Pastor Matters

By Southeastern SeminaryReligion & Spirituality

Pastor Matters episodes

August 10 Relevant Resources: Authority in the Church with Benjamin Merkle - EP248
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.

We hope this episode is encouraging to you today!
Resources from today's episode:
Authority in the Church by Benjamin Merkle
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.
41 min
August 03 Podcast Highlight - Episode 202: Navigating the Journey of Pastoral Leadership with Steven Wade
This summer we are highlighting some of your favorite podcasts from the past year!
In this episode of Pastor Matters, we are joined by Dr. Steven Wade, Professor of Pastoral Theology at Southeastern and Lead Pastor of Faith Baptist Church, Youngsville, NC. Dr. Wade shares his journey in pastoral ministry, discusses the importance of mentorship, the challenges faced in smaller churches, and the transition to leading a larger congregation. He emphasizes the need for continuing education for pastors to effectively shepherd their communities in today's complex cultural landscape.
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.
31 min
July 27 Pastoral Vulnerability with Dr. Scott Pace and Dr. Allan Moseley - EP247
In this episode of Pastor Matters, we are joined by Dr. Scott Pace and Dr. Allan Moseley to discuss the fine line of pastoral vulnerability. We talk about how to protect your family and your credibility as a leader while remaining authentic with your congregation. We discuss some of the dangers of being too vulnerable and provide good principles to follow when deciding whether to share a personal struggle. Tune in for some wisdom from these seasoned ministry leaders as they share their experiences of pastoral vulnerability and provide encouragement for pastors.

We hope this episode is encouraging to you today!
Register for Engaging Exposition 2026
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.
32 min
July 20 Podcast Highlight - Episode 201: Why You Should Consider an Advanced Degree
This summer we are highlighting some of your favorite podcasts from the past year!
In this episode of Pastor Matters, we are joined by Kristen Kellen, Tate Cockrell, and Steven McKinion. We discuss the importance of advanced degrees in ministry, exploring the benefits of pursuing a PhD, EdD, or DMin. They emphasize the value of education for personal and professional growth, the structure of various doctoral programs, and the requirements for admission. The conversation also addresses common concerns about time, finances, and motivations for pursuing further education, encouraging listeners to consider the long-term benefits of investing in their ministry education.
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.
37 min
July 13 Relevant Resources: Shepherding Renewal with Matt Capps and Steven Wade - EP246
In this episode of Pastor Matters, we are joined by Matt Capps and Steven Wade to discuss their new book Shepherding Renewal: A Guide to Church Revitalization. They share their personal experiences of church revitalization that motivated them to write this book, insights into how to approach church revitalization as a pastor, and encouragement for all pastors as they shepherd their sheep. They emphasize that revitalization is not a quick fix but a patient journey that prioritizes love for people and submission to God’s Word over preferences or programs.
We hope this episode is encouraging to you today!
Resources from today's episode:
Shepherding Renewal: A Guide to Church Revitalization
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.
34 min
July 08 Relevant Resources: Reaching Generation Alpha with Shane Pruitt and Shelly Melia - EP244
In this episode of Pastor Matters, we are joined by Shane Pruitt and Shelly Melia to discuss their new book, "Reaching Generation Alpha: A Ministry Guide for Discipling the Church Beyond the Screen.” They provide insight and key statistics about Generation Alpha, which makes up most of our children and youth ministries, to help us understand their needs and how to meet them as the Church. They also offer fundamental questions for pastors to ask their next-gen ministry leaders and encouragement to champion these ministries as they declare the works of the Lord to the next generation.

We hope this episode is encouraging to you today!
Resources from today's episode:
Reaching Generation Alpha: A Ministry Guide for Discipling the Church Beyond the Screen
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.

30 min
July 06 Podcast Highlight - Episode 214: Responding to Criticism in Ministry
This summer we are highlighting some of your favorite podcasts from the past year!
In this episode of Pastor Matters, we discuss the challenges of dealing with criticism in ministry. We consider the importance of having a support system, the need for prayer, and the value of responding thoughtfully rather than hastily. Our conversation also touches on the significance of staying focused on the mission of the church and recognizing that someone is always observing how leaders handle criticism.
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.
33 min
June 29 Caring for Retired Pastors with Aaron Meraz - EP245
In this episode of Pastor Matters, we are joined by Dr. Aaron Moraz, Director of Mission Dignity at GuideStone, discussing the needs of retired pastors and widows, how to support them, and practical advice for pastors planning their retirement. We discuss how to prepare for retirement, whether you are a young aspiring pastor or a tenured pastor who needs to begin the process of saving. Learn about the history, mission, and ways to get involved in this vital ministry.
We hope this episode is encouraging to you today!
Resources from today's episode:
Mission Dignity
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.
31 min
June 22 Podcast Highlight - Episode 211: Empowering Deacons: The Role of Prayer in Leadership with Dr. Craig Webb
This summer we are highlighting some of your favorite podcasts from the past year!
In this episode of Pastor Matters, the team revisits their conversation with Dr. Craig Webb, the Executive Director Treasurer of the Hawaii Pacific Baptist Convention. The conversation explores Craig's ministry journey, his work with Lifeway on Deacon Magazine, and the vital role of prayer in church leadership. Craig shares insights on developing a prayer life, practical advice for deacons and pastors, and the importance of journaling prayers. The episode emphasizes the necessity of prayer as a foundational element in ministry for all church leaders.
Resources in this episode: Deacon Magazine
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.
33 min
June 08 Podcast Highlight - Episode 204: The Posture of a Growing Leader with Jeff Struecker
This summer we are highlighting some of your favorite podcasts from the past year!
In this episode of Pastor Matters, the team revisits their conversation with Dr. Jeff Struecker. We explore Dr. Struecker's unique journey from a military career to becoming a pastor and educator. Our discussion highlights the intersection of military leadership principles and church leadership, the importance of continuous learning, the role of vision in leadership, and challenges faced by pastors.
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.
35 min

About Pastor Matters

From the publisher's feed

The Pastor Matters Podcast seeks to equip and encourage pastors and church leaders in whatever context of ministry they find themselves in. Join Chuck Lawless and Caleb Iversen each week as they look…