Strength for Today's Pastor

Comments? Questions? Send us a message!Welcome to Podcast 174. Today I'm with Dr. Bruce Hebel, author of the incredible, life altering book Forgiving Forward: Experience the Freedom of the Gospel through the Power of Forgiveness.All close followers of Jesus Christ know that we should forgive others, but there are things about forgiveness that are about as clear as mud to us. In this episode of SFTP, we talked with Bruce about the common misconceptions that are out there about what forgiveness really means, and how to actually do it.Among the misconceptions are the following ones:-forgiveness is not a process (it's a decision)-to forgive someone, there's no need to go to that person and tell him/her. -Forgiveness is transacted with the Father. See Mark 11:25-26-forgiveness is not the same thing as reconciliation-forgiveness is not salvific; but, forgiveness of the wounds of others determines how the Father acts toward us in this life (Matthew 6:12, 14-15)And more...Feedback and/or questions welcomed!For Poimen Ministries, its staff, ministries, and focus, go to poimenministries.com. To contact Poimen Ministries, email us at strongerpastors@gmail.com. May the Lord revive His work in the midst of these years!

Comments? Questions? Send us a message!At 72 years of age, Pastor John Offutt of LifeSource Community Church in Lindale, Texas, is hardly a young man. He started LifeSource when he was in his 60s, hardly an age thought to be fitting for a new church plant.One of the main things he had in his favor was that he'd been around the block before, several times in fact. He had experience and was (and is) gifted to do what he does.But he also didn't care. Meaning, he didn't care how others thought he should lead this new work; he was free. Free to lead. Free to assemble a team that could come together and radically touch the community.It's an innovative church. They every month of the year that has five Sundays, and dedicate that Sunday to meeting urgent needs in the community. In other words, they don't meet in the church facility, they meet at numerous homes to help in Jesus' name.They have a "cash helps" Sunday each month, when congregants prepare to give cash offerings which are distributed on the spot to those who need it. They have The Journey Class, which disciples newcomers and new believers in a number of areas... and they call the graduates of the class "partners." Included in the curriculum? Congregants learn how to practice gospel-centered forgiveness, and are expected to actually do it.A refreshing church, diverse yet unified. This episode focuses on The Journey Class. For Poimen Ministries, its staff, ministries, and focus, go to poimenministries.com. To contact Poimen Ministries, email us at strongerpastors@gmail.com. May the Lord revive His work in the midst of these years!

Comments? Questions? Send us a message!For Poimen Ministries, its staff, ministries, and focus, go to poimenministries.com. To contact Poimen Ministries, email us at strongerpastors@gmail.com. May the Lord revive His work in the midst of these years!

Comments? Questions? Send us a message!The Barnabas Method has silently transformed over 500 men's lives across decades, and now this powerful discipleship process is available to every church leader seeking authentic spiritual formation for the men they shepherd.What's the difference between knowing biblical information and becoming like Christ? According to Pastor Dale Lewis, most discipleship approaches focus too heavily on knowledge acquisition while neglecting the transformational aspects of spiritual growth. "Barnabas is about becoming the right person, not just having the right answers," Lewis explains, drawing from his decades of experience implementing this 13-week process.The genius of the Barnabas Method lies in its radical relationality. Built on what Lewis calls "the three Ts" - teachability, transparency, and transference - this approach creates safe spaces for men to admit they don't know everything, share vulnerably about their struggles, and commit to passing what they learn to others. The process unfolds through weekly meetings where men practice focused listening, report on dates with their wives, tackle biblical concepts like new covenant living, and hold one another accountable with remarkable specificity.Perhaps most counterintuitive is the requirement that the pastor or leader position themselves as a fellow learner rather than an expert who has "arrived." This vulnerability creates the conditions for authentic community where true transformation can occur. "If you can't learn from another man," Lewis warns, "that's saying something about how much you're actually going to learn from the Holy Spirit."The curriculum traces its origins through a discipleship lineage including Ray Stedman, Harry Ironside, and J. Vernon McGee, but has been refined and streamlined into a reproducible process any church can implement. After completing the 13 weeks, participants are encouraged to begin discipling others, creating exponential multiplication that transforms not just individual men but entire church cultures.Ready to move beyond programs to transformation? Download the free Barnabas curriculum in any of 103 languages at ScriptureSupply.com and join the growing movement of churches discovering that discipleship isn't about filling positions—it's about forming men who increasingly reflect Christ.Again, to access the curriculum, go to scripturesupply.com, then navigate to Teachings, then to Special Studies, then to Barnabas. It's all there.You can download the curriculum in PDF format using the following link: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1fYlSxeF9mEfTOKoUdx5aC2IqVE1GMQxK/view?usp=drive_linkFor Poimen Ministries, its staff, ministries, and focus, go to poimenministries.com. To contact Poimen Ministries, email us at strongerpastors@gmail.com. May the Lord revive His work in the midst of these years!

Comments? Questions? Send us a message!This is a podcast done by Karl Vaters (author, Small Church Essentials) and Sean Nemecek, a pastor who ministers to pastors to help keep them vitalized and fruitful.The name of the podcast is The Church Lobby, Conversations on Faith and Ministry. We asked permission to play this episode in its entirety. I think you'll find it to be extremely helpful and practical, dealing with the subject of pastoral sabbaticals. The Why, When, and How. Such a need in today's pastoral and church climate, where pastors are commonly becoming burned out and unhealthy, largely due to the demand upon them in this impossible calling (impossible apart from God's enabling help). For Poimen Ministries, its staff, ministries, and focus, go to poimenministries.com. To contact Poimen Ministries, email us at strongerpastors@gmail.com. May the Lord revive His work in the midst of these years!

Comments? Questions? Send us a message!Pastor Brian Heminger has been in pastoral ministry for a lot of years, most recently as the founding and longtime pastor of Calvary Chapel Half Moon Bay. As such, Brian was bi-vocational. His work life outside of the church was as a full-time evangelist, in the role of barber. Now he's retired from that role, but continues in his calling as a pastor-teacher. We pastors all need encouragement. Brian's story provides that for all of us. Blessings,Bill HoldridgeFor Poimen Ministries, its staff, ministries, and focus, go to poimenministries.com. To contact Poimen Ministries, email us at strongerpastors@gmail.com. May the Lord revive His work in the midst of these years!

Comments? Questions? Send us a message!Episode 169 of SFTP tells the story of what it's like to minister in Las Vegas, Nevada, aka "sin city".It CAN be done! Where sin abounds, grace much more abounds. We all know that, but it's for real in the Las Vegas valley.Hear from Pastor John Knapp about some of the ways the Holy Spirit has led their church, Calvary Chapel Green Valley, to be fruitful and growing in Christ.The transcript is also part of this episode...For Poimen Ministries, its staff, ministries, and focus, go to poimenministries.com. To contact Poimen Ministries, email us at strongerpastors@gmail.com. May the Lord revive His work in the midst of these years!

Comments? Questions? Send us a message!168- Dale Lewis: A Pastor You Need to KnowIn the latest episode of our podcast, we had the privilege of speaking with Pastor Dale Lewis, a man whose life and ministry have been profoundly shaped by his unique journey of faith. Pastor Dale shares his story, one that begins with a challenging childhood and evolves into a life dedicated to spiritual mentorship and leadership.Growing up without a father, Dale's early years were marked by a search for meaning and belonging. His journey took a transformative turn when he encountered the Gospel of John, a moment that ignited a lifelong hunger for the Word of God. This pivotal experience set the stage for his future ministry, where he would go on to pastor two Calvary Chapel churches and become a mentor to many.Pastor Dale's approach to ministry is deeply relational, emphasizing the importance of discipleship and intentionality. He shares how his upbringing, though difficult, created a vacuum that was filled by a deep desire to connect with his Heavenly Father. This connection fueled his passion for the Scriptures and his commitment to sharing what he learned with others.One of the most compelling aspects of Pastor Dale's story is his dedication to making Bible resources accessible to pastors and Christians worldwide. Through his project, Scripturesupply.com, he provides Bible study commentary in 103 languages, free of charge. This initiative reflects his heart for equipping others and ensuring that the Word of God is available to all, regardless of language or location.In addition to his ministry work, Pastor Dale shares a personal story of love and obedience. After the passing of his first wife, Donna, he experienced a God-ordained journey to remarriage that defied conventional expectations. This story of faith and trust in God's plan is both heartwarming and inspiring.Throughout the episode, Pastor Dale emphasizes the importance of being intentional in ministry, particularly in the area of succession planning and mentoring future leaders. His insights are invaluable for pastors and leaders seeking to make a lasting impact in their communities.Tune in to this episode to hear Pastor Dale Lewis's full story and be inspired by his unwavering commitment to faith, mentorship, and the global spread of God's Word. Whether you're a pastor, a leader, or someone seeking encouragement in your spiritual journey, this conversation offers wisdom and hope. Don't miss it!For Poimen Ministries, its staff, ministries, and focus, go to poimenministries.com. To contact Poimen Ministries, email us at strongerpastors@gmail.com. May the Lord revive His work in the midst of these years!

Comments? Questions? Send us a message!Pastor John Knapp of Calvary Chapel Green Valley in Henderson, Nevada is passionate about the Lord Jesus Christ and he and the fellowship he pastors are experiencing a wonderful time of renewal in the Holy Spirit. So, that's what we're going to speaking with him about today … we'll hear their testimony and the wisdom the Spirit has given them.John is the founding pastor of CC Green Valley and has pastored for years. I (Bill Holdridge) met John through being practically neighbors, and through the monthly senior pastor's breakfast that happens in Las Vegas. It's been said of some churches that if the Holy Spirit completely vacated the building and fellowship life, things wouldn't miss a beat. Implying, of course, that all they had been doing was energized by human effort only, and not influenced by the very One Jesus prayed about to His Father, that He (the Holy Spirit) would be our parakletos.How might a senior pastor move more into the realm and ministry of the Holy Spirit?How does a pastor or congregation become open to the person of the Holy Spirit? What has Calvary Chapel Green Valley learned about how to seek God for and be open to the Holy Spirit's direction in the life of the pastor and the church?____________________________Obviously, Poimen Ministries believes in the perpetuity of the gifts of the Holy Spirit, and in the necessity of the Holy Spirit for a fruitful walk with the Lord and fruitful lives of ministry. Strength for Today's Pastor includes these helpful podcast episodes:035 - Are We Charismatic Enough? - with Pastor Paul Berry064 Acts 2 Distinctives Series- the Power and Ministry of the Holy Spirit (with Holland Davis and Jim Hesterly)096- The Holy Spirit and Speaking in Tongues- with Gayle Erwin133- Are You Holy Spirit Qualified for the Ministry? (with Paul Berry) 135- The Holy Spirit and Ministry: What Holds Us Back? (with Paul Berry)The team of Poimen Ministries love the church of Jesus, and His pastors. Our ministry is to promote church health and revitalization by strengthening pastors, to strengthen their churches.For Poimen Ministries, its staff, ministries, and focus, go to poimenministries.com. To contact Poimen Ministries, email us at strongerpastors@gmail.com. May the Lord revive His work in the midst of these years!

Comments? Questions? Send us a message!Podcast 166 is one that I've wanted to do for some time, but needed to wait for the right time.Now is the right time.Pastor, do you want to experience the power of the gospel in forgiveness? Do you want this for your fellowship? I know you do.In this episode of SFTP, discover: The forgiveness mandate, directly from the Lord's Jesus.The blessing of knowing we're forgiven.The blessings that result from forgiving others.The surprising meaning of the parable of the unforgiving servant in Matthew 18:21-35.The torture that results from refusing to forgive others. The protocols (how to do it) of forgiveness.Tried and tested resources to go to for help.Listen in, and then share, share, share.For Poimen Ministries, its staff, ministries, and focus, go to poimenministries.com. To contact Poimen Ministries, email us at strongerpastors@gmail.com. May the Lord revive His work in the midst of these years!

Comments? Questions? Send us a message!This is podcast 164 of Strength for Today's Pastor. In this interview, I'm speaking with Pastor Dan Jacobsen, a lead/teaching pastor at Heartland Community Church in Olathe, Kansas.In addition to his role as a pastor-teacher, Dan has the unique distinction of being a grandson of the now-in-heaven pastor and Bible teacher, the beloved Dr. Warren Wiersbe. This is going to be a fun conversation for that reason alone. But wait! There will be more! So, welcome to the program. Be sure to listen to the end, to discover how to win something special from Dr. Wiersbe's works.For Poimen Ministries, its staff, ministries, and focus, go to poimenministries.com. To contact Poimen Ministries, email us at strongerpastors@gmail.com. May the Lord revive His work in the midst of these years!

Comments? Questions? Send us a message!Shaun and Sheila Sells have served faithfully as a senior/lead pastor and wife team with Calvary Chapel Cheyenne, Wyoming.Then, after 20 years in that role, Shaun handed the church leadership reins over to his admin pastor, with a vision to move on to the next season of life and ministry for the both of them.Both Shaun and Sheila are retired from the U.S. Air Force (Sheila ends her career in mid-November 2024). Listen to their story, and get inspired and instructed by this couple's kingdom mindset. Blessings as you do.  For Poimen Ministries, its staff, ministries, and focus, go to poimenministries.com. To contact Poimen Ministries, email us at strongerpastors@gmail.com. May the Lord revive His work in the midst of these years!

Comments? Questions? Send us a message!Dr. Richard Clinton is an expert on Christian leadership. He and his father Dr. J. Robert Clinton have spent more than 40 years researching, analyzing, and instructing on the subject. They've looked at Biblical leaders, at leaders in the history of the church. They've been thorough, to say the least.What Richard has to say with regard to the life stages of the Christian leader is vital and helpful for Christian leaders fom a vision and preparation standpoint. And also helpful for the older leaders as they move into their sunset years, as well as for younger leaders, to understand where they are in the overall plan of God for them right now.Listen in, make comments, ask questions. We'll do our best to help.For Poimen Ministries, its staff, ministries, and focus, go to poimenministries.com.To contact Poimen Ministries, email us at strongerpastors@gmail.com.May the Lord revive His work in the midst of these years!

Comments? Questions? Send us a message!Richard Clinton is passionate with regard to helping Christian leaders—particularly pastors—finish well. Richard pastored 5 churches during the course of his 40-year pastoral ministry, and also served with his father, Dr. J. Robert Clinton, in the field of Christian leadership studies and training. The book The Making of a Leader: Recognizing Lessons and Stages of Leadership Development is the foundational book resulting from their work.49 Biblical leaders were evaluated carefully, using a consistent set of criteria. Had they finished well? The conclusion: only 13 of these leaders did finish well. Join us in this episode, as Richard Clinton breaks down the patterns of those who did finish well, as well as the behaviors and areas of failure that led to finishing badly.Obviously, this is very timely, given today's pastoral climate. And, there is help available!For Poimen Ministries, its staff, ministries, and focus, go to poimenministries.com.To contact Poimen Ministries, email us at strongerpastors@gmail.com.May the Lord revive His work in the midst of these years!

Comments? Questions? Send us a message!Podcast Episode 161IntroductionWe love to hear pastors tell their own stories, and provide wisdom to others that they've gleaned and that has grown in them over their years of service. Today we have with us pastor Rich Lammay, who has been a senior/lead pastor for 32+ years in the relatively small town of Gardnerville, Nevada. Poimen Ministries recently served the church Rich serves, High Sierra Fellowship, as Rich and his wife Suzanne took three months to enjoyed a well-deserved and needed time away, to regroup and refresh. I was part of the serving team, and it was a wonderful experience for both me and pastor Phil Evans of Poimen Ministries.So now that Rich is back in the saddle, so to speak, I wanted to have him share some of what he has learned, and some of what the Lord has done. I think you'll be encouraged.____________________________________________________§  Welcome to Strength for Today's Pastor, episode 161.Poimen Ministries' focus is for the strengthening and revitalization of the church. Therefore, the goal of this podcast is to provide interview episodes that will be encouraging to pastors and leaders anywhere.§  So, today we have with us Pastor Rich Lammay, senior/lead pastor of High Sierra Fellowship, located in Gardnerville, Nevada.High Sierra Fellowship is a wonderful church, a church I've personally gotten to know. It is an impressive work of God!Rich has recently gotten back in the saddle after being given a three-month sabbatical after many years of ministry. So, we're going to hear about that.§  Rich, welcome to the program.InterviewBio StuffSo Rich, let's get to know you a bit here… you are married to Suzanne, and have been for over 50 years. Congrats on that…Give us a 35,000' view of your conversion, calling, and ministry life, if you would. (As an example, the church website does a great job telling the story concisely: https://hsfellowship.org/index.php/about-us/staff.)Lessons of a PioneerSo, you've been the lead pastor of HSF since 1992. You did that for a couple of years, and then by faith, left your corporate job to serve as a pastor-teacher full time. That was a pioneering step of faith! What did you learn, and how did that grow you?Over the years, HSF has moved its primary meeting place a number of times. How many times has the church moved in the last 34 years? Now, the church meets in its beautiful facilities right in the heart of Gardnerville. And after a relatively short time, you're already running out of room.Lessons Learned Over the YearsWhat are the top five lessons/concepts you've learned in your years of pastoral ministry?Sabbatical Experience (And the Return)A three-month sabbatical: what preparation was required to pull it off?People have no idea the pressures upon a senior/lead pastor, but there are many. Decompression is needed, and sabbath is needed. How long did it take you to decompress?What did the Lord do in you and Suzanne during your time away?What did He show you?G. Campbell Morgan made this statement: “The value of distance is perspective.” With the perspective of being away for three months, what has changed, might change, will change moving forward?Two Minute DrillRich, I'd like you to take two minutes or less to speak directly to your For Poimen Ministries, its staff, ministries, and focus, go to poimenministries.com.To contact Poimen Ministries, email us at strongerpastors@gmail.com.May the Lord revive His work in the midst of these years!

Welcome to Strength for Today's Pastor, episode 160.Our hope and goal is to provide encouragement, sometimes instruction, and sometimes ministry tools to current pastors and leaders, that the churches they serve might also be encouraged, strengthened, and equipped. To that end, today we have with us Pastor Joey Crandall, senior/lead pastor of Calvary Chapel Carson Valley, located in Gardnerville, NV. We're actually recording here in the church facility.So Joey, thanks for traveling all this way to join us today.Pastor Joey has an interesting story about how he ended up in the senior pastor position. His vocational background was as a reporter—for 17 years. The Lord used his training as a journalist and reporter to help develop critical thinking and an ability to objectively observe and interpret details.Joey ended up pastoring the very church he'd been part of since he was a young boy, succeeding a longtime, fruitful pastor in the Carson Valley and beyond.Listen in as Joey tells his story, and hear as he explains some of the powerful lessons he learned in his formative years in pastoral ministry.Joey's story and lessons learned will be an encouragement to every Christian leader.For Poimen Ministries, its staff, ministries, and focus, go to poimenministries.com.To contact Poimen Ministries, email us at strongerpastors@gmail.com.May the Lord revive His work in the midst of these years!

If we pastors don't know what we're aiming at, we'll never hit the target. It's essential to have the right target, and there's no question that the Biblical target is to equip saints unto spiritual maturity and spiritual fruitfulness. Join Bill Holdridge and Pastor Matt Valencia as they put skin on this topic, helpful for any pastor anywhere. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/bill-holdridge/support

Matt Valencia pastors The Regeneration Church in Scotts Valley, CA. He's a father of five, a church planter, a former school teacher, a former assisting pastor, and the current pastor of ReGen Church. He also heads up a team of leaders across Northern California and Northern Nevada. These leaders serve the senior pastors and churches affiliated with the Calvary Chapel Association. In addition to all of these things, and working together with all of it, Matt is a leader. He leads quietly, he leads patiently, he leads with openness. So, I thought he'd be a good person to talk about the spiritual health of the church, the spiritual health of any church. There needs to be a clear set of metrics ... biblical metrics ... by which we can measure our own personal spiritual health, as well as that of the churches we pastor. If we don't know what we're aiming at, how will we ever hit the target? In this episode, show host Bill Holdridge and Pastor Matt talk together, touching these points from a number of interesting angles. Lots to glean from in #159. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/bill-holdridge/support

It's nothing short of a miracle that Steve Marquez is still with us, here on planet earth. Listen to the story of his healing, and even more importantly, of the ministry to which God has called him Pastors and leaders, this episode will provide great insights into how to minister to and care for cancer patients. Also, this episode will be super encouraging, illuminating many hearts towards kingdom ministry. Steve is the founding pastor of Calvary Chapel Ft. Smith, Arkansas, and the founder of Stage 4 Ministries. https://www.stage4ministries.com/ Please listen, and then help Pastor Steve spread the word about this vital and important ministry. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/bill-holdridge/support

Pastor Don Rypstra is in his last days of a long pastorate in Rochester, Minnesota. His and his wife's move to northern Idaho means that a new normal is waiting for them, but also that someone will be called into an exciting opportunity to pastor and reach the people of Rochester, home of the world-renowned Mayo Clinic. Pastor Don is not unlike many pastors, world-wide. Don is conscientious, faithful, thoughtful, and committed to Christ and the gospel. Another thing Don has been: he's been bi-vocational throughout his senior/lead pastor life. Over 25 years ago, he moved his family from California to Rochester in a career related move. Then the Lord called him into pastoral ministry, and to start a church. Which is what he did. Don refers to himself as a small church pastor. More and more, others refer to such pastors as normal sized church pastors, because it's a more accurate description in terms of average church size in the U.S. In this podcast, Don tells part of their story to show host Bill Holdridge. Not only is their story told, but the opportunity is now open to another called and gifted man to assume the leadership of Calvary Chapel Rochester. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/bill-holdridge/support

It's a huge problem. And because of it, we're losing many of our best youth to the world, the flesh, and the devil. Too often, the young people in our churches run off to college or university and subsequently abandon the faith. Also, in our churches there often is a big chasm between what happens in youth or college groups, and what is going on in adult church. The younger generation isn't learning how to connect or get involved in service to Christ within the body. Many recognize these problems, and some pastors are actually doing something radical and visionary to rectify it. One such pastor is Gary Malkus, Jr. Gary is the senior pastor of Calvary Chapel in Victorville, California. Gary's story was told in SFTP episode 155. In epidode 156, Gary's vision to reach the next generation is told. What he has to say will get pastors and youth leaders thinking, and some will be moved to do something about their thoughts. For the sake of God's kingdom... --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/bill-holdridge/support

Every pastor has a testimony, but very few have one like Gary Malkus Jr. Inspiring and directional, Gary's testimony touches a lot of lives, from those in the worst kind bondage to those who need to remember where they came from as they deal with present realities and future dreams. An amazing story... from meth to ministry. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/bill-holdridge/support

Sandy Adams is the pastor of Calvary Chapel Stone Mountain, Georgia. He is known as a tremendous communicator and teacher of God's Word. At the recent International Pastor's Conference in Southern California, Sandy delivered a message entitled "Just Because You Can Doesn't Mean You Should". His text was from 1 Samuel 24, the account of David having had a chance to kill Saul in a cave in En Gedi, but refused to touch the Lord's anointed. Yet, he did cut off the corner of Saul's robe. At first glance, the story doesn't indicate any serious wrongdoing on David's part, but upon further review... his action had an insidious evil about it, one that David himself was troubled by what he's done. "Just because we can doesn't mean that we should." It's an incredibly appropriate aphorism for all in spiritual leadership; for anyone who has been anointed by God in such a way that his/her authority gives him/her opportunities to do things that may be possible, but that should not be seized upon. An epic message, one that is greatly needed in this hour of the church. Here is the transcript of Sandy's message, just as he delivered it. https://drive.google.com/file/d/1-QY02yk8MrYGiZXtNC6PxBcEpu00lXLD/view?usp=drive_link --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/bill-holdridge/support

Welcome to podcast 153. Today, it's a blessing and honor to welcome Thom Rainer. Our subject will be church revitalization, a subject that Dr. Rainer is an expert on… Thom S. Rainer is an author, researcher, speaker, and former president and CEO of LifeWay Christian Resources. Prior to LifeWay, he served at The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary for twelve years where he was the founding dean of the Billy Graham School of Missions and Evangelism. He is a 1977 graduate of the University of Alabama and earned his Master of Divinity and Ph.D. degrees from The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary. Thom also serves as the Founder and CEO of Church Answers, a huge and effective resource for training, equipping, and revitalizing churches and ministers. Thom, thanks for agreeing to be with us today. And welcome! INTERVIEW Thom, a while back I read an article you wrote entitled “Three Types of Church Revitalization.” Reading it helped me and our team better understand what we do, and have been doing since 2008. In that article, you wrote that “Over 300,000 churches in America need significant revitalization.” What do you think that number today? Is the church on an upswing, or is it continuing to decline? The article uses the story written in the prophecy of Haggai as a reference point. In a real sense, Israel was in great need of revitalization. Their priorities were messed up! DR. RAINER'S RESPONSE In your article, you wrote: “Like the rebuilding of the temple, there are two foundational issues that must be addressed in church revitalization. First, the church must have the right leaders on board. Second, the behavioral patterns of the church members must change. “No infusion of methodologies or innovations can take place until these two issues are addressed. Such is the reason most revitalizations fail, and only a few succeed. Let's look at that reality in light of three approaches.” I'd love for you to elaborate on these two foundational issues, and on what happened in Haggai's day. DR. RAINER'S RESPONSE It seems to me that unless leaders are honest about their current condition, and are willing to take a deep and honest dive into their own hearts and practices, revitalization will not occur. So, what are good first steps in church revitalization? RESOURCES Thom Rainer has made many, many resources available. Here are just a few… 1. Article cited in this episode: download here: https://us4.campaign-archive.com/?u=e900691004213b8049094abdb&id=edd1c05103&e=ba1b3e8bad 2. Websites: https://churchanswers.com (Thom Rainer, Founder and CEO) Includes paid resources: courses, assessment tools, etc., and free resources: blog articles, webinars, etc. 3. Podcasts: • The Church Answers Podcast • The Church Answers Podcast • Rainer On Leadership • Revitalize & Replant 4. Books: — Who Moved My Pulpit? Leading Change In The Church — I Will: Nine Habits of the Outwardly Focused Christian — Transformational Church: Creating a New Scorecard for Churches — Breakout Churches: Discover How to Make the Leap — Surprising Insights from the Unchurched and Proven Ways to Reach Them — Simple Church: Returning to God's Process for Making Disciples — The Post-Quarantine Church: Six Urgent Challenges and Opportunities That Will Determine the Future of Your Congregation — Becoming A Welcoming Church — Autopsy of a Deceased Church: 12 Ways to Keep Yours Alive — I Am A Church Member: Discover the Attitude that Makes the Difference We appreciate you tuning in with us today. We invite you to subscribe to this podcast through any of the podcast outlets that distribute Strength for Today's Pastor. And don't forget our website: poimenministries.com. You find lots of ways that we can connect with you, the senior or lead pastor, and by the will of God, strengthen you and your ministry to the glory of God.

In episode 152, Bill Holdridge sits down with pastor Nick Cady of White Fields Community Church in Longmont, Colorado. The topic is the backstory of Nick's book, The God I Won't Believe In. How would you complete this sentence, “I could never believe in a God who…?” In 2019, Nick Cady asked the Internet that very question. The responses, along with other research, highlighted nine common themes – topics which people say make it hard for them to embrace Christianity. What began as a nine-week series of messages addressing these barriers, quickly became the most popular, most requested series on Nick's podcasts, church website, radio program, and even on USB drives in the church bookstore. This book is the culmination of those requests, research, and feedback – adapted as a resource to help you, your friends and family through some of the most difficult questions about God and the Bible. Every pastor knows, we humans are all subject to struggles of various kinds. Even those who already believe in Christ can sometimes struggle with and question things about God, Christianity, and the Bible. The book aims to help the struggler move from doubt, questions, and unbelief to a strengthened faith and belief in the true God of the Bible. It's also an equipping tool for pastors and congregants, to help the helpers as thy assist friends and family members who struggle with some of these questions. The interview brings insight into the need for this kind of apologetics. Topics Nick addresses include: A God Who Condones Genocide A God Who Says Some Love Is Wrong A God Who Lets Bad Things Happen To Good People A God Who Doesn't Answer My Prayers

Jack Arnold pastors Calvary Chapel Mt. Si, in North Bend Washington. In 2016, the Lord called Jack and family to move to North Bend and become the pastor of Calvary Chapel North Bend, which is now called Calvary Mt. Si. North Bend is only 30 miles from Seattle, a hotbed of far left wing, progressive thinkng. It is not considered a particularly fertile place for the gospel or a place where true believers and new covenant disciples can be made. Yet, the gospel is the power of God unto salvation, and works effectively works in those who believe (1 Thessalonians 5:13). Calvary Mt. Si is a modern day illustration of this power. They are overcoming the darkness by living in the light and shining the light of gospel living in their community. And, it's working. Listen to Pastor Jack as he shares from the perspective of what the Holy Spirit is doing. Be encouraged!

SFTP Podcast number 150 focuses on how a ministry which is considered a frontlines ministry must first of all, be a healthy ministry. There must be the life of Jesus, the light of Jesus, and also the love of Jesus. Today I'll be speaking with Pastor Arnold, who ministers right in the thick of the ongoing cultural and spiritual rebellion against God which is so prevalent in these times in which we live. Jack pastors Calvary Chapel Mt. Si, in North Bend, Washington. North Bend is only about 30 miles S.E. of Seattle. That part of Washington is known for its strong leftist leanings and politics, and is not typically fertile ground for the gospel. Yet, the church in Mt. Si is thriving, and even though they've lost approximately 70 families—many of whom have relocated to more conservative, family friendly environs. How has the Lord led Jack and his leadership team to equip the church to be the church of Jesus Christ? Hear Jack's story. It's going to encourage and challenge you, that is a certainty.

Rich Cathers has written a book. He didn't write a book to write a book; he wrote a book that would advance a ministry passion of his ... the discipling of God's people into the Word of God. Helping them make Bible reading, Bible study, and Bible contemplation and application as much a part of their lives as breathing or eating. So, the book is called Seven for Seven. As you listen to this episode, you'll discover the reason for the title (which all by itself will inspire you). Rich Cathers has retired from his 25-year pastorate of Calvary Chapel in Fullerton, CA. He planted the church ... and in addition to being a church planter, Rich disciples men, coaches pastors, and advocates for the Bible to be a huge part of every believer's life. From the Preface to the book: “I've laid out the book so that each page gives you the reading assignment for the day, as well as a short devotional article pulled from something in the reading.  These articles were written over the twenty-five-year period I pastored Calvary Chapel of Fullerton.  They were meant as a weekly encouragement to the church based on this same reading plan. As you read along with us, you will note that I don't comment on everything you've read.  You will notice I may not even comment on what you would think is the most famous or important passage in your reading.  My intent is to show you that sometimes even the smallest phrases in the Scripture can come alive and speak to you.”

Pastor, is counseling a burden or a blessing to you? How is your one on one ministry oriented? What's your end game? What are you aiming to accomplish with the many hours you spend with people? Paul LeBoutillier speaks with program host Bill Holdridge about counseling, and the way the Lord has taught him to approach it in his church of almost 30 years. It promises to be both liberating and encouraging to any pastor.

Podcast number 147 features Pastor Paul LeBoutillier, who recently, and very excitedly, announced that he has written and published his first book. This podcast is aimed at encouraging pastors who have something to say, to say it in written form! In this episode, Paul will share with us about how the book came to be, some of the important components of writing a book, and encouragement to do so. Paul is the founding pastor of Calvary Chapel Ontario, Oregon, which began in December of 1990. He is known as a practical, filled-with-wisdom Bible teacher who is dedicated to teaching the Bible. Paul doesn't just teach from the Bible, he teaches the Bible itself, working hard to give the people the whole counsel of God contained in the 66 books of the Bible … book by book, chapter by chapter. Paul was with us twice in the early days of this podcast, in episodes 23 (“What About Pastoral Counseling”) and 27 (“Maintaining Unity Among Church Leadership”). We recommend going back into the SFTP archives and giving them a listen. You'll be strengthened, for sure.

This is a podcast consisting of a message delivered by Pastor Gary Hamrick on June 4, 2023. He has graciously allowed us to replay it, in its entirety, and with the attached link to the sermon transcript. From Pastor Gary: "...What we are now is a culture in chaos. We are a culture in chaos, rife with gender confusion and sexual perversion, and this so-called woke agenda. And it all needs a Biblical response. I want to begin by making it clear that this is not a sermon, in any way, of hatred or harm. We don't hate anyone, and we certainly don't want anyone to be harmed who might be different or who might believe differently from us as Christians. Despite the fact that our church is listed on a Facebook website where people have been taking shots—it's being investigated now by the attorney general and the sheriff's office because some have been wishing harm for those on that list—that's not us. We're not like that. And no one should interpret anything I say as inciting hatred or harm toward anyone." This is not a hate sermon, but a truth-in-love sermon. Here is a link to download the message in written format, which is a word-for-word transcription of Pastor Gary's message. https://drive.google.com/file/d/174oC0lhb9mBqRKp__8SrWRnh2QPBhFfe/view?usp=sharing

In podcast 146 we're dealing with a subject that is (or should be) on the heart of every pastor or elder in any church anywhere. It's an important, paradigm shifting, vision altering approach to ministry. Patrick Farrell, senior/lead pastor of Calvary Chapel Wichita, Kansas, talks about the equipping of the saints for ministry, and in particular, preparing younger leaders for the Biblical roles they are being called to fulfill in the church. Patrick led a major shift in the church he has pastored for 13 years, and it began about 8 years ago. Patrick authored a three part series on the subject, entitled "Paradigm Shift: Equipping the Next Gen." They are subtitled Article A, Article B, and Article C. Click on this link to download the entire article (spoiler alert ... this is really good stuff). Here's the link: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1KJI49MH4uL3NKR53ZKR-lBfg_ftS5aso/view?usp=sharing

Pastor Jeff Birmingham started River Rocks Church in 2012. But after about five years into the effort, he and his wife Jessica were worn out ... about ready to throw in the towel. It was then that things started to happen. A new focus emerged, the strategic leadership development began, and improvement was on its way. An enjoyable season of ministry has been the God-given result. There is now a team, and Jeff is leading relationally, and not just as a boss. Hear the story in this podcast, and learn some creative ideas for doing things differently. In this case, different is also Biblical.

Kevin Green is the founding pastor of Calvary Chapel in Fort Bragg, California. He's been serving there for 25 years. Kevin is passionate about Jesus, the scriptures, about teaching the whole counsel of God, about making disciples, and about the fellowship that he feels very privileged to be part of. He's also passionate about music. On that note (pun intended), Kevin has written, performed, and produced an incredible album of 21 songs, one song for each chapter of the gospel of John. Naturally, the album is entitled "Gospel of John." If you're like me (Bill Holdridge, show host), you're curious about a song's origin, how it was written, and why. We talk about some of that in this episode. Kevin sings all vocals except for the John chapter 4 selection, "The Well" (sung by his daughter Sarah Thurber). He also does almost all the instrumentation. And did we mention, you'll love the eclectic nature of Kevin's music! But he didn't, by any means, do the album alone. Along with the Helper's help, Kevin was aided by his three daughters, by Calvary Chapel pastors Les Boek and Chris Vanover, and by other wonderful musicians from his family and long list of friends. The album can be listened to for free at thegospelofjohnproject.com. There one can find the songs, the lyrics, the credits, and other interesting information. This is a serious contribution to the world of scripture to song music that exists out there. I doubt you will have encountered anything quite like it. _______________________ For Kevin's teaching: ccfortbragg.com ▪ For The Gospel of John Project: thegospelofjohnproject.com. You can listen for free and also find the lyrics and credits. ▪ To purchase the album, just go to the iTunes store: https://music.apple.com/us/album/the-gospel-of-john/1684762031. ▪ For CDs, contact Kevin at pkinfortbragg@gmail.com.

Bob Claycamp has been there, done that. He's been a church planter, a longtime senior pastor in North Phoenix, a Christian commune Bible teacher, a senior pastor in Exeter, England, a transitional senior pastor, and since 2010, has served with our team of Poimen Ministries pastors. Bob says, "Sometimes (in searching for leaders) we are looking for a product, and we get a project." Bob says, "When you're looking to identify leaders, begin by looking within your own fellowship." In other words, look for the characteristics of a servant-leader in a man, even if they've not been developed yet. Bob has an eye for leaders. He knows what a true, Biblical leader looks like. He knows how to identify them, coach them up, and help them see their place in the body of Christ. Bob's contention is that the leaders you need may already be in your church. When the essential qualities in a man are recognized, then it's time to pour in to them, so that they will pour out. Wise pastors will seek wisdom from wise pastors who have gone before them. Bob's counsel is simple, and it works.

Prayer is God's idea. His great invitation. Prayer is essential. Prayer is the primary means by which God involves His children in what He wants to do in His world.  Prayer was a primary focus of the best church ever—the apostolic church, as in Acts 2:42.  Yet, way too often our prayer meetings seem boring, are poorly attended, and unexciting ... when they ought to be one of the most exciting times of our lives. There is no doubt that there is a huge spiritual warfare component that is part of our unwillingness to pray. The enemy of our souls is like being robbed in an alley ... a struggle ensues, and then a knife appears. Suddenly, the battle changes. Whoever controls the knife pushes the narrative. The same is true of prayer, and of our prayer meetings. Is there anything practically that can be done? Guest show host Tim Brown interviews Bill Holdridge of Poimen Ministries on this intriguing and hopefully helpful subject. Suggestions are made—hopefully helpful—that can may help us transform the prayer culture in our churches. "Lord, teach us to pray!"

This subject is coming up more and more every day. We at Poimen Ministries are finding ourselves in conversations every week with pastors who are looking to the future, and wondering what they should do now with regard to their own pastoral transition. The bottom line is this: unless Jesus returns before you've come to the end of your ministry at your present church, someone else will pastor your church. Therefore, at the very least, every pastor should prepare for someone else to be in the saddle. Pastor Jimmy Morales asked show host Bill Holdridge if he could interview him with his own list of questions on this topic. The resultant interview is from that discussion. Jimmy Morales pastors Fervent Church (formerly called Calvary Chapel Lone Mountain) in North Las Vegas, Nevada. He is a strong leader, with a kingdom vision for the ministry the Lord has given him.

This is a very interesting and inspirational testimony ... Tadd and Charity Scheffer tell their story. Tadd is the founding and senior/lead pastor of Calvary Ellensburg, Washington. Charity, in addition to being a wonderful wife and mother, has an amazing side hustle (i.e. job). You'll have to listen in to find out about it. In 2009 the Scheffers followed the Lord's calling in their life to go to Ellensburg with their four children. They have a huge heart for missions and a special heart for Haiti, as they have adopted 2 children from there. Their desire is to serve the Lord in what ever aspect He leads them. Even senior/lead pastors need models ... examples ... visuals ... concerning what pastoral ministry is all about. Episode 139 provides encouraging narrative to help with that...

It's an amazing thing to watch how the Lord sovereignly brings two people together and then uses that union for His greater glory. Such is the case in the lives of Tadd and Charity Scheffer. Tadd is the senior/lead pastor of Calvary Ellensburg, in Ellensburg, WA. When he and Charity met, she was a Mormon and he was a carnal believer. Yet, the Lord used their relationship to draw both of them to Himself, and the rest is history that is still being written. Tadd was highlighted in episode 136, which focused on his journey out of Calvinism and into a new freedom in ministry with Calvary Chapel. Part of his and Charity's story was told there.

Alan Stoddard is the author of the Stoke It Up Podcast, and is a former Calvary Chapel Senior/Lead pastor. He is currently prepping for a new church plant in Granbury, Texas. Alan recently discovered that Bill Holdridge had been a church planter himself back in the day ... so he decided to interview him. The discussion takes a number of twists and turns ... it's about church planting, pastoral calling, the days of the Jesus Revolution, and other topics in the fast-moving interview that testifies to the faithfulness of God. Hope you enjoy it. ____________________________ Dr. Alan Stoddard is the co-author of the book Groups that Revitalize, which deals with the subject of sermon based small groups. Sermon based small groups a powerful ministry opportunity that multiplies the reach of the pulpit. Dr. Alan Stoddard shares some of the ministry philosophy behind sermon based small groups as well as the Biblical precedent and tips and tricks to make the best curriculum questions possible. You can read Alan's Doctoral thesis here: https://www.yumpu.com/en/document/view/16328189/teaching-pastors-to-reinforce-expository-preaching-alan-stoddard Or read his book here: https://www.amazon.com/Groups-that-Revitalize-Bringing-Sermon-Based/dp/1733690387 Alan serves as the Lead Pastor of Calvary Ruidoso, in Ruidoso, New Mexico. He has pastored churches in Texas and New Mexico. He has a real passion for making disciples in small groups. He's married to Jeana and has a daughter, Briana. Recommended Episodes from The Expositors Collective: How to Lead an Interactive Bible Study: https://www.expositorscollective.com/podcast/2019/3/12/episode-38-how-to-lead-an-interactive-bible-study Learning from John the Baptist: https://www.expositorscollective.com/podcast/2021/2/16/learning-from-john-the-baptist-george-scanlan The Power of Connection: https://www.expositorscollective.com/podcast/2020/9/1/the-power-of-connection-eric-cartier

Pastor Tadd Scheffer (pronounced Skeff'-er) is the senior and founding pastor of Calvary Ellensburg, Washington. Calvary Ellensburg is a growing, solid church based upon a Calvary Chapel style of ministry and the four distinctives of the early church found in Acts 2:42. Tadd grew up in Lynden, Washington—close to the Canadian border. Lynden is a Dutch town, and as such, is home to numerous Reformed churches. Naturally, Tadd grew up in the tradition of Reformed theology, and came close to being ordained. But then things started to happen in his life. Big things ... things that led to a strong move away from Calvinism and into the grace of God and an entirely new ministry paradigm. Join show host Bill Holdridge as he interviews pastor Tadd. They discuss Tadd's coming out of Calvinism, the five points of TULIP, and the difference that being part of the Calvary Chapel style of ministry has made in his life and ministry. This is a good podcast to refer to others, especially those who are being pulled into the direction of Reformed theology. Of course, questions and comments are welcomed. _________________ Talk by Dr. Norman Geisler ("Why I Am Not a Five Point Calvinist"), here on YouTube: https://youtu.be/xwNZhdPqGDE

Pastor Paul Berry's passion is to “equip the body of Christ with the baptism of the Holy Spirit and the accompanying Spiritual gifts given for the work of the ministry and the flourishing of the church.” This is also the passion of our Lord Jesus Christ. Of course, Jesus had much to say to His disciples prior to going to the cross, to prepare them for days ahead, and also for life after He ascended into heaven. His preparation included a strong emphasis on the work of the Holy Spirit in (and through) their lives … particularly in John 14-16. In a recent email thread with other pastors, a question was asked about the ministry of the Spirit in the local church, specifically about believer's meetings, aka afterglows. The question was then asked: "why is it that so many churches do not have body life, afterglow kinds of meetings, where gifts like prophecy, words of knowledge and wisdom, healings, tongues with interpretation, will occur?" Two words became obvious answers to that question: Unbelief. Fear. These twins of discouragement and failure seem to be behind much of the current hesitancy re: the things of the Holy Spirit. Sit with Pastor Paul as he shares his thoughts on unbelief and/or fear as hindrances to the work of the Holy Spirit being manifest in and through our lives. Obviously, it's far easier to focus on what's wrong than it is to provide hope and direction to do things right. So, what's to be done to address the faith issue with regard to the activities of the Holy Spirit in and through the church? Next, what's to be done to address the fear issue with regard to the activities of the Holy Spirit in and through the church?

You may have heard this phrase, or even used it in a message: “I'd rather burn out than rust out!” Let's be honest, many of us have worn that phrase as a badge of honor, as though it's an honorable thing to burn out for God. Today, that phrase is a painful one … far too many of our brothers-in-arms have opted out of ministry (“I'm done, this isn't what I signed up for!”), or have given up on ministry (due to discouragement or stress), or have been chased out of ministry due to their choices (ethical or moral failure. A recent Barna Group study found that 38% of pastors are seriously considering leaving full-time ministry. We see this trend as tragic, and as being part of much greater problems in today's church. There are the expectations that people put on their pastors — and that pastors put on themselves … these can be debilitating. “Everywhere pastors go they are expected to be ‘on' — ready to give stellar leadership, unending compassion, an inspiring message, anointed prayer, and words of encouragement.” Are there only two options? Is burnout in the ministry and in the life of a minister inevitable? And, if I don't experience burnout, does that mean that I'm rusting out? The answer is “no.” There are not only two options. There is a third option, which is to learn a life lived under grace, with the right pace, and for the correct race. In this episode, we're going to talking about the life-giving counsel of a book we've all read … written out of the true story of the author, Wayne Cordeiro. The book is entitled Leading on Empty: Refilling Your Tank and Renewing Your Passion. Two wonderful pastor-friends-teammates of mine will be helping me in this conversation … Trip Kimball and Terry McNabb. Trip is a long-time pastor-teacher, author, equipper, and discipler; Terry is also a long-time pastor-teacher, musician, and leadership coach. Terry and Trip have both been on our team of Poimen Ministries pastors, for years. You can learn more about them on our ministry website. to Trip and Terry: "Welcome to the program. I just finished reading Cordeiro's book. I've had it on my bookshelf for a couple of years. I'm so blessed by what Wayne Cordeiro has written. I wish I'd have had (and looked for) a resource like this when I started my ministry back in 1976. It taught me things, reminded me of other things, and motivated my in areas of my own life as well. So, we're gonna get into it, each of us. And this will explain why we're recommending reading it."

Acts chapter 19 opens with this narrative: "And it happened, while Apollos was at Corinth, that Paul, having passed through the upper regions, came to Ephesus. And finding some disciples, he said to them, 'Did you receive the Holy Spirit when you believed?' " Eventually, these followers of John the Baptist became followers of Jesus Christ, and were miraculously baptized with the Holy Spirit of God. Charles Finney, in his book Power from On High, wrote: “In a former article I said that the lack of the Baptism of the Spirit should be deemed a disqualification for a pastor, a deacon or elder, a Sunday School teacher, a professor in a Christian College, and especially a professor in a theological seminary. "Is this a hard saying? Is this an uncharitable saying? Is it unjust? Is it unreasonable? Is it unscriptural? "Suppose any one of the Apostles, or those present on that day of Pentecost, had failed through apathy, selfishness, unbelief, indolence, or ignorance to obtain this Baptism with the Holy Spirit, would it have been uncharitable, unjust, unreasonable, or unscriptural, to have accounted him disqualified for the work which Christ has in fact called us all? "Christ had expressly informed them that without this endowment they could do nothing. He had expressly enjoined them not to attempt it in their own strength.” So, the earnest, honest question for all who serve our Lord Jesus Christ is the same. Have we received the Holy Spirit? And beyond that, are we walking in His power and fulness? Do we rely upon Him — and upon Him alone — for the qualifications and power to do what only Christ can do through us by the Spirit's power? Exhortation and encouragement are the two sides of the same spiritual coin. Prepare to be exhorted and encouraged, and may the Lord break out upon us with power, passion, and the pursuit of the highest calling imaginable... to know Christ, and to make Him known. Paul Berry is the founder of Acts 19 Ministries, as well as a team pastor with Poimen Ministries. Paul pastored Calvary Chapel Santa Maria, CA for over 30 years until stepping aside to pursue the leading of the Holy Spirit in this next chapter of his ministry life. Websites: www.acts19ministries.faith https://www.poimenministries.com/index.php/about Email: paul.berry2@icloud.com

What can be said about The Unconference? When the concept was first introduced, many senior pastors on the West Coast were intrigued, and the 1st annual had good participation. But probably no one ever imagined what might happen in a mere 24 hours together with other hungry and desperate-for-God pastors. In. Credible. Tune in to hear from three senior pastors who have been there throughout. Many have prayed for revival, others have prayed for an awakening. Many have prayed for both. One thing is for certain: revival doesn't happen in a vacuum, or in culture of isolation. Revival, if and when it comes, always involves people. Groups of them. The Unconference.

Poimen Ministries staff pastor Mark Walsh shares his journey of faith throughout different continents of the world in serving the Church ... and the lessons learned along the way.  We'll also discuss a new vision that has been birthed for Europe and the U.K. in equipping a new generation of church leadership in these critical regions of the world.  Great insights and encouragement await all who listen to this meaningful conversation. _______________________________________________________ Mark Walsh accepted Christ at age 15 at a Brethren Evangelistic outdoor camp at Bassenfell in the Lake District of England. Since then, he has been involved in ministry. Mark originally comes from the Leeds /Bradford area of England where he served for many years in the Worship & Teaching ministry of Church on the Way, a Calvary Chapel affiliate. In 1998, he left his job as a Legal Liability Specialist with a major UK insurer and moved with his family into full time ministry. He and his family moved to Millstatt, Austria in 1998, to be a part of the Calvary Chapel Bible College, Europe. He served as a pastor on staff responsible for worship, teaching in the Bible College and was responsible for the administration of the facility. He joined CCBCE when it was located in Austria, and was part of the team responsible for the moving the Bible college from Austria to Hungary in 2002. In 2002, Mark served as a Pastor on staff at Vajta, Hungary with responsibilities overseeing worship, teaching in the Bible school and various administrative, including overseeing the internship program and the grounds and maintenance department.  For eight years, Mark made frequent trips to the Pacific Rim, with a passion to encourage the saints and helping to raise a ministry school there. In 2009, the Walshes moved to New Zealand where they started Calvary Chapel Bible Institute New Zealand and The Psalm 2:8 Trust. Since 2009, they have been ministering with CCBI across the Pacific Rim and have helped facilitate the planting of three churches in this time, Calvary Hawkes Bay, Hastings NZ, Shoreline Calvary, Mount Maunganui, NZ and Calvary Chapel Nasinu, Suva, Fiji. Mark has been part of the Poimen Ministries team for two years. Currently, the Walshes live in West Yorkshire in the UK, and are active in strengthening pastors in various parts of Western Europe.

There are many examples in the scriptures that highlight the callings of men and women of God. In this podcast episode, show host Bill Holdridge dives into the calling of the prophet Jeremiah, and makes applications for pastors in our day. It has never been more important for pastor-teachers to make their ministry calling a certain thing in their hearts and minds. From that certainty, many very good things result. Tune in to hear more.

Today, many churches are hindered in their growth and spiritual health due to the lack of training/discipleship of potential leaders. Bill Holdridge sits down and shares his heart and experience with regard to raising up a vibrant, healthy ministry team made up of consistent, godly leaders. Your church can impact your town and the world at large from the already existent ranks of your own church congregation. What you are about to hear is one of the most needed messages for senior/lead pastors who are active in ministry today. ~Pastor Jeff Jones, Podcast Post-Production Editor for Strength for Today's Pastor

Check this out! Making disciples. It's a primary command of Christ for His church, but is rarely actually done. Most Christians have never been discipled by another believer, and most churches do not have a discipleship focus for new converts. Alan Stoddard believes that disciple making should be organic, should be reproduceable, and should use the Bible as its sole or primary curriculum. The result of this kind of discipleship is multiplication. In a six month period of time, if a disciple is active in 80-90% of the sessions, that disciple will be able to do the same for others. Thus, multiplication occurs. This is disciple-making with a purpose. Too often, discipleship is a top-down process. We begin by bringing in the masses, then hope that some will rise to the level of learning and growing. See this graph as an illustration: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1Q86Dvys-Fhk5TGaqBULpRWe1rXA8HZn2/view?usp=sharing. To get an idea of what Bible driven discipleship might look like, check out these articles: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1VXk4ugEHR6GZGYPvaynrdBxder9dzf1W/view?usp=sharing https://drive.google.com/file/d/1WvmaOdYMVSlrP3vN_pmEEiuki3q5pmYd/view?usp=sharing https://drive.google.com/file/d/1PXXfyznbYJMPPjCrjNX6enkEEYw-twPV/view?usp=sharing

Pastor Alan Stoddard wrote his doctoral thesis for Gordon Conwell Theological Seminary on the subject of sermon based small groups. That thesis eventually became a book, entitled Groups that Revitalize: Bringing New Life to Your Church through Sermon-Based Small Groups, co-authored with Kenneth Priest. Alan is passionate about the amazing discipleship opportunities doing sermon based small groups provides for any church ... especially for churches that are committed to expositional Bible teaching. This podcast presents the case for sermon based groups, as an effective way to kill several birds with one stone. Biblical fellowship can be a result, along with a much deeper dive into Sunday's teaching. This will enliven the Sunday morning pulpit experience, giving it an even greater sense of purpose in the heart of the pastor-teacher. Alan is also passionate about church revitalization. Sermon based small groups can play a major role in that happening as well.

Pastoral ministry—especially as it pertains to the office of pastor-teacher—can be extremely multi-faceted. For most pastors, there is far more to do than hours in which to do them. Especially considering the fact that pastors have wives and families. Especially considering that pastors require get proper rest ... in sleep and sabbath. Especially considering the need for exercise and good health habits. But does pastoral ministry have to be as multi-faceted as we've allowed it to become? Do we really need to run in all eight lanes of the race? Or is there one primary lane that we must stay in? What does that look like? Let's explore this important subject.