From Wales to America and Back Again: Lessons from a Life in Ministry with Derek Thomas
Feb 14, 2023
auto_awesome
Derek Thomas, RTS colleague and pastor, talks about his life in ministry. He shares his conversion story, discusses pastoring at a small vs big church, and reveals how he and Ligon Duncan were finalists for the same position.
The importance of presenting complex theological ideas in a way that appeals to the mind and heart, emphasizing the gospel and the inerrancy of Scripture in navigating cultural challenges.
The significance of incorporating affection and application in preaching, focusing on the themes of suffering, Heaven, and the hope found in Christ for comfort and strength in difficult times.
Deep dives
The Influence of Sinclair Ferguson
Derek Thomas acknowledges Sinclair Ferguson as the most influential person in shaping his thinking about doctrine. He appreciates Ferguson's ability to present complex theological ideas in a way that appeals to the mind and heart. Thomas values the emphasis on the gospel and the necessity of a firm commitment to the inerrancy of Scripture, which he sees as vital in navigating cultural challenges.
The Significance of Preaching the Shape of the Gospel
Thomas emphasizes the importance of understanding the shape of the gospel in preaching. He encourages preachers to avoid legalistic tendencies and focus on the grace and freedom found in Christ. Thomas sees the preaching task as engaging with the congregation rather than delivering a lengthy discourse. He values the affection and application in Puritan preaching and aims to incorporate these elements in his own sermons.
The Role of Suffering and Heaven in Ministry
Having experienced personal moments of suffering and witnessing the trials faced by congregational members, Thomas has developed a passion for exploring the themes of suffering and Heaven. He believes that thinking about the world to come and the hope found in Christ is essential for navigating through difficult times. Thomas also aims to address these topics in a pastoral manner, guiding others to find comfort and strength in the gospel.
Formative Authors and Books
Thomas appreciates the writings of various authors, including Sinclair Ferguson, the Puritans, John Calvin, and R.C. Sproul. He values Ferguson's theological insights, the pastoral wisdom of the Puritans, Calvin's simplicity in preaching, and the ability of R.C. Sproul to make complex ideas accessible. Thomas also recommends reading older Scottish authors and expresses admiration for their ability to articulate theological truths in a way that resonates with a broader audience.
In this episode, Kevin is joined by his friend and RTS colleague, Derek Thomas as the two of them talk about pastoring, preaching, and why Derek loves Columbia, South Carolina. Derek shares about his conversion (through reading John Stott), some terrible advice from his vicar, and the differences between pastoring at a small church and at a big church. You’ll also hear the story of how Derek and Ligon Duncan were finalists for the same ministerial position (which went to Ligon!). As Derek nears retirement, this episode is a great opportunity to listen to some of the lessons he’s learned in almost five decades of ministry.
Get the Snipd podcast app
Unlock the knowledge in podcasts with the podcast player of the future.
AI-powered podcast player
Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features
Discover highlights
Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode
Save any moment
Hear something you like? Tap your headphones to save it with AI-generated key takeaways
Share & Export
Send highlights to Twitter, WhatsApp or export them to Notion, Readwise & more
AI-powered podcast player
Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features
Discover highlights
Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode