Elisha's Bears: Conversations about Baptists and the Church with Pastor Danny

In this 50th(!) episode, Pastor Danny unpacks a recent sermon about God's call of Joshua after the death of Moses. Danny talks about the challenges of following an iconic leader like Moses, and how Joshua's faithfulness proved sufficient in facing his first great test as leader of God's people. Our tendency to see the size of the challenge pales in comparison to the size of the victory as we follow God in faith.

In this insightful interview, Pastor Danny talks with Dr. Greg DeLoach about some of the challenges and changes in theological education. They acknowledge the difficulties of the pastorate, changing church expectations and dynamics, and the future of ministry amidst cultural shifts. Greg discusses practical advice for students, the impact of diversity, and the role of technology in shaping tomorrow's church. Greg has three decades of pastoral experience and is now serving as Dean of the Mercer University McAfee School of Theology (www.theology.mercer.edu). He is also the author of "Catching Up with God: Freeing Ourselves for Divine Engagement."

This podcast features Holly Gamble Meyer and Lindsay Copeland discussing the funeral industry. In this conversation with Pastor Danny, they talk about the differences between family-owned and corporate funeral homes, the funeral planning process, and the emotional and practical aspects of their work. They share insights into the challenges, rewards, and evolving traditions in funeral services, offering a behind-the-scenes look at this vital community service. Holly is the President and Pre-Need Planning Advisor of Holley Gamble Funeral Home; Lindsey is also on staff there as a Licensed Funeral Director and Embalmer. You can learn more about them and their business at www. holleygamble.com.

In this episode, Pastor Danny talks with Rev. Lee Fox about the spiritual significance of Lent and Holy Week in the life of the church. They also discuss the importance for Baptists to engage the larger body of Christ during this season as well as support the role of women in ministry. Lee gives additional details as it relates to his preparation for Ash Wednesday, Maundy Thursday, and Easter Sunday. The conversation touches on the importance of lament as well as the challenges faced by clergy today. Lee also emphasizes the place of encouragement in ministry and the necessity of surrounding yourself with supportive peers. Lee is Senior Pastor of Ball Camp Baptist Church in Knoxville, TN and is on the Board of Directors of Baptist Women in Ministry.

In this episode, Pastor Danny and Rev. Tyler Tankersley explore the complex relationship between Mark Twain's views on faith, spirituality, and the church. They discuss Twain's 'spiritually cranky' nature, his critiques of hypocrisy within religious institutions, and the importance of joy in a cynical age. They also touch on the significance of friendship and spiritual formation in ministry, emphasizing the need for pastors to cultivate their own spiritual health to better serve their congregations. Tyler is the Senior Pastor of Aardmore Baptist Church in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, and is on track to graduate with a Doctor of Ministry degree from George Fox University in May 2026. He's also written two books: Preaching the Word: Galatians and Sessions with Ezekiel: Holiness and Hope.

In this episode, Pastor Danny unpacks a section of a sermon series he’s working on for his church. He deals with the themes of the book of Ecclesiastes and explores the existential questions surrounding the meaning of life. He deals specifically with a passage located in the first chapter, and discusses the author's perspective on knowledge, wisdom, and the inherent meaninglessness of life without a spiritual foundation. Through various anecdotes, Danny emphasizes the importance of appreciating the daily, routine occurrences that we often take for granted.

In this episode, Pastor Danny talks with Dr. Derek Alderman about the relationship of geography and racial equality. They discuss the importance of memory work and commemorative activism, the significance of street naming in honoring Dr. Martin Luther King, and the role of maps in documenting community identities. Derek also highlights the challenges faced by black travelers historically and today, the influence of the Black church in the civil rights movement, and the hope found in community engagement and education. Derek is Chancellor's Professor of Geography and Sustainability at the University of Tennessee in Knoxville. You can find out more about him and his research at www.derekalderman.com.

In this episode, Pastor Danny interviews Dr. Michael Smith who reflects upon half a century of life and ministry, including 30 years as a Baptist Pastor in the Volunteer State . They talk about Mike's call to ministry, a pastor's family life, and the importance of longevity in ministry. The conversation also delves into the nuances of preaching in urban and rural contexts, the dangers of plagiarism, and challenges of balancing prophetic and pastoral functions. Mike also shares insights on understanding congregational personalities and the impact of clergy misconduct. Mike has over 50 years of ministry experience and is author of numerous books, articles, and other publications. He is a sought after speaker, interim and transitional pastor, and is still enjoying life in East Tennessee.

Pastor Danny talks with Reverend Dr. Meredith Stone about her work as Executive Director of Baptist Women in Ministry. She highlights challenges women face in ministry and the importance of mentorship and support. Meredith reflects on her own call to ministry, the changing work of BWIM through the years. She also talks about the "Billy Graham Rule" and impact of clergy and sexual abuse in the church. The discussion also touches on the 2025 "State of Women in Baptist Life" report and how it serves as a benchmark for local congregations. She also references the role of the pastor's wife in SBC life and its impact on women's ordination. Meredith has a Ph.D. from Brite Divinity School at TCU, and you find more information about her and BWIM at bwim.info.

In this episode, Pastor Danny welcomes Rev. Melissa Roysdon, a dedicated ESL teacher and Pastor. With over three decades of teaching experience, Melissa shares how her work in the school system has intertwined with her pastoral duties, emphasizing the importance of community and the ministry aspect of teaching. She reflects on the honesty of children and how their perspectives keep her grounded, while also discussing the role of humor in her life and ministry, especially during challenging times. Melissa also offers insight as to encouraging women to pursue their calling to serve God. She shares the joys and challenges of being a multi-vocational minister, and admonishes listeners to "keep breathing" as they face the challenges that come their way. Melissa is Pastor of Providence Baptist Church in Cookeville, TN and has been an ESL teacher for 30 years.