Strength for Today's Pastor

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At 72 years of age, Pastor John Offutt of LifeSource Community Church in Lindale, Texas, is hardly a young man. He started LifeSource when he was in his 60s, hardly an age thought to be fitting for a new church plant.

One of the main things he had in his favor was that he'd been around the block before, several times in fact. He had experience and was (and is) gifted to do what he does.

But he also didn't care. Meaning, he didn't care how others thought he should lead this new work; he was free. Free to lead. Free to assemble a team that could come together and radically touch the community.

It's an innovative church. They every month of the year that has five Sundays, and dedicate that Sunday to meeting urgent needs in the community. In other words, they don't meet in the church facility, they meet at numerous homes to help in Jesus' name.

They have a "cash helps" Sunday each month, when congregants prepare to give cash offerings which are distributed on the spot to those who need it. 

They have The Journey Class, which disciples newcomers and new believers in a number of areas... and they call the graduates of the class "partners." Included in the curriculum? Congregants learn how to practice gospel-centered forgiveness, and are expected to actually do it.

A refreshing church, diverse yet unified. 

This episode focuses on The Journey Class. 

For Poimen Ministries, its staff, ministries, and focus, go to poimenministries.com. To contact Poimen Ministries, email us at [email protected]. May the Lord revive His work in the midst of these years!

Comments? Questions? Send us a message!

For Poimen Ministries, its staff, ministries, and focus, go to poimenministries.com. To contact Poimen Ministries, email us at [email protected]. May the Lord revive His work in the midst of these years!

Comments? Questions? Send us a message!

The Barnabas Method has silently transformed over 500 men's lives across decades, and now this powerful discipleship process is available to every church leader seeking authentic spiritual formation for the men they shepherd.

What's the difference between knowing biblical information and becoming like Christ? According to Pastor Dale Lewis, most discipleship approaches focus too heavily on knowledge acquisition while neglecting the transformational aspects of spiritual growth. 

"Barnabas is about becoming the right person, not just having the right answers," Lewis explains, drawing from his decades of experience implementing this 13-week process.

The genius of the Barnabas Method lies in its radical relationality. Built on what Lewis calls "the three Ts" - teachability, transparency, and transference - this approach creates safe spaces for men to admit they don't know everything, share vulnerably about their struggles, and commit to passing what they learn to others. The process unfolds through weekly meetings where men practice focused listening, report on dates with their wives, tackle biblical concepts like new covenant living, and hold one another accountable with remarkable specificity.

Perhaps most counterintuitive is the requirement that the pastor or leader position themselves as a fellow learner rather than an expert who has "arrived." This vulnerability creates the conditions for authentic community where true transformation can occur. "If you can't learn from another man," Lewis warns, "that's saying something about how much you're actually going to learn from the Holy Spirit."

The curriculum traces its origins through a discipleship lineage including Ray Stedman, Harry Ironside, and J. Vernon McGee, but has been refined and streamlined into a reproducible process any church can implement. After completing the 13 weeks, participants are encouraged to begin discipling others, creating exponential multiplication that transforms not just individual men but entire church cultures.

Ready to move beyond programs to transformation? Download the free Barnabas curriculum in any of 103 languages at ScriptureSupply.com and join the growing movement of churches discovering that discipleship isn't about filling positions—it's about forming men who increasingly reflect Christ.

Again, to access the curriculum, go to scripturesupply.com, then navigate to Teachings, then to Special Studies, then to Barnabas. It’s all there.

You can download the curriculum in PDF format using the following link: 

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1fYlSxeF9mEfTOKoUdx5aC2IqVE1GMQxK/view?usp=drive_link

For Poimen Ministries, its staff, ministries, and focus, go to poimenministries.com. To contact Poimen Ministries, email us at [email protected]. May the Lord revive His work in the midst of these years!

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This is a podcast done by Karl Vaters (author, Small Church Essentials) and Sean Nemecek, a pastor who ministers to pastors to help keep them vitalized and fruitful.

The name of the podcast is The Church Lobby, Conversations on Faith and Ministry. 

We asked permission to play this episode in its entirety. I think you'll find it to be extremely helpful and practical, dealing with the subject of pastoral sabbaticals. The Why, When, and How. 

Such a need in today's pastoral and church climate, where pastors are commonly becoming burned out and unhealthy, largely due to the demand upon them in this impossible calling (impossible apart from God's enabling help). 

For Poimen Ministries, its staff, ministries, and focus, go to poimenministries.com. To contact Poimen Ministries, email us at [email protected]. May the Lord revive His work in the midst of these years!

Comments? Questions? Send us a message!

Pastor Brian Heminger has been in pastoral ministry for a lot of years, most recently as the founding and longtime pastor of Calvary Chapel Half Moon Bay. 

As such, Brian was bi-vocational. His work life outside of the church was as a full-time evangelist, in the role of barber. 

Now he's retired from that role, but continues in his calling as a pastor-teacher. 

We pastors all need encouragement. Brian's story provides that for all of us. 

Blessings,

Bill Holdridge

For Poimen Ministries, its staff, ministries, and focus, go to poimenministries.com. To contact Poimen Ministries, email us at [email protected]. May the Lord revive His work in the midst of these years!

Comments? Questions? Send us a message!

Episode 169 of SFTP tells the story of what it's like to minister in Las Vegas, Nevada, aka "sin city".

It CAN be done! Where sin abounds, grace much more abounds. We all know that, but it's for real in the Las Vegas valley.

Hear from Pastor John Knapp about some of the ways the Holy Spirit has led their church, Calvary Chapel Green Valley, to be fruitful and growing in Christ.

The transcript is also part of this episode...

For Poimen Ministries, its staff, ministries, and focus, go to poimenministries.com. To contact Poimen Ministries, email us at [email protected]. May the Lord revive His work in the midst of these years!

Comments? Questions? Send us a message!

168- Dale Lewis: A Pastor You Need to Know

In the latest episode of our podcast, we had the privilege of speaking with Pastor Dale Lewis, a man whose life and ministry have been profoundly shaped by his unique journey of faith. Pastor Dale shares his story, one that begins with a challenging childhood and evolves into a life dedicated to spiritual mentorship and leadership.

Growing up without a father, Dale's early years were marked by a search for meaning and belonging. His journey took a transformative turn when he encountered the Gospel of John, a moment that ignited a lifelong hunger for the Word of God. This pivotal experience set the stage for his future ministry, where he would go on to pastor two Calvary Chapel churches and become a mentor to many.

Pastor Dale's approach to ministry is deeply relational, emphasizing the importance of discipleship and intentionality. He shares how his upbringing, though difficult, created a vacuum that was filled by a deep desire to connect with his Heavenly Father. This connection fueled his passion for the Scriptures and his commitment to sharing what he learned with others.

One of the most compelling aspects of Pastor Dale's story is his dedication to making Bible resources accessible to pastors and Christians worldwide. Through his project, Scripturesupply.com, he provides Bible study commentary in 103 languages, free of charge. This initiative reflects his heart for equipping others and ensuring that the Word of God is available to all, regardless of language or location.

In addition to his ministry work, Pastor Dale shares a personal story of love and obedience. After the passing of his first wife, Donna, he experienced a God-ordained journey to remarriage that defied conventional expectations. This story of faith and trust in God's plan is both heartwarming and inspiring.

Throughout the episode, Pastor Dale emphasizes the importance of being intentional in ministry, particularly in the area of succession planning and mentoring future leaders. His insights are invaluable for pastors and leaders seeking to make a lasting impact in their communities.

Tune in to this episode to hear Pastor Dale Lewis's full story and be inspired by his unwavering commitment to faith, mentorship, and the global spread of God's Word. Whether you're a pastor, a leader, or someone seeking encouragement in your spiritual journey, this conversation offers wisdom and hope. Don't miss it!

For Poimen Ministries, its staff, ministries, and focus, go to poimenministries.com. To contact Poimen Ministries, email us at [email protected]. May the Lord revive His work in the midst of these years!

Comments? Questions? Send us a message!

167- Testimony: Powerful Renewal in the Holy Spirit- with John Knapp

In the bustling community of Henderson, Nevada, a spiritual renewal is taking place at Calvary Chapel Green Valley under the leadership of Pastor John Knapp. For over 26 years, Pastor John has been a guiding light for his congregation, but recently, a new wave of the Holy Spirit has invigorated the church, bringing a fresh sense of purpose and community.

The story begins with a simple question: “Did you hear what’s going on in Asbury?” This question sparked a journey that would lead Pastor John to seek not just revival for his church but a deep, transformative experience with the Holy Spirit. Inspired by the revival at Asbury University, Pastor John felt a divine nudge to bring that same spirit of renewal to his congregation.

Pastor John’s approach is deeply rooted in the power of prayer and the community it fosters. He emphasizes the importance of becoming a praying pastor and leading a praying church. By transforming their weekly prayer meetings into full-fledged renewal services, complete with worship and an openness to the Holy Spirit, Calvary Chapel Green Valley has become a beacon of hope and transformation.

The key to this renewal is the focus on community. Las Vegas, often misunderstood as merely a city of sin, is home to many who are hungry for genuine connection and healing. Pastor John sees this as an opportunity to offer a community centered in Christ, where individuals can experience the love and truth of God’s word.

Pastor John’s journey is a testament to the power of faith and the willingness to be led by the Spirit. His story is not just about revival in a single church but a call to pastors and church leaders everywhere to seek transformation through prayer and community. As Pastor John puts it, “The power of God is made manifest when it’s changing hearts and lives.”

If you’re looking for inspiration and practical insights into leading a church community toward spiritual renewal, this episode is a must-listen. Join us as we explore the transformative journey of Calvary Chapel Green Valley and discover how you, too, can invite the Holy Spirit into your life and ministry.

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Pastor John Knapp of Calvary Chapel Green Valley in Henderson, Nevada is passionate about the Lord Jesus Christ and he and the fellowship he pastors are experiencing a wonderful time of renewal in the Holy Spirit. 

So, that's what we’re going to speaking with him about today … we'll hear their testimony and the wisdom the Spirit has given them.

John is the founding pastor of CC Green Valley and has pastored for years. I (Bill Holdridge) met John through being practically neighbors, and through the monthly senior pastor’s breakfast that happens in Las Vegas. 

It’s been said of some churches that if the Holy Spirit completely vacated the building and fellowship life, things wouldn’t miss a beat. Implying, of course, that all they had been doing was energized by human effort only, and not influenced by the very One Jesus prayed about to His Father, that He (the Holy Spirit) would be our parakletos.

How might a senior pastor move more into the realm and ministry of the Holy Spirit?

How does a pastor or congregation become open to the person of the Holy Spirit? 

What has Calvary Chapel Green Valley learned about how to seek God for and be open to the Holy Spirit's direction in the life of the pastor and the church?

____________________________

Obviously, Poimen Ministries believes in the perpetuity of the gifts of the Holy Spirit, and in the necessity of the Holy Spirit for a fruitful walk with the Lord and fruitful lives of ministry. 

Strength for Today’s Pastor includes these helpful podcast episodes:

035 - Are We Charismatic Enough? - with Pastor Paul Berry

064 Acts 2 Distinctives Series- the Power and Ministry

For Poimen Ministries, its staff, ministries, and focus, go to poimenministries.com. To contact Poimen Ministries, email us at [email protected]. May the Lord revive His work in the midst of these years!

Comments? Questions? Send us a message!

Comments? Questions? Send us a message!

In this heartfelt episode, Bill Holdridge shares a powerful message delivered at Regeneration Church in Scotts Valley, California. This episode is a departure from our usual format, as Bill recounts a personal journey of forgiveness and the transformative power it holds for pastors and believers alike. Drawing from his own experiences and the teachings of Bruce Hell, author of "Forgiving Forward," Bill explores the profound impact of forgiveness on our lives and ministries.

Discover the freedom that comes from applying the gospel's power of forgiveness, and learn how to forgive others from the heart. Bill shares practical insights, including the seven Protocols of Forgiveness, and emphasizes the importance of forgiving everyone of everything. Through personal stories and biblical truths, this episode offers a roadmap to release the burdens of unforgiveness and live in the joy and peace that God intends for us.

1. Introduction and Purpose of the Episode

2. The Gift of Forgiveness

3. Personal Story of Forgiveness

4. The Biblical Mandate to Forgive

5. Understanding Forgiveness and Reconciliation

6. The Protocols of Forgiveness

7. The Cost of Unforgiveness

8. The Parable of the Unforgiving Servant

9. The Consequences of Unforgiveness

10. The Father's Discipline and Love

11. Application and Encouragement

12. Closing Prayer and Resources

Join us as we delve into the heart of forgiveness and the freedom it brings. For more resources, reach out to Dr. Bruce Hebel and his wife Toni at forgivingforward.com. May this message inspire you to embrace the power of the gospel in forgiveness and lead your church into a healthier, stronger community filled with the joy of the Lord.

Strength for Today's Pastor is brought to you by Poment Ministries. Visit us at poimenministries.com. If you have questions or topic ideas, email us at strongerpastorsmail.com. May the Lord bless you as you serve Him, His pastors, and His church.

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Podcast 166 is one that I've wanted to do for some time, but needed to wait for the right time.

Now is the right time.

Pastor, do you want to experience the power of the gospel in forgiveness? Do you want this for your fellowship? I know you do.

In this episode of SFTP, discover: 

• The forgiveness mandate, directly from the Lord's Jesus.
• The blessing of knowing we're forgiven.
• The blessings that result from forgiving others.
• The surprising meaning of the parable of the unforgiving servant in Matthew 18:21-35.
• The torture that results from refusing to forgive others. 
• The protocols (how to do it) of forgiveness.
• Tried and tested resources to go to for help.

Listen in, and then share, share, share.

For Poimen Ministries, its staff, ministries, and focus, go to poimenministries.com. To contact Poimen Ministries, email us at [email protected]. May the Lord revive His work in the midst of these years!

Comments? Questions? Send us a message!

This is podcast 164 of Strength for Today’s Pastor. 

In this interview, I'm speaking with Pastor Dan Jacobsen, a lead/teaching pastor at Heartland Community Church in Olathe, Kansas.

In addition to his role as a pastor-teacher, Dan has the unique distinction of being a grandson of the now-in-heaven pastor and Bible teacher, the beloved Dr. Warren Wiersbe. 

This is going to be a fun conversation for that reason alone. But wait! There will be more! 

So, welcome to the program. 

Be sure to listen to the end, to discover how to win something special from Dr. Wiersbe's works.

For Poimen Ministries, its staff, ministries, and focus, go to poimenministries.com. To contact Poimen Ministries, email us at [email protected]. May the Lord revive His work in the midst of these years!