This Poor Pastor's Podcast: Recent Episodes
Mark Foster
A podcast for pastors, Christian leaders, and everyday believers. The goal is to reach those who are seeking to follow Christ in their everyday lives and communities of faith, but who struggle with the daily challenges of doing life and ministry in relative obscurity. Most of us are not famous, and will never be. My goal is to let you know that God delights to work through everyday people just like you. Our theme verse is Psalms 34:6 (KJV) "This poor man cried, and the LORD heard him, and saved him out of all his troubles." Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/thispoorpastor/support
After nearly 3 years, and almost 200 episode, it's time to bring This Poor Pastor's Podcast to a close.
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What can you say to people who criticize quitting as if it is always bad, or who tell you that you are wrong to quit things they have identified as virtuous or beneficial? Here are four responses.
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When trying to decide when to quit, two things can wrongly influence our decision. The sunk cost fallacy and the escalation of commitment. In this episode, I explain them both.
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Is it possible to develop a habit of quitting that is hard to quit? Is it hard to quit quitting? If so, how does one go about quitting being a quitter?
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Quitting gets a bad rap. Many times people simply don't know when to quit, or when it's okay to quit. In this episode, I share four times when you know that it might be time to quit.
Resources in this episode:
"Mind Shift" by Erwin Raphael McManus
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This week we are going to have a conversation about quitting. We start off with a discussion about whether or not it is always bad to quit.
Resources mentioned in this episode:
"Simple Church" by Thom Rainer
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Habit building is an important part of resilience training. Building resilience is an important part of successful living. We all want successful lives. So...habits.
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Whenever you begin to grow in your life, you will face resistance. Do not be discouraged. This happens to all of us. The successful people recognize it and push through it. In this episode, I will outline the four areas for you, and I am sure you will begin to see them in your own life, and then, you'll know what to do.
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Today, as we continue to talk about habit formation, I talk about the importance of knowing your why.
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In today's episode, I want to share a conversation I had with my violin teacher, that gave me just the perspective I needed.
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Did you know that the little habits we have, at the very beginning of our day, of our week, or our actions, are perhaps the things that determine our longterm success? It's true, and that is why John Wooden taught his college ball players how to put their socks and shoes on.
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In this final conversation about creativity, we talk about the need for a roadmap or a framework in which to engage your creative potential. If you ever feel like your creativity is frozen, like writer's block, then this episode will help.
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In today's episode, I share a brief reading from the book "The Creative Act: a way of being" by Rick Rubin. It is the section entitled "The Beginner's Mind"
To purchase this book from Amazon, and support this show, you can follow the link below. And thank you!
"The Creative Act: a way of being" (Affiliate Link)
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In today's episode, I want to talk to you about the power of boredom!
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In this episode, I give you three things you can do to boost your creativity!
Resources mentioned in this episode
The Creative Act: A way of being by Rick Rubin
The War of Art by Stephen Pressfield
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In this episode, I want to share something I wrote for FB, that I think has direct bearing on our discussion of creativity.
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In this series of conversations, I am going introduce you to the idea of creativity, and its importance in the life of all human beings. Yes, Christians should be creative. I can't wait to talk to you about this.
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One-time $5 donation via Stripe
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Tony Robbins once said, "Knowledge is not power. It's potential power. Execution trumps knowledge any day."
The prophet said, "My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge."
Paul wanted the church to be filled with the knowledge of God.
So, is knowledge power? Let's talk about that today.
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The final discussion on this topic covers reasons 6 & 7 from the video "10 Reasons People Are Leaving for House Church"
Video referenced in this episode: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q4ro3RGWZX4&t=132s
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In this episode, we look at the fifth reason given in the video titled "10 Reasons People Leave for House Church." By Matthew Dabbs. That reason is "It's Persecution Proof."
We'll examine that claim.
Video referenced in this episode: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q4ro3RGWZX4&t=132s
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In this episode, we are going to continue our response to a video entitled 10 Reasons People are Leaving for House Churches. I have linked to the original video in case you would like to see the entire thing for yourself.
Video referenced in this episode: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q4ro3RGWZX4&t=132s
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Over the next few episodes, I will be going through a video sent to me by a friend called "Ten Reasons People Leave a Legacy Church for a House Church." I hope you will enjoy my thoughts, and learn some things along the way! If you want to watch the entire video, you can do so at the link below.
Video referenced in this episode: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q4ro3RGWZX4&t=132s
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Have you ever heard of the God default? You've probably heard it, even if you didn't know that's what it was. The God default is when Christians feel the need to inject an air of spiritual helplessness into any conversation about striving, working, or doing. Please don't fall for it!Want to support This Poor Pastor's Podcast? There are several ways you can do that, but one of the easiest ones is through Patreon at www.patreon.com/thispoorpastor--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/thispoorpastor/support
In this final discussion in our chat about church, I just want to take a few minutes and extend a heartfelt plea not to give up on the church. She ain't perfect, but she's worth sticking with.
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In this episode, I want to continue the discussion about pastors. Specifically, what kind of pastor you are, and how you can know. I identify 3 different kinds of pastors that I believe God uses and encourage you to lean into your gifting.
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In this episode, I'm gonna just have an honest discussion with you about the pastor and his position, and the pitfalls that can creep up on him. I'm probably gonna make some people mad, a few glad, and hopefully give you a few laughs along the way.
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Have you ever heard that the church is supposed to be a hospital for sinners? Have you ever actually asked anybody what that means? In this episode, I ask that question, and give you my best stab at an answer!
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In today's conversation, I want to share some of the bad arguments I have heard for not attending church. Specifically, the church isn't a building, and the NT church didn't meet in a building. I'd love to hear your thoughts.
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I love the church. I am filled with hope and optimism about the church and her future, and I also recognize that we have many challenges to overcome. I'd like to talk to you about it this week.
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There is a drastic lack of discussion of God as our Heavenly Father, and what that means. Many times, when talking about the Father, we lapse into language relating to Jesus the Son. As we finish our discussion on the presence of God, I want to talk to you a bit about your Heavenly Father.
Resources from the Episode:
"Show Me the Father" (Kendrick Brothers Documentary on Amazon Prime.)
Clicking on this link will take you to Amazon where you can rent the documentary. It won't cost you any more, but it will help support this podcast. Thank you!
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Are there any indications that we are living in the presence of God? Are all the joy and gladness in the life of a believer reserved for that eternal day, one day, a long time from now? Is it true that in the presence of God, there is the fullness of joy, is that for today? These things and more are on today's episode.
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What if I told you that it was possible to experience the presence of God in a tangible, physical way? Would that be something you would be interested in? Well, it is possible, and I'm going to tell you how.
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Have you ever read the Psalms where the author asked God where He is? Have you ever said, "Yep, that's how I feel." You are not alone. In this discussion, we are going to examine this idea for a few moments, and I hope to give you some encouragement to lean in when you feel like God has stepped out.
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Have you ever heard someone say that God doesn't need us, we need Him? Have you ever felt like a relationship with God is all a one-way street? In our second discussion on the topic of exploring the presence of God, we are going to discuss this very topic.
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This week I want to talk to you about the presence of God. Does God want to spend time with us, or does He tolerate us? Is God's presence something we should expect to see and feel? If so, is it purely subjective, or is it also objective? I'm excited about discussing it with you this week!
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Imagine if you could start the entire year over, and everything up till then could just vanish? Wouldn't that be cool? How many of us would do it, only to be in the same position a few months later? Hands Up! In Exodus chapter 12 God came to Israel and told them He was restarting the calendar, and He had some very specific instructions about how and why they were doing it. I think you'll find this helpful.
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How do you know what to do when you pray for direction? Is there a way that God uses to direct us? While there are probably several, one of the ones He uses in my life is the tool of prompts. In this episode I share a story of how this worked recently in my own life, and hope it encourages you to start listening, and following, the prompts.
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The power and reality of spiritual darkness get overlooked way too often. In this episode, as we continue our theme of forward progress, I want to encourage you to consider the impact of the spiritual world on your life and actions.
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Life is a bully. It will knock you down and come back around again, every time you try to rise. So what do you do when that happens? Do you let up? Do you lean in? Let's talk about that
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Sometimes you have to build a boat, and sometimes you have to burn the ships. Both require faith, and both will be criticized by those who value safety or rationality above all else.
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On today's episode, I'm just gonna speak from my heart. There aren't a lot of steps to follow, or a formula, just some heartfelt inspiration. One of the greatest passions of my life is to help people move out of the prison of their past into the light of the future God has for them. I'm not naive. I know life is hard. BUT...our past, no matter how difficult, does not have to become our future.
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The person best equipped to help you might not be the one who knows how you feel. This is a lesson I have been learning, and, thanks to my PT I have found several other lessons that will aid in your recovery from injury, physical, emotional, or spiritual, and help you understand why it's really hard to be both the patient and the physician.
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Grief doesn't have to be your master. There is a way to manage your grief that can bring hope and healing to your life once again. In this episode, I share my 5 step process to help you do just that.
Interested in downloading the free PDF of this process? Click on the link below to download it from my website.
"How to Grieve Well"
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We are surrounded by people who are wounded and grieving. Trying to help those people can be incredibly difficult, primarily because of the teaching that is prevalent in the secular world and even many churches, that confuses comfort with sympathy, empathy, and validation. It is a philosophy that eschews solutions, in favor of "understanding." In this episode, I would like to provide another option. One I believe to be Biblical.
Resources Mentioned in this Episode
How to Grieve Well (Free PDF)
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On this episode, I want to walk you through my U.N.S.T.U.C.K. acronym. This is a program I developed to walk people through the process of identifying and initiating the meaningful change they need to get them out of that rut. I have seen it work in my own life, and I know it would work in yours.
Want to schedule a free coaching call with Mark?
Fill out the Form Here
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Who are the three most important people in your life? It might not be who you think. In this episode, I challenge you to identify and maybe consider changing those people if necessary. I'd love to hear your thoughts!
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Here's a quick challenge to you. Pick at least one contact from your phone or social media and send them a note to let them know that you were thinking about them. Pray for them, and let them know it. Reach out to someone you haven't heard from in a while, or someone you recently met and leave them an encouraging message. Grow your network, grow your community. Give a good word.
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Not everyone who has experienced pain and difficulty develops the mindset problems we examine in this episode. Some people in this mindset haven't even experienced anything difficult at all yet. In today's episode, I list the ten signs of what I call the "trauma and disability" mindset that is so prevalent and holds so many people back.
You can download it for yourself in PDF form at my website: www.markfostercoaching.com/resources
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When you are pruning a fruit tree, you won't be successful by just making miniscule cuts, year by year. If there is no fruit or diminished fruit production, it will take some targeted, aggressive cutting to return to a fruitful stage. And no, this episode isn't about horticulture, but it is about church, ministry, and life. Take a listen!
Resource Mentioned in This Episode (Thank you!)
"Mind Shift" -Erwin Raphael McManus
Want to book a free coaching call with Mark?
Free Coaching Request Form
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Hey everyone! This is the seventh episode since I started my daily podcast experiment. I thought this would be a good time to share some thoughts I have on the future of this podcast, ask you for some valued feedback, and share a short essay I wrote on the perils of raising daughters. It's a bit eclectic. Hopefully, you enjoy it!
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You can't help everyone, even some who say they want help. It's a sad truth, but if you understand how to spot the ones who truly want help, you can focus your efforts on them. Some people want to argue for their limitations, and guess what? They get to keep them.
Check out my free PDF resource "How to Identify Signs of a Trauma and Disability Mindset"
www.markfostercoaching.com/resources
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Do Mark 10 and Matthew 23 teach that Jesus was opposed to leadership in the body of Christ? Is "servant leadership" intended to mean what it looks like? Do leaders have actual authority or just a quasi-authority that looks more like permission begging and foot washing? This episode attempts to take a closer look at these questions.
Check out Mark's website at www.markfostercoaching.com
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Recently I had a conversation with a young man who wanted to know how he could get better at providing solutions. He felt that he was already very good at finding problems. I told him that finding problems isn't a skill. Anyone can do that. The skill comes in finding solutions, and that takes practice and courage. I thought you might enjoy hearing a bit more about that in today's episode.
www.markfostercoaching.com
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The motives behind our actions are important. It is possible to do the right things, with the wrong motives, and actually cause harm, to ourselves, and maybe others. In today's episode, Mark talks about how asking the question "Why?" is a great way to avoid that mistake.
To get the resources mentioned in this podcast, go to
www.markfostercoaching.com/resources
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Fear of the Worst Case Scenario (WCS) is a roadblock for a lot of people when trying to make a decision. We can get stuck trying to figure out all that can go wrong when we try to do something new. This mindset is part of fear, and it is crippling. In this episode, I challenge you to use an exercise I use to help me overcome that fear and take decisive action anyway.
For more resources or to schedule a chat, check out my website at www.markfostercoaching.com
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What would happen if you changed the way you think, or better yet, changed the kinds of things you thought about? Do you even know where your thoughts come from? In this new episode of a new season, we are launching something audacious. A new episode every day of the week except Sunday. I hope you'll listen and share these episodes with others!
Want to read an article I wrote on changing your thoughts and changing your life? You can find it on my website here.
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Hey everyone, it's been a minute. I am really happy to share this episode with you. This is an interview I did with a new friend of mine, named Lauren Ligon. She is a mom, Doula, military spouse, and Christian, who has experienced hope, healing, and help through the church, and Christ. In this interview, she shares her story of struggling with alcohol and postpartum depression. It will strengthen you and encourage you!
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In this episode, I want to push back against what I believe to be the bad and harmful theological teaching that says God has to bruise those He uses. It's a coffee table conversation. I hope you find it helpful!
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In this episode, which is admittedly more for pastors and teachers, I want to share with you a recent conversation I had regarding preaching styles. I was asked by a young intern why I don't preach exegetically. I thought my response was worth sharing with you as well. While aimed at pastors and teachers, I believe this will be helpful for those who sit in church and listen to a sermon each week, and who may be seeking a church where one style or the other is more prominent.
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This is the final episode in this series, and I am really thankful for those who have reached out and spoken with me via text and email. It is my prayer that this final episode will help you to finally start working toward the path of growth and health that God wants for you.
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Have you ever heard of Goodhart's Law? If not, you have fallen prey to it and seen it at work in churches and organizations throughout your life. Please take a listen to today's episode to find out why being aware of it can actually help you reconstruct your Christian walk in a healthy, genuine way.
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One of the saddest things that can happen when someone deconstructs is that they remove themselves from a corporate expression of the body. That is to say, they live as if Christianity is not to be understood within the context of the body. But, within a good local body, you will find both community and religious rituals, which help us to stay grounded in our past and present identity and focused on the future. This lesson covers a lot of ground, but I hope it helps!
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Here is the episode in short. Take a breath. Don't worry about what comes next. Don't start building a whole new set of doctrines and beliefs. Just take some time to reflect. You were uniquely created to become like the thing you worship and reflect upon.
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You are an important piece of the puzzle. God has uniquely gifted you for service, and when you and I function within our gifting, the power, presence, and person of Jesus Christ are manifested most clearly to the world around us. It's time to find your place!
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This week starts a discussion on forgiveness. It's vital. It's also fraught with danger and landmines. I pray you listen, and then consider. The Lord bless you and guide you as you seek to forgive.
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In today's episode, we are going to continue our discussion on healing and reconstructing our faith. Every building needs a good foundation, and there is nothing better for a life of faith than being built on a soul, heart, and mind that have been healed by the Lord Jesus Christ.
What does healing look like? Why do we resist healing? Why is it so hard to trust?
This episode does not address the wrongs that have been done to us, only the need for Christ to heal that pain before we proceed. I hope it helps!
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"Do you want to be made whole?"
That is a question Jesus asked of a man who was broken. It seems an odd question, but the truth is that often broken people accept their brokenness as a part of their very identity. Then, when someone tries to help, it feels like they are losing a part of themselves.
So, let me ask you. Do you want to be made whole?
Many of my friends have gone through traumatic and hurtful experiences in the church world. The words "trauma" and "victim" get thrown around quite a bit. Lots of people are sharing their deconstruction stories. I want to offer a path to reconstruction. Please listen. Please share.
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It's time to start packing on the pounds ladies and gents!
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Trust me...just listen. Pastor, I am here to help.
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Did you listen to last week's episode, and now you're ready, but still wonder exactly how to go about it? Do you feel guilty leading your church because some person or group told you that you are being a dictator? In this episode, I follow up on last week's discussion by giving some steps to take that make the choice much more clear. It won't necessarily make it easier, but you won't doubt what direction to go.
If you would like some help working through a ministry issue, or an issue in your personal life regarding this topic, I encourage you to go to my website, www.thispoorpastor.com, and fill out the contact form to set up a 1-hour coaching call with me. I know it will help, and the cost is free.
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This is a really important conversation, and I hope you will listen carefully. Maybe listen to it twice!
At the conclusion of the episode, I introduced the new coaching business I have started, and offer a complimentary 1 hour conversation to those who are interested!
You can find the info at www.thispoorpastor.com
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A mom recently told me that her problem with our youth activities was that we didn't have enough "God" in them. She said games are fine, but she wished we would preach to the kids. I am not against preaching to kids. I do it every week. But my answer to her suggestion became the title of this episode. I hope you take a listen!
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Have you ever heard someone say, "Yes, God is a loving God, but He is also holy, and his love can't override his holiness?" Doesn't that sound nice? I get sad when I hear it. This teaching springs from a misunderstanding of the attributes of God, and a misrepresentation of holiness. Take a listen, and let me know what you think!
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Solomon said, that the fear of man brings a snare. Snares immobilize. That's what fear does, it immobilizes. In this episode, I get transparent with you about the impact that fear has had on my life, and a recent challenge I created to help address it. I hope you find it helpful in managing your fears. I also mentioned a little ebook I wrote about the process. You can find it at the link below. Please let me know if there is any way I can help you with the process!
"Learning to Do the Hard Things" ebook
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When you first start looking and listening for the presence and voice of God, it can seem that you see it everywhere. Then often, it seems to go silent, and God seems to disappear, more than before. This can lead to such despair that many will give up seeking Him altogether, and come to believe something untrue: God doesn't speak to them, or worse, He only talks to others because He loves them more.
It's not true! He does love you, and He is speaking! And his presence and words are intended to produce life, health, and joy! Maybe, just maybe, what we need is to learn how to separate His voice, from the very loud voices that are trying to drown Him out. That's what we talk about in today's episode.
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Buckle up, and remember, God loves you!
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Hey everyone, in this episode, I want to continue talking to you about my faith journey. I want to share with you honestly about my attitude of jealousy, and what I learned from the story of the prodigal son. I also want to encourage you to lean into God's love for you.
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Yes, I know the title is provocative. However, I really want you to listen. I think you will be challenged and encouraged, and hopefully, laugh at yourself just a little bit.
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In this week's episode, I want to invite you to listen in on a sermon I preached recently at my church. It is the introductory message to a new series by the title you see on this episode. Thanks for listening! I'd Iove to hear if this encouraged you!
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In today's episode, I address some questions that I received regarding the content of my last couple of episodes. Then, we talk about the discipline of prayer, which I call "The Contemplative Prayer Model". Learning to be still in the presence of God is one of the richest blessings you and I can experience. Our busy lives often make it nearly impossible. But it doesn't need to be that way. Let's talk about that!
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Have you ever wondered why you seem so unaware of God's presence and voice in your life? Do you find it too easy to rationalize away all of the times people say God is at work in their lives and in yours? If so, you are not alone. I face the same struggle. In today's episode, I will share where I am in my own journey of learning to see God. It seems to be the easiest when looking in the rearview mirror. Let's talk about it.
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Have you ever wondered if God actually loves you? Have you been told that you are a wicked, vile, worm and that nothing you do will ever be good enough? That the only reason, as a saved person, that God even pretends to love you now is because of His love for Jesus, who somehow loves you more than the Father does? Me too. But you know what? It's crap.God actually loves you. He always has. He doesn't just love you because He sees Jesus when He looks at you. When He looks at you. He sees you. And...He loves you.--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/thispoorpastor/support
Here is a clip of my upcoming episode on the love of God. Does God the Father actually love you? You...not just you in Christ? It turns out a lot of people, including many pastors don't actually think so.
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Hey gang! This will be my last new episode for 2022. In the next few weeks, I'll repost some of the most listened-to episodes from the previous couple of years. However, in this episode, I'm kicking the doors in. I am telling you where I am, and where I am going, and inviting you to come along for the ride, starting in January 2023. I call it, my move toward a "messy faith". I hope you'll take a listen.
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Hey guys! Do you have time for a chat? I love to share some thoughts with you from a pastor's heart related to church and the holidays. I hope you will listen. And, I hope it helps.
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What would change if we lived by just two commandments? What if those commandments were both about love? What if both Jesus and the Apostle Paul said that if we did that, we'd be golden? Could it really be that simple? What difference would it make if we tried? Let's talk about it.
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This episode is a little different, but I want to talk to you about beauty. I want to ask you to think about beauty in creation, our lives, and even the buildings where we meet to worship God. God delights in beauty. So should we.
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In this episode I continue the discussion from last time regarding my beliefs about the subject of death and whether or not it is determined by God. The short answer is, probably not, but sometimes, and also it's hard to know the difference. I'd love to hear your feedback.
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This may be one of the most controversial discussions I have ever put out on the podcast. Many, if not most, will probably not agree with me. That being said, I hope you will listen, and at least consider what I say. I believe that a tremendous amount of damage has been done by the idea that when someone dies, it is "just their time" or "God took them". Theology matters and I want to share mine with you as it relates to God and the subject of death.
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I am a pastor and a chaplain. In my almost twenty years in this line of work, I have seen death up close and personal more times than I care to count. I think God has given me the skill set to deal with it more than some. It's a mixed blessing. In this episode, I want to share some of my thoughts on this topic with you. I would love to hear your feedback.
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It is easy to blame the listener when communication breaks down. But what about when we are the listener? Are there things we can do as listeners to aid in successful communication? Indeed there are dear listeners...indeed there are. In this episode, I will share some of them with you!
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George Bernard Shaw said (maybe) "The biggest problem with communication is the illusion that it has actually taken place." Ouch! Often we blame the listener for our communication problems, but it is just as often the speaker. How can we do a better job at avoiding communication failure? Well, in this episode I will give you three things that will help immediately. Seriously, they will make you more effective today! Try it!
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Be careful now...don't jump to conclusions. You might disagree with me, but make sure you disagree with what I actually mean. What is my issue with church? Listen and find out!
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Have you ever wished all Christians could just agree on the doctrines of the Bible? I have...but mostly that means them all agreeing with me! It can get discouraging, but it is nothing new. Here are my thoughts for what they are worth.
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In this episode, I wanted to share a conversation that I had with a good friend and pastor Nathan Walworth. Nathan and I have a lot in common, and we thought you might enjoy some of our thoughts. We are considering doing more of this kind of content in the near future, so be sure to let me know if you enjoyed it!
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Are denominational labels as necessary as they once were? Do they represent a consistent coherent doctrinal position? Would it matter if someone chose not to put a denominational label on their sign, is it a "sign" of compromise or apostasy? I don't think so...but let's chat about it.
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Just a question...short and sweet
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Welcome back everyone! This is the second part of the discussion we started last week on Three C's of Successful Community. In this episode we tackle the third C. Compromise
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Hey everyone! We made it to episode 100!
In this episode, I will be tackling the subject of community. What is a community? When to join one? When should I leave one? When should the community dissolve altogether? It should be an exciting conversation.
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This is the overdue second part to our last conversation on friendship. Enjoy!
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It is really tough to develop strong friendships in the ministry. Maybe brutal is a better word! In this two-part discussion I want to have an informal chat with you about this topic. I will discuss the challenges I have faced, as well as the blessings of seeking friendship in ministry. Most of all, I want to encourage you to
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Have you ever been told that there is no need to reinvent the wheel? Do you know who says that? Wheel salesmen. The people who need you to keep buying their product. That's who. Since the invention of the wheel, it has gone through countless stages of reinvention and innovation. Not only that, but other methods of transportation have also become available that may utilize a wheel in some small way, but not as the main component. Think of the majority of airplanes. In this episode, I want to encourage you to reinvent the wheel. Especially when it comes to church, church work, and following Christ. Don't be afraid. Don't be intimidated by the men who were themselves innovators, but now want to tell everyone else not to innovate. Keep after it for Christ!
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Do you ever have self-doubt? Do you want to help people but face the fear that no one actually needs or wants to hear what you have to say? Are you convinced the world wouldn't even notice if you disappeared? Pastors and normal people face these fears on a regular basis. This is my honest discussion of my battle with those doubts, and what I am trying to do about it.
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In this episode, I share some of my favorite lines from J.R.R. Tolkien's writings. I hope you find it an encouragement.
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In this episode, I want to share my heart with you concerning the evil that exists around us, and what we can do about it. What does that have to do with the Tree of Life? Listen and find out!
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Is it time to acknowledge that the office of Pastor has outlived its usefulness? Do Christians even need to be under a pastor? Haven't pastors done more harm than good? Should I just quit and go get an honest job? After all, doesn't the Bible say that I have the Holy Spirit and don't need anyone to teach me anyway?
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I have a confession to make. I didn't make a public statement or preach about Roe V. Wade over the weekend. And I don't think that makes me a bad pastor.
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Episode 90 generated some questions that I thought would be good to discuss. Rather than wait until Monday, I decided to release this response episode earlier, and continue with next's week show as planned. In short, does promoting the idea of a "minimum viable product" in Christianity lend itself to people doing less than their best? Does it encourage people to be less godly, less Christ-like, and less honoring to God? I don't think so, and in this episode, I will explain my position even more.
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Exactly what does a person need to do in order to be an acceptable Christian? Some won't like that question for various reasons, but I am going to ask it anyway. When cultures and preferences collide, is there a way to maintain fellowship and our own positions at the same time? I think there is, and that is what I am going to talk about in today's episode.
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The subject of struggle and suffering is a difficult one to tackle. There are no easy answers, and I am not going to try to answer them all in this episode. That being said, I do want to talk to you about contrast, and how even the darkness can serve a really amazing purpose in our lives. I hope it helps.
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In this episode, I want to just introduce the concept of listening for the voice of wisdom in our lives. Often we make the mistake of conflating influence or success with wisdom. They are not the same.
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Sometimes you just need to dig a giant hole in your front yard to kickstart your life. Want to know what I am talking about? Listen to this week's episode and find out!
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Did you know that not every action of Bible heroes is admirable? Not everything is there for us to follow as an example. Some things are there for us to see what not to do. In today's episode, I want to ask you to consider a different view of Saul in the days following his calling as an apostle and subsequent conversion. You may not agree, but at least give it a listen. Thanks!
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In today's episode, I want to challenge us in our speech. This is especially for the pastors and evangelists who listen to this podcast, but it is relevant for us all. In the arena of ideas, we need to elevate our discourse. Hopefully this will help.
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Watching our children grow up is hard. Being a child growing up is hard. The same is true, whether in a family or in a church. There is so much intergenerational fighting going on today that I think is needless. In this episode, I want to extend a plea to good people on both sides of the divide.
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A special bonus episode. Don't worry, I'll have another one on Monday! Have you ever had a passage of Scripture quoted at you, or about someone else, in which the one doing the quoting assumed they were the hero and the "others" were the villains? It happens more than you might think, especially in movements and churches where there is a high level of legalism and control. None of us are immune from this temptation. "Narcigesis" (The narcissistic view of Scripture) is a made-up word that focuses on our tendency to read ourselves as the hero of every passage of scripture, especially where doctrine and methods are concerned. Many have been hurt by it. Families have been torn apart by it. Friendships have been destroyed because of it. I want to encourage us not to let it happen in our own lives.
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I know some may be bored with this topic already, but I hope you will stick with me a little longer. I am increasingly aware of the growing (or maybe only emerging) disparity among Christians over the idea of faith. There are two mainstream views of faith, that you may not even be aware of, but that you will notice once they are pointed out. The first is that faith is built on evidence or reasons. It is not reason, but reason informs it. The second is the "Leap of Faith" model. This is the view that faith stands in opposition to belief. Where belief is built on reason and rationality, true faith is the embracing of the absurd. Things you would never believe because they cannot be proven, especially as it relates to the Divine, are the object of pure faith.
Sound interesting? Let's talk about it.
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Are reason and faith the enemy of faith? Does the Bible ever teach us to believe without reason? Is it more virtuous to have a "faith position" than a reasoned one? Let's talk about it.
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In this episode, I just want to share my heart with you. I just returned from a long weekend away. I had my heart stirred, and I was challenged regarding doing a work in people's lives. Grab a cup of coffee, and let's chat.
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This is going to be a multi-episode discussion, but I really think we need to talk about it. Have you ever been shut down when asking a question about a specific passage of Scripture? Have you ever been accused of false doctrine or heresy simply for questioning whether a certain proof text actually says what the established narrative claims? Why is having a discussion about the Bible so hard? Let's get a conversation going here.
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Last year I released an episode dealing with this topic. I had a few listeners reach out asking for more content on this topic. This episode is part of my desire to do that. Teaching and preaching the Bible is one of the greatest privileges I can think of. I want to do it the best I can, and give people the greatest chance possible to see how the story of the Bible should impact their lives. I'd love to have a discussion with you if you have any questions.
Want to buy me a cup of coffee? Recording these episodes takes time, money, and resources. Several of you have mentioned wanted to help in some way. How about sending a small financial gift? Think of it as buying me a cup of coffee. You can do that easily by sending me a gift through Venmo. Find me @TheMaineMark And thanks!
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In this episode, I just want to chat with you about a struggle I have been having. I want to be transparent about the challenges of pastoring two churches. The two churches are my online church and my in-person church. It really is like two separate entities, and it is exhausting. Maybe you are feeling the same way? Let me know!
Hey, do you like the work I am doing here? Want to be an encouragement? Sometimes audience members have said they would love to buy me a cup of coffee. Well, if you are on Venmo, you can send me some digital encouragement, and it is really awesome. Any amount helps. Producing this podcast takes time and resources, and your help goes a long way to keep this podcast going. Thanks!
Venmo - @TheMaineMark
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Have you ever seen a church that had all the right metrics, only to find out that things were not Biblical? Have you experienced abuse at the hands of church leaders who used certain metrics to support the rightness of their behavior? Have you wondered how God could "so obviously" blessing if things were so wrong behind the scenes?
In this episode, I want to give you some help in this area. Help and encouragement.
Do you like the work that I have been doing? Would you consider supporting the time and effort here by becoming a monthly supporter on Patreon? Any amount would be a blessing.
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Hey everyone. This is the final episode of 2021. In this episode, I share some Christmas cheer, as well as talk about what is ahead in the new year for this podcast. I'd love to hear from you!
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Hey everyone, in this week's episode, I am doing something I have only done one other time in over 70 episodes. I am sharing a sermon I preached at our church on a Sunday morning, December 12, 2021. The response from the people was overwhelmingly positive. At the end of the message, I played a music video of the song "O Come All Ye Unfaithful" by Sovereign Grace Music. For copyright reasons, I could not include it on this episode, but I have included the link to the video on Vimeo, if you would like to watch it. I highly recommend it! Link to song: https://vimeo.com/466673908
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Would you say that the atmosphere at your church is for the better or for the worse? Is it a place of comfort and joy, or anxiety and anger? Are we preaching to help people? Really help them? Or are we just getting things off our chest?
In this episode, I want to encourage pastors to give a gift to their congregation this year. The gift of a commitment to guiding them toward an environment of comfort, joy, and gladness. The commitment to help them come together for the better and not for the worse. I hope this helps!
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Many churches take an almost antagonistic attitude toward Christmas. They stubbornly dig in their heels and dare people to skip church. Years ago, I decided I wanted to be a blessing to our church during the Christmas holidays. In this episode, I talk to you about some ways that I have tried to do that and challenge you to do something different this year. Who knows...you might like it!
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If you want to help hurting and broken people, I have good news for you. You can. There are so many people who need help. In this episode, I want to give you some important information to help you do just that.
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In this episode, I want to talk to you and challenge you about moving toward broken people. It is a recurring and still emerging theme in my life. Maybe it is in yours as well.
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In this episode, I am just going to talk about some things we say, that I wish we wouldn't. There are no doubt more than three things, but we have to start somewhere!
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You know the story of the prodigal son. In this episode, I would like to promote an interpretation or understanding of it that may be different than you have considered before.
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Are you aware of how prevalent our assumptions are in our beliefs? Have you ever realized how many times we make determinations, based on assumptions? This is true in many areas, including our Bible reading and teaching. In this episode, I want to give you an example to think about.
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In this episode, I am going to share a sermon I preached on Sunday morning, August 29th, 2021. I don't usually share sermons here, but this is perhaps the most important one that I have ever preached. I hope you will take the time to listen.
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Guys...seriously...we've got to do better. Please just listen.
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These are troubling days. Of that, there is no doubt. What is troubling is the way that believers are treating one another, especially when we don't agree with someone. In this episode, I am just giving you my heart and pleading for Christians to treat other Christians as brothers and sisters in Christ.
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I realize that this episode may be challenging to some, and heretical to others. I do not mean to cause discomfort. However, I do want to challenge a prevailing concept among many of my fellow fundamental pastors regarding our attitude toward Scripture. I am afraid we are making statements about the Bible, that the Bible does not make about itself. One of those is that the Bible is all you need. You don't need to read other books about the Bible (Unless it is the one that particular preacher who agrees with me wrote). You don't need to listen to anything outside the Bible that challenges the interpretation of the Bible that we believe to be accurate. You get the idea.
In this episode, I just want to open a discussion and offer some food for thought. Please, if you must call me a heretic, doing it lovingly.
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Up until recently I have been ignoring all the hype about the series of shows called "The Chosen". I just don't watch many Christian films, and Jesus films are at the bottom of that list for many reasons. However, I have had several of my church members ask about this series, and I am seeing many Christian friends posting about it in glowing terms. So, I decided to watch it. Here are my thoughts. They are just my thoughts, and I could be mistaken. I only offer them to you for consideration.
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Have you ever heard a pastor or evangelist use that verse to threaten people who disagree with them or criticize them? I have. I used to believe it about myself as well. Then, I actually read the Bible...not just a single verse. There is a precious promise here, but it isn't what certain pastors and evangelists think. I'd like to offer you another, and I hope more Biblical way, of understanding this passage. To go to my YouTube channel find it here: https://youtube.com/channel/UC2yrIY-oU9jcAo0OLKf82dA
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Is there a difference between the Bible being for you and to you? You bet there is! Does it matter? I think so! You'll have to listen to decide that for yourself.
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God is a God of great kindness. See Joel chapter 2. He has shown that kindness to us in so many ways. He has also called us to be kind to one another. The Bible clearly says, "be ye kind one to another..." Kindness is a choice. Are we making the right choice in our lives each day?
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I come from a strong King James Bible background. It is the Bible I have read, memorized, studied, and listened to for 41 years. I love it. I also love Psalm 12, and the wonderful promises God makes in that short 8 verse chapter. Sadly, many in my circles use Psalm 12, and specifically verses 6-7 as a proof text for the KJB being the only perfect and preserved word of God for the English-speaking people. This episode is not intended to take issue with that position, only to challenge the use of Psalm 12 to support it.
I simply do not agree with the use of Psalm 12 in this way. I wanted to make an episode to discuss what I think Psalm 12 actually says, in the hopes that it will help someone who is willing to hear it. I am not intending to bring fire down upon myself, though I am prepared should that happen.
I hope you will hear what I have to say, as well as the spirit in which I am saying it. Please contact me if you have any questions.
thispoorpastor@gmail.com
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Through the years, God has used many men who were not educated at either the high school or college level. These men were ignorant in the eyes of the world. Sadly, some today are patterning their ministry after those men, not in power, but in education. In this episode, I just want to talk with you about ignorance and intelligence. Should be fun!
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Do you know how often we run scripts in our daily conversations and interactions? It's a lot! Most of the time we do it without even recognizing it. That is the point of scripts. We can run them without thinking, while our brains are engaged elsewhere. To some extent, this is normal and even necessary, but it can hinder us from engaging in authentic conversations with the people we meet every day. In this episode, I talk about scripts and challenge you to look for them, and to break out of them for the purpose of actual engagement for the cause of Christ.
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Do you know what an Idealized Cognitive Model is? Do you think you have one? Does it affect how we do church, or how we view other churches? I think the answer is yes. I want to talk to you about this topic today, and hopefully, challenge you to think about how you view the church and the world around you.
Want to support the work that I am doing on this podcast? I would appreciate it very much! Go to www.patreon.com/thispoorpastor to see the options that are available.
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Have you stopped learning? Did you graduate from seminary or Bible college and feel like now you were the teacher and your congregation is the student body? In this episode, I want to talk to you about some of my recent ruminations on life and learning as a result of my first child graduating from high school.
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Some days I really hate preaching. Especially when the message isn't uplifting. Nothing is more difficult to teach and preach about than the potential of persecution. Sometimes people don't want to hear it. However, I have been under such a burden to prepare our congregation for the potential of persecution. I want to talk about that in today's episode.
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Have you ever had to do community service? Would you consider doing some? Do you have to choose between evangelism and community involvement? Do you think that evangelism is community involvement? In this 50th episode, I want to talk to you about some ways you can consider getting involved. There are many more than the ones I have talked about. I'd love to hear your thoughts!
To support this podcast and get additional videos and articles by Mark, go to Patreon.com/ThisPoorPastor
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It is predicatable. Let someone in the ministry talk about someone who has made an impact on their life, and you will hear the charge,
"Hero worship!"
Is it wrong to follow other men? Is it even possible or advisable to seek to follow only Christ? And what is a hero anyway? Are we all heroes? Should I discourage someone from following me for fear they will worship me?
These and other questions and topics will be discussed in today's episode!
To support this podcast, go to Patreon.com and become a subscriber, for extra content and my undying gratitude!
www.patreon.com/thispoorpastor
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If you love missions and missionaries as I do, you may be hesitant to address the minefield that exists in navigating those relationships. I want to give a voice to some of the issues I have faced in my churches over the last 16 years, and maybe encourage you. Hopefully, it will help you navigate, or even avoid some of the problems I have had. I would love to hear your feedback on this.
As I mentioned in this podcast, my new patreon page is live. If you would like to be a financial supporter, take a look and be among the first to join! Thank you. www.patreon.com/ThisPoorPastor
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I want to continue the discussion about missions, and missionaries. Missionaries are some of my favorite people, and the things they go through in dealing with churches are exhausting! Most will never complain. In today's episode I want to talk a little about this, and how we as congregations can do a better job of both financially supporting our missionaries, as well as encouraging them, both at home and on the field.
I have started a Patreon page for those who would like to support this podcast. You can find it at patreon.com/thispoorpastor . There you can also find a transcript from this episode that you can download as a PDF, totally free of charge. If you decide you want to become a patron, you can do so starting at only $1 per month.
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In the next couple of episodes, I want to talk about missions. Not the necessity of it, but how we go about it. In this episode, I am going to talk about some of the ways I have heard, and some of the ways I have experienced raising money to support the work of missions around the world. I would love to hear from you if you have any other good ideas!
Do you enjoy this podcast and want to help me out? Would you consider supporting this podcast (which means me!)? If so, there are three ways you can do that. Follow the link info below, or if you would rather just send a check, email me and I will send you my address. God bless you!
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Hurting people are all around us. The body of Christ is tasked, in part, with helping those who are hurting. Sadly, often the church has been the perpetrator, rather than the first responder. That needs to change. In this episode, I want to talk about some ways that we should look at helping people who are hurting. Hopefully, it gets the conversation started!
Do you enjoy this podcast? Would you be interested in helping support the work I am doing here? If so, please consider a financial gift by using one of the following links. Thanks!
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When you look at the title and change the underlying part of speech, everything changes. English is funny that way. In this episode I want to challenge us...pastors in particular. This episode focuses on not behaving in a way that would hurt and embarrass our people when they bring friends, co-workers, neighbors, or family to church. The next episode will focus on how to help those who are hurting in our churches. I'd love the hear your thoughts!
Want to support this podcast? Want to buy me a cup of coffee? You can do that by a one-time donation, or a monthly recurring gift starting at only $1! Any help would be greatly appreciated. God bless you!
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In this episode, I just want to have a little fun, and talk about 5 types of irritating church members that most pastors have to deal with. You might as well laugh about it because they exist in every church! It makes you pull your hair out at times, but it is still a privilege to pastor the people of God.
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There are few subjects I am more passionate about when it comes to pastors than this one. The frustration and defeat that so many pastors experience when their church could, but don't pay them anything like a fair wage. Guilt, scriptural abuse, social bullying, and the fact that most pastors love their people and don't want to fight with them or seem self-serving, all compound to make the situation a no-win for many pastors in small to medium-sized churches.
Well, I am taking the gloves off in this episode for the sake of every good pastor out there who needs someone to say it.
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Who doesn't love all the drama surrounding the up to a dozen special Sundays a pastor is expected to endorse. From Mother's Day to Homecoming, from Christmas to Easter, the fun never stops. In this Friday episode, I want to talk about the fun and frustration of these special days, and also focus on the importance of the resurrection of Christ to our faith.
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Did the Holy Spirit show up at your church service yesterday? How would you know? Are you tired of the constant pressure to gin up excitement and external emotional evidence to prove that you are a "real" church? Are you worried that if you have a church in a building that is not a house, that you are not a 1st-century church? Every day, and in every way, people try to put a burden of performance on God's people. I just want to talk about that today.
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In this episode, I want to follow up on last week's discussion by offering some ideas to help navigate the minefield of change. I hope it is helpful! Change is never easy, but it is necessary. Knowing what to expect can make the prospect of success a little higher.
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Change is really, really hard. It is so hard in fact, many of us never attempt it. Then we create walls and boundaries to ensure that no one else attempts it either.
But change is not always bad. Sometimes, it is actually harmful not to change. In this two-part series, I am going to talk about change, and what the Bible says about it, along with some ways we can accomplish this difficult task. I hope you enjoy it!
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This is one of those topics I would rather never talk about. It is just not fun. However, the damage done to the cause of Christ, when pastors and spiritual leaders fall into sin is huge. I really want to avoid that in my ministry, and I am sure you do as well. So...we have to talk about it.
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Ministry burnout is a real thing, and one of the causes is pastors who are trying to do too many things themselves. The pressure to maintain the accepted ministry model is huge, and many times this burden falls to the pastor. In this episode, I want to give you an out. You don't have to do everything. What's more...you can't do everything and do it well. The good news is, you don't have to.
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It has been my experience, that in the average church, the importance of the preaching and teaching of the Bible has been diminishing for a while. You might be surprised that I think it is even happening in fundamental churches as well. It isn't everywhere, and it isn't everyone, but the problem exists. In this episode, I am going to talk about some of the reasons I think this is the case. I want to encourage my fellow pastors to be faithful to the Word. It is our greatest privilege.
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It is not easy growing up in a pastor's home. It isn't easy being a pastor with kids. Many of us struggle with fear and worry that our kids won't turn out "right." I know that fear. After many years of doing it at this point, I want to share some encouragement with you. I hope it helps. I'd love to hear your thoughts!
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Groups are important. We are all part of at least one group. That group is the human race. Group dynamics are powerful, and can be good or bad. recognizing the benefits and dangers of being part of a group is important to me. I hope you find this information helpful!
Contact me at thispoorpastor@gmail.com
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Last weekend I took a Sabbatical. It was only the second one in 15 years of pastoral ministry. I need to do it more. I am going to. I want to encourage you to do the same.
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Every pastor has things he loves and hates...if he is honest. Anyone who tells you he loves everything about it just isn't being honest. Anyone who tells you it is all bad just isn't paying attention. In this extra episode, I want to share my top 5 things on each list, love and hate. Enjoy!
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Okay, I had a lot of great feedback from my episode on why I don't usually recommend Bible college to my young people. I did, however, get some concerned questions regarding some of the things I said. So I thought I would record a follow-up to my original episode. I hope it provokes thought, and introspection...and maybe a little bit of heartburn.
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Hi, My name is Mark, and I am a quitter. Well...I mean that I have quit things in the past. I will probably quit things in the future. Sometimes I think Pastors should quit. Yep...I said it. In this episode, I want to talk to you about when, and why I think it might be time to consider quitting. You might not agree with me...but I want to have the conversation anyway.
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Do you practice your skills as a Pastor? Should you even be doing that? What about the Holy Spirit? What role does He play? Does practicing make you a performer instead of a Pastor? Doesn't preaching three times a week give you all the practice you need? All these questions and more, on this week's episode.
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Thank you!
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So often I have let myself in for frustration, chasing an ideal. Somehow...I always come up short. That is the thing about ideals. We always come short. The dream of pastoring an ideal church is no different. It isn't going to happen...and you know what? That's okay. In this episode, I want to talk about ideals, the ideal church, and how to find joy in pastoring a less than ideal group of people. I hope you'll join me.
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In this episode, we talk about some additional considerations regarding evangelism, sometimes known as soul winning. I wanted to give you some ideas of things I avoid, and some things I try to do. I desire to see people come to Christ. I believe in persuading people regarding the gospel. What I am trying to get away from, is the shady, high pressure, used car salesman techniques so often used in aggressive soul-winning presentations. Let's talk about that.
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I came out of an "aggressive, soul-winning" environment. At the age of 15, I was introduced to weekly door knocking. I learned the sales techniques necessary to convince people to pray the sinner's prayer after a simple 5-15 minute presentation. We learned the tactics to get around a "no" and get to a "yes". I did it for 20 years. Then I got burned out. There had to be a better, more Biblical way. That is the focus of the next two episodes.
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"Where do you recommend your church kids go to Bible college?"
That is the question I was recently asked by another Pastor. My answer? "I don't recommend my kids go to Bible college."
Bible college is not for everyone. Some Bible colleges shouldn't be for anyone! In this episode, I will tell you why I think so. Feel free to reach out and let me know your thoughts on the topic at thispoorpastor@gmail.com
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I have a confession. I am a critic. I also hate criticism. That makes things confusing! Seriously though, criticism is one of the hardest things to deal with in Pastoral ministry. The entire Bible is replete with stories of critics. It is something we will always deal with this side of eternity. I don't have any real solutions, just some helpful words, and the acknowledgment that I also deal with the same thing...and sometimes I get discouraged. Let's commiserate together.
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(NOTE) Yesterday I took this episode down, with the intent to edit it and re-upload it. I decided to let it stand as is. Here is why. I spoke with my friend whose post I read in this article. I believe that his post doesn't accurately reflect his stand, as most posts don't, but since he has left his post up, I will leave this one. Not out of animosity, but in the hope of encouraging conversation.
This episode is part one of a discussion on the challenges regarding those leaving the legalistic ministry styles (of which I consider myself one). Far too many times it is easy to become as legalistic as the groups we are leaving. Paul, in Romans 14 makes it clear that we are brothers. Those other men are God's servants, not ours, and we are not to judge or condemn them. That, in a nutshell, is the subject of this episode.
Obviously, there are times we must call out wrong that is being done. How to do that, and the challenge of doing it right, is will be the subject of the next podcast. Stay tuned!
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Lately, I have been obsessed with the subject of time. Then I came across a verse from Paul that made me think there was a really good reason to be. That is what I want to talk to you about as we end 2020 and head into a new year!
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In these changing times, it is sometimes difficult to understand how certain passages are even relevant. When everyone is thinking about current events, how can we possibly get their attention to the Scriptures. It is a challenge, and the times are definitely changing. But unchanging truth, fits us for changing times. That is what we talk about in this episode.
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What is our attitude when we are faced with information that challenges our beliefs or understanding? Should you just "trust the preacher"? Do we have the kind of environment that fosters the investigation of spiritual as well as societal truth? That is the subject of today's podcast episode.
Thanks for listening!
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Every pastor knows the frustration of trying to feed people who are full. I want to talk to you about that in today's episode. Happy Monday!
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I don't know why, but I just had to sit down and record another episode this week. I have decided I am just gonna go for it. I am gonna speak my mind to whoever is listening. We'll see how that goes!
Integrity in the pulpit is absolutely necessary, and I think it is something we need to focus on, especially in our fundamental churches. What say ye?
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Pastors are called to be soul watchers, and soul watching is hard work. These days, it seems even harder. In this episode, I just kind of give voice to some of my frustrations. If you get frustrated when it seems all you hear from other pastors is rah, rah, knock 'em down kind of rhetoric. This isn't that.
I believe in what I do, but that doesn't mean it's easy, or I don't get discouraged sometimes. Let's talk about it.
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In part three, I want to bring to a conclusion...at least for now, the discussion on why so many of our young people are walking away from the faith. I wish I could offer more answers, but maybe by giving voice to the problems, we can arrive at some solutions. At the very least, I hope you will join me in committing ourselves to fighting for the heart and soul of our young people as long as God gives us breath!
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Okay...I hope you are ready for this! Not everyone will agree with the content of this podcast. So what else is new. My hope is not to convince you of what I am saying, but that by saying it, I can challenge you to face the problem head-on, and go to battle!
Our young people are walking away from the faith in large numbers. Is it inevitable? Is there anything we can do? Listen to this weeks episode and then let me know!
You can email your feedback to ThisPoorPastor@gmail.com Also, please share this podcast with others. Thank you!week's
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All of us know it's true. Kids grow up in church, and then walk away. It happens to our friends. We have members who raised their kids in church, but then they left the faith when they turned 18, or 21...or whatever. It happens All.The.Time. Is there a reason? Can we do anything about it? As a pastor, what about my own kids? It's a tough topic, but we are going to walk through it together in the next few episodes of our podcast.
Have a story to share? Email me at ThisPoorPastor@gmail.com
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This episode is for the pastors who will feel forgotten this month. I know we didn't get I to the ministry for the honorable mentions, but many men serve is discouraged silence. This episode is for them. If you are a church member, it doesn't have to be money or gifts...just acknowledging your pastor's service would encourage him. If you are a Pastor, let's be sure to encourage one another!
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Hooray for episode 10!!! Next stop...100!
Okay, last week I talked about the problem facing Titus on the Isle of Crete. He had to find, train, and install elders in every city who fit the qualifications Paul had given to him. The problem was that the culture was known to be the exact opposite of those qualifications. This is actually not much different than our own positions as pastors today in our culture. So what is the solution? Well, I have some thoughts on that. Maybe they will help you. I'd love to hear your thoughts. Email me at ThisPoorPastor@gmail.com
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Seeing people transformed is the heartbeat of every pastor. It can be incredibly discouraging when we don't see it happen. Finding qualified men and women to serve in the leadership of the church is equally difficult. Is there a solution?
Titus was given a similar mandate by the Apostle Paul, in a place where the citizens were known for being the polar opposite of Biblical Christianity. Before he could install elders in every church, they first had to fit the qualifications. This would take a radical transformation. How is that possible? That is what this and the next week's episode is all about.
Email Mark at ThisPoorPastor@gmail.com
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A quick look at some of the content from this week's episode, "Grace, Salt, and and a Pocket Full of Blessings."
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Pastor's are to be grace bearers. We are to point people to a loving God who values them. We minister as God's representative to His people, and our words and actions should demonstrate His care for the flock. In this episode I want to encourage my pastor friends to major on Grace, speak seasoned with salt, and carry a pocket full of blessings.
If you want to reach out to me, you can do so at the following email. ThisPoorPastor@gmail.com
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Nothing is worse that trying to do church in a toxic culture, especially when that toxicity is promoted or caused by the under-shepherd. In this second part of my discussion regarding mistakes I have made, I decided to talk about the painful reality of my own mistakes in this area. In the early years of my ministry, I fostered such a culture. I didn't realize it, or maybe I was willingly blind to it. I want to share it with you, in the hopes that it will help other pastors to avoid the same mistake, or having made it, recognize it and do better. We must do better.
Emails and comments can be made at the following email address: ThisPoorPastor@gmail.com
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Just a quick sample of some of the content of the upcoming episode, where I lay out one of the biggest mistakes I have made in pastoral ministry. Full episode available on 9/20/2020
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All pastors make mistakes. Some of us make more than others. I have made my share, and in this episode I want to share them with you. I am going to take two episodes to go through the mistakes that I believe hindered me the most, and how I have tried to correct them. I am also going to talk about mistakes I made for which I needed to apologize to someone. My hope is that you will be encouraged by hearing that someone else has made a similar mistake, or perhaps you will be helped to avoid the same mistakes I made.
If you want to send me an email with your own stories, or feedback, you can email me at Thispoorpastor@gmail.com
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Just a clip from Episode 05 of "This Poor Pastor's Podcast"
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Discouragement is real. Sometimes we can feel like we are alone, and there is no one to encourage us. However, in many cases, our encouragers may be sitting in our own congregations. In this episode, I discuss the importance of learning to allow our congregation to encourage us. I want to discuss transparency and honesty with our people. I will share my struggle, and the lessons I have learned, and am still learning! Do you have feedback that would be encouraging, or want to share your story with me? Email me at Thispoorpastor@gmail.com
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The desire to conform is so strong. It is made stronger if you are the kind of person who has a low estimation of your own worth. Recognizing that God called "you" to pastor the people of your church is a game changer. There is nothing wrong with seeking to be the best we can be for God, but that is not the same as trying to be just like the other pastors around us. We are unique and valuable to God as He made us. In this episode I want to discuss my challenges in this area of pastoral ministry. Hopefully it helps you! I'd love to hear your thoughts. You can email me at thispoorpastor@gmail.com. Thanks for listening!
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Every young pastor hears a version of this statement. It is usually made by an elder man or woman in the congregation with the intent of letting you know that they are not impressed with your age. Sometimes it is harmless. Sometimes it is the first volley in a long battle. Pastoring is hard. Pastoring older members when you are a young pastor can be even harder. In this episode, I want to share some thoughts and experiences I have had that might be helpful. I'd love to hear your stories. Please drop me a line at thispoorpastor@gmail.com. And thank you for listening!
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It happens. You get the call. You are offered the senior pastor position. You accept it. You are excited! Then comes the question. Maybe right away. Maybe in the middle of the night. Maybe a week later. You ask yourself..."What in the world have I done?" I get it. I had the same question. How could I possibly be capable of pastoring a church? Who was I kidding anyway? Those doubts and fears have come into my mind both times I have been called to a senior pastor's position. It's normal. In this episode I want to talk to you about how I dealt with it, and maybe offer you some encouragement as well. I'd love to hear your thoughts. You can email me at thispoorpastor@gmail.com. I look forward to hearing from you!
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Welcome to my new podcast! This podcast is created for pastors, but anyone is welcome to listen in. In this episode I tell you a little bit about myself, and my goals for this podcast. Mostly it is a just a chance to introduce myself to you, and hopefully, get you to subscribe and listen in on the next episode. New episodes every Monday!
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