Show us a church with distracted elders, and we’ll show you a church without effective deacons. For better or worse, deacons are difference-makers in congregational life. But when it comes to this topic, too many churches are operating from custom and tradition—with Bibles closed.In this episode of The Everyday Pastor, Matt Smethurst and Ligon Duncan revisit the Bible’s job description for deacons, highlighting what these servants are (and are not) meant to do. Don’t underestimate this glorious office.
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Working with Fellow Elders (Part 2)
Last week, we considered what elders are, biblically speaking, and which traits should characterize a candidate for the office.In this follow-up episode of The Everyday Pastor, Matt Smethurst and Ligon Duncan get even more “nuts and boltsy,” discussing tips for working with fellow elders, leading elders’ meetings, establishing healthy cultural dynamics, and more.Recommended resources:“Want to Be an Elder? Start Eldering Now.” by Bobby JamiesonChurch Elders: How to Shepherd God's People Like Jesus (Building Healthy Churches) by Jeramie Rinne
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Working with Fellow Elders (Part 1)
There are few greater gifts for a pastor than getting to serve with a godly band of brothers. But not every church has multiple elders—and not every elder team functions in a healthy way.In this episode of The Everyday Pastor, Matt Smethurst and Ligon Duncan discuss what elders are, why every church should seek to have them, and what a pastor should be looking for in potential elders.Recommended resources: Christ’s Call to Discipleship by James BoiceThe Elder and His Work by David Dickson“Want to Be an Elder? Start Eldering Now.” by Bobby JamiesonThe Path to Being a Pastor by Bobby Jamieson“On Transitioning to Elders - Part 2”
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Teach People How to Read Their Bibles
It’s the most important book in the universe, but it can also be intimidating. Many of our members may be discouraged to admit that their resolutions have sputtered out—again. As pastors, how can we prepare and motivate our members to dive into God’s Word for themselves?In this episode of The Everyday Pastor, Matt Smethurst and Ligon Duncan share practical tips for promoting a culture of biblical literacy in the local church.Recommended resources: Matt Smethurst at Southern SeminaryBible Talk by 9MarksFor a full list of recommended resources on this episode, visit our website.
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When the Pastor's Family Suffers (with Garrett Kell)
Pastors are called to walk alongside suffering saints, but what about when the pastor is the sufferer?In this episode of The Everyday Pastor, pastor Garrett Kell joins Matt Smethurst and Ligon Duncan to share about a season of family hardship—and what it looked like to receive care from his church community. He testifies to the beauty of Christ’s body and the faith-fortifying role of pain, encouraging shepherds to remember that they, too, are among Christ’s sheep.
The Everyday Pastor is a new podcast from TGC on the nuts and bolts of ministry. Hosted by Ligon Duncan, with nearly 20 years of pastoral experience, and Matt Smethurst, who planted a church three years ago, it seeks to model how ministers of different generations, levels of experience, and even denominations can apply God’s never-changing Word in a fast-changing world. Tune in for wisdom, encouragement, and practical insights to help you navigate the trenches of ministry with fortitude and joy.
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