Recommended Resource
Recommended Resource – The Work of Christ (Theology for the People of God)
Dr. Chuck Quarles will be leading a breakout at our Engaging Exposition Preaching Conference on September 14-15 of […]
In this week’s episode of Pastor Matters, we are joined by Dr. Benjamin Merkle to discuss his new book Authority in the Church. Dr. Merkle walks us through passages of Scripture that outline authority in the early church and discusses how we can apply these passages today. We explore the roles of deacons, elders, and the congregation and how these roles fit together.
Resources from today’s episode:
Authority in the Church by Benjamin Merkle
We hope this episode is encouraging to you today!
Let us know how this episode encouraged you or share any feedback you have by emailing us at [email protected].
Pastor Matters is produced by Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary. Find out how Southeastern can equip you to GO by visiting sebts.edu.
Engaging Exposition 2026
Engaging Exposition is Southeastern Seminary’s annual preaching conference designed to equip local church pastors to preach and lead biblically. This two-day event delivers compelling preaching, practical breakout sessions, free resources, encouragement, and opportunities to network with like-minded pastors. The theme for 2026 is “Leading from the Pulpit.”
Register by July 31, 2026 to lock in the early-bird ticket price: $40 for students and $50 for general admission.
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Books
Recommended Resource: “Jesus’s Final Week”
Jesus’s Final Week: From Triumphal Entry to Empty Tomb by William F. Cook III “Too often, we […]
Meetings
Episode 140: Corporate Prayer Meetings with Dr. Tom Elliff
Books
Recommended Resource: “Christ-Centered Exposition: Exalting Jesus in John”
Christ-Centered Exposition: Exalting Jesus in John by Matt Carter and Josh Wredberg. If you are within […]
Pastor Matters
Episode 139: Prayer Life of the Pastor with Dr. Tom Elliff
Adams Lectures
75 Theses For Preaching in the 21st Century – Adams Lecture Series Part 2
Leadership
Episode 138: Leadership from the Pulpit with Dr. Scott Pace
Recommended Resource
Recommended Resource: “A Passion For Prayer”
A Passion For Prayer by Tom Elliff “I include this book because I know how much […]
Pastor Matters
Episode 137: Pastor, Do Not Quit on Monday
Adams Lecture
75 Theses For Preaching in the 21st Century – Adams Lecture Series Part 1
Books
Recommended Resource: “Zwingli the Pastor”
Zwingli the Pastor by Dr. Stephen Eccher (Associate Professor of Church History and Reformation Studies at […]
Illustration
Episode 136: Illustrations in Preaching with Dr. Scott Pace
Recommended Resource
Recommended Resource: “Shepherds on Guard”
Shepherds on Guard by Philip Crouse Jr. Philip Crouse Jr. (Ph.D., Southeastern Baptist […]
Pastor Matters
Episode 135: Testimony and Aspirations for Ministry
Books
Recommended Resource: “Christ-Centered Preaching”
Christ-Centered Preaching by Bryan Chapell “Even if you’ve read a previous edition of […]
Next-Gen Ministry
Episode 134: Strategic Next-Gen Ministry
Books
Recommended Resource: “Pray & Go”
This week’s resource comes from The Hope Initiative church tool. Pray & Go by Thom Rainer “Imagine […]
Pastor Matters
Episode 133: Growing and Improving in Preaching
Books
Recommended Resource: “Expositional Leadership”
Expositional Leadership by Jim Shaddix and Scott Pace “David Platt says this book is filled with ‘explicit biblical […]
Pastor Matters
Episode 132: Shepherds on Guard with Philip Crouse Jr.
Preaching
Episode 131: Preaching Teams
Pastor Matters
Episode 130: The Hope Initiative with Dr. Thom Rainer
Pastor Matters
Episode 129: Ministry Sayings with Dr. Tom Elliff
Finishing Well
Episode 128: Finishing Well with Dr. Tom Elliff
New Year's Day
Episode 127: New Year 2024
christmas
Episode 126: Preaching During the Holidays
Leadership
Episode 125: Lessons on Leadership with Dr. Danny Akin
Finances
Episode 124: Stewarding Your Finances During the Holidays with Art Rainer
Leadership Fatigue
Episode 123: Addressing Signs of Leadership Fatigue
Thankfulness
Episode 122: Giving Thanks for God’s People
Equip Network
Episode 121: Developing Future Ministry Leaders with Chris Thompson and Beau Landers
Pastor Appreciation Month
Episode 120: Reflections on Pastoral Ministry with Randy Mann
Aspiring Pastors
Episode 119: Training Young Men for Pastoral Ministry with Scott Pace and Peter Rochelle
Pastoral Ministry
Shepherding the Savior’s Sheep: 1 Peter 5:1-4
Pastoral Burnout
Episode 118: Signs of Leadership Fatigue
Pastors and Counseling
Episode 117: The Pastor as Counselor with Tate Cockrell
Pastoral Ministry
Episode 116: On Preaching and Pastoral Ministry with Jim Shaddix
Church Health
Episode 115: Evaluating Church Health with John Ewart
Evangelism
Episode 114: Spiritual Warfare and Evangelism
Spiritual Warfare
Episode 113: The Reality of Spiritual Warfare
Calling
Episode 112: A Conversation on Calling with Chuck Lawless and Caleb Iversen
Discipleship
Episode 111: A Conversation on Theology and Discipleship with Jen Wilkin and J.T. English
Finishing Well
Episode 110: Finishing Well in Ministry with Mark Dance
Image of God
Episode 109: Created in the Image of God with Dr. David Dockery and Lauren McAfee
David Platt
Episode 108: Leaving Behind the American Gospel with David Platt
counseling
Episode 107: Gospel-Centered Marriage Counseling with Jeremy Pierre
Pastor Matters · Gospel-Centered Marriage Counseling with Jeremy Pierre – EP107 THIS WEEK’S EPISODE: At what point […]
Pastor Matters
Episode 106: Rules of Engagement for Social Media with Jordon Willard
Pastor Matters · Rules of Engagement for Social Media with Jordon Willard – EP106 THIS WEEK’S EPISODE: […]
Charles Spurgeon
Episode 105: Spurgeon and His Ministry to the Poor with Alex DiPrima
Pastor Matters · Spurgeon and His Ministry to the Poor with Alex DiPrima – EP105 Before You […]
Pastoral Theology
Current Trends in Pastoral Theology
Dr. Phil Newton shares some of the current trends in pastoral theology with SEBTS Ph.D. students and faculty. […]
Chapel Rewind
The Resurrection of the Great King
Dr. Danny Akin exposits Mark’s account of Jesus’ resurrection with a strong defense of the hope of this […]
David Mathis
Episode 104: The Life, Death, and Triumph of Jesus with David Mathis
Pastor Matters · The Life, Death, and Triumph of Jesus with David Mathis – EP104 THIS WEEK’S […]
Adoption
The Doctrine of Adoption and its Importance for Pastoral Ministry
Dr. Ligon Duncan (Chancellor/CEO of Reformed Theological Seminary) discusses the importance and pastoral implications of our adoption […]
Mason King
Episode 103: Spiritual Disciplines and the Christian Life with Mason King
Pastor Matters · Spiritual Disciplines and the Christian Life with Mason King – EP103 THIS WEEK’S […]
Church Revitalization
Episode 102: Understanding Church Revitalization with John Ewart
Pastor Matters · Understanding Church Revitalization with John Ewart – EP102 THIS WEEK’S EPISODE: What factors contribute […]
Adams Lectures
Adams Lectures 2023: The Priority of the Gospel
Dr. Stephen Rummage delivers an expository message on 1 Corinthians 5:1-11, using illustration principles from Tuesday’s lecture. He […]
Adams Lectures
Adams Lectures 2023: The Value and Use of Illustration in Expository Preaching
Should expository preaching include illustration? Dr. Stephen Rummage demonstrates the essential role illustrations play in […]
Kenneth Coley
Episode 101: Transformational Teaching in Ministry with Kenneth Coley
Pastor Matters · Transformational Teaching in Ministry with Kenneth Coley – EP101 THIS WEEK’S EPISODE: What does […]
Illustrations
Episode 100: Using Illustrations in Preaching With Stephen Rummage
Pastor Matters · Using Illustrations in Preaching with Stephen Rummage – EP100 PASTOR MATTERS EXISTS TO EQUIP AND […]
Brad Hambrick
Panel: Hot Topics in Pastoral Ministry
Dr. Tate Cockrell leads a panel discussion on “hot topics” in pastoral ministry with Drs. Dwayne Milioni, John […]
ACTS
Panel on Preaching Through Acts | Christ-Centered Exposition Workshop 2019
Ronjour Locke, Assistant Director of the Center for Preaching and Pastoral Leadership, moderates a “Panel Discussion on Preaching […]
ACTS
Preaching Through Acts | Christ-Centered Exposition Workshop 2019
Tony Merida, Pastor for Preaching and Vision at Imago Dei Church in Raleigh,NC, presents a lecture titled, “Preaching […]
Christ-Centered Exposition
Interpretive Issues in Acts | Christ-Centered Exposition Workshop 2019
Scott Kellum, Professor of New Testament and Greek at SEBTS, presents a lecture titled, “Interpretive Issues in Acts” […]
Pastor Matters
Episode 99: Exploring Theology in Preaching with Walter Strickland
What is theological preaching? Is it possible for pastors to include too much theology in their preaching? Do pastors underestimate what their people can understand theologically?Join Ronjour this week as he sits down with Dr. Walter Strickland to discuss the relationship between theology and preaching.
Matthew Kim
Episode 98: Preaching to a Divided Nation with Matthew Kim
Dr. Matthew Kim is back on the podcast to discuss his most recent book, Preaching to a Divided Nation. Join Ronjour and Dr. Kim this week as they discuss important steps pastors can implement to pursue unity and reconciliation in their local churches.
Expository Preaching
Episode 97: Spirit-Empowered Exposition with Jim Shaddix
What is spirit-empowered exposition? What does spirit-empowered preaching look like? What role does prayer play in the preaching moment?Join Ronjour this week as he sits down with Dr. Jim Shaddix to talk about spirit-empowered exposition and preaching.
Leaving Well
Episode 96: A Conversation on Leaving Well
What does it look like to leave a ministry assignment well?Join Brandon and Ronjour this week as they tackle this question and share valuable tips for pastors and church leaders.
Mentorship
Episode 95: Help for the Early Years of Ministry with Phil Newton
Why are mentor relationships vital during the early years of ministry? What does a culture of discipleship look like in a church? How can younger pastors endure seasons of hurt in ministry?Join Brandon as he sits down with Dr. Phil Newton to discuss what advice he would give to help pastors during the early years of ministry.
Pastor Matters
Episode 94: The Importance of Patience in Ministry
What does it mean to be patient? Why is patience vital to enduring in ministry? What does the Bible say about being patient?Join Brandon and Ronjour this week as they discuss the importance of patience in ministry.
Joy
Episode 93: Guarding Your Joy in Ministry with Philip Crouse
What does it mean to find joy in the work of the ministry? What are some things that can be considered threats to the pastor’s joy in ministry? How can pastors protect their joy during the ups and downs of ministry?Join Brandon and Ronjour this week as they discuss the importance of guarding your joy in ministry with Philip Crouse.
Episode 92: Preaching Christ From the Old Testament with Allan Moseley
THIS WEEK’S EPISODE: Why should we preach Christ from the Old Testament? What are mistakes preachers can make […]
Episode 91: Pastoring During the Holidays
THIS WEEK’S EPISODE: How can churches serve their communities during the holidays? What should pastors keep in mind […]
Episode 90: A Conversation on Adoption With Andrew Black
THIS WEEK’S EPISODE: What can the Bible teach us about adoption? How can pastors care for families in […]
Episode 89: Talking More than Money with Art Rainer
THIS WEEK’S EPISODE: What are some common ways Christians unknowingly mismanage their money? How can families minimize the […]
Episode 88: Pastoring in a Digital Age with Jason Thacker
THIS WEEK’S EPISODE: What does pastoral ministry look like in the digital age? How can pastors protect themselves […]
Episode 87: Living the Christian Life in a Digital Age with Jeff Mingee
THIS WEEK’S EPISODE: In what ways do our digital devices shape us? Is there a correlation that exists […]
Episode 86: Leading in a Politically Crazy World with Patrick Schreiner
THIS WEEK’S EPISODE: How should Christians view the government? How should the church respond when the government passes […]
Episode 85: Finding Your Voice in Preaching
THIS WEEK’S EPISODE: What does it mean to find your voice in preaching? What are the dangers of […]
Episode 84: Shepherding Families Who Experience a Miscarriage
THIS WEEK’S EPISODE: Join Ronjour and Brandon this week as they sit down with Dr. Jordon Willard (Senior […]
Episode 83: Tips on Premarital Counseling with Tate Cockrell
THIS WEEK’S EPISODE: Why is premarital counseling important? Should pastors require counseling for their members? What are important […]
Episode 82: Pastoral Lessons From Spurgeon with Alex DiPrima
THIS WEEK’S EPISODE: Who was Charles Spurgeon and what makes him relevant today? What are some specific lessons […]
Episode 81: The Importance of Delegation in Ministry
THIS WEEK’S EPISODE: Why is delegation in ministry so important? What are some examples of delegation taking place […]
Episode 80: Pastoring a Church in Decline with Matt Henslee
THIS WEEK’S EPISODE: How do you know if your church is in decline? What are some reasons churches […]
Episode 79: The Call of Christ on Christian Leaders with David Mathis
THIS WEEK’S EPISODE: What does Christian leadership look like? What does it mean for leaders to be known […]
Episode 78: Creating a Succession Plan with Bryant Wright and Clay Smith
THIS WEEK’S EPISODE: What is a succession plan? What should churches consider when putting together a plan for […]
Episode 77: Pursuing Fruitful Theology with Ronni Kurtz
THIS WEEK’S EPISODE: What is the goal of theology? How does thinking about God lead to a greater […]
Episode 76: Ministry Transitions With Jordon Willard
THIS WEEK’S EPISODE: When should pastors consider leaving their current role for another ministry opportunity? How can pastors […]
Episode 75: Pastors and Biblical Counseling (with Tate Cockrell)
Ronjour and Brandon conclude their series highlighting the importance of theological education by having a conversation on pastors […]
Biblical Languages
Episode 74: Pastors and the Biblical Languages (with Robb Coleman & Jeremy Robbins)
This week’s episode: Brandon discusses the important role the biblical languages play in studying and teaching the Scriptures with Robb Coleman and Jeremy Robbins.
Anna Daub
Episode 73: Pastors and Global Missions (with Keelan Cook & Anna Daub)
This week’s episode: In this episode, Brandon sits down with Keelan Cook (Instructor of Missiology) and Anna Daub (Director of Special Projects and Partnerships) to discuss theological education, global missions, and how churches fulfill the Great Commission.
Pastor Matters
Episode 72: Student Pastors and Ministry (with Scott Pace)
This week’s episode: Ronjour and Brandon discuss the importance of theological education in student ministry with Dr. Scott Pace (Dean of The College at Southeastern).
Ethics
Episode 71: Pastors and Ethics (with Mark Liederbach)
This week’s episode: Ronjour and Brandon continue their series highlighting theological education by having a discussion on pastors and ethics with Dr. Mark Liederbach (Senior Professor of Theology, Ethics and Culture at SEBTS).
Keith Whitfield
Episode 70: Pastors and Theology (with Keith Whitfield)
This week’s episode: Ronjour and Brandon discuss the importance of theology in the life of a pastor with Dr. Keith Whitfield (Associate Professor of Theology & Provost at Southeastern).
Chuck Lawless
Episode 69: Pastors and an Intro to Seminary (with Chuck Lawless)
Dr. Chuck Lawless is back again! This week, he joins Ronjour and Brandon to help kick off our brand new series on theological education! Over the next few weeks, we will be featuring Southeastern faculty, students, and alumni to help discuss some of the major topics discussed in seminary.
Chuck Lawless
Episode 68: Pastors and Spiritual Warfare (with Chuck Lawless)
Ronjour and Brandon talk pastors and spiritual warfare with Dr. Chuck Lawless (VP of Spiritual Formation at Southeastern).
Isaac Adams
Episode 67: Pastors and Talking About Race (with Isaac Adams)
Ronjour and Brandon sit down with Isaac Adams (Pastor of Iron City Church) to discuss his new book Talking About Race: Gospel Hope for Hard Conversations.
Art Rainer
Episode 66: Pastors and Church Finances (with Art Rainer)
Art Rainer is back again to discuss pastors and their church’s finances.Should pastors be the financial experts in their church? Should churches accumulate debt for building/expansion? Should pastors have access to the giving records of their members? What resources can pastors use to help their members steward their finances well? Join us this week as we tackle these questions (and many more)!
Art Rainer
Episode 65: Pastors and Their Finances (with Art Rainer)
This week’s episode: Brandon sits down with Dr. Art Rainer (Vice President for Institutional Advancement at SEBTS) to discuss how pastors can steward their finances well.
Gospel
Episode 64: Pastors and Preaching the Gospel to Yourself
This week Ronjour and Brandon discuss the importance of preaching the gospel to yourself.
current events
Episode 63: Pastors and Addressing Current Events (with Nathaniel Williams)
In this week's episode of Pastor Matters, Ronjour and Brandon discuss pastors and addressing current events with special guest Nathaniel Williams (Pastor of Cedar Rock FBC).
Dwayne Milioni
Episode 62: Pastors and Pastoral Internships (with Dwayne Milioni)
In this week’s conversation, Brandon sits down with Dr. Dwayne Milioni (Senior Pastor of Open Door Church of Raleigh) to discuss pastoral internships.Why should churches consider having a pastoral internship program for aspiring pastors? What should pastors include in their church’s internship program? How can pastors identify potential interns? Join us this week as we tackle these questions (and many more)!
Andrew Hébert
Episode 61: Pastors and Character (with Andrew Hébert)
In this week’s episode, Ronjour and Brandon are joined by Dr. Andrew Hébert (Pastor of Paramount Baptist Church in Amarillo, TX) to discuss pastors and character.Why is character so important in pastoral ministry? Should the pastor’s character be a higher priority than his preaching? How can pastors shepherd with character on social media? Join us this week as we tackle these questions (and many more)!
Church Discipline
Episode 60: Pastors and Church Membership (with Dwayne Milioni)
In this week's episode of Pastor Matters, Brandon is joined by Dr. Dwyane Milioni to discuss the importance of church membership.What role do church members play in a local church? Does the absence of conflict indicate unity within a church? What role does church discipline play in maintaining and promoting health in a local church? Join us this week as we tackle these questions (and many more)!
Church Membership
Episode 59: Pastors and Equipping Members
In this week’s episode of Pastor Matter, Ronjour and Brandon discuss the importance of equipping members in a local church.
Church Membership
Episode 58: Pastors and the Membership Process
In this week’s episode of Pastor Matters, Ronjour and Brandon discuss the importance of a meaningful membership process.What is meaningful membership? What does a comprehensive membership process look like? How long should the membership process take? What are some essentials to include in a membership class? Join us this week as we tackle these questions (and many more)!
P2
Episode 57: Pastors and Urban Ministry (with Sean Cordell)
In this week’s episode of Pastor Matters, Ronjour and Brandon are joined by Sean Cordell (Pastor of Treasuring Christ Church in Raleigh, NC) to discuss pastoring in an urban context.
Mentorship
Episode 56: Pastors and Theological Education
In this week’s episode of Pastor Matters, Ronjour and Brandon discuss the importance of theological education.
Pastor Matters
Episode 55: Pastors and Preaching After a Rough Week (with Quentin Self)
In this week’s episode of Pastor Matters, Ronjour and Brandon are joined by Quentin Self (Senior Pastor of Shiloh Terrace Baptist Church) to discuss pastors and preaching after a rough week.
Church Networks
Episode 54: Pastors and Church Networks (with Zach Nelson)
In this week’s episode, Ronjour and Brandon sit down with Dr. Zach Nelson (Executive Director of the Pillar Network) to discuss cooperating within a church network.
Julius J. Kim
Episode 53: Pastors and Preaching: Designing and Delivering Sermons (with Julius Kim)
In this week’s episode, Ronjour and Brandon discuss sermon design and delivery with Dr. Julius Kim (President of The Gospel Coalition).
Evan Marbury
Episode 52: Pastors, Transparency, and Self-Care (with Evan Marbury)
In this week’s episode of Pastor Matters, Ronjour and Brandon discuss burnout, transparency, and self-care with Evan Marbury.
Juan Sanchez
Episode 51: Pastors and Leadership (with Juan Sanchez)
In this week’s episode, Ronjour and Brandon discuss leadership with Dr. Juan Sanchez (Pastor of High Pointe Baptist Church).
ministry
Episode 50: Pastors and Life in Ministry (with Neal Thornton)
In this week’s episode, Ronjour and Brandon are joined by one of our regular contributors, Dr. Neal Thornton, to discuss the life of a pastor.
Colossians
Episode 49: Pastors and Preaching through Colossians (with Scott Pace)
In this week’s episode of Pastor Matters, Ronjour and Brandon sit down with Dr. Scott Pace to discuss pastors and preaching through Colossians.
College Ministry
Episode 48: Pastors and Shepherding College Students (with Jonathan Akin)
In this week’s episode, Ronjour and Brandon are joined by Jonathan Akin (VP for Church Relations and Campus Ministries at Carson-Newman University) to discuss pastors and shepherding college students.
P2
Episode 47: Pastors and Sabbaticals
In this week’s episode of Pastor Matters, Ronjour and Brandon discuss pastors and the importance of taking a sabbatical.
Church Replants
Episode 46: Pastors and Replanting Churches (with Cody Evans)
In this week’s episode of Pastor Matters, Ronjour and Brandon sit down with Cody Evans to discuss replanting churches.
Notes
Episode 45: Pastors and Preaching Without Notes
Notes or no notes? In this week’s episode of Pastor Matters, Ronjour and Brandon discuss pastors and preaching without notes.
Deacons
Episode 44: Pastors and Deacons (with Matt Smethurst)
In this week’s episode of Pastor Matters, Ronjour and Brandon sit down with Matt Smethurst to discuss his latest book, Deacons.
Aspiring Pastors
Episode 43: Aspiring Pastors and the Path (with Bobby Jamieson)
In this week’s episode of Pastor Matters, Ronjour and Brandon are joined by Bobby Jamieson (Associate Pastor of Capitol Hill Baptist Church) to discuss his latest book, Aspiring Pastors and the Path: A Guide for the Aspiring.
interview
Episode 42: Pastors and “the Interview”
In this week’s episode of Pastor Matters, Ronjour and Brandon are back to discuss pastors and interviews.What questions should aspiring pastors be prepared to answer while being interviewed by churches? What questions should pastor candidates be prepared to ask churches? Join us this week as we tackle these questions (and many more)!
Matthew Kim
Episode 41: Pastors and Preaching to People in Pain (with Matthew Kim)
In our first episode of the season, Ronjour sits down with Dr. Matthew Kim (George F. Bennett Professor of Preaching and Practical Theology at Gordon-Conwell) to discuss his most recent book, Preaching to People in Pain.
Chuck Lawless
Episode 40: Pastors and Evangelism (with Chuck Lawless)
In this episode of Pastor Matters, Ronjour and Brandon discuss pastors and evangelism with Dr. Chuck Lawless (Dean of Doctoral Studies at Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary).
P2
Episode 39: Pastors and Spiritual Deconstruction (with Ross Inman)
In this episode of Pastor Matters, Ronjour sits down with Dr. Ross Inman (Associate Professor of Philosophy at Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary) to discuss spiritual deconstruction.
Nathaniel Williams
Episode 38: Pastors and Rural Ministry (with Nathaniel Williams)
In this episode of Pastor Matters, Ronjour and Brandon discuss pastoring in a rural context with Nathaniel Williams (Senior Pastor of Cedar Rock First Baptist Church).
9MarksSE
Panel Discussion on Missions
Dr. Jim Shaddix leads a panel discussion on missions with Dr. Chuck Lawless, Dr. Scott Hildreth, and Andy Johnson (Capitol Hill Baptist Church).
Daniel Akin
Episode 37: Pastors and Fatherhood (with Danny Akin)
In this episode, Ronjour and Brandon are joined by Dr. Daniel Akin (President of Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary) to discuss pastors and fatherhood.How can pastors balance their pastoral responsibilities with their responsibilities at home? How does being a father shape the way you pastor? How can fathers raise their kids to think and live missionally? Join us this week as we tackle these questions (and many more)!
9MarksSE
Panel Discussion on Prayer
Center for Preaching and Pastoral Leadership Director Ronjour Locke leads a panel on prayer with Dr. Keith Whitfield (Provost at Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary), John Onwuchekwa (Pastor at Cornerstone Church), and Larry Trotter (Pastor at North Wake Church).
Pastor Matters
Episode 36: Pastors and Prayer
In this episode of Pastor Matters, Ronjour and Brandon discuss the prayer life of a pastor. Why is it so difficult to create consistent patterns of prayer? What does the Bible say about prayer? What role does prayer have in preaching and fulfilling the Great Commission? Join us this week as we answer these questions (and many more)!
Pastor Matters
Episode 35: Pastors and Suicide (Part 2)
In this episode of Pastor Matters, Ronjour and Brandon continue their discussion on pastors and suicide. This week, the guys will be discussing how to shepherd those who have lost a loved one to suicide.How can pastors help those who have lost a loved one navigate the difficult questions associated with suicide? What are good resources for helping members process grief and loss? How can pastors shepherd their own souls in seasons of tremendous loss and grief? Join us this week as we answer these questions (and many more)!
Funeral
Episode 34: Pastors and Suicide (Part 1)
In this episode of Pastor Matters, Ronjour and Brandon begin a two-part conversation on pastors and suicide. This week, the guys will be discussing how to preach and preside over a funeral for someone who has taken their life.
Expository Preaching
Episode 33: Pastors and Student Ministry (with Mark Young)
In this special episode of Pastor Matters, Brandon sits down with Mark Young (Student Pastor at Swift Creek Baptist Church) to discuss preaching and student ministry.
easter
Episode 32: Pastors, Preaching, and Easter (with Scott Pace)
In this episode of Pastor Matters, Ronjour sits down with Dr. Scott Pace (Dean of the College at Southeastern) to discuss preaching and pastoring on Easter Sunday.
Books
Episode 31: Pastors and Reading Good Books
Books, books, and more books! In this episode of Pastor Matters, Ronjour and Brandon discuss pastors and the importance of reading good books.What books should every pastor read at some point in their ministry? Should pastors read books outside of the pastoral ministry/preaching genres? Should pastors read books written by authors they disagree with? Join us this week as we answer
Friendship
Episode 30: Pastors and the Importance of Friendship
In this episode of Pastor Matters, Ronjour and Brandon discuss the importance of friendship in the life of a pastor. Why is friendship so important? What are some examples of friendship in Scripture? How can pastors prevent competitiveness and envy from seeping into their friendship? Join us this week as we discuss these questions and many more!
Gospel
Episode 29: Pastors and the Gospel (with Greg Gilbert)
In this week’s episode of Pastor Matters, Brandon is joined by Greg Gilbert (Senior Pastor of Third Avenue Baptist Church) to discuss pastors and the gospel.
Ben Merkle
Chapel Rewind: Victory through Suffering: The True Meaning of Philippians 4:13
In this week’s #SEchapelrewind, Dr. Benjamin Merkle delivers a faculty lecture on the strength we find in Christ in the midst of suffering. In his lecture, Dr. Merkle explains how Philippians 4:13 is commonly taken out of context and how believers should interpret the verse.
Cross-Cultural Ministry
Episode 28: Pastors and Cultural Diversity (with Matthew Kim)
In this episode, Ronjour sits down with Dr. Matthew Kim to discuss cultural diversity.How should we define terms like culture and ethnicity? How can pastors promote diversity in a local church with no diversity? How can pastors shepherd through conflicts and clashes within their churches? Join us this week as we tackle these questions and many more!
Andy Davis
Episode 27: Pastors and Spiritual Formation (with Andy Davis)
In this week’s episode, Ronjour and Brandon are joined by Dr. Andy Davis (Senior Pastor of FBC Durham). Join us this week as we talk with Andy about spiritual formation and the individuals who have impacted him throughout his ministry.
Funerals
Episode 26: Pastors and Funerals
In this episode of Pastor Matters, Ronjour and Brandon discuss presiding over and preaching at funerals.
Chapel
Chapel Rewind: The Invading Savior
CPPL Director Ronjour Locke preaches on the invading Kingdom of God which Jesus brought forth in His earthly ministry.
Love
Episode 25: Pastors and Speaking the Truth in Love
What does it mean to speak the truth in love? What are some good examples of this in the Scriptures? In this episode, Ronjour and Brandon discuss how to preach and interact with others in a truthful, loving manner.
counseling
Episode 24: Pastors and Pornography (with Deepak Reju)
In this episode of Pastor Matters, Brandon sits down with Deepak Reju (Associate Pastor at Capitol Hills Baptist Church) to discuss how pastors can help members who struggle with the issue of pornography.
abuse
Panel: Recognizing and Responding to Abuse in the Church
Sam Williams, Fulp Professor of Biblical Counseling Chair, discusses the topic of Recognizing and Responding to Abuse in the Church with a panel consisting of Brad Hambrick, Jeremy Pierre, and Kristin Kellen.
abuse
Episode 23: Pastors and Shepherding Victims of Abuse (with Kristin Kellen)
This week on Pastor Matters, Ronjour sits down with Dr. Kristin Kellen (Assistant Professor of Biblical Counseling at SEBTS) to discuss how pastors and church leaders should shepherd victims of abuse.
counseling
Episode 22: Pastors and Counseling
In this episode of Pastor Matters, Ronjour and Brandon introduce and discuss the topic for January–pastors and counseling. How should we define the responsibility of pastoral counseling? What resources are available for those who do not feel equipped to counsel church members?
Hopeless
Episode 21: Pastors and Pastoring the Hopeless
In this episode of Pastor Matters, Ronjour and Brandon discuss how to comfort and lead those who are suffering and feeling a sense of hopelessness.How do pastors preach hope each week from the pulpit? How do pastors shepherd the hopeless when they themselves are experiencing seasons of hopelessness and suffering?
christmas
Episode 20: Pastors, Preaching, and Christmas
The Christmas season is officially upon us! In this holiday edition of Pastor Matters, Ronjour and Brandon discuss preaching and pastoring during the Christmas season.What should pastors consider preaching during the holidays? Should pastors feel pressure to keep their Christmas sermons fresh? How should pastors shepherd those in their congregation who are grieving during the holidays? Join us as we tackle these questions and many more!
Dwayne Milioni
Episode 19: Pastors and Preaching Through Revelation (with Dwayne Milioni)
Why are some pastors hesitant to preach through the book of Revelation? How should pastors approach difficult texts found in Revelation?In this episode of Pastor Matters, Ronjour and Brandon discuss preaching through the book of Revelation with Dr. Dwayne Milioni.
Pastor Matters
Episode 18: Pastors and Sermon Preparation
In this episode of Pastor Matters, Ronjour and Brandon discuss the process of sermon preparation.What are good sermon prep practices? When should pastors refer to commentaries? How much time should pastors dedicate to preparing sermons each week? Tune in to hear our answers to these questions and many more!
election
Episode 17: Pastors and Shepherding Post-Election
What message should pastors share with their churches following an election? How should pastors keep their churches focused on the mission during a typically divisive season? How do elections affect the way we view the Great Commission and what do they teach us about the Kingdom of God?Join Ronjour and Brandon this week as they discuss pastors and shepherding post-election season.
Jim Shaddix
Episode 16: Pastors and Preaching: A Conversation with Jim Shaddix
In this episode, Ronjour and Brandon discuss preaching with SEBTS Preaching Professor Dr. Jim Shaddix.
Pastor Matters
Episode 15: Pastors and Preaching Calendars
Why should pastors consider planning a preaching calendar? Should pastors plan topical sermon series during strategic days of the year (i.e. holidays). How can pastors make sure they are giving their people a balanced diet of Scripture?
Pastor Appreciation Month
Episode 14: Pastors and Pastor Appreciation Month
In this special episode of Pastor Matters, Ronjour and Brandon honor the pastors who have made an impact on them and recognize the pastors who have been continuing to faithfully serve Christ and the church over the past few months. The guys will also be announcing the winner of their recent Pastor Appreciation Month giveaway.
Pastor Matters
Episode 13: Pastors and Time Management
Time management is an essential skill for anyone, especially pastors. But, why is it important for pastors to practice good time management? What resources are available to help pastors steward their time well? How should pastors decide which ministry opportunities they should say “yes” to?
Criticism
Episode 12: Pastors and Criticism
Whether it’s directed at their preaching, leadership decisions, or theological positions, at some point pastors will experience some form of criticism in their ministry. How should pastors respond to criticism? How do they prevent criticism from affecting the way they see their people?
Discipleship
Episode 11: Pastors and Equipping Women in the Church
In this episode, Dr. Julia Higgins (Assistant Professor of Ministry to Women at SEBTS) joins Ronjour and Brandon to discuss the importance of equipping and mobilizing women in the local church.
COVID-19
Episode 10: Pastors and Burnout (Part 2)
How has COVID-19 impacted pastors? Are pastors experiencing burnout quicker as a result of COVID?In this episode, Ronjour and Brandon continue the conversation from last week on pastoral burnout. However, this week they look at burnout in light of the COVID-19 crisis.
Pastor Matters
Episode 9: Pastors and Burnout (Part 1)
What is pastoral burnout and how does it start? How can churches protect their pastors from burning out quickly and for long periods of time? In this episode of Pastor Matters, Ronjour and Brandon discuss the challenges behind pastoral burnout and how pastors can get through these difficult seasons stronger than before.
Pastor Matters
Episode 8: Pastors and the “Big Idea”
What’s the big idea!!? Should pastors seek a connection in the details of the text, or should they be content to teach the "points" of the text instead? Is there a unity within a text's message?Join Ronjour Locke and Brandon Ward this week as they discuss the benefits (and challenges) to the big idea approach to preaching.
Future Pastors
Episode 7: Pastors and Mentoring Future Pastors
Is it the responsibility of the pastor to mentor future pastors? What are some ways pastors can shepherd the guy(s) in their church who feel a desire towards the pastorate?Join Ronjour and Brandon this week as they discuss ways pastors can invest in the next generation of church leaders and why it’s important that they do.
Pastor Matters
Episode 6: Pastors and Preaching the Whole Counsel of God
In Acts 20:27, Paul said “I did not shrink from declaring to you the whole counsel of God.” What does he mean when he said “declaring the whole counsel of God” and should this be something pastors should pursue each Sunday?Join Ronjour Locke and Brandon Ward this week as we answer this question and discuss the benefits of preaching the whole counsel of God, as well as the challenges involved.
Media
Episode 5: Pastors and Big Bad Wolves
We live in an age of distraction. Even before the COVID-19 crisis, pastors were in a battle over the formation of their sheep. Are churches losing this battle to form Christians because of media consumption? How has COVID-19 affected the way Christians are being spiritually formed?
Pastor Matters
Episode 4: Pastors and Waiting
Waiting is not easy, and it can test us in more ways than one. Having a desire to pastor a church, but still be waiting on an opportunity to come along can be difficult.Join Ronjour and Brandon this week as they talk about productive ways to grow while sitting in the “waiting room.”
2 Corinthians 4:1-6
Chapel Rewind: Ministry by the Mercy of God
Shane Shaddix, Pastor for Discipleship at Imago Dei Church, preaches from 2 Corinthians 4:1-6 about how God’s mercy is the foundational and controlling principle for everything we do in ministry.
Pastor Matters
Episode 3: Pastors and Race
How should pastors and churches respond to instances of racial injustice and protests? Should pastors use both their platform and voices to speak out against injustice of all kinds?Join us this week, as we continue a previous conversation on race.
Chapel
Chapel Rewind: I Just Need Something Deeper
Dean Inserra, Lead Pastor of City Church in Tallahassee, Florida, preaches on Luke 24:44-49. In his message, Inserra explains that we are never more like Jesus than when we follow Him into a lost world.
Pastor Matters
Episode 2: Pastors and Social Media
Should pastors have rules in place as they use their various social media platforms? Is having a social media account just to keep up with your church members a bad motive or an opportunistic way to shepherd your sheep?
Chapel
Chapel Rewind: What Does It Mean To Be A Disciple?
Jamie Dew, President of New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary, preaches on Mark 10:35-45 and passionately proclaims that if you want to follow Jesus you need to deny yourself.
COVID-19
Episode 1: Pastors and COVID-19
The past few months have been difficult for everyone, especially pastors. This week we want to talk about what we have learned over the past few months as COVID-19 continues to prevent churches from gathering together. We hope this conversation will help you as you lead your churches through these difficult times.
Chapel
Chapel Rewind: Welcome to the Family
Scott Pace, Dean of the College at Southeastern, preaches on Colossians 1:1-8 about being welcomed into the family of God.
Chapel Rewind
Chapel Rewind: The Secret to Enduring Cross-Cultural Ministry
Ronjour Locke, Director of the Center for Preaching and Pastoral Leadership, preaches from Ephesians 3:1-13 on how to endure through the challenges of cross-cultural ministry.
Chapel
Chapel Rewind: Leading the Congregation in Praise
Ligon Duncan, Chancellor and CEO of Reformed Theological Seminary, preaches on Psalm 150 about praising the Lord and how that fuels the Great Commission.
Adams Lecture
Chapel Rewind: The Perspective of Christ-Centered Preaching
Bryan Chapell, Senior Pastor of Grace Presbyterian Church, lectures on "The Perspective of Christ-Centered Preaching" for the Adams Lecture Series 2018.
Andy Davis
Chapel Rewind: An Eternal Education of God’s Glory in the Church
Andy Davis, Senior Pastor of First Baptist Church of Durham, preaches on Revelation 21:9-14 about the amazing glory of God that will be on display in Heaven for every believer in Christ.
Chapel Rewind
Chapel Rewind: Devote Your Life to Prayer and the Ministry to the Word
David Platt, the Lead Pastor at McLean Bible Church in Vienna, VA, preaches on Psalm 8. In his chapel message, Platt encourages us to devote our lives to both prayer and the ministry of God’s Word.
Clint Darst
Panel: How to Shepherd Your Church Through Issues of Racial Injustice
Over the past week, we have been deeply grieved by the events that have played out in our world: the senseless death of George Floyd, the nationwide protests for justice, and riots that have broken out in some of our largest cities. In light of such events, Christians can not be silent.
Chapel Rewind
Chapel Rewind: Speak Up for the Vulnerable
Thabiti Anyabwile, pastor at Anacostia River Church in Washington, D.C, preaches from Proverbs 31:1-9. Those who are pro-life speak for those who cannot speak for themselves like the unborn, the poor, the widowed, the abused, the immigrant, the hurting and the needy.
Chapel Rewind
Chapel Rewind: The Essential and Prominent Place of Preaching in Worship
John Piper examines the biblical warrant for the prominent place preaching holds in worship both historically and today.
1 Peter 1:14-22
Chapel Rewind: How Are Christians Special?
Mark Dever, Senior Pastor of Capitol Hill Baptist Church in Washington, D.C., preaches on 1 Peter 1:14-22. He passionately exhorts that Christ’s blood is not special because of some magical force, but that it’s special because of who He is.
Chapel
Chapel Rewind: Longing for God
Chuck Lawless, Vice President for Spiritual Formation and Ministry Centers, preaches on Psalm 42 and Psalm 43 about longing for God in times of despair as a follower of Jesus.
1 Timothy 4:6-16
Chapel Rewind: Watch Your Life and Doctrine
Tony Merida, Pastor of Imago Dei Church Raleigh, preaches on how we don’t need more conference speakers; we need millions of faithful ministers who will saturate the nations with sound doctrine.
Chapel
Chapel Rewind: The Gospel and “Those” People
Josh Wredberg, Redeemer Community Church in Fuquay-Varina, NC, preaches on Jonah 4 about how seeing grace as only for certain people with certain sins is a misunderstanding of both sin and grace.
Andy Davis
Interview with Andy Davis on Church Revitalization
Earlier this year, Ronjour Locke sat down with Andy Davis, Senior Pastor at First Baptist Church of Durham, to discuss church revitalization and the many challenges associated with it.
interview
Interview with Robert Smith Jr. on Preaching
Ronjour Locke sits down with Robert Smith, Jr. to discuss topics related to preaching and encourage others that […]
Anxiety
Panel: Handling Anxiety During the COVID-19 Pandemic
The COVID-19 pandemic has struck many with fear, depression, and anxiety. Join this roundtable discussion with biblically trained counselors as they discuss some practical ways to address these issues that come as the pandemic progresses.
David Platt
Interview with David Platt on Urban Ministry
Earlier this year, CPPL Director Ronjour Locke sat down with David Platt, Pastor of McLean Bible Church, to discuss urban ministry and the importance of unity within the church.
interview
Interview with Jose Abella on Pastoral Ministry
Ronjour Locke sits down with Jose Abella to discuss topics related to pastoral ministry and encourages others that […]
interview
Interview with Paul Rees on Pastoral Ministry
Recently, CPPL Director Ronjour Locke sat down with Paul Rees, Pastor of Charlotte Chapel in Edinburgh, to discuss pastoral ministry and the challenges involved with ministry in Scotland and the UK.
Christ-Centered Exposition
Preaching Through Daniel | Christ-Centered Exposition Workshop 2018
Jim Shaddix, W.A. Criswell Professor of Expository Preaching at Southeastern Seminary, presents a lecture titled, “Preaching Daniel” for […]
Christ-Centered Exposition
Interpretive Issues in Daniel | Christ-Centered Exposition Workshop 2018
Jerry Lassetter, Assistant Professor of Old Testament and The History of Ideas at Southeastern Seminary, presents a lecture […]
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