A few years ago, a pastor became a lightning rod overnight. One moment, millions were watching his sermons. The next, millions were criticizing his methods. Some praised the fruit; others questioned the form.

That pastor was Mike Todd.

The Man Behind the Sound Board

But before the platform, before the flashy clips, and before the controversy, he was serving behind the scenes as a sound man at his church. No microphone. No spotlight. Just showing up and doing what was needed.

That detail matters. It reminds us this didn’t begin as a brand—it began as service.

Scrutiny and Success

As his ministry grew, scrutiny followed. Yes, illustrations were questioned and decisions were debated. Yet, God has still used his ministry to reach millions of people who would never walk into a traditional church. His preaching has helped people re-engage their faith, rethink God, and take real steps toward Jesus.

That’s not nothing. That’s kingdom fruit.

Respecting the Harvest

This teaches us a hard lesson: We can struggle with someone’s methods and still respect the harvest. Influence doesn’t remove the learning curve; it just makes it public. But God has always done meaningful work through imperfect people—whether on viral platforms or in small churches.

The Lesson for Leaders

So, keep serving where you are.

• Keep your heart teachable.
• Keep your pace healthy.

You don’t have to be “viral” to be effective. You just need to be faithful—and keep bearing kingdom fruit, right where God has planted you.

I’m Justin Trapp, and this has been Ministry Minute.