The Pastorate Podcast Simon Ponsonby on How Church History Can Fuel Us, Staying Amazed by Jesus, and Why the Fear of the Lord is Key
What does it mean to stay amazed by Jesus after decades in ministry?
This week, Jason sits down with Simon Ponsonby—Pastor of Theology at St. Aldates Church in Oxford—for a conversation that weaves together history, personal calling, and deep theological reflection. From walking through Oxford’s sacred sites to recounting his journey from butcher to preacher, Simon brings a pastoral warmth and prophetic edge that invites leaders to long for more of God.
They talk about what it means to finish well, how holiness and the fear of the Lord are needed in the church today, and why revival often begins when the church is on its back foot. Whether you’re early in your ministry or decades in, this episode will renew your hope and stir your affections for Jesus.
In this episode:
Learning to love the Lord through holiness—not performance
The fear of the Lord vs. fear of man in pastoral leadership
Why we lose our awe for Jesus—and how to get it back
What church history teaches us about revival today
How one prophetic moment changed Simon’s life forever
Biography
A fourth generation preacher, Simon Ponsonby came to personal faith in his late teens. He worked as a butcher, then became an evangelist and church planter, before preparing for ordination at Trinity College, Bristol, where he gained his BA & MLitt in Theology. He is an international author, speaker and theologian, now based at St Aldates, Oxford, UK where he is Pastor of Theology. He has written several books on practical theology and doctrine. Simon is married to Tiffany, and they have two grown sons.
Partners
Thanks to Compassion Canada for sponsoring today’s episode. You can learn more about partnering with them as a church here.
We couldn’t do the work we do at The Pastorate without your generous support. We invite you to pray, share, and givetowards seeding a hope-filled future for the Canadian church.
Guest Notes
Show Notes