Pastor Jim Cymbala: The Calling
Jim Cymbala
Jim Cymbala draws from his vast experience of over fifty years as senior pastor of The Brooklyn Tabernacle, a multicultural, non-denominational church in the heart of downtown Brooklyn, as he discusses important topics for the Christian church. These discussions are presented in multi-part series, including The Calling series—a vital resource for church leaders—and devotional series on different books of the Bible. Pastor Cymbala’s desire is to strengthen and encourage the body of Christ, as he points us to Jesus and to God’s Word in these uncertain times.
Episodes
Mentioned books
Mar 11, 2022 • 12min
030 - Unshaken
Reflections on people who shape and sometimes leave our ministries. A look at Paul's final letter and the tensions leaders face when followers desert. Praise for loyal companions and the call to keep studying and reading. Warnings about troublemakers and reassurance that God's presence sustains when support vanishes.
Mar 11, 2022 • 13min
029 - What About Money
Conversations about pastors' financial realities, bivocational ministry, and relying on God for provision. How church growth affects giving and the ability to support ministers. Biblical warnings about the love of money and how practicing generosity can guard against greed. Honest approaches to taking offerings, fundraising for building projects, and trusting God through tight financial tests.
Mar 11, 2022 • 12min
028 - More Than Good Advice
A conversation about the church leader’s role as counselor, and why people need pastoral care beyond sermons. Cultural differences in seeking help are explored. A startling real counseling case illustrates unexpected crises. The talk stresses biblical, Spirit-led counseling, empathy, courage, and balancing correction with grace.
Mar 11, 2022 • 10min
027 - Recapture Your Calling
A look at how leaders can drift from their calling and what puts them at risk. Discussion of praying Scripture and seeking fulfillment of God’s promises. Contrast between Scripture’s authority and personal prophetic words. Stories about Paul in Corinth and remembering prophetic encouragements that sustain ministry. A call to hold fast to your unique, God-given purpose.
Mar 11, 2022 • 12min
026 - Discouragement
A look at how discouragement targets leaders and slowly erodes ministry effectiveness. A close reading of Joshua 1:7–9 calling for strength and courage. Stories of Elijah’s collapse and recovery show rest and provision matter. Practical restoratives include sleep, Scripture, solitude, and proper care to avoid burnout. A call to build encouragement within the church and maintain emotional balance.
Mar 11, 2022 • 10min
025 - Does It Edify
Reflections on five decades of ministry and practical lessons for church leaders. A close look at 1 Corinthians 14 and the rule that everything in worship must edify and strengthen people. Clarification of prophecy as speaking God’s word plainly to build the congregation. Guidance on evaluating praise, offerings, sermons, and knowing when to stop speaking to keep services focused and helpful.
8 snips
Mar 11, 2022 • 11min
024 - When Wolves Approach
A warning about false teaching infiltrating the church and how to spot it. Discussion of Paul’s charge to shepherd and protect vulnerable believers. Examination of wolves arising from within, using charm and money to pervert scripture. Practical signs of deceptive leaders and the call to guard the flock through prayer, Scripture, and faithful care.
Mar 11, 2022 • 11min
023 - What About Your Family
A candid look at childhood trauma and how past wounds shape leaders' lives. A discussion about homes as sanctuaries and why ministry stress makes family rest essential. Exploration of spiritual attacks on marriages and the temptations that drive leaders away. Stories of persistent prayer, painful discipline, and eventual restoration.
Mar 11, 2022 • 11min
022 - Law and Grace
A pastor explores the difference between the old covenant of law and the new covenant of grace. He contrasts commands that expose sin with the gift of faith that receives salvation. Historical theology and Luther’s law-versus-gospel insight come up. Practical preaching advice covers using the law to convict and immediately offering the gospel to avoid legalism and shallow conversions.
Mar 11, 2022 • 12min
021 - An Audience of One
A deep dive into the nature of true worship and how congregational praise can bring God's presence. Explores Old Testament roots of bowing down and the difference between prayer, praise, and worship. Warns against performance-style shows and idolizing personalities. Emphasizes sincerity, holiness, and worshiping in spirit and truth.
