Preachers in Training

Preachers spend much of their time leading worship, but how can they ensure they are truly worshiping God themselves? In this episode, Jody Apple joins Robert to discuss the balance between leading and personally engaging in worship. They explore practical ways for preachers to maintain a worshipful heart while fulfilling their responsibilities.

In this episode of Preachers in Training , Robert is joined by Ty Rhymes to reflect on the powerful message of 1 Timothy 4:15-16. Together, they explore Paul’s encouragement to Timothy to devote himself to his calling, stay vigilant in his doctrine, and ensure that his life and teaching are a source of salvation for both himself and his listeners.

Logos Bible Software recently made a major shift to a new subscription-model pricing plan. What does this mean for longtime users of the study tool? Should you make the jump, and if so, at what subscription point? Michael Hite is back to share his thoughts and to highlight some of the new features.

In this episode, Robert Hatfield is joined by Kevin Rhodes, minister and director of the Brown Trail School of Preaching, to discuss the current preacher shortage. They discuss whether there actually is a preacher shortage, and then explore the causes, implications, and potential solutions to this critical issue facing the church. From the importance of cultivating young men for ministry to practi...

In this episode, Robert Hatfield is joined by Ed DeBerry to discuss the unique challenges and temptations preachers face in their ministry. They explore how these struggles can differ from those of others in the congregation and offer practical advice for maintaining spiritual strength, accountability, and integrity.

In this episode of Preachers in Training, Robert sits down with Forest Antemesaris to discuss how preachers and teachers can create visually appealing and effective PowerPoint presentations. With insights from Forest’s experience in ministry and design, this conversation will help you enhance your visuals and communicate your message more effectively.

In this insightful episode of Preachers in Training, Robert Hatfield is joined by Clark Sims, minister for the North Tuscaloosa Church of Christ in Tuscaloosa, AL, to discuss valuable lessons preachers can learn from the life of Jonah. Although often remembered for his reluctance and the great fish, Jonah’s story holds powerful applications for those who share God’s message. Together, Robert and C...

In this episode, Robert sits down with Chad Landman to share a curated list of thoughtful, practical, and inspiring gift ideas for ministers in 2024. Whether you are a minister, or you’re shopping for a preacher, Bible teacher, or church leader, these suggestions are sure to encourage and uplift their ministry while also providing practical benefits. From tech gadgets to personal growth resources,...

In this insightful episode, host Robert Hatfield is joined by Brian Kenyon to discuss the vital relationship between preachers and elders. They explore common misunderstandings and offer practical advice for improving communication and mutual respect between these two essential roles within the church.

In this episode of Preachers in Training, host Robert Hatfield is joined by Bill Burk to discuss the rich and timeless art of Preaching the Psalms. The Psalms, a collection of ancient hymns, prayers, and poems, offer a deep well of emotional and spiritual wisdom, but how do we bring these texts to life in today’s preaching?

In this insightful episode of Preachers in Training, Robert Hatfield sits down with Jon Mitchell to discuss practical tips for meeting with elders. Whether you’re a preacher who regularly works with an eldership or you’re preparing for your first meeting, this episode offers valuable advice for navigating these important interactions with wisdom and respect.

In this episode, host Robert Hatfield is joined by Marlon Retana, preacher and missionary, to discuss the unique challenges and opportunities involved in crossing language barriers while preaching the gospel. Marlon shares his experiences ministering in multilingual contexts and offers practical tips for preachers seeking to connect with diverse communities.

In this episode, Robert Hatfield welcomes Paul Sain to explore the rich and varied ways the Bible describes salvation. From metaphors and imagery to specific terms, they dig into what these descriptors reveal about God’s plan for humanity. Whether you’re preparing a sermon, teaching a Bible class, or simply seeking a deeper understanding of salvation, this conversation offers valuable insights and...

In this episode of Preachers in Training , Robert Hatfield is joined by Chance Hicks to explore the role of imagination in preaching. Together, they discuss how creativity can enhance sermon delivery, make biblical narratives more engaging, and help convey spiritual truths in ways that resonate deeply with audiences. They emphasize the balance between being imaginative while remaining faithful to...

In this episode, Robert Hatfield is joined by Westley Hazel, the preacher for the Forest Park church of Christ in Valdosta, Georgia, to discuss how ministers and church leaders can improve cooperation within their congregations. They explore practical strategies for fostering teamwork, creating an environment of unity, and overcoming challenges that hinder collaboration. This conversation provides...

On this episode of Preachers in Training , we are joined by Adam Faughn, who shares practical tips and strategies for managing time effectively in ministry. With the many demands placed on preachers, time management is crucial for maintaining balance and ensuring that all aspects of ministry are given proper attention. Adam offers specific methods that can help preachers prioritize their tasks, av...

In this insightful episode of Preachers in Training , Robert welcomes David Sproule to discuss the concept of tenure in ministry. They explore the implications of staying in one congregation for an extended period and the benefits and challenges that come with long-term service.

In this insightful episode of Preachers in Training , Robert sits down with Dean Thompson, an experienced preacher and writer, to discuss how preachers can enhance their writing skills. Whether it’s sermon preparation, writing articles, or crafting social media posts, good writing is essential for effective ministry. Dean shares practical tips, strategies, and habits that can help you become a mor...

In this insightful episode of Preachers in Training, host Robert sits down with Wayne Jones to discuss the essential aspects of ministering effectively to a congregation. Wayne, with his extensive experience in church leadership, offers practical advice, strategies, and encouragement for ministers at all stages of their journey. Whether you’re navigating the challenges of a new congregation or loo...

In this episode of Preachers in Training, we sit down with Dale Jenkins, a seasoned minister and co-founder of The Jenkins Institute. Dale has dedicated his life to serving the church and uplifting his fellow ministers. With years of experience and wisdom, Dale shares invaluable insights into the importance of ministering to the brotherhood, supporting fellow ministers, and the challenges and joys...

David Shannon, president of Freed-Hardeman University in Henderson, Tennessee, joins Robert to discuss how to create an evangelistic culture within a congregation. He offers a great list of very practical ways that preachers and ministers can encourage the churches they serve to focus on evangelism.

In his great work with House to House, Heart to Heart , Matt Wallin is able to learn a lot about both local evangelism and fostering unity among brothers and sisters in Christ. And much like the great work at HTH, Matt is a blessing to the church as a whole and to those who know him. You’ll appreciate his insights into these topics on today’s episode of Preachers in Training .

Dale Jenkins, from The Jenkins Institute, joins Robert to discuss trends he is noticing in ministry. Dale’s work with his brother, Jeff, takes them both all across the United States and the world, giving them a first-hand point of view with regard to the state of the Lord’s church in our time. On this episode, Dale especially focuses on our numeric trends.

Denny Howell, one of the ministers for the Ooltewah church of Christ near Chattanooga, TN, joins us this week from Lads2Leaders in Nashville to help us improve in our prayer life. 

Are you considering becoming a preacher? Are you already preaching, but feel that you need your passion for ministry to be reignited? If so, take half an hour to listen to Walker Howell and Sawyer Reid. They are two outstanding Bible majors at Freed-Hardeman University, and they’re already making a big impact through their preaching. The Lord willing, they plan to continue preaching after graduati...