Churchmen Podcast Ep. 5 - Do you really love the sheep?
Jul 16, 2019
Join Pastor Jerry and Daron as they chat with Dr. George Zemeck, a pastor and seminary professor dedicated to training future church leaders. George shares his journey from conversion to valuing expository preaching in the local church. He emphasizes the need for pastors to blend academic knowledge with practical experience. Warning against pride, he stresses the importance of humility and community critique. The conversation culminates in a heartfelt charge to young pastors: love the sheep and commit to their care through Scripture and genuine service.
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Saved By Scripture, Shaped By A Small Church
- George Zemeck described being saved after reading Scripture repeatedly and joining a Bible-centered Grace Brethren church that shaped his ministry vision.
- That local pastor's expository preaching and practical shepherding drove Zemeck toward seminary while keeping the church and sheep central.
Academic Drift Undercuts Pastoral Formation
- Zemeck warns that seminaries can drift when students skip pastoral formation for advanced degrees and remain academic-only.
- He links that drift to a fear of 'getting dirty' with real church life and passing practical ministry to others.
Delay Advanced Degrees Until You’ve Shepherded
- Do stay longer with the sheep before pursuing advanced academic degrees to test whether your call is pastoral or purely academic.
- Get 'a little more dirt on you' and practical bruises so your scholarship serves real congregations.