What does it really mean to be a pastor?

In this special live episode, Jason Ballard sits down with longtime pastor and teacher Darrell Johnson to unpack the identity of a pastor and what it means to faithfully shepherd God’s people in a changing world. With over 50 years of ministry experience, Darrell shares timeless reflections on the heart of a pastor, how to navigate hurt in leadership, and the unchanging truths that still ground ministry today.

Key Takeaways:

A biblical picture of the pastor as shepherd
How to process ministry hurt and avoid bitterness
Rhythms for prioritizing family while leading a church
Building biblical literacy in a post-Christian world
Encouragement for the next generation of pastors

Biography

Darrell W. Johnson has been preaching Jesus Christ and His Gospel for over 50 years. He has served a number of Presbyterian congregations in California, Union Church of Manila in the Philippines, and the historic First Baptist Church in the heart of Vancouver, Canada. He has taught preaching for Fuller Theological Seminary, Carey Theological College in Vancouver, and Regent College in Vancouver. He has authored eight books, including The Glory of Preaching and Discipleship on the Edge: An Expository Journey Through Revelation. He is currently serving as a pastor at The Way Church and Canadian Church Leaders Network. He and his wife Sharon have been married over 50 years. Together they have raised four children adopted from four different countries of the world, and now enjoy loving 11 active grandchildren!

Sponsors

We couldn’t do the work we do at The Pastorate without your generous support. We invite you to pray, share, and ⁠⁠⁠⁠give⁠⁠⁠⁠ towards seeding a hope-filled future for the Canadian church.

Thanks to Compassion Canada for sponsoring today’s episode. You can learn more about partnering with them as a church here.

Guest Notes

Shepherds After My Own Heart: Pastoral Traditions and Leadership in The Bible by Timothy S. Laniak
Texts on Shepherding: Ezekiel 34, Psalm 23
Darrell’s Website
The Darrell Johnson Podcast
Follow Darrell on Instagram
Darrell’s YouTube Channel

Show Notes

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