When Jason Meyer became the official candidate to succeed John Piper at Bethlehem Baptist Church, Piper didn’t talk to him about the transition. Piper wanted the congregation to see the uncoached and unfiltered Meyer, who responded to early inquiries saying he didn’t want the comparison to Piper and complexity of leading Bethlehem. Still, he didn’t say no to the calling.

In this interview with Justin Taylor, Jason Meyer and John Piper talk together in public about the Bethlehem succession for the first time, just days after more than 99 percent of the church supported Meyer’s candidacy. Piper and Meyer explain why they avoided public talk about their impressions from the Lord about the transition and how they sought strong affirmation from leaders and members without wielding a strong arm over the decision. Meyer also explains how he changed his mind about leading Bethlehem when God promised more of himself in the process. Finally, Piper and Meyer close with counsel from God’s Word and their experience for leaders in transition.