Episode 14: How the “Senior Pastor” Relates to Other Pastors

By J. Leeman, M. Dever | 05.16.2017

If you’ve served in a church with a plurality of elders, then you’ve felt tension over questions about how the “senior” pastor relates to other pastors.

Book Review: The Heart, Character, and Life of the Church, by Joe Thorn

Review by Zach Schlegel | 05.10.2017

If you’re looking for an accessible, Reformed Baptist introduction on the doctrine of the church, this is a resource I’m happy to recommend.

Episode 13: On Being a Word-Centered Church

By J. Leeman, M. Dever | 05.09.2017

How can I grow my church? If your answer doesn’t mention God’s Word, then you’re starting in the wrong place.

Nine Lessons for Pastors Facing Leadership Conflict

By Peter Hess | 05.08.2017

Two years into our church plant, we faced our first major crisis. Here are nine takeaway lessons on dealing with church conflict.

Lessons on Pastoring from Martin Bucer

By Eric Beach | 05.04.2017

Martin Bucer (1491–1551) isn’t as well known as John Calvin or Martin Luther, but during the 16th century Bucer’s writings and reform of the church in Strasbourg influenced many

No More Mr. Nice: Pastoral Reflections on Kindness

By Aaron Menikoff | 04.28.2017

Kindness may be one of the most overlooked pieces of the fruit of the Spirit. But it shouldn’t be, for it takes us to the very heart of the gospel.

Episode 11: On Being “Called” to Ministry

By J. Leeman, M. Dever | 04.25.2017

Jonathan asked Mark about common misconceptions of pastoral calling, how pastors can cultivate an environment where callings get tested, and the role of the church throughout.

Pastors, Spend Time with Non-Pastors

By Garrett Kell | 04.13.2017

Pastors, we must use some of our best time, energy, and resources training up plumbers, lawyers, teachers, and bankers.

Episode 9: On the Use and Abuse of Authority

By J. Leeman, M. Dever | 04.10.2017

Authority is God’s good and dangerous gift. Therefore, it’s important for pastors and church leaders to exercise their authority well, and in doing so image God.

Episode 8: What Makes a Good Pastor?

By J. Leeman, M. Dever | 04.04.2017

How do we know what makes a good pastor? Jonathan chats with Mark about what a pastor is, and what it means to take a pastoral approach to Christian ministry.

Mailbag #57: Pastors’ Limited Authority; Nominating Elders Who Will Move Soon

By Jonathan Leeman | 03.24.2017

—Do the Scriptures obligate believers to follow their pastor so long as what he commands is not contravened by Scripture? —Should we nominate someone as an elder who will be leaving the church soon? »

Single Pastors, Biblical Counseling, and the Local Church

By Bert Daniel | 9Marks Journal: Pastoring Singles | 03.20.2017

How can a single pastor build a constructive counseling ministry in the context of the local church?

Did Paul Prefer Singleness?

By Thomas R. Schreiner | 9Marks Journal: Pastoring Singles | 03.20.2017

Given the cultural climate in the United States, it’s surprising to see how positively Paul speaks about being single.

How Did Paul Pastor Singles?

By Frank Thielman | 9Marks Journal: Pastoring Singles | 03.20.2017

Paul makes it clear in 1 Corinthians 7 that singleness is not a predicament that needs to be addressed, an emergency that needs attention, or a problem that needs to be solved.

Pastoring Discontented Singles

By Jeremy Pierre | 9Marks Journal: Pastoring Singles | 03.20.2017

A basic distinction between fact and interpretation is helpful when pastoring discontented singles.