
- Billy Graham
- Bishop TD Jakes
4. **Worship Music Evolution:**
- Discusses bridging denominational worship styles
- Helped transition conservative churches to more expressive worship
- Intentionally created music that could connect different worship traditions
- Observed a shift from denominational loyalty to a focus on experiencing God's presence
5. **Ministry Philosophy:**
- Believes ministry is a calling, not a career
- Passionate about bridging generational gaps in church leadership
- Emphasizes the importance of mentorship and passing the "mantle" between generations
- Advocates for platforms that reflect the diversity of the congregation
6. **Unique Personal Interests:**
- Certified scuba diver for 35 years
- Loves cooking and experimenting in the kitchen
- Experienced diving with sharks and manta rays
7. **Current Projects:**
- Recently released choir project "Back to the Garden"
- Working on a 10th anniversary Sing Joy project
- Collaborating on various music projects with artists like Kendra Souls
- Upcoming trip to Africa to lead two conferences:
- Pastors Conference in Nairobi, Kenya (2,000 pastors)
- Worship Leaders Conference (500 worship leaders)
**Personal Testimony Moment:**
Pastor Colt Straub shared a powerful childhood story about feeling God's peace after a car wash accident, which was influenced by Geron's music.
**Memorable Quotes:**
- "We're less about labels and more about lifting Jesus up."
- "If you want to understand what Pentecostals are, it's just black people trapped in white bodies."
- "If you ever get it out of that order [God, family, ministry], you're on the road to a sad heartbreak."
**Advice for Ministry Leaders:**
- Don't view current ministry as just a stepping stone
- Connect with congregation members of all ages
- Prioritize family and personal relationship with God above ministry
- Focus on making a difference, not just making a dollar
**Closing:**
Geron concluded the episode with a heartfelt prayer for listeners, emphasizing God's calling and acceptance despite our flaws.
**Sponsors:**
- Commissioned Clothing
- Download Youth Ministry