I sat down with Ruslan KD, one of the most well-known Christian content creators online, and his pastor, Jeff Moore from Rhythm Church in Oceanside, California. This conversation covered everything from pastoring influencers to navigating controversy in the church to how social media is reshaping ministry. If you are a pastor trying to figure out how to engage with the online world, this episode is for you.
How Ruslan Found Rhythm Church
Ruslan told me he and his family have been at Rhythm Church for almost two years, after attending on and off since the church launched in 2020. He and Jeff have known each other for over 10 years. That long-standing relationship was the foundation for Ruslan eventually planting his family at Rhythm.
“We’ve been officially at Rhythm for almost two years,” Ruslan shared. “Jeff and I have known each other for over 10 years. That relationship mattered.” People follow relationship before they follow programs.
What It Takes to Pastor Influencers
I asked Jeff what it is like to pastor someone with a massive online following. His answer was grounded. The biggest challenge is not the fame itself, but the unique pressures that come with public visibility.
“At the end of the day, Ruslan is a husband and a father who needs pastoral care like everyone else,” Jeff told me.
Navigating Controversy in the Church
Ruslan is known for tackling difficult topics online. He said he genuinely wants honest conversations that push the church forward.
“I would argue that it would be in celebrity pastors’ best interest to sit down and have the uncomfortable conversations,” Ruslan said. “That veil of status and power is done in this era.”
Social Media as a Ministry Tool
Ruslan and Jeff both believe that social media is one of the greatest tools the church has for reaching people, but only if it is used with authenticity. The era of polished, over-produced church content is fading. What works now is real, honest, and relatable content.
This aligns with what I see across our ChurchCandy partner churches. The ads that perform best are the ones that feel real. I recently wrote about why social media is the greatest opportunity for church growth, and this conversation reinforced everything I believe about authentic digital outreach.
Pastoring in California
Jeff shared honestly about the challenges of leading a church in Southern California. The culture is secular and many people have strong opinions about organized religion. But Jeff sees that as an opportunity. Rhythm Church leans into biblical teaching without compromise.
“Let’s get back to preaching the word of God,” Jeff said. In a culture that is constantly shifting, the Word of God is the one thing that does not change.
Key Takeaways for Church Leaders
- Authenticity wins. On social media and in the pulpit, people can tell when you are being real.
- Pastor the person, not the platform. If you have influencers in your church, treat them like anyone else.
- Lean into hard conversations. Thoughtful engagement builds trust.
- Social media is a mission field. Use it to reach people with truth and love.
- Preach the Bible. In a world of shifting culture, the Word of God remains constant.
Final Thought
This conversation with Ruslan and Jeff was refreshingly honest. Whether you are a pastor, a content creator, or someone trying to figure out how faith and social media intersect, this episode will challenge and encourage you.
For more on digital platforms and church growth, check out my conversation with Brady Shearer about the future of church media.
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