Preachers in Training

In this episode, Robert Hatfield welcomes Forest Antemesaris for a heartfelt and practical conversation about reaching those who doubt. Forest shares from his unique perspective—having grown up an atheist and later coming to faith in Christ as a young adult. His journey gives him a rare insight into how Christians can approach conversations about faith with compassion, clarity, and conviction.

For the tenth year in a row, Chad Landman joins Robert Hatfield for one of our most anticipated episodes of the year — the Holiday Gift Guide for Ministers!

Each year, Chad shares his favorite gear, tools, and resources that can enhance your ministry, boost creativity, and make your work more efficient. From tech gadgets to spiritual tools, there’s something here for every preacher (and for anyone looking to buy a thoughtful gift for one!).

This year, Chad highlights a complete social media video setup using only your phone — including microphones and tripods. Whether you’re producing sermon clips, devotionals, or short-form content for your congregation, Chad’s tips will help you elevate your production quality without breaking the bank.

Episode Resources: 

• Authorized: The Use and Misuse of the King James Bible - https://amzn.to/4oVS6qr
• CSB Connecting Scripture New Testament - https://amzn.to/4hKwF9d
• Bellroy Field Notes Cover - https://amzn.to/3XhAKIt
• Ulanzi MT-16 Extendable Portable Tripod - https://amzn.to/43fvAjT
• Magnetic iPhone Tripod Adapter - https://amzn.to/493iTwa
• Hollyland Lark M2S Wireless Mics - https://amzn.to/4nBuI00
• Piorama Omni Laptop Bag - https://tinyurl.com/27lqz2dw
• Nitecore NB10000 Gen II Power Bank - https://amzn.to/4qJfN70
• UGreen Nexode Pro 65W Slim Wall Charger - https://amzn.to/3LHZBCM
• Pitaka iPad 11" / iPad Mini Case - https://amzn.to/47rQoY0

In this episode, Robert is joined by Adam Faughn, a seasoned preacher, devoted husband and father, and an avid reader who models what it means to be a lifelong learner in ministry. Together they explore the importance of continual growth for preachers—spiritually, intellectually, and personally.

Ministry can easily become routine, but growth keeps preaching fresh and hearts engaged. Adam shares insights from his own journey of learning, reading habits, and spiritual disciplines that help him stay sharp and spiritually renewed. Whether you’ve been preaching for decades or are just starting out, this conversation will inspire you to never stop learning and growing.

Self-righteousness can quietly creep into our hearts — even among those devoted to doing good. In this episode, Robert Hatfield is joined by David Sproule to talk about the danger of self-righteousness in the life of a preacher and within the church.

Together, they discuss how pride in our own righteousness can undermine grace, distort our message, and damage our relationships with others and with God. David draws on years of experience in ministry to offer practical wisdom for recognizing and resisting this subtle sin.

Every preacher knows the value of relationships in ministry — but how can we move beyond surface-level connections to build real, lasting community within the church? In this episode, Robert sits down with Dean Thompson to talk about fostering deep connections among members, leaders, and ministers.

This week on Preachers in Training, Robert is joined by Melvin Otey—professor of Law at Faulkner University in Montgomery, AL, and a dedicated gospel preacher.

In this conversation, we reflect on brother Otey's blog post, “A Word of Compassion for Preachers”, and discuss the challenges and blessings of ministry life. He shares heartfelt encouragement for those who serve in the pulpit, reminding us of the humanity of preachers, the importance of compassion, and the sustaining grace of God in the midst of pressures and expectations.

Episode Resources:

• See Melvin Otey's blog post, A Word of Compassion for Preachers, here.

In this episode of Preachers in Training, Robert is joined by Wayne Jones, president of the Bear Valley Bible Institute and host of Authentically Adam here on The Light Network. Wayne brings decades of ministry experience and leadership insight to the conversation as he reflects on the lessons he’s learned beyond the classroom.

While preaching schools and Bible institutes provide excellent foundations in Scripture, theology, and communication, there are some lessons that only real-life ministry can teach. Wayne shares with honesty and wisdom about the realities of preaching that he didn’t fully grasp until he was already in the work.

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🎙️ The Light Network Conference is coming October 3–5, 2025, at the Henderson church of Christ in Henderson, TN! This year’s theme is “The Good Life: A Study of the Beatitudes.” Join hosts from across TLN for a weekend filled with uplifting lessons, great singing, and opportunities to connect with Christians who love God and His Word. Make plans now to be part of this special event! Register online at https://thelightnetwork.tv/conference

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Wayne's Recommended Resources:

• Read the book of 2 Corinthians
• BOOK: Dangerous Calling - Paul David Tripp: https://amzn.to/4g7Sor0
  • Brad McNutt reviewed this book on The Book Club: https://thelightnetwork.tv/tbcs6e13/
• Liberating Ministry from the Success Syndrome - Kent & Barbara Hughes: https://amzn.to/461lEuO

Spiritual apathy can creep into the life of any Christian—even ministers. Left unchecked, it robs us of passion for the Lord, weakens our resolve, and hinders our influence. In this episode, Dan Winkler joins Robert to address the dangers of spiritual apathy and share practical ways to prevent it.

In this opening episode of season 22, Robert is joined by longtime gospel preacher Paul Sain. Paul’s wife, LaDon, has recently been placed on hospice care, and he now walks both the path of minister and caregiver. Drawing from Scripture and his own current experience, Paul offers practical and heartfelt guidance on how preachers can minister effectively and compassionately to those who are receiving hospice care — and to their families.

Episode Resources:

• Sain Publications website
• [BOOK] The 36-Hour Day: A Family Guide to Caring for People Who Have Alzheimer Disease, Other Dementias, and Memory Loss (A Johns Hopkins Press Health Book)

Interpersonal skills are essential for effective ministry, yet they’re often overlooked in preacher training. In this episode, Robert is joined by longtime preacher and former Freed-Hardeman University Bible professor and dean, Billy Smith, to discuss how ministers can develop stronger people skills.