In this episode of the J29 Coalition Podcast, Pastor Scott Venable, lead pastor of Northwood Church in Keller, Texas, shares candid insights from leading a multiethnic, politically diverse congregation in the heart of the Bible Belt. He discusses how his church navigates cultural polarization by staying rooted in a kingdom-first identity, resisting both right-wing Christian nationalism and left-leaning cultural conformity. Scott explains how expository preaching, contextual discipleship, and a clear “kingdom DNA” have shaped his church’s ability to remain biblically faithful and socially engaged.
Scott Venable is the Lead Pastor of Northwood Church in Keller, Texas, a multiethnic, non-denominational church known for its commitment to biblical teaching and community engagement. Formerly a church planter in Chicago, Scott returned to Texas to succeed founding pastor Bob Roberts Jr. at Northwood. Under his leadership, the church emphasizes “kingdom DNA” through initiatives like a 10-week discipleship program, refugee and immigrant ministries, ESL programs, and local partnerships. He also coaches church planters nationwide through a residency and training pipeline rooted in kingdom theology.