Pastors Talk - A podcast by 9Marks

Jonathan selects two winners for the 300th episode giveaway!

Matthieu Giralt, a pastor in France and intern with Mark Dever, shares invaluable insights on the changing landscape of Christianity in secular France. He discusses the decline of Catholicism and the rise of evangelicals, while also addressing historical tensions between Protestantism and Catholicism. The conversation dives into the complexities of church membership, accountability, and the challenges of pastoral leadership. Giralt highlights the need for strong community support and the evolving curiosity about biblical teachings in modern French society.

Celebrate a milestone as the hosts reflect on 300 engaging interactions with listeners! From tackling the balance of individual discipleship versus community roles to the intricacies of congregational governance, the conversation sparks thoughtful insights. Discover the idea of focused support for missionaries and how churches can better allocate resources. Additionally, there’s a humorous take on pastoral preparation in a changing world. Expect gratitude for the vibrant community that has made this journey possible!

Josh Waldner, a former member of a Hutterite colony in Montana and now an evangelical Christian, shares his unique upbringing. He discusses the communal lifestyle of the Hutterites, contrasting their beliefs with those of the Amish. Waldner reveals the emotional toll of shunning on those who leave the community and reflects on the personal struggles faced in reconciling faith and tradition. He also offers insights into Hutterite church services and highlights the complexities of growing up in a religious colony while seeking authentic engagement with faith.

In this engaging talk, Alex Duke, author of 'From Eden to Egypt' and elder at Third Avenue Baptist Church, shares the motivations behind his book. He dives into the complexities of biblical narratives, particularly Jacob's polygamous relationships and their moral lessons. The conversation also examines how personal Bible study enriches sermon messages. With humor and insight, they discuss the transformation of biblical characters like Judah, shedding light on themes of redemption that resonate today.

Jonathan and Mark share how they structure their libraries and also discuss how much importance pastors should give to their libraries.

Garrett Cal, Pastor of Delray and co-host of Counseling Talk, along with Zach Schlegel, Pastor of First Baptist Upper Marlboro, delve into the challenges of feeling spiritually dry as a pastor. They share personal experiences and practical strategies for managing spiritual fatigue, emphasizing the importance of rest and self-care. The duo discusses the therapeutic power of music and Psalms in spiritual renewal and highlights the significance of personal devotion and supportive networks to combat burnout, fostering camaraderie among church leaders.

In this engaging conversation, Samuel James, Director of Content Development at Crossway and author of Digital Liturgies, explores the crucial theme of maturity in the church. He discusses the need for thoughtful leadership amidst cultural shifts and the challenges of immaturity in organizations. The impact of technology on human development is highlighted, revealing both its potential threats and benefits. Additionally, James offers insights on fostering maturity in youth and navigating the rapid changes of modern society.

Mark and Jonathan delve into the unique challenges pastors face in personal evangelism, balancing their church duties with outreach. They share personal stories that highlight effective gospel conversations and the importance of authentic faith-sharing. The discussion shifts toward the integration of public preaching and personal witness, making sermons relatable to non-believers. They also explore how daily spiritual practices can sustain enthusiasm for evangelism, while offering encouragement to pastors feeling discouraged in their outreach efforts.

Caleb Weaver, author and member of Capitol Hill Baptist Church, discusses the rich history of his church located near the US Capitol. He shares insights on the importance of congregational engagement and the church's unique role in American evangelicalism. The conversation touches on past governance challenges, highlighting a significant split in the congregation and the value of humility amidst conflict. Weaver emphasizes the vital themes of courage and discernment for churches today, showcasing the impactful legacy of local congregations in a changing world.