In this conversation, Travis Montgomery interviews Wes Pastor, a seasoned church planter and pastor, about the importance of understanding true conversion in ministry. Wes shares his journey from a nominal faith to a deeper understanding of conversion, influenced by Jonathan Edwards's writings. They discuss the practical implications of this understanding in preaching, counseling, and church membership processes. Wes also highlights the work of the NETS Center, which trains and sends pastors to New England, emphasizing the need for both theological education and practical ministry experience.

About the Podcast: Local Theologians is a podcast for everyday Christians and ministry leaders from Midwestern Seminary's Global Campus. Learn more about online theological education at mbts.edu/global.

Keywords

Wes Pastor, conversion, ministry, NETS Center, counseling, church planting, theological education, pastoral training, New England, evangelism, Jonathan Edwards, Edwards

Takeaways

Understanding true conversion is crucial for effective ministry.

True conversion involves both intellectual assent and heartfelt affection.

Theological constructs can shape practical ministry outcomes.

Counseling can reveal the true spiritual state of individuals.

Marriage counseling has proven to be an effective evangelistic tool.

NETS Center provides essential training for future pastors.

Practical applications of conversion can enhance church growth.

The balance of light (doctrine) and heat (affection) is vital.

Church membership processes should assess genuine faith.

The gospel is necessary for both believers and non-believers.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Wes Pastor and His Ministry

02:05 Understanding True Conversion

06:14 The Role of Affections in Conversion

10:06 Balancing Light and Heat in Faith

12:04 Practical Applications in Ministry

16:35 Assessing Faith and Assurance

19:26 Understanding Conversion and Testimony

22:20 The Role of Counseling in Evangelism

24:14 Applying the Gospel to Life's Struggles

25:54 Resources for Understanding Conversion

28:35 Introducing the NET Center

29:33 Training Pastors for Effective Ministry

31:18 The New Residency Program

36:13 Encouragement for Future Pastors

Summary

In this conversation, Travis Montgomery and Patrick Schreiner delve into the intricacies of hermeneutics, the study of biblical interpretation. They discuss the importance of understanding the historical context of Scripture, the role of community in interpretation, and the relevance of ancient hermeneutical approaches like allegory. Dr. Schreiner emphasizes the need for a Christ-centered reading of Scripture and the significance of the fourfold sense in understanding biblical texts. The conversation also touches on the challenges of teaching hermeneutics to church congregations and the balance between depth and simplicity in preaching.

About the Podcast: Local Theologians is a podcast for everyday Christians and ministry leaders from Midwestern Seminary's Global Campus. Learn more about online theological education at mbts.edu/global.

Keywords

hermeneutics, biblical interpretation, allegory, fourfold sense, community, teaching, intertextuality, preaching, theology, Midwestern Seminary

Takeaways

Hermeneutics is essential for understanding Scripture.

Every class in seminary teaches how to read well.

Community plays a crucial role in biblical interpretation.

The history of hermeneutics offers valuable insights.

Allegory can enrich our understanding of scripture.

The fourfold sense provides a comprehensive framework for interpretation.

Teaching hermeneutics should be accessible to all believers.

Intertextuality enhances our understanding of biblical texts.

Preaching should balance depth with simplicity.

The MBTS Residency PhD program fosters community and scholarship.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the Global Campus Forum

01:38 Exploring Hermeneutics: The Art of Biblical Interpretation

05:59 The Importance of Studying Hermeneutics

09:54 The Role of Community in Biblical Interpretation

13:31 Understanding Historical Hermeneutics

21:28 The Fourfold Sense of Scripture

28:07 Understanding Scripture's Integrity

32:14 The Role of Allegory in Interpretation

35:58 Communicating Theology Effectively

40:58 The Residency PhD Program Overview

43:37 Engaging with Complex Questions

54:28 Faith, Hope, and Love in Hermeneutics

For 'Study Stories,' Travis asks a pastor, teacher, or ministry leader, 'What one thing in your theological study has been surprisingly beneficial to your Christian life and ministry?'

In this conversation, Travis Montgomery and Jeff Dodge of Veritas Church and Veritas School of Theology explore the profound impact of listening in ministry and theology. Jeff shares insights from his theological studies, emphasizing the Hebrew concept of listening as a foundational aspect of understanding scripture and engaging with others. They discuss practical applications of listening in ministry, the importance of asking questions, and how to encourage new learners in their spiritual journey. Jeff also highlights valuable resources for theological growth, making a case for the necessity of mentorship and the wealth of literature available to deepen one's understanding of the gospel.

About the Podcast: Local Theologians is a podcast for everyday Christians and ministry leaders from Midwestern Seminary's Global Campus. Learn more about online theological education at mbts.edu/global.

Keywords

listening, theology, ministry, discipleship, gospel,teaching, questions, learning, resources, spiritual growth

Takeaways

Listening is foundational in both personal faith andministry.

The Hebrew concept of listening goes beyond mere hearing.

Asking questions enhances understanding and engagement.

Listening can lead to unexpected insights and growth.

Discipleship involves both teaching and learning fromothers.

Resources from theologians can guide spiritual growth.

Engaging with scripture requires a posture of listening.

Listening to others can rekindle one's own faith.

Mentorship is crucial for theological development.

The gospel is a story that requires deep understanding.

Chapters

00:00 The Importance of Listening in Ministry

02:01 The Shema: Understanding Listening in Hebrew Context

04:39 Practical Applications of Listening in Ministry

07:50 The Role of Questions in Effective Listening

10:48 Learning from Others: The Value of Discipleship

13:46 Resources for Theological Growth

16:48 Gospel 101 and 201: A Journey Through the Scriptures

19:42 Encouragement for Aspiring Leaders

25:49 Conclusion: The Call to Listen and Learn

This conversation explores the dynamics of authority within the church, emphasizing its God-given nature and the importance of good authority for community flourishing. Dr. Jonathan Leeman, President of 9Marks, discusses the role of elders, the necessity of congregational autonomy, and the balance between authority and submission. The dialogue also addresses the potential for authority to be abused and the need for church discipline to protect the vulnerable. Practical applications and insights are shared, along with a Q&A session that further delves into the topic.

About the Podcast: Local Theologians is a podcast for everyday Christians and ministry leaders from Midwestern Seminary's Global Campus. Learn more about online theological education at mbts.edu/global.

Keywords

authority, church, leadership, submission, theology, ecclesiology, community, biblical principles, church governance, pastoral care

Takeaways

Authority is a God-given dynamic that should be understood and respected.

Good authority can lead to flourishing and growth in individuals and communities.

The church is called to practice good authority and submission in a biblical manner.

Authority should not be abused; leaders must protect those under their care.

Congregational autonomy is essential for healthy church governance.

Teaching and modeling good authority is crucial for church leaders.

The effects of authority on individuals can reveal its health or toxicity.

Church discipline is necessary to uphold good authority and protect the vulnerable.

Authority in the church should be exercised with humility and accountability.

The role of elders is to equip the congregation to understand and practice their authority.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Overview of the Forum

06:19 The Importance of Authority in the Church

13:32 Cultural Perspectives on Authority

20:46 Baptist Ecclesiology and Political Theology

25:59 Explaining the Goodness of Authority

28:50 The Role of Authority in Thriving Relationships

32:11 Navigating Authority: Endurance vs. Escape

34:27 God's Stance on Abusive Authority

36:38 The Need for Good Authority

36:59 Finding Godly Leadership

38:18 Transitioning Leadership Roles

42:03 Cultivating Biblical Eldership

45:59 Understanding Church Authority

50:23 Distinguishing Abuse from Endurance

Welcome to Local Theologians, a podcast for everyday Christians and ministry leaders from Midwestern Seminary's Global Campus. Subscribe and follow for forums and interviews with pastors, professors, Bible teachers, and more. Learn more about online theological education at mbts.edu/global.