On this episode of Conversations with Philip De Courcy, Pastor Philip sits down with Scott Ardavanis, Senior Pastor of Grace Church of the Valley (Kingsburg, CA), for a candid conversation recorded at Know The Truth’s 2025 Entrust Men’s Conference. Scott shares what the Lord is doing in the life of the church, including the opening of a new outreach facility and a growing focus on raising up leaders and strengthening the local body.

This discussion centers on the priority of preaching, the necessity of sound doctrine, and the calling of pastors to equip the saints for the work of ministry (Ephesians 4). Drawing from Titus, Scott explains why healthy churches require more than right teaching—they require older men and women actively discipling the next generation, and a congregation “moving together with their oars in the water.”

Philip and Scott also talk candidly about longevity in ministry: what sustains joy over decades of preaching, how discouragement forms stronger shepherds, and why faithful pastors must resist becoming “platform professionals.” The episode closes with Scripture, pointing to the humility of being “jars of clay” entrusted with the treasure of the gospel (2 Corinthians 4).

In this episode:

- What’s happening at Grace Church of the Valley in Kingsburg, CA

- Why sound doctrine is essential for church health (Titus)

- The pastor’s role: equip the saints, not entertain them (Ephesians 4)

- What makes for good preaching: authorial intent, clarity, and persuasion

- The role of illustrations in preaching and faithful application

- Enduring discouragement and protecting the flock

- A closing encouragement from 2 Corinthians 4

About Scott Ardavanis:

Scott is the Senior Pastor of Grace Church of the Valley in Kingsburg, California, and is involved in training and developing leaders for faithful gospel ministry. If you are a pastor, ministry leader, young adult, or believer seeking deeper intimacy with Christ, this episode will both encourage and challenge you. Subscribe for more biblical conversations that encourage, equip, and engage believers for faithful gospel ministry.

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