Introducing a new podcast from 9Marks—A Storm in the Desert.In 1972, at the base of a Swiss mountain, God saved a man named Mack Stiles. Two decades later, John Folmar “accepted Jesus as his personal Savior”; he doesn’t know even where he first heard that phrase. What happens in the next quarter-century is a testament to God’s commitment to use faithful, ordinary ministry to effect fruitful, extraordinary change. A Storm in the Desert tells this story.The first act in our story covers a lot of ground—from an icy crevice on a Swiss mountain to a below-freezing night capped off by the fiery Billy Graham. It involves a surprising conversion that eventually leads to a transatlantic flight on an empty plane. This is the story of Mack and Leeann.Subscribe to our new podcast, A Storm in the Desert.

Can one belong before believing? In this episode of Pastors Talk, Mark Dever and Caleb Morell discuss the evangelistic power of exclusivity.Subscribe to our new podcast, A Storm in the Desert.

In this episode of Pastors Talk, Mark Dever and Jonathan Leeman talk about service reviews. What is it? What do you talk about during service reviews? What if some feedback is too harsh? Mark Dever shares how the lead pastor can utilize this time to not only make the services better in the future, but also pastor and shepherd his staff and members. Subscribe to our new podcast, A Storm in the Desert, here: https://www.9marks.org/podcast/a-storm-in-the-desert/

In this episode of Pastors Talk, Jonathan Leeman interviews Alex Duke and Alberto Jaquez about A Storm in the Desert, a new podcast series by 9Marks.Subscribe to our new podcast, A Storm in the Desert, here: https://www.9marks.org/podcast/a-storm-in-the-desert/

In this episode of Pastors Talk, Mark Dever and Jonathan Leeman interview Eric Yee, lead pastor of Harvest Mission Community Church of Jakarta, about Christianity in Indonesia.

Dive into the essentials of crafting effective pastoral internships. Discover how structured programs equip future church leaders through a mix of theory and hands-on experience. Explore the delicate balance of confidentiality in elder meetings, ensuring trust while fostering training. The discussion also highlights the enriching mentorship dynamics between interns and staff, emphasizing leadership growth. Finally, learn about the evolving perspectives on internships in ministry and the importance of collaborative dialogue among leaders.

How can pastors hold strong beliefs while being compassionate? The discussion highlights the importance of forgiveness and support in ministry. Personal experiences reveal the thin line between conviction and graceful communication. Evaluative speech shapes our relationships, emphasizing the need for empathy and understanding. The conversation dives into the complexities of feedback, balancing critique with genuine praise. By acknowledging diverse beliefs across denominations, they stress the significance of grace rooted in one's relationship with God.

The hosts dive into the evolution of church internship programs, highlighting their growing importance in shaping future pastors. They emphasize mentorship, practical experience, and the significance of a structured approach to these programs. The discussion also covers the intricate selection process and the role of writing in developing critical thinking among interns. Additionally, they explore collaborative learning methods to enhance engagement and foster camaraderie among participants, preparing them for effective church leadership.

Small groups play a vital role in church communities, offering support without being strictly essential. The conversation highlights the importance of balance between structure and freedom in these groups. Trust in leadership and discernment in assessing teachers are crucial for effective Bible studies. The dynamic between informal gatherings and structured groups is explored, emphasizing accountability and proper teaching. Lastly, practical tips are shared on enhancing small group discussions by aligning them with sermon topics for deeper spiritual growth.

Explore the fascinating significance of ecclesiology, the doctrine of the church, and its role in safeguarding the gospel. Delve into the essential versus non-essential theological issues that shape church membership and worship. Unpack the differences between congregational and elder-ruled governance, with insights from historical figures like John Knox. Discover the importance of baptism for church membership and the gospel's integrity, while examining how a biblical church structure can foster a vibrant faith community.