The Minister's Friend

SHOW NOTES Pastor John interviews his long-time friends and mentors, Tom Johnston and Mike Chong Perkinson, about the impact of the pandemic on the Church here in the US and how it was actually a blessing and not a curse.  Tom and Mike are both pastors, but they also lead the Praxis Center for Church Development and it's Trivium Institute for Leader Development. In this episode of the conversation, we gain some introductions to our guests.   RESOURCES BOOKS The New Testament Trilogy: Our God, Ourselves, Our Community (Bedford NH: Praxis Center for Church Development, 2005) The Organic Reformation: A New Hope for the Church in the West (Bedford NH: Praxis Center for Church Development, 2009) InBetween: Living in the Tension Between Promise and Fulfillment (Bedford NH: Praxis Center for Church Development, 2008) The Way of the Master: The Leader Development Methodology of Jesus, Kindle, (Bedford NH: Dr. Thomas B. Johnston, 2021) WEBSITES The Praxis Center for Church Development (www.praxiscenter.org) The Trivium Institute for Leader Development (www.triviuminstitute.net) The Way of the Master (www.thewayofthemaster.net)  

Pastor John interviews Dan Boal, Director of Alliance Youth for the Christian & Missionary Alliance. Dan is preparing to transition back to local church ministry and the conversation covers many great topics on both youth ministry and Pastor John's passion: Disciple Making. In this final episode, John and Dan discuss the prayer and disciple making in one's own family. Resources During this series, Pastor John and Dan talk about three books that may be helpful. Follow the links below for more information. Growing Young: Six Essential Strategies to Help Young People Discover and Love Your Church, by Kara Powell, Jake Mulder, and Brad Griffin (Baker Books, 2016) Growing With: Every Parent's Guide to Helping Teenagers and Young Adults Thrive in Their Faith, Family and Future, by Kara Powell and Steven Argue (Baker Books, 2019) DiscipleMAKING: Helping Local Churches Know What Disciples Are and How To Make Them, by John Kimball with Gayle Buford (NextStep Resources, 2019)

Pastor John interviews Dan Boal, Director of Alliance Youth for the Christian & Missionary Alliance. Dan is preparing to transition back to local church ministry and the conversation covers many great topics on both youth ministry and Pastor John's passion: Disciple Making. In this week's episode, John and Dan discuss the life-on-life aspect of disciple making, and also how critical prayer is to the process. Resources During this series, Pastor John and Dan talk about three books that may be helpful. Follow the links below for more information. Growing Young: Six Essential Strategies to Help Young People Discover and Love Your Church, by Kara Powell, Jake Mulder, and Brad Griffin (Baker Books, 2016) Growing With: Every Parent's Guide to Helping Teenagers and Young Adults Thrive in Their Faith, Family and Future, by Kara Powell and Steven Argue (Baker Books, 2019) DiscipleMAKING: Helping Local Churches Know What Disciples Are and How To Make Them, by John Kimball with Gayle Buford (NextStep Resources, 2019)

Pastor John interviews Dan Boal, Director of Alliance Youth for the Christian & Missionary Alliance. Dan is preparing to transition back to local church ministry and the conversation covers many great topics on both youth ministry and Pastor John's passion: Disciple Making. In this week's episode, John and Dan discuss the reasons the American Church has seemingly drifted from real disciple making. And Dan describes the one thing he believes is needed to get us back on track. Resources During this series, Pastor John and Dan talk about three books that may be helpful. Follow the links below for more information. Growing Young: Six Essential Strategies to Help Young People Discover and Love Your Church, by Kara Powell, Jake Mulder, and Brad Griffin (Baker Books, 2016) Growing With: Every Parent's Guide to Helping Teenagers and Young Adults Thrive in Their Faith, Family and Future, by Kara Powell and Steven Argue (Baker Books, 2019) DiscipleMAKING: Helping Local Churches Know What Disciples Are and How To Make Them, by John Kimball with Gayle Buford (NextStep Resources, 2019) If we can help you or your church grow in the area of disciple making, please to not hesitate to contact us. You can reach us at podcast@johnrkimball.com.

Pastor John interviews Dan Boal, Director of Alliance Youth for the Christian & Missionary Alliance. Dan is preparing to transition back to local church ministry and the conversation covers many great topics on both youth ministry and Pastor John's passion: Disciple Making. In this week's episode, Dan describes two reasons why the North American Church is no longer effectively reaching today's youth. What he says applies to reaching adults as well. Resources During this series, Pastor John and Dan talk about three books that may be helpful. Follow the links below for more information. Growing Young: Six Essential Strategies to Help Young People Discover and Love Your Church, by Kara Powell, Jake Mulder, and Brad Griffin (Baker Books, 2016) Growing With: Every Parent's Guide to Helping Teenagers and Young Adults Thrive in Their Faith, Family and Future, by Kara Powell and Steven Argue (Baker Books, 2019) DiscipleMAKING: Helping Local Churches Know What Disciples Are and How To Make Them, by John Kimball with Gayle Buford (NextStep Resources, 2019) If we can help you or your church grow in the area of disciple making, please to not hesitate to contact us. You can reach us at podcast@johnrkimball.com.

Pastor John interviews Dan Boal, Director of Alliance Youth for the Christian & Missionary Alliance. Dan is preparing to transition back to local church ministry and the conversation covers many great topics on both youth ministry and Pastor John's passion: Disciple Making. In this week's episode, we are introduced to Dan and we learn the source of his passion for youth ministry. Resources During this series, Pastor John and Dan talk about three books that may be helpful. Follow the links below for more information. Growing Young: Six Essential Strategies to Help Young People Discover and Love Your Church, by Kara Powell, Jake Mulder, and Brad Griffin (Baker Books, 2016) Growing With: Every Parent's Guide to Helping Teenagers and Young Adults Thrive in Their Faith, Family and Future, by Kara Powell and Steven Argue (Baker Books, 2019) DiscipleMAKING: Helping Local Churches Know What Disciples Are and How To Make Them, by John Kimball with Gayle Buford (NextStep Resources, 2019) If we can help you or your church grow in the area of disciple making, please to not hesitate to contact us. You can reach us at podcast@johnrkimball.com.  

Pastor John continues a special three-part series of episodes on Intercessory Prayer. Way too many congregations today are virtually prayerless. When a local church is not interceding for its community, it is missing one of the most important components of its ministry. Prayerless churches tend to become self-focused and lose their "heart" for the lost souls who live around them. This episode on keys to intercessory prayer is the final installment in a special message Pastor John preached for his own congregation. It is the foundation to his seminar, Launching an Intercessory Prayer Movement in Your Church. If you would like more information about this seminar, or would be interested in bringing it to your church or association of churches, please contact The Minister's Friend Podcast at podcast@johnrkimnball.com.

Pastor John continues a special three-part series of episodes on Intercessory Prayer. Way too many congregations today are virtually prayerless. When a local church is not interceding for its community, it is missing one of the most important components of its ministry. Prayerless churches tend to become self-focused and lose their "heart" for the lost souls who live around them. This episode on defining intercessory pryaer is the second part in a special message Pastor John preached for his own congregation. It is the foundation to his seminar, Launching an Intercessory Prayer Movement in Your Church. If you would like more information about this seminar, or would be interested in bringing it to your church or association of churches, please contact The Minister's Friend Podcast at podcast@johnrkimnball.com.

Pastor John begins a special three-part series of episodes on Intercessory Prayer. Way too many congregations today are virtually prayerless. When a local church is not interceding for its community, it is missing one of the most important components of its ministry. Prayerless churches tend to become self-focused and lose their "heart" for the lost souls who live around them. This episode is the first part in a special message Pastor John preached for his own congregation. It is the foundation to his seminar, Launching an Intercessory Prayer Movement in Your Church. If you would like more information about this seminar, or would be interested in bringing it to your church or association of churches, please contact The Minister's Friend Podcast at podcast@johnrkimnball.com.

Did you know that The Minister's Friend Podcast is now available on all the major podcast platforms, including Apple (iOS), Android, Stitcher, Podbean and SoundCloud? Subscribe today! Show Notes In this series, Pastor John talks with pastor, federal agent and church security expert Jason White about making our churches safer. The discussion centers around Jason's excellent book, Church Security and Outreach: A Spirit-led Strategy to Pursue the One and Protect the Ninety-nine. In this week's episode, Jason talks about the value of building good relationships with your community's first responders -- not only for your church, but also for their sake. Resources Websites: www.spiritledsecurity.com - Jason's website based upon his book and Church Security Conference. If you have the opportunity to attend one of his conferences, you will gain important insights into how you can make your church and ministry safer. www.panoplia.org - A website created close friends of Jason who he works with to provide faith-based security for missionaries. Jason and these friends from the military and law enforcement work with ministries and those serving in more dangerous parts of the world to keep their personnel safe and their locations secure. www.ready.gov/active-shooter - An informative website offered by the US Department of Homeland Security on preparedness for an active shooter situation. www.youtube.com/watch?reload=9&time_continue=64&v=DFQ-oxhdFjE&feature=emb_logo - An Active Shooter Video from the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Office Contact: If you would like to contact Jason White directly to discuss Church Security or to receive any of the free materials he is offering in this series, please use this email address: SLS199@outlook.com Book: Church Security and Outreach: A Spirit Led Strategy to Pursue the One and Protect the Ninety Nine by Jason White (Xulon Press, 2019) *I cannot recommend this book more highly. Neither I nor The Minister's Friend receive a benefit from promoting this or other resources on our program. But I am convinced that, because of the day in which we now live and minister, churches need to be prepared like never before. This would also include legal protections. Please also see our special series from earlier in the year, Your Church and the Law for more information on how you can protect your church and ministry.

Did you know that The Minister's Friend Podcast is now available on all the major podcast platforms, including Apple (iOS), Android, Stitcher, Podbean and SoundCloud? Subscribe today! Show Notes In this new series, Pastor John talks with pastor, federal agent and church security expert Jason White about making our churches safer. The discussion centers around Jason's excellent book, Church Security and Outreach: A Spirit-led Strategy to Pursue the One and Protect the Ninety-nine. In this week's episode, Jason talks about making your church a difficult target. Resources Websites: www.spiritledsecurity.com - Jason's website based upon his book and Church Security Conference. If you have the opportunity to attend one of his conferences, you will gain important insights into how you can make your church and ministry safer. www.panoplia.org - A website created close friends of Jason who he works with to provide faith-based security for missionaries. Jason and these friends from the military and law enforcement work with ministries and those serving in more dangerous parts of the world to keep their personnel safe and their locations secure. www.ready.gov/active-shooter - An informative website offered by the US Department of Homeland Security on preparedness for an active shooter situation. www.youtube.com/watch?reload=9&time_continue=64&v=DFQ-oxhdFjE&feature=emb_logo - An Active Shooter Video from the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Office Contact: If you would like to contact Jason White directly to discuss Church Security or to receive any of the free materials he is offering in this series, please use this email address: SLS199@outlook.com Book: Church Security and Outreach: A Spirit Led Strategy to Pursue the One and Protect the Ninety Nine by Jason White (Xulon Press, 2019) *I cannot recommend this book more highly. Neither I nor The Minister's Friend receive a benefit from promoting this or other resources on our program. But I am convinced that, because of the day in which we now live and minister, churches need to be prepared like never before. This would also include legal protections. Please also see our special series from earlier in the year, Your Church and the Law for more information on how you can protect your church and ministry.

Did you know that The Minister's Friend Podcast is now available on all the major podcast platforms, including Apple (iOS), Android, Stitcher, Podbean and SoundCloud? Subscribe today! Show Notes In this new series, Pastor John talks with pastor, federal agent and church security expert Jason White about making our churches safer. The discussion centers around Jason's excellent book, Church Security and Outreach: A Spirit-led Strategy to Pursue the One and Protect the Ninety-nine. In this week's episode, Jason talks about recruiting and vetting people for the church security team. Resources Websites: www.spiritledsecurity.com - Jason's website based upon his book and Church Security Conference. If you have the opportunity to attend one of his conferences, you will gain important insights into how you can make your church and ministry safer. www.panoplia.org - A website created close friends of Jason who he works with to provide faith-based security for missionaries. Jason and these friends from the military and law enforcement work with ministries and those serving in more dangerous parts of the world to keep their personnel safe and their locations secure. www.ready.gov/active-shooter - An informative website offered by the US Department of Homeland Security on preparedness for an active shooter situation. www.youtube.com/watch?reload=9&time_continue=64&v=DFQ-oxhdFjE&feature=emb_logo - An Active Shooter Video from the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Office Contact: If you would like to contact Jason White directly to discuss Church Security or to receive any of the free materials he is offering in this series, please use this email address: SLS199@outlook.com Book: Church Security and Outreach: A Spirit Led Strategy to Pursue the One and Protect the Ninety Nine by Jason White (Xulon Press, 2019) *I cannot recommend this book more highly. Neither I nor The Minister's Friend receive a benefit from promoting this or other resources on our program. But I am convinced that, because of the day in which we now live and minister, churches need to be prepared like never before. This would also include legal protections. Please also see our special series from earlier in the year, Your Church and the Law for more information on how you can protect your church and ministry.    

Did you know that The Minister's Friend Podcast is now available on all the major podcast platforms, including Apple (iOS), Android, Stitcher, Podbean and SoundCloud? Subscribe today! Show Notes In this new series, Pastor John talks with pastor, federal agent and church security expert Jason White about making our churches safer. The discussion centers around Jason's excellent book, Church Security and Outreach: A Spirit-led Strategy to Pursue the One and Protect the Ninety-nine. In this week's episode, Jason talks about the foundations of Church Security that actually make it a bible based ministry: Prayer - being prayer-focused, the security team begins with a humble starting point, knowing their limitations and deepening their reliance on Christ. Stewardship - the church security team understands their responsibility to be good stewards of everything God has entrusted to them and their congregation -- including their own witness of Jesus' gospel. Jason then goes on to talk about four essential pillars to Church Security to ensure it remains a Spirit-led ministry. Resources Websites: www.spiritledsecurity.com - Jason's website based upon his book and Church Security Conference. If you have the opportunity to attend one of his conferences, you will gain important insights into how you can make your church and ministry safer. www.panoplia.org - A website created close friends of Jason who he works with to provide faith-based security for missionaries. Jason and these friends from the military and law enforcement work with ministries and those serving in more dangerous parts of the world to keep their personnel safe and their locations secure. www.ready.gov/active-shooter - An informative website offered by the US Department of Homeland Security on preparedness for an active shooter situation. www.youtube.com/watch?reload=9&time_continue=64&v=DFQ-oxhdFjE&feature=emb_logo - An Active Shooter Video from the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Office Contact: If you would like to contact Jason White directly to discuss Church Security or to receive any of the free materials he is offering in this series, please use this email address: SLS199@outlook.com Book: Church Security and Outreach: A Spirit Led Strategy to Pursue the One and Protect the Ninety Nine by Jason White (Xulon Press, 2019) *I cannot recommend this book more highly. Neither I nor The Minister's Friend receive a benefit from promoting this or other resources on our program. But I am convinced that, because of the day in which we now live and minister, churches need to be prepared like never before. This would also include legal protections. Please also see our special series from earlier in the year, Your Church and the Law for more information on how you can protect your church and ministry.

Did you know that The Minister's Friend Podcast is now available on all the major podcast platforms, including Apple (iOS), Android, Stitcher, Podbean and SoundCloud? Subscribe today! Show Notes In this new series, Pastor John talks with pastor, federal agent and church security expert Jason White about making our churches safer. The discussion centers around Jason's excellent book, Church Security and Outreach: A Spirit-led Strategy to Pursue the One and Protect the Ninety-nine. In this week's episode, Pastor John introduces Jason and then they talk about Spirit-led security strategy ADAM. The ADAM acronym is basic to any church's security strategy: A - Action - whether its the planning or the actual implementation of your security strategy, action is required. Many congregations do not have a strategy in place, so when an emergency occurs they have to rely solely on their community's first responders for oversight and help. Even a simple action plan can save precious minutes while you wait for first responders -- and that often means saving lives. D - Deterrence - there are steps a church can take to deter crime and violence, as well as accidents and injury. These are also part of a good church security strategy. A - Avoidance - when deterrence is no longer possible (i.e., an emergency has occurred), well thought out plans of avoidance are critical to protecting the flock. How do you get people away from the danger zone? How do you minimize the impact of violence? Its important to answer these questions before you need that answer. M - Mitigation - some accidents and incidents may not be avoidable, what then? Do you have people trained to provide critical first aid? Do you have people who are trained and certified to address the threat while waiting for police? Even a very basic security plan is better than no plan at all. But using the principles in Jason's book (see below), a more formal Spirit-led security strategy can be put in place that protects your people and property without disrupting the loving environment of your church. Resources Websites: www.spiritledsecurity.com - Jason's website based upon his book and Church Security Conference. If you have the opportunity to attend one of his conferences, you will gain important insights into how you can make your church and ministry safer. www.panoplia.org - A website created close friends of Jason who he works with to provide faith-based security for missionaries. Jason and these friends from the military and law enforcement work with ministries and those serving in more dangerous parts of the world to keep their personnel safe and their locations secure. www.ready.gov/active-shooter - An informative website offered by the US Department of Homeland Security on preparedness for an active shooter situation. www.youtube.com/watch?reload=9&time_continue=64&v=DFQ-oxhdFjE&feature=emb_logo - An Active Shooter Video from the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Office Contact: If you would like to contact Jason White directly to discuss Church Security or to receive any of the free materials he is offering in this series, please use this email address: SLS199@outlook.com Book: Church Security and Outreach: A Spirit Led Strategy to Pursue the One and Protect the Ninety Nine by Jason White (Xulon Press, 2019) *I cannot recommend this book more highly. Neither I nor The Minister's Friend receive a benefit from promoting this or other resources on our program. But I am convinced that, because of the day in which we now live and minister, churches need to be prepared like never before. This would also include legal protections. Please also see our special series from earlier in the year, Your Church and the Law for more information on how you can protect your church and ministry.

Did you know The Minister's Friend is available on all the major podcast platforms? Subscribe today on Apple, Google and more! Show Notes Pastor John is in the midst of a special seven-episode series on Spiritual Warfare. He has as his guests Pastor Foye Belyea, Founder and CEO of the Warrior Priest Leadership Development Group and Pastor of the Anam Cara Life Community based out of Del Ray Beach, Florida; Bishop Jayson Quiñones, Pastor of Core Faith Church in Oviedo Florida and President of the Oviedo Christian Ministers' Association; and Pastor Michael Brinkley, Associate Pastor of Palmwood Church in Oviedo Florida and a former missionary to Japan. Together, the panel digs deep into spiritual warfare and it's impact on the local church. This week, the panel concludes their discussion by talking about how Christians, churches and communities actually invite territorial spirits and spiritual warfare. Books Three Crucial Questions About Spiritual Warfare by Clinton Arnold Whole 90-minute Panel Discussion on Spiritual Warfare A Panel Discussion on Spiritual Warfare - The Minister's Friend Podcast (mp3)

Did you know The Minister's Friend is available on all the major podcast platforms? Subscribe today on Apple, Google and more! Show Notes Pastor John is in the midst of a special seven-episode series on Spiritual Warfare. He has as his guests Pastor Foye Belyea, Founder and CEO of the Warrior Priest Leadership Development Group and Pastor of the Anam Cara Life Community based out of Del Ray Beach, Florida; Bishop Jayson Quiñones, Pastor of Core Faith Church in Oviedo Florida and President of the Oviedo Christian Ministers' Association; and Pastor Michael Brinkley, Associate Pastor of Palmwood Church in Oviedo Florida and a former missionary to Japan. Together, the panel digs deep into spiritual warfare and it's impact on the local church. This week, the panel discusses makes some very practical applications to all we've been discussing.

Did you know The Minister's Friend is available on all the major podcast platforms? Subscribe today on Apple, Google and more! Show Notes Pastor John is in the midst of a special seven-episode series on Spiritual Warfare. He has as his guests Pastor Foye Belyea, Founder and CEO of the Warrior Priest Leadership Development Group and Pastor of the Anam Cara Life Community based out of Del Ray Beach, Florida; Bishop Jayson Quiñones, Pastor of Core Faith Church in Oviedo Florida and President of the Oviedo Christian Ministers' Association; and Pastor Michael Brinkley, Associate Pastor of Palmwood Church in Oviedo Florida and a former missionary to Japan. Together, the panel digs deep into spiritual warfare and it's impact on the local church. This week, the panel discusses the critical importance of prayer and repentance in combatting spiritual warfare..

Did you know The Minister's Friend is available on all the major podcast platforms? Subscribe today on Apple, Google and more! Show Notes Pastor John is in the midst of a special seven-episode series on Spiritual Warfare. He has as his guests Pastor Foye Belyea, Founder and CEO of the Warrior Priest Leadership Development Group and Pastor of the Anam Cara Life Community based out of Del Ray Beach, Florida; Bishop Jayson Quiñones, Pastor of Core Faith Church in Oviedo Florida and President of the Oviedo Christian Ministers' Association; and Pastor Michael Brinkley, Associate Pastor of Palmwood Church in Oviedo Florida and a former missionary to Japan. Together, the panel digs deep into spiritual warfare and it's impact on the local church. This week, using several key scriptures, the panel builds out a brief biblical theology of spiritual warfare.

Did you know The Minister's Friend is available on all the major podcast platforms? Subscribe today on Apple, Google and more! Show Notes Pastor John is in the midst of a special seven-episode series on Spiritual Warfare. He has as his guests Pastor Foye Belyea, Founder and CEO of the Warrior Priest Leadership Development Group and Pastor of the Anam Cara Life Community based out of Del Ray Beach, Florida; Bishop Jayson Quiñones, Pastor of Core Faith Church in Oviedo Florida and President of the Oviedo Christian Ministers' Association; and Pastor Michael Brinkley, Associate Pastor of Palmwood Church in Oviedo Florida and a former missionary to Japan. Together, the panel digs deep into spiritual warfare and it's impact on the local church. This week, we take some time to define exactly what we mean by "spiritual warfare" and then discuss several symptoms for which local churches and pastors need to be watching.

Did you know The Minister's Friend is available on all the major podcast platforms? Subscribe today on Apple, Google and more! Show Notes Pastor John is in the midst of a special seven-episode series on Spiritual Warfare. He has as his guests Pastor Foye Belyea, Founder and CEO of the Warrior Priest Leadership Development Group and Pastor of the Anam Cara Life Community based out of Del Ray Beach, Florida; Bishop Jayson Quiñones, Pastor of Core Faith Church in Oviedo FL and President of the Oviedo Christian Ministers' Association; and Pastor Michael Brinkley, Associate Pastor of Palmwood Church in Oviedo FL and a former missionary to Japan. Together, the panel digs deep into spiritual warfare and it's impact on the local church. This week, we each talk about our own personal experiences with spiritual warfare. Some of the dialogue is very transparent -- but it helps to show how real the battle is.

Did you know The Minister's Friend is available on all the major podcast platforms? Subscribe today on Apple, Google and more! Show Notes This week Pastor John begins a special seven-episode series on Spiritual Warfare. He has as his guests Pastor Foye Belyea, Founder and CEO of the Warrior Priest Leadership Development Group and Pastor of the Anam Cara Life Community based out of Del Ray Beach, Florida; Bishop Jayson Quiñones, Pastor of Core Faith Church in Oviedo FL and President of the Oviedo Christian Ministers' Association; and Pastor Michael Brinkley, Associate Pastor of Palmwood Church in Oviedo FL and a former missionary to Japan. Together, the panel digs deep into spiritual warfare and it's impact on the local church. This week, we are introduced to each of our contributors and we spend some time praying together to set the stage for what is a great dialogue for the weeks to come.

Did you know The Minister's Friend is available on all the major podcast platforms? Subscribe today on Apple, Google and more! Show Notes This week Pastor John takes a short break to respond to a pressing question from the days in which we find ourselves: With all that God and His Church are doing right now to help and bless people in light of the upheaval in our nation, why do so many Christians seem to remain in a malaise?  PJ talks about the conditions on which real, Christian thanksgiving are fostered. Today's message is the introduction to a sermon PJ preached in 2017 in his ministry with Palmwood Church of Oviedo, FL. To hear other messages from Pastor John or to learn more about the church's ministry in Central Florida, see the church's website at www.palmwoodchurch.com.

Did you know The Minister's Friend is available on all the major podcast platforms? Subscribe today on Apple, Google and more! Show Notes We decided at the beginning of this year to feature several folks this year who are truly experts in effectively reaching youth for Christ. We're excited that one of the voices we're hearing from is Dr. Ken Castor. I (Pastor John) have known Ken for nearly 10 years. He has had a profound impact on my own family because of his timely investment in my son Josiah (you can hear Josiah's testimony and about his ministry in episodes from January of this year).   After decades of youth ministry, Dr. Ken Castor may be bald in his hairline, but he is bold in his faith. He founded NEXT Ministry Conferences, teaches at Crown College (MN), helped edit the award-winning Jesus-Centered Bible, and has authored several books like Grow Down and Make a Difference. Ken enjoys living in Minnesota with his brilliantly-witty and slightly-freezing family.   In today's episode, Ken defines what he means by "risky leadership" and asks some really good questions about youth development in that risk. He also delineates some non-negotiables we need to consider. Resources Books: Make A Difference: 365 World Changing Devotions by Ken Castor (Broadstreet, 2016) 50 Meals Even Your Teenager Can Make: A NEXT Generation Fun Food Cookbook by Ken Castor, et. al. (Independently Published, 2020) Grow Down: How to Build A Jesus-Centered Faith by Ken Castor (Group Publishing, 2014) The Jesus-Centered Bible (Group Publishing, 2015) Web Resources: NEXT Ministry Conference Crown College Ken Castor's Website

Did you know The Minister's Friend is available on all the major podcast platforms? Subscribe today on Apple, Google and more! Show Notes We decided at the beginning of this year to feature several folks this year who are truly experts in effectively reaching youth for Christ. We're excited that one of the voices we're hearing from is Dr. Ken Castor. I (Pastor John) have known Ken for nearly 10 years. He has had a profound impact on my own family because of his timely investment in my son Josiah (you can hear Josiah's testimony and about his ministry in episodes from January of this year).   After decades of youth ministry, Dr. Ken Castor may be bald in his hairline, but he is bold in his faith. He founded NEXT Ministry Conferences, teaches at Crown College (MN), helped edit the award-winning Jesus-Centered Bible, and has authored several books like Grow Down and Make a Difference. Ken enjoys living in Minnesota with his brilliantly-witty and slightly-freezing family.   In today's episode, Ken explains why our local churches need to takes some real, calculated risks in giving our youth leadership opportunities. Resources Books: Make A Difference: 365 World Changing Devotions by Ken Castor (Broadstreet, 2016) 50 Meals Even Your Teenager Can Make: A NEXT Generation Fun Food Cookbook by Ken Castor, et. al. (Independently Published, 2020) Grow Down: How to Build A Jesus-Centered Faith by Ken Castor (Group Publishing, 2014) The Jesus-Centered Bible (Group Publishing, 2015) Web Resources: NEXT Ministry Conference Crown College Ken Castor's Website

Did you know The Minister's Friend is available on all the major podcast platforms? Subscribe today on Apple, Google and more! Show Notes We decided at the beginning of this year to feature several folks this year who are truly experts in effectively reaching youth for Christ. We're excited that one of the voices we're hearing from is Dr. Ken Castor. I (Pastor John) have known Ken for nearly 10 years. He has had a profound impact on my own family because of his timely investment in my son Josiah (you can hear Josiah's testimony and about his ministry in episodes from January of this year).   After decades of youth ministry, Dr. Ken Castor may be bald in his hairline, but he is bold in his faith. He founded NEXT Ministry Conferences, teaches at Crown College (MN), helped edit the award-winning Jesus-Centered Bible, and has authored several books like Grow Down and Make a Difference. Ken enjoys living in Minnesota with his brilliantly-witty and slightly-freezing family.   In today's episode, Ken helps us understand youth life in a post postmodern world -- and its so helpful in knowing how to reach them for Jesus' kingdom. Resources Books: Make A Difference: 365 World Changing Devotions by Ken Castor (Broadstreet, 2016) 50 Meals Even Your Teenager Can Make: A NEXT Generation Fun Food Cookbook by Ken Castor, et. al. (Independently Published, 2020) Grow Down: How to Build A Jesus-Centered Faith by Ken Castor (Group Publishing, 2014) The Jesus-Centered Bible (Group Publishing, 2015) Web Resources: NEXT Ministry Conference Crown College Ken Castor's Website

Did you know The Minister's Friend is available on all the major podcast platforms? Subscribe today on Apple, Google and more! Show Notes We decided at the beginning of this year to feature several folks this year who are truly experts in effectively reaching youth for Christ. We're excited that one of the voices we're hearing from is Dr. Ken Castor. I (Pastor John) have known Ken for nearly 10 years. He has had a profound impact on my own family because of his timely investment in my son Josiah (you can hear Josiah's testimony and about his ministry in episodes from January of this year).   After decades of youth ministry, Dr. Ken Castor may be bald in his hairline, but he is bold in his faith. He founded NEXT Ministry Conferences, teaches at Crown College (MN), helped edit the award-winning Jesus-Centered Bible, and has authored several books like Grow Down and Make a Difference. Ken enjoys living in Minnesota with his brilliantly-witty and slightly-freezing family.   In today's episode, I ask Ken to introduce himself and tell us a little about the NEXT Ministry Conference. Resources Books: Make A Difference: 365 World Changing Devotions by Ken Castor (Broadstreet, 2016) 50 Meals Even Your Teenager Can Make: A NEXT Generation Fun Food Cookbook by Ken Castor, et. al. (Independently Published, 2020) Grow Down: How to Build A Jesus-Centered Faith by Ken Castor (Group Publishing, 2014) The Jesus-Centered Bible (Group Publishing, 2015) Web Resources: NEXT Ministry Conference Crown College Ken Castor's Website

Did you know The Minister's Friend is available on all the major podcast platforms? Subscribe today on Apple, Google and more! Show Notes A question we often ask on the podcast is, "Who pastors the pastor?" But an equally important question is, "Who pastors the missionaries?" In way too many cases, those families who are serving on foreign soil have little or no pastoral investment. And for some, the need for the love and care of a pastor is dire. In this episode of The Minister's Friend, Pastor John concludes his interview with Jon and Tammie Rissmiller, who serve with both Global Outreach International and Pastor2Missionaries, providing direct (and often on site) pastoral care to missionaries around the world.  In this episode, they talk about how to provide care for missionaries who are permanently returning home from the field. Resources Books: Serving As Senders Today: How To Care For Missionaries As The Prepare To Go, Are On The Field, And Return Home, Revised Edition, Neal Pirolo, Emmaus Road International,  (January 1, 2012) Mind The Gaps: Engaging the Church In Missionary Care, David Wilson, Ed., 2015, Believers Press (Three Strand Partners) Web Resources: Global Outreach International (Tuplo, MS) Website https://www.mti.org/ TRAIN International - Joplin, Missouri - https://traininternational.org/ Alongside - Richland, Michigan - https://www.alongsidecares.net Heartstream Resources:  https://www.heartstreamresources.org/ Paracletos:         https://paracletos.org/personal-debriefing/ M.T.I.:    https://www.mti.org/ Link Care Center: http://linkcare.org/link-care-center   (Does More counseling than debriefing but help missionaries) Center For Relational Care: https://www.relationalcare.org/  (More Counseling than debriefing) Godspeed Resources Connection:  https://www.godspeedresources.org/you (debriefing and counseling) To find out more about the Rissmillers' ministry or to provide support: https://globaloutreach.org/giving/missionary-details/jon-and-tammie-rissmiller

Did you know The Minister's Friend is available on all the major podcast platforms? Subscribe today on Apple, Google and more! Show Notes A question we often ask on the podcast is, "Who pastors the pastor?" But an equally important question is, "Who pastors the missionaries?" In way too many cases, those families who are serving on foreign soil have little or no pastoral investment. And for some, the need for the love and care of a pastor is dire. In this episode of The Minister's Friend, Pastor John continues his interview with Jon and Tammie Rissmiller, who serve with both Global Outreach International and Pastor2Missionaries, providing direct (and often on site) pastoral care to missionaries around the world.  In this episode, they talk about how to provide care for missionaries who find themselves in crisis on the field. Resources Books: Serving As Senders Today: How To Care For Missionaries As The Prepare To Go, Are On The Field, And Return Home, Revised Edition, Neal Pirolo, Emmaus Road International,  (January 1, 2012) Mind The Gaps: Engaging the Church In Missionary Care, David Wilson, Ed., 2015, Believers Press (Three Strand Partners) Web Resources: Global Outreach International (Tuplo, MS) Website https://www.mti.org/ TRAIN International - Joplin, Missouri - https://traininternational.org/ Alongside - Richland, Michigan - https://www.alongsidecares.net To find out more about the Rissmillers' ministry or to provide support: https://globaloutreach.org/giving/missionary-details/jon-and-tammie-rissmiller

Did you know The Minister's Friend is available on all the major podcast platforms? Subscribe today on Apple, Google and more! Show Notes A question we often ask on the podcast is, "Who pastors the pastor?" But an equally important question is, "Who pastors the missionaries?" In way too many cases, those families who are serving on foreign soil have little or no pastoral investment. And for some, the need for the love and care of a pastor is dire. In this episode of The Minister's Friend, Pastor John continues his interview with Jon and Tammie Rissmiller, who serve with both Global Outreach International and Pastor2Missionaries, providing direct (and often on site) pastoral care to missionaries around the world.  In this episode, they talk about how to provide care and support for missionary families serving in secure areas of the world. Resources Books: Serving As Senders Today: How To Care For Missionaries As The Prepare To Go, Are On The Field, And Return Home, Revised Edition, Neal Pirolo, Emmaus Road International,  (January 1, 2012) Mind The Gaps: Engaging the Church In Missionary Care, David Wilson, Ed., 2015, Believers Press (Three Strand Partners) Web Resources: Global Outreach International (Tuplo, MS) Website https://www.mti.org/ TRAIN International - Joplin, Missouri - https://traininternational.org/ Alongside - Richland, Michigan - https://www.alongsidecares.net To find out more about the Rissmillers' ministry or to provide support: https://globaloutreach.org/giving/missionary-details/jon-and-tammie-rissmiller

Did you know The Minister's Friend is available on all the major podcast platforms? Subscribe today on Apple, Google and more! Show Notes A question we often ask on the podcast is, "Who pastors the pastor?" But an equally important question is, "Who pastors the missionaries?" In way too many cases, those families who are serving on foreign soil have little or no pastoral investment. And for some, the need for the love and care of a pastor is dire. In this episode of The Minister's Friend, Pastor John continues his interview with Jon and Tammie Rissmiller, who serve with both Global Outreach International and Pastor2Missionaries, providing direct (and often on site) pastoral care to missionaries around the world.  In this episode, they discuss the best way to bless missionary kids. Resources Books: Serving As Senders Today: How To Care For Missionaries As The Prepare To Go, Are On The Field, And Return Home, Revised Edition, Neal Pirolo, Emmaus Road International,  (January 1, 2012) Mind The Gaps: Engaging the Church In Missionary Care, David Wilson, Ed., 2015, Believers Press (Three Strand Partners) Web Resources: Global Outreach International (Tuplo, MS) Website https://www.mti.org/ TRAIN International - Joplin, Missouri - https://traininternational.org/ Alongside - Richland, Michigan - https://www.alongsidecares.net To find out more about the Rissmillers' ministry or to provide support: https://globaloutreach.org/giving/missionary-details/jon-and-tammie-rissmiller  

Welcome to a very special package of podcasts where Pastor John interviews pastor and attorney, David Bodanza. David knows both the church and the law well -- he's a practicing lawyer with over 30 years experience specializing in Church Law.  In this final episode, we talk about the wisdom of a good relationship with an attorney and also a Certified Public Accountant. SHOW NOTES

Welcome to a very special package of podcasts where Pastor John interviews pastor and attorney, David Bodanza. David knows both the church and the law well -- he's a practicing lawyer with over 30 years experience specializing in Church Law.  In this episode, we talk about the legal considerations when a church makes the difficult decision to permanently close. SHOW NOTES

Welcome to a very special package of podcasts where Pastor John interviews pastor and attorney, David Bodanza. David knows both the church and the law well -- he's a practicing lawyer with over 30 years experience specializing in Church Law.  In this episode, we discuss the church's response when members experience divorce, and what to do when domestic abuse occurs within the flock. SHOW NOTES

Welcome to a very special package of podcasts where Pastor John interviews pastor and attorney, David Bodanza. David knows both the church and the law well -- he's a practicing lawyer with over 30 years experience specializing in Church Law.  In this episode, we talk about the ramifications of church conflict and why a church needs to have a clear church discipline policy in its bylaws. SHOW NOTES

Welcome to a very special package of podcasts where Pastor John interviews pastor and attorney, David Bodanza. David knows both the church and the law well -- he's a practicing lawyer with over 30 years experience specializing in Church Law.  In this episode, we discuss the establishment of good policies to protect our most precious members -- children. SHOW NOTES

Welcome to a very special package of podcasts where Pastor John interviews pastor and attorney, David Bodanza. David knows both the church and the law well -- he's a practicing lawyer with over 30 years experience specializing in Church Law.  In this episode, we talk about the need for local churches to have well-trained security teams to protect the flock. SHOW NOTES

Welcome to a very special package of podcasts where Pastor John interviews pastor and attorney, David Bodanza. David knows both the church and the law well -- he's a practicing lawyer with over 30 years experience specializing in Church Law.  In this episode, we talk about the single biggest source of claims against the local church -- church safety. SHOW NOTES

Welcome to a very special package of podcasts where Pastor John interviews pastor and attorney, David Bodanza. David knows both the church and the law well -- he's a practicing lawyer with over 30 years experience specializing in Church Law.  In this episode, we talk about pastoral compensation, housing allowances and calculating an equitable salary package. SHOW NOTES

Welcome to a very special package of podcasts where Pastor John interviews pastor and attorney, David Bodanza. David knows both the church and the law well -- he's a practicing lawyer with over 30 years experience specializing in Church Law.  In this episode, we talk about important tax considerations for the local church, including something some congregations never think about. SHOW NOTES

Welcome to a very special package of podcasts where Pastor John interviews pastor and attorney, David Bodanza. David knows both the church and the law well -- he's a practicing lawyer with over 30 years experience specializing in Church Law.  In this episode, we talk about how a well-written church constitution and bylaws, including a statement of faith, can protect a local church from legal action. SHOW NOTES

Welcome to a very special package of podcasts where Pastor John interviews pastor and attorney, David Bodanza. David knows both the church and the law well -- he's a practicing lawyer with over 30 years experience specializing in Church Law.  In this episode, we discuss the importance of clarity in a church's Articles of Incorporation. SHOW NOTES

Welcome to a very special package of podcasts where Pastor John interviews pastor and attorney, David Bodanza. David knows both the church and the law well -- he's a practicing lawyer with over 30 years experience specializing in Church Law.  In this first episode, we're introduced to David and also hear the wonderful story of how God used him to revitalize a precious New England congregation. SHOW NOTES

Did you know The Minister's Friend is available on all the major podcast platforms? Subscribe today on Apple, Google and more! Show Notes A question we often ask on the podcast is, "Who pastors the pastor?" But an equally important question is, "Who pastors the missionaries?" In way too many cases, those families who are serving on foreign soil have little or no pastoral investment. And for some, the need for the love and care of a pastor is dire. In this episode of The Minister's Friend, Pastor John continues his interview with Jon and Tammie Rissmiller, who serve with both Global Outreach International and Pastor2Missionaries, providing direct (and often on site) pastoral care to missionaries around the world.  In this segment, we discuss the biblical basis for missionary support and care, and then give an overview of what that care by local churches should entail. Resources Books: Serving As Senders Today: How To Care For Missionaries As The Prepare To Go, Are On The Field, And Return Home, Revised Edition, Neal Pirolo, Emmaus Road International,  (January 1, 2012) Mind The Gaps: Engaging the Church In Missionary Care, David Wilson, Ed., 2015, Believers Press (Three Strand Partners) Web Resources: Global Outreach International (Tuplo, MS) Website https://www.mti.org/ TRAIN International - Joplin, Missouri - https://traininternational.org/ Alongside - Richland, Michigan - https://www.alongsidecares.net To find out more about the Rissmillers' ministry or to provide support: https://globaloutreach.org/giving/missionary-details/jon-and-tammie-rissmiller

Show Notes A question we often ask on the podcast is, "Who pastors the pastor?" But an equally important question is, "Who pastors the missionaries?" In way too many cases, those families who are serving on foreign soil have little or no pastoral investment. And for some, the need for the love and care of a pastor is dire. In this episode of The Minister's Friend, Pastor John interviews his long-time friends, Jon and Tammie Rissmiller, who serve with both  Global Outreach International and Pastor2Missionaries, providing direct (and often on site) pastoral care to missionaries around the world.  In this first segment of our interview, we introduce you to the Rissmillers and their ministry. In the weeks that follow, our hope is provide you and your congregation with practical and innovative ways that you can better care for the missionary families your church supports. Resources Books: Serving As Senders Today: How To Care For Missionaries As The Prepare To Go, Are On The Field, And Return Home, Revised Edition, Neal Pirolo, Emmaus Road International,  (January 1, 2012) Mind The Gaps: Engaging the Church In Missionary Care, David Wilson, Ed., 2015, Believers Press (Three Strand Partners) Web Resources: Global Outreach International (Tuplo, MS) Website https://www.mti.org/ TRAIN International - Joplin, Missouri - https://traininternational.org/ Alongside - Richland, Michigan - https://www.alongsidecares.net To find out more about the Rissmillers' ministry or to provide support: https://globaloutreach.org/giving/missionary-details/jon-and-tammie-rissmiller

Did you know The Minister's Friend is on all the major podcast platforms? Subscribe today on Apple, Android and more! Show Notes In this special episode of The Minister's Friend, Pastor John responds to the many comments, emails and conversations he's had with people who are expressing trouble praying during this scary and unpredictable time with the Coronavirus Pandemic. Some are folks out of work because of the national shutdown. Some are families sequestered in their homes for safety. And some are seasoned pastors who are just finding it hard to navigate this new "normal" with online worship and social distancing requirements that have completely changed how we do church. Pastor John brings us a message he preached in 2016 at Woodbury Community Church in the Upper Midwest. This message summarizes the little video lessons on prayer he has been offering since the "Stay at Home" orders were levied upon us.   If you'd like to work your way through those video lessons, you can find them HERE. Recommended Books on Prayer: Intercessory Prayer by Dutch Sheets A Praying Life by Paul Miller Praying God's Word by Beth Moore With Christ in the School of Prayer by Andrew Murray Prayer by O. Hallesby Learning to Prayer Through the Psalms by James W. Sire The Complete Works of E.M. Bounds on Prayer by E.M. Bounds

Did you know The Minister's Friend is on all the major podcast platforms? Subscribe today on Apple, Android, and more! Show Notes There are three things Pastor John notes are all but missing from the North American church today: we don't pray like we should, we don't make disciples like we should, and we don't read our bibles like we should. In fact, George Barna has noted that half of America is fully "disengaged" from the Bible. Enter the Institute for Bible Reading. Glenn Paauw and Paul Caminiti join The Minister's Friend to talk about their incredible tool, the Immerse Bible Reading Experience, and how it is designed to address today's lack of bible reading. Today is the last segment in this interview. In it, we talk about the really effective "book club" model. Special Offer This episode was recorded during the COVID-19 Virus Pandemic (April 2020). In order to bless families who are "sequestered" in their homes with most States passing Stay-At-Home orders, the folks from the Institute for Bible Reading have created a FREE resource for families to help redeem the extra time spent together. Immerse From Home is a family study of the Bible book Luke-Acts. They provide the biblical text (New Living Translation), introductory videos for the two main sections of the study, streaming audio links for those who do better listening to the Bible than reading it, and a special family guide to make this a wonderful family experience together. Below are two important FREE links: Paul Caminiti's Video Introduction to Immerse From Home The Immerse From Home website where you can download everything you need We cannot recommend this experience more highly. Enjoy! Suggested Resources Websites: The Institute for Bible Reading Website The Immerse Bible Reading Experience Website (www.immersebible.com) State of the Bible 2019: Trends in Engagement (Barna Research, April 2019) Facts and Trends: How Many Protestant Churchgoers Actually Read the Bible Regularly? (Lifeway Research, July 2019) Presentation (Audio and Video): Re-enchanting the Scriptures by Glenn Paauw (Audio) How the Story of the Bible Works by Glenn Paauw (Video Series) Books: Saving the Bible From Ourselves by Glenn Paauw (InterVarsity Press, 2016)   Would you like access to additional content from The Minister's Friend? Our ministry has expanded. We now have three levels of membership to best meet your needs! You can get more information by clicking this button! Become a Patron!

Pastor John continue his interview with Paul Caminiti and Glenn Paauw of the Institute for Bible Reading about the Immerse Bible Reading Experience. Today they discuss the decision to rearrange some of the Bible books and letters in the Immerse Bible. There is also a special offer for our listeners near the end of the podcast. Don't miss it! Show Notes

Pastor John continues his interview with Paul Caminiti and Glenn Paauw of the Institute for Bible Reading. Today we talk about how removing the artificial chapter and verse divisions in the modern bible allows the original and beautiful literary forms within the Scripture to shine through. Show Notes

Pastor John continues his conversation with Paul Caminiti and Glenn Paauw from the Institute for Bible Reading about the Immerse Bible Reading Experience. Today we hear how God led Glenn to be part of this work, and some interesting things they discovered about the development of the modern English bible. Show Notes

Pastor John beings a new series of episodes looking at the Immerse Bible Reading Experience. He begins by introducing the two men who developed the tool, Paul Caminiti and Glenn Paauw. In this episode, we hear the story of how God led Paul to this work. Show Notes

Pastor John concludes his interview with Jonny Nelson of the action sports ministry JSAW with a conversation about how they disciple young riders who respond to their ministry. Show Notes