Shows
The Jim Bradford PodcastA Conversation on EcclesiastesWe continue our conversations on the wisdom books of the Bible with today's discussion on the book of Ecclesiastes. As Pastor Jim notes, Ecclesiastes can be a challenging book to read, but for the careful reader willing to take their time, it offers profound wisdom and a particular kind of freedom from the pressures of the world. We discuss the book's major themes, how Pastor Jim has preached from the book in the past, and how it can impact believers today. 2023-08-3137 minThe Jim Bradford PodcastPaul's Multi-Generational Advice to Men and WomenPaul was a pastor at heart. He understood how to preach and how to correct false teaching, but he always had his eye on the community life of the church. In writing to Titus, Paul offered advice for though men and women should serve one another and the younger generations. In our conversation, Pastor Jim explores how older men and women can set an example for those younger than themselves and why younger generations should honor and respect the lives and lessons of those older than themselves. Central Assembly continues to be a multi-generational congregation and Pastor J...2023-02-0232 minThe Jim Bradford PodcastJim Bradford and Anthony Matrone in ConversationIn this week's episode, we're continuing our mini-series of conversations with the staff of Central Assembly. Pastor Anthony Matrone joins us to talk about his unconventional path to pastoral ministry and how young ministers can navigate their own call. The early years of ministry can sometimes be plagued with restlessness and impatience. Pastor Jim and Pastor Anthony offer advice for finding contentment and joy wherever God has you. 2022-12-1633 minThe Jim Bradford PodcastJim Bradford and Carter McDaniel in ConversationWe're continuing our mini-series over conversations in which we've invited new voices onto the podcast to talk about ministry, team relationships, and growing trust. Today, we're joined by Carter McDaniel, who has been a longtime central employee, serving in roles from sound and IT to his current position as Executive Pastor. Jim and Carter offer helpful advice on cultivating healthy team culture and how staff pastors and lead pastors can support one another. 2022-11-2335 minThe Jim Bradford PodcastJim Bradford and Don Tucker in ConversationOver the next few weeks, we've invited some new voices to join us on the podcast. These conversations are a chance for us to discuss the relational dynamics of ministry and how members of a team can better serve one another. Our first guest is Pastor Don Tucker. As a long-time missionary and pastor, Don brings a broad perspective and experience to the Central team. We discuss building trust and how staff and lead pastors can cultivate deeper relationships. 2022-11-1828 minThe Jim Bradford PodcastFlee The Evil Desires of YouthPaul had previously encouraged Timothy to not be discouraged by his youth. In a culture that honored age and wisdom, Timothy's age must have made him feel insecure and vulnerable. In 2 Timothy 2, Paul comes back to Timothy's age and offers him a warning. Timothy is to flee the evil desires that are too often associated with youth. In today's episode, Pastor Jim discusses those youthful desires and how they can rob us of the work God is preparing in us. We also take a closer at pursuing righteousness, faith, love, and peace.2022-07-2731 minThe Jim Bradford PodcastThe Spreading Danger of False TeachingOne of Timothy's primary pastoral tasks at Ephesus was dealing with the spread of false teaching. It's not the first time Paul has brought up the topic, but he does so again in 2 Timothy 2. He reminds Timothy of the simple Gospel message that is at the center of true faith. Pastor Jim explores how to hold on to that simplicity in a world awash with controversy, conflict, and false teaching. He reminds us that we are not competitors but stewards of the truth. He calls us back to the truth that God knows who is His, and t...2022-07-2026 minThe Jim Bradford PodcastAs One Approved by GodPaul briefly returns again to the topic of quarreling. It's a topic that seems to have been at the forefront of Paul's concerns. It's easy to get caught up in it. Even today, we find ourselves drug into arguments, controversies, and quarreling. Paul wanted to make sure Timothy avoided that trap. Instead, he encouraged Timothy to present himself as one approved by God. Pastor Jim explores the meaning of Paul's words and also how leaders today can avoid being baited into every controversy and quarrel. 2022-07-1334 minThe Jim Bradford PodcastPaul's Hymn for Those who SufferAs Paul continues to help TImothy better understand the reality of suffering, he turns to what may have been an early hymn of the church. Paul calls it another trustworthy saying. In today's episode, pastor Jim works us through the hymn and how it can be a tool for helping us keep perspective even in the midst of suffering. 2022-07-0629 minThe Jim Bradford PodcastThe Meaning of SurrenderAs Paul continued to warn Timothy about coming suffering, he feared that Timothy would be tempted to give up. You would expect Paul to talk about commitment. That's the language we usually use. We should show commitment. But Pastor Jim helps us recognize why Paul uses the language of surrender. What is the difference between commitment and surrender and why is submission so important for thinking about suffering and the power of the gospel? 2022-07-0130 minThe Jim Bradford PodcastInsights into SufferingIn describing suffering and the endurance that produces good from it, the Apostle Paul offered Timothy three images: the solider, the athlete, and the farmer. Even as Paul anticipated greater suffering to come, he understood that by God's grace it could be transformed into something better. In today's episode, Pastor Jim unpacks these three images and helps us recognize how suffering can lead us to greater rewards. 2022-06-2233 minThe Jim Bradford PodcastIn Suffering, Our Strength is GraceAs we continue our look at Paul's second letter to Timothy, we come back to the topic of suffering. Paul knew physical suffering, but he also knew the disappointment of ministry and the risks that awaited himself and Timothy. Paul didn't urge Timothy to rely on his own inner strength. Instead, he reminded Timothy that his strength was in the face of Christ. Pastor Jim explores how we can return to the power of the gospel when we find ourselves suffering. It is our strength even when we feel beat or overwhelmed. 2022-06-1730 minThe Jim Bradford PodcastSharing in the SufferingPaul wrote his second letter to Timothy during a season of suffering. Paul knew his death was coming soon. He asks Timothy to share in his suffering. Paul was no stranger to suffering and he wanted to make sure Timothy understood what might be coming.In our conversation, Pastor Jim shares thoughts on suffering and why we should not allow suffering to lead us into shame. We take a closer look at the suffering Paul faced, including disappointments in ministry, and how Paul could sustain hope in the midst of it. 2022-05-1831 minThe Jim Bradford PodcastFan Into Flame the GiftsAs we continue our look at 2 Timothy, we discuss Paul's encouragement to fan into flame the gift Timothy had received. Paul understood that what lay ahead for Timothy would not be easy. So he encouraged him to hold on to his calling and to keep the ember of his faith burning hot. Those words have often been an encouragement to believers long after Timothy received them. Pastor Jim offers advice for keeping our passion alive and avoiding timidity. We also discuss why the continual work of the Spirit in our lives is so important to longevity. 2022-05-1131 minThe Jim Bradford PodcastSpiritual Drift and a Legacy of FaithPaul and Timothy shared a strong friendship. Paul even remembers Timothy's tears when they last parted. Their relationship is just one of the things Paul urges Timothy to remember as he fights to keep a sincere faith.In today's episode, Pastor Jim explores the dangers of spiritual drift and why Paul was worried about Timothy's future. We also discuss the value of relationships and prayer support for sustaining faith. All of this working together to produce a legacy of faith steadfast even in the face of loss. 2022-05-0432 minThe Jim Bradford PodcastThe Place of BlessingHaving completed our look at Paul's first letter to Timothy, we're next turning out attention to Paul's second letter to Timothy. Pastor Jim explores the background to the letter and what may have occurred in the years between the two letters. Jim explores the current situation of both Paul and Timothy. We also discuss the importance of blessings and the unique relationship Paul and Timothy shared. 2022-04-2828 minThe Jim Bradford PodcastA Charge and an Encouragement for MinistryIn today's episode, we take a look at Paul's final charge and encouragement to Timothy. Paul urges Timothy to press on, to fight the good fight, to avoid endless controversy, and to avoid sin. We discuss the importance of holiness and how worship is key to our endurance. Pastor Jim looks at these final encouragements but also the major theme of the letter. 2022-04-2027 minThe Jim Bradford PodcastConflict, Controversy, and MoneyAs leadership issues were central to the challenges Timothy faced in Ephesus, it's not surprising false teaching was at the center of it. These false teachers were stirring up controversy and conflict all over the church. Paul recognized that their pride was related to greed and a desire to use ministry for financial gain. Paul encouraged Timothy to pursue contentment not only to overcome greed but also to overcome controversy and the endless debates that left the church constantly conflicted. Pastor Jim looks at how our own contentment can protect us from gree and endless controversy.2022-04-1335 minThe Jim Bradford PodcastSlaves, Masters, Work, and the Right Kind of AttitudeIn today's episode, we explore Paul's advice to slaves and masters. It's a complicated situation but while it seems so different from our own day, Pastor Jim believes Paul's advice still matters for us too. We take a closer look at Paul's opinion of slavery and why our attitude about life and work matters, especially in ministry. It's a conversation about the context of the ancient world and also about the complexity of our own day. 2022-04-0728 minThe Jim Bradford PodcastRecognizing When Someone is Ready for LeadershipAs we continue our look at 1 Timothy, we address Paul's warning that Timothy should be slow to lay hands on new leaders. Appointing leaders was one of the primary challenges Timothy faced but Paul didn't advise rushing to feel open spots. Pastor Jim explores how to recognize when someone is ready for leadership and why we too should be patient and wise when handing out responsibility. 2022-03-3135 minThe Jim Bradford PodcastLeadership Failures and the ChurchPaul repeatedly returns to the topic of leadership. Timothy faced real challenges in sorting out false teaching, removing greedy leaders, and raising up those worthy of honor. A painful part of Timothy's task would be dealing with leaders who failed. It continues to be a challenge for today as well. Pastor Jim explores the challenge of leadership failures, how to handle accusations, and why accountability is so important for anyone serving in ministry. It's a frank and sober conversation about challenges every leader should consider. 2022-03-2329 minThe Jim Bradford PodcastCaring for Needs in the ChurchPaul had some very specific advice for how Timothy should handle needs in the church. There were apparently problems with how the church at Ephesus was caring for widows. Paul's advice is detailed and focused and helps us better understand our own responsibilities to those in need. Pastor Jim explores how churches care for needs in the church and the surrounding community. We explore how Central has gone about that work and what we can learn from the church in Ephesus. 2022-03-0832 minThe Jim Bradford PodcastPaul's Concluding Coaching Advice to TimothyPastor Jim has called chapter four of 1 Timothy one of the Bible's most important chapters on leadership. Paul builds his advice to Timothy to the final line, that by watching his life and teaching closely, he will save himself and those who hear. That verse became a framework for Jim's ministry and how he thinks about his calling. It continues to be the way he thinks about his life and task. In today's episode, Pastor Jim explores how this verse became so important to him and how it can help you persist in ministry. 2022-02-0227 minThe Jim Bradford PodcastPaul's Advice for Growing InfluenceOne of the challenges Timothy faced in Ephesus was attacks on his influence. Paul recognized that to be effective, Timothy would have to earn the trust and respect of the churches he lead. Paul gave him some pretty simple advice; teach people the word of God and live it out in front of them. There is a lot of talk about influence in our world, but Pastor Jim unpacks Paul's simple advice to Timothy. Pastor Jim helps us think about the work of cultivating our own influence, the patience it requires, and the integrity. Today's episode is a...2022-01-2630 minThe Jim Bradford PodcastThe Personal Habits of LeadersPaul has spent much of his letter to Timothy addressing organizational leadership questions and the spread of false teaching in the church. But Paul abruptly turns the conversation personal. In the middle of chapter four, he shifts the conversation to the personal habits in Timothy's life. Pastor Jim calls chapter four of 1 Timothy one of the best chapters on leadership in the entire Bible. Pay close attention and the same questions Paul raised to Timothy are raised to you. What are the habits of your life?2022-01-1938 minThe Jim Bradford PodcastFacing False Teaching in the ChurchThe church at Ephesus was overrun with false teaching. Paul left Timothy to face these challenges and encouraged him to remain strong and committed to the task of declaring the truth. Timothy's work required clear theological convictions but it also requires those convictions to be worked out in the messy reality of people and relationships. In today's episode, Pastor Jim explores the challenges Timothy faced and how false teaching shows up in our own churches. How should today's pastors think about false teaching and how to address it with the same conviction and character as Timothy. 2022-01-1234 minThe Jim Bradford PodcastConducting Yourself in the Household of GodIn this week's episode, Pastor Jim takes a closer look at Paul's call for Godly conduct within the household of God. We discuss the meaning of godly conduct, how it relates to the community of believers, and how a person can begin to grow in godliness. Pastor Jim offers practical advice for individuals and for the church body. With this conversation, we wrap up chapter three and prepare for chapter four.2022-01-0530 minThe Jim Bradford PodcastElders, Deacons, and Evaluating Your Own QualificationsAs we continue our look at 1 Timothy, Pastor Jim describes the differences between Elders and Deacons and Paul's expectations for each role. We also discuss how churches should think about these roles and qualifications and how you can use the list to evaluate yourself, recognizing areas of continual growth. 2021-12-2933 minThe Jim Bradford PodcastThe 15 Qualifications of LeadershipIn today's episode, Pastor Jim takes a closer look at Paul's list of leadership qualifications. We work through the entire list as a kind of checklist, both for those who might be entering the ministry and for those already serving. Pastor Jim describes each of the qualifications and why they are particularly relevant to ministry leadership.2021-12-1536 minThe Jim Bradford PodcastThe Noble Task and Its QualificationsIn this week's episode, we continue our look at 1 Timothy by turning to Paul's qualifications for church leaders. Paul introduced that list with his second trustworthy saying. Those who desire to lead desire a noble thing. Pastor Jim explores the nobility and dignity of pastoral work and offers some general thoughts on Paul's list of qualifications including what surprises him most about Paul's list. 2021-12-1032 minThe Jim Bradford PodcastThe Holy Spirit and the Call to MinistryAs we wrap up the second chapter of 1 Timothy, we pause to talk about how the Holy Spirit empowers all people for ministry. Pastor Jim explores the well-known prophecy of Joel that the Holy Spirit would be poured out on all people: men and women, young and old. We discuss how the church can recognize the Spirit's call to ministry and how we can participate in the fulfillment of Joel's prophecy. 2021-11-1728 minThe Jim Bradford PodcastThe Question of Women in MinistryIn this week's episode, we continue our look at 1 Timothy 2. It is perhaps the most difficult section of Paul's writings and central to the chapter is Paul's prohibition against women speaking in Ephesus. Pastor Jim explores the cultural and historical backgrounds of the city, how to interpret difficult passages by turning to other scripture, and finally what we can all take away from this passage. 2021-11-1033 minThe Jim Bradford PodcastAdvice for Men and Women at PrayerHaving opened chapter two with the topic of prayer, Paul next turned to practical advice for how men and women should pray. Paul's advice to Timothy regarding gender issues in the Ephesians church is nuanced and often misunderstood. Pastor Jim takes some time to investigate some of the challenges Timothy faced and why Paul chooses to address his advice to men and women individually. Ultimately, Paul's point is for more than just Ephesus and we explore how his advice might be properly applied today. 2021-11-0332 minThe Jim Bradford PodcastPray for Those in AuthorityPaul encouraged Timothy to pray for all people, but he went on to specifically request prayer for those in authority. Pastor Jim explores why prayer is of central importance to Paul and why even in a place like Ephesus, prone to persecution and abuses of power, leaders should be prayed for. Pastor Jim also gives advice on how believers and congregations can continue to implement Paul's advice. 2021-10-2731 minThe Jim Bradford PodcastPaul's Trustworthy saying for Young PastorsPaul charged Timoty to stay in Ephesus and take a stand against false teaching. He also offered Timothy a trustworthy saying, "Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners—of whom I am the worst." In today's episode, Pastor Jim explores Timothy's charge, and why the simple message of the gospel was critical to Timothy's work. Timothy would need to hold fast to it in a culture that found its simplicity uninteresting. Paul's charge and his passionate depiction of the gospel's power are still relevant and powerful for all who serve today.2021-10-2030 minThe Jim Bradford PodcastTimothy's Charge and Facing False TeachingIn this week's episode, we jump into chapter one of 1 Timothy. Pastor Jim explores the situation and unique charge Paul gave to Timothy. Paul encouraged Timothy to stay in Ephesus and stand against the false teaching that was spreading within the church. We also explore that pastoral charge today. Where do we find false teaching? How do we face it in our own time? And perhaps most import, how do we do it with the love and peace Paul describes to Timothy?2021-10-1335 minThe Jim Bradford PodcastWho were Timothy, Titus, and PaulAs we begin our closer look at the pastoral letters, we took some time to talk about the relationships between Timothy, Titus, and Paul. Pastor Jim describes each of these men as well as the unique place in which they served. Understanding the challenging context of their ministry, the uniqueness of their call, and the depth of their relationship with the Apostle Paul helps us better understand the letters written to them. We also took some time to draw comparisons between their pastoral work and our own. 2021-10-0632 minThe Jim Bradford PodcastWhy The Pastoral Epistles?In this new series of conversations, Pastor Jim explores the pastoral epistles, 1 & 2 Timothy and Titus. Though not as often preached to a congregation, the pastoral letters are rich material for anyone serving in ministry or spiritual leadership. In today's episode, we explore how the pastoral epistles have impacted Pastor Jim and what makes them unique in the New Testament and within the letters of the Apostle Paul. 2021-09-2927 minThe Jim Bradford PodcastDealing with Doubt and DeconstructionPastor Jim explores the topic of doubt and the recent emphasis many have placed on deconstructing faith. Often these doubts are brought on by questions and uncertainty, but often they track deeper than the questions themselves. Pastor Jim explores his own experience of doubt and the relationship doubt has to faith. Our conversation will be helpful in processing your own doubts but also in learning how to pastor Christians through these trying seasons.2021-09-1536 minThe Jim Bradford PodcastQuestions About CreationWhen it comes to the intersection of faith and science, there is no avoiding the conversation of creation. For centuries, Christians and scientists have been struggling to understand how our universe came into existence and trying to read both the evidence and the Biblical account. In this week's episode, Pastor Jim offers his thoughts on the questions as well as how he reads Genesis 1 and 2 as both a Christian and a scientist. 2021-09-0826 minThe Jim Bradford PodcastWhat Science Can and Can't Teach UsIn this week's episode, Pastor Jim explores some of the recent breakthroughs in science and how what we're discovering can serve to build your faith. But we also discuss the limits of the scientific method. There are things science can teach us and there are things that it can not. Pastor Jim explores where that line is and where faith forces questions on all of us.2021-09-0136 minThe Jim Bradford PodcastFaith and ScienceIf you’re around Pastor Jim for long, you’ll eventually hear someone refer to him as a rocket scientist. Before becoming a pastor, he received a Ph.D. in aerospace engineering. In this weekes episode, we look at Pastor Jim’s love of science and how that pursuit, at the highest levels, built his faith in God.2021-08-2531 minThe Jim Bradford PodcastThe Reality of Spiritual WarfareAs we wrap up our series of conversations on Pastor Jim's book, Lead So That Others Can Follow, we turn our attention to spiritual stamina. We've previously looked at the importance of stamina and managing emotions, but this week, Pastor Jim explores the importance of spiritual stamina.At the center of our spiritual stamina is the reality of spiritual warfare. Pastor Jim explores why we should take that warfare seriously and what it means to tarry in prayer through intercession.2021-08-1131 minThe Jim Bradford PodcastLeaders Manage EmotionsOver the past few episodes, we've been looking at the work necessary to maintain healthy stamina in ministry. Key to that work is learning to manage your emotions.We too often assume that emotions are spontaneous and uncontrollable. When we feel them, we do our best to ignore them and get back to work. But Pastor Jim gives some suggestions for what you should do to manage those emotions and why that work is key to longevity. This conversation is practical and realistic about the challenges we all face and how we can manage our e...2021-07-2831 minThe Jim Bradford PodcastWhat to Do With What You FeelWe live in a culture that has elevated feelings to the seat of truth. What you feel becomes your perspective on life and your impulse to act. But Pastor Jim explores why feelings should be seen as followers, not leaders. This conversation will help you gain a better perspective about what you are feeling and help you build the emotional capacity necessary for stamina and longevity in ministry. You'll learn to stop asking what your feeling and gain the necessary skills to begin asking why.2021-07-2134 minThe Jim Bradford PodcastStamina and Physical HealthOver the next few weeks, we'll be taking a look at stamina and how it can be cultivated for a lifetime of ministry. A big part of stamina is health. When we are worn out and sick it's hard to keep our stamina and emotions high. Pastor Jim explores several practical considerations for improving your health as a means of cultivating energy and longevity in ministry. He shares his own experiences, struggles, and goals for cultivating physical health and how it is related to S\spirituality. 2021-07-1433 minThe Jim Bradford PodcastDeveloping and Maintaining Ministry StaminaMinistry usually involves a long process. It takes time and commitment. It, like the Christian faith, is a marathon race. Repeatedly, scripture encourages us to run that race well with perseverance and stamina. In this week's episode, Pastor Jim explores why stamina is so important to ministry and how we can lose that stamina. The good news is, stamina lost can be refound. Pastor Jim offers helpful advice on recovering and building healthy habits for a lifetime of ministry.2021-07-0734 minThe Jim Bradford PodcastLeading A Team Through ChangeIn this week's episode, Pastor Jim wraps up our conversations on change by looking at the importance of teams. Change is always a process of managing emotions and anxiety. By focusing on leading with teams, you can better understand objections and fears and share the burden of managing them well. Key to this work is trust. We explore how to earn it, and how to keep it even as you implement change. 2021-06-3029 minThe Jim Bradford PodcastChange, Mission, and Facing ResistanceAn endless process of change disconnected from a church's mission will sabotage progress and leave people feeling tired and distrustful. In this week's episode, Pastor Jim explores why change must be connected to mission. We look at how mission helps guide change and communicate it. We also look at the reality of resistance. A part of change is bringing as many people along as you can, but we also recognize that there will always be resistance. So, how should we respond?2021-06-2335 minThe Jim Bradford PodcastKnowing When Change is NecessaryEveryone faces change. For some it comes naturally, for others change creates anxiety and reluctance. Leading change comes with its own set of challenges. Over the next few epsiodes, Pastor Jim explores the topic of leading change. That all begins begins with recognizing when change is needed and where to start. For Pastor Jim, change always begins with an honest look at yourself and your own emotions. 2021-06-1730 minThe Jim Bradford PodcastDeveloping Preaching AuthenticityA part of growing as a preacher is listening to preachers. It's not uncommon to be inspired by greater preachers and to learn from their expertise. But listening to others can also lead to imitation and insecurity. In this week's episode Pastor Jim explores the topic of authenticity in preaching. He also offers advice for those just beginning as preachers and encouragement for those who may feel stuck or running out of energy for the work. 2021-06-1040 minThe Jim Bradford PodcastThe Importance of Application and IllustrationMost preachers have heard of breaking each sermon point into explanation, illustration, and application, but Pastor Jim explains why application has become increasingly important to his preaching. We explore how to find the right application for the questions people are asking, how to make the application clear in your points, and how simple illustrations can help reinforce application. It's a helpful conversation to anyone writing or even listening to sermons regularly.2021-06-0238 minThe Jim Bradford PodcastSermon PreparationIn this week's episode, we continue our conversation around preaching by looking at the work of sermon preparation. Every preacher is unique, and so too are their ways of preparing. Pastor Jim breaks down his sermon preparation process and offers advice on improving yours as well. As always, a big part of our discussion is integrating your spiritual life into the work of sermon preparation. We hope this conversation helps you find new energy and improvements in your own preparation. 2021-05-2634 minThe Jim Bradford PodcastImproving at PreachingAnyone who has preached for very long knows that improving is challenging and too often frustrating. It's easy to get discouraged and settle into a plateau. In today's episode, Pastor Jim explores the importance of growing as a speaker and offers some advice on how to continue improving. 2021-05-1938 minThe Jim Bradford Podcast10 Team CompetenciesOver the past few weeks, we've been looking at the importance of teams and team development. In our final conversation on the topic, Pastor Jim explores ten competencies teams should work to improve. As usual, these competencies demonstrate an integration of spirituality and leadership. We cover things like dependence on the Holy Spirit, creating safe interpersonal environments, and how to inspect without disrespect. We hope these ten areas of focus will help you and your team become more competent in the work God has called you to.2021-05-0532 minThe Jim Bradford PodcastThe 10 Values of a Better Team (Continued)In today's episode, Pastor Jim continues to describe his ten values for building a better team. This conversation builds on the previous episode's list. This next list includes things like budgeting time, family commitments, and dealing with team conflict. We conclude the conversation by talking about how pastors can be more intentional with developing their own teams and team values. 2021-04-2833 minThe Jim Bradford PodcastThe 10 Values of Better a TeamWe are currently in a series of conversations discussing the critical importance of teams in doing ministry together. Over the next few weeks, we want to look at the values and competencies that make for a better team. This week, Pastor Jim explains where these values came from and how each can help you evaluate and build better teams within your own organization.2021-04-2129 minThe Jim Bradford PodcastThe Importance of Teams in MinistryIn this new series of conversations, Pastor Jim explores the critical place of teams in doing ministry. We discuss when he recognized the importance of teams and how Jesus intentionally utilized a team-based approach to ministry.At the center of building and maintaining a team are the important topics of trust, encouragement, accountability, and mission.2021-04-1530 minThe Jim Bradford PodcastAm I Really Called to Vocational MinistryPastor Jim explains that the church is always in need of called ministers and leaders but we can never take that call lightly. In our conversation we discuss how to evaluate your own sense of calling. The conversation will help those who may be considering entering the ministry, considering a career change, or just needing a reminder of why they took up this work in the first place. 2021-04-0733 minThe Jim Bradford PodcastQuestion for Hiring and Self-Evaluation (Part 4)Pastor Jim continues to discuss his list of questions for evaluating a new team member and yourself. In today’s conversation, we talk about humility, handling criticism, culture, and how you can use these questions for evaluating your own life. 2021-03-3131 minThe Jim Bradford PodcastQuestions for Hiring and Self-Evaluation (Part 3)Pastor Jim continues to discuss his list of questions for evaluating a new team member and yourself. In today’s conversation, we talk about working well with others, loyalty, and handling financial budgets. 2021-03-2433 minThe Jim Bradford PodcastQuestions for Hiring and Self-Evaluation (Part 2)Pastor Jim continues to discuss his list of questions for evaluating a new team member and yourself. In today's conversation, we talk about effective communication, knowing what you're good at, and how you lead others. 2021-03-1740 minThe Jim Bradford PodcastQuestions for Hiring and Self-Evaluation (Part 1)Pastor Jim states that selecting the right leaders is holy work. In this new series of conversations, we explore 16 questions he uses to evaluate a new team member, but we also discuss how these questions can, and should, be used for self-evaluation.In this first conversation, we look at the three critical questions of spirituality, character, and motivation.2021-03-1030 minThe Jim Bradford PodcastCultivating Excellence and Offering AppreciationIn this week's episode, Pastor Jim wraps up our series on developing a philosophy of ministry by looking at a leader's responsibility for cultivating excellence and offering appreciation. Pastor Jim explains that we are always called to the integration of anointing and excellence and that it is totally unacceptable for anyone under your leadership to feel unappreciated. 2021-03-0332 minThe Jim Bradford PodcastDeveloping People and Sharing AuthorityWe continue in our series looking at the elements of Pastor Jim's philosophy of ministry. In today's episode, we explore the topic of people and authority. Jim points out that too many leaders spend their time showcasing their own gifts instead of developing the gifts of others. We discuss how to help others grow and why sharing authority can be difficult but necessary for doing ministry the way Jesus did. 2021-02-2435 minThe Jim Bradford PodcastSetting Attitude and Sharing VisionWe continue our series looking at Pastor Jim's philosophy of ministry. This week we discuss the pastor's responsibilities in setting attitudes and sharing vision. Pastor Jim explores how our attitudes are often indicators of our anxieties and insecurities. A pastor is responsible for setting proper attitudes and offering people a sense of security and stability. That includes hopefulness about the future. 2021-02-1734 minThe Jim Bradford PodcastDeveloping Your Philosophy of MinistryA few months ago, we looked at a series of personal commitments Pastor Jim created for his life and ministry. Similarly, we begin another series looking at the ministry commitments that guide pastor Jim's public work in the church. He refers to it as a ministry grid or a philosophy of ministry. Over the next few weeks, we hope these conversations help clarify your own commitments and help you develop your own philosophy of ministry.2021-02-1035 minThe Jim Bradford PodcastPastor Oversight: Facing DeclineOver the past few weeks, we've been exploring four areas of pastoral oversight: Spiritual, Missional, Organizational, and Relational. In this week's episode, Pastor Jim describes how these oversights fit together and how they help you recognize inevitable signs of decline. We also discuss how a leadership team can use the four oversights to discuss and monitor the health of the church. Pastor Jim offers questions to help in your assessment. 2021-02-0337 minThe Jim Bradford PodcastPastoral Oversight: OrganizationA pastor bears responsibility for important organizational questions and that oversight is about much more than your administrative to do list. In this week's episode, Pastor Jim explores the topic of organizational responsibility and how Jesus demonstrated organizational oversight. 2021-01-2733 minThe Jim Bradford PodcastPastoral Oversight: MissionEach week we are considering one of the unique oversights pastors must steward. This week, we discuss the topic of mission. Slowly, and sometimes undetected, the mission of a church can drain. We can lose the missional reason for our existence. Pastor Jim explores that danger and how churches, pastors, and individual believers can maintain a vibrant sense of mission.2021-01-2031 minThe Jim Bradford PodcastPastoral Oversight: RelationshipsOver the next few weeks, Jim discusses the four oversight roles a pastor plays: Spiritual, Missional, Organizational, and relational.In this week's episode, Jim talks about how to pay attention to relationships and why managing relationships is an important task for spiritual leaders. 2021-01-1330 minThe Jim Bradford PodcastHumility and Meekness Matter Even More Than You RealizeHumility is an often used word in Christian ministry. It is used so often it has a tendency to be taken for granted. But humility is central to following Jesus and serving in ministry. In this week's episode, Pastor Jim explores the topics of humility and meekness and how they lead to greater freedom and a deeper experience of Christ.2021-01-0630 minThe Jim Bradford PodcastSelf-pity is QuicksandSelf-pity is pleasurable pain, a self-loathing that leaves us wallowing in the world's unfairness. Jim explains how self-pity is really unbelief and why it can trap us in life and ministry. Jim calls listeners to make an up-front commitment to put more into life than we ever expect to take out.2020-12-1730 minThe Jim Bradford PodcastIf It Wasn't for These People...It's easy to get frustrated at the people you lead. It's easy to stop believing in their potential and to instead slip into a kind of manipulation that uses them for your own purposes. Jim believes that one of the central axioms of leadership is that people tend to rise to what we expect of them. That means a pastors job is always to believe in who out people can be.In our conversation we explore how that optimism can be lost and how leaders can regain their belief in the potential of the people t...2020-12-0933 minThe Jim Bradford PodcastWhich Type of Power are You Working FromWhen it comes to Christian leadership, one of the most common phrases is servant leadership, but for all our talk about serving, we haven't talked a lot about power. What is it? How should Christians handle it? In this week's episode, Pastor Jim discusses the three types of power and how Jesus taught his disciples to think about it.2020-12-0232 minThe Jim Bradford PodcastLiving in the SpiritIt's easy for us to neglect the work of the Holy Spirit or to understand the Spirit's work as relegated to a handful of powerful moments. But in this week's episode, Pastor Jim explores how maturing in faith involves learning to live in a constant fellowship with the person of the Spirit.Jim describes that fellowship in his own life, why it's critical for life and ministry, and how pastors can lead congregations into it. 2020-11-1836 minThe Jim Bradford PodcastLearning to Abide in PrayerChristians pray. As Pastor Jim explains, it is the breath of a believer. To be alive to God is to be in prayer. In this week's episode, Pastor Jim discusses his own prayer life, how Christians can abide in prayer, and what to do when you feel inadequate or uninterested in praying. It's an encouragement for those who have been discouraged by pryer and those searching for ways to deepen their experience of prayer.2020-11-1133 minThe Jim Bradford PodcastFinding Ways to Stay in ScriptureA spiritual center begins with brokenness that leads to the disciplines of abiding in scripture and embracing a life of prayer. In today's episode, Pastor Jim discusses his commitment to scripture. The conversation is both inspirational and practical. How does scripture shape your life and interior and how can you find ways to abide more deeply in those words. We also explore the challenge regular Bible reading can be. What should you do when reading scripture feels slow or boring?I hope this episode helps you find new ways to spend your days living in t...2020-11-0429 minThe Jim Bradford PodcastWhy We're Reluctant to Embrace Our BrokennessBrokenness is not a best-selling topic but it is universal, and for Pastor Jim, it is at the center of who we are in Christ and the work Christ wants to do in and through us. In this week's episode, Jim explores how brokenness can deepen our dependence on God and why that dependence is at the center of spiritual leadership.2020-10-2831 minThe Jim Bradford PodcastThe Dangers of Externalized MinistryIn today's episode, we explore the ways that Christian faith and ministry can become externalized and reduced in authenticity. Jim explores the danger by looking at the tendencies of several First-Century religious groups: the Pharisees, Scribes, Sadducees, and Zealots.2020-10-2146 minThe Jim Bradford PodcastA Commitment to Living with JoyFor several weeks we have been looking at the seven personal commitments Pastor Jim crafted for his life. In today's episode, we finish up that discussion by looking at the topic of joy. What is joy? Why is it so hard to hold on to it? And how do you get it back once lost?Jim also gives advice for crafting your own personal commitments and why the practice is so important not just for leaders but all believers. 2020-10-1333 minThe Jim Bradford PodcastCuriosity and a Commitment to LearningIt's easy to think about learning as something we do in our youth. Once we've graduated, we spend our time applying what we've learned. But coasting on previous thinking is not only risky but misses out on one of the great gifts of God—curiosity and the joy of discovery.In this week's episode, Pastor Jim discusses his commitment to love learning and how he continues to learn for both his career and as a hobby. We talk books, education, and learning for fun.2020-10-0732 minThe Jim Bradford PodcastWhy Change Can Feel Too RiskyLeaders talk a lot about change, but sometimes we can be the one most resistant to it. Over time, nostalgia can rob us of our faith for the future. Attempts at leading change can leave us frustrated and discouraged.In this week's episode, Pastor Jim explores why change is important and how the Holy Spirit helps lead us into it. 2020-09-3030 minThe Jim Bradford PodcastTaking Responsibility and the Risk of Unresolved AngerAfter years of pastoral and leadership responsibilities, Jim writes that he has come to the conclusion that his greatest leadership challenges and problem are his own heart. In this week's episode, we look at the impact of unresolved anger and the risks of blaming others. Jim describes his personal commitment to owning responsibility. If you are finding yourself frequently frustrated and angry, it may be a warning that things have gone unaddressed in your heart.2020-09-2330 minThe Jim Bradford PodcastLearning To Be YourselfQuestions about identity can drive us crazy. Fueled by endless opportunities for comparison, its easy to live and lead out of insecurity and anxiety about who you are or who you wish you could be. In this week's episode, Pastor Jim discusses how he came to terms with who he was and overcame the dangers of comparison by learning to think theological and not just emotionally.2020-09-1630 minThe Jim Bradford PodcastThe Importance of Personal IntegrityWe're discussing the seven personal commitments Jim has sought to live in life and in ministry. The second of those commitments is to pursue integrity. Integrity is a word that gets used by a lot of leaders, but what does it really mean? How do you live a life of integrity and why are secrets so destructive to ministry and life?Jim offers advice on pursuing integrity and on taking steps to face the secret portions of our lives. 2020-09-0933 minThe Jim Bradford PodcastMaking Personal Commitments: Know GodFor several weeks we've been looking at the public commitments Jim made when coming to Central Assembly. Alongside those public commitments, Jim also made seven personal commitments. In this week's episode, we discuss the first of those commitments, but also why it's important to take the time to make your own commitments. Jim's are a guide, but he recommends you sit down and write out your own.2020-09-0234 minThe Jim Bradford PodcastIs it wrong to want more influence?Spend any time reading or learning about leadership and you will run across the definition that leadership is influence. For some, influence becomes an obsession, for others, it's intentionally neglected.Pastor Jim takes some time to talk about influence and how spiritual leaders should think about it. 2020-08-2630 minThe Jim Bradford PodcastWhat is Spiritual Leadership?For several weeks, we've been discussing the commitments Jim made when he came to Central Assembly. Collectively, they form a distinct view of ministry which Jim refers to as Spiritual Leadership. In his book, Lead So That Others Can Follow, Jim describes spiritual leadership as, “walking in the Spirit’s life, making and keeping life commitments, earning trust, demanding little for ourselves, and lifting others up.”In this week's episode, we discuss this definition and what makes this spiritual approach to leadership unique. 2020-08-1935 minThe Jim Bradford PodcastFaith For the Future of Your ChurchAs pastors, we spend a lot of time thinking about and planning for the future. Vision has become a central element of pastoral work. But Jim offers some warnings about the importance of shaping vision with people and why believing for a future is sometimes more important than envisioning it. Jim explains that servant leadership has to do with seeing the potential of your church and the people in it and serving that potential. But that takes a growing and faith-filled inner life to hold onto that belief for the future.2020-08-1232 minThe Jim Bradford PodcastPeople-Centered and Team-BasedIt's easy to allow the ministry to become abstract: techniques, systems, and procedures. In this week's episode, Pastor Jim calls pastors to rekindle their love for people through a people-centered approach to ministry. You have to hold onto the "why" of ministry before you attempt to determine the "what." The "why" is always people. Ministry is a call to people. Jim extends his focus on people to how he approaches leading a church staff in a team-based approach. 2020-08-0526 minThe Jim Bradford PodcastCOVID and the Future of the ChurchJust about everyone agrees that the COVID crisis will have a lasting impact on our world and on the church. The question is what will change. In this conversation, Jim and I discuss the lasting impacts of the crisis on the church.Jim shares how the crisis has impacted him personally and how preaching online has impacted Central. No one can predict the future, but Jim offers some helpful thoughts about what might be ahead.2020-07-2930 minThe Jim Bradford PodcastNavigating Conspiracies, Politics, and Diverse OpinionsMost pastors and leaders are facing new levels of complexity and controversy within the congregations they lead. Making decisions is complicated by all of the diverse views and opinions—often to opposite extremes.How does a pastor navigate these complexities and continue to make faithful and wise decisions? Can a pastor remain politically neutral? Pastor Jim addresses how he is thinking about these controversies and how he leads through them. 2020-07-2033 minThe Jim Bradford PodcastHow to Make Good Decisions During a Crisis?One of the universal experiences COVID has created for pastors is the need for rapid decision making, often without all of the information needed to feel confident about those decisions. In today's episode, Jim and I discuss how to make good decisions during a crisis and how to avoid decision fatigue. Jim offers wise counsel on how to evaluate capacity, where to seek counsel, and when you can trust your gut. We also discuss the danger of comparing your decisions to others. The church is making important decisions and we need all the help we ca...2020-07-1532 minThe Jim Bradford PodcastDealing with Expectations and DisappointmentMaybe the most memorable of Jim's pastoral commitments was the commitment to disappoint his congregation—"I will disappoint you."Every pastor understands the difficulty of navigating complex expectations. The truth is, we will disappoint people and people will disappoint us. But that's not an excuse, its a reality that frames the work we do as pastors. In this episode, Jim discusses how to handle expectations, disappointments, and experiences of pain.2020-05-2934 minThe Jim Bradford PodcastDiscussing the Personal Impacts of COVID19There are a lot of resources to help pastors and churches address the rapid changes of the COVID19 crisis. Over the next few weeks, we want to discuss the personal impacts of stress, anxiety, and decision fatigue. In this episode, we catch up on how Central is implementing changes and how Jim is handling leadership during this crisis. How do you adjust to changing routine, how do you adjust to preaching online, and how do you recognize signs of stress. 2020-05-2933 minThe Jim Bradford PodcastWhat We're Missing in our Conversations About LeadershipIn 2015, Jim published the book, Lead So Others Can Follow. It was a call for a different kind of leadership, what he calls "Spiritual Leadership."In this episode, we discuss the church's current interest in leadership topics and what is missing from those discussions. Jim shares how he came to recognize the need for leadership to flow out of a personal spiritual depth and why ministers must find better ways to unite these two parts of themselves. 2020-05-2937 minThe Jim Bradford PodcastThe Risk of Growing A Church While Not Growing As A PersonIn, Lead So That Others Can Follow, Jim outlines five commitments he made when becoming the pastor of Central Assembly. In this episode, we look at the commitment to be a growing person. There is a risk that you can grow a church while neglecting to grow as a person. Eventually, that disparity has consequences. Jim describes why a leader must be constantly giving attention to personal growth and why ministry can't be sustained by outward attention alone. 2020-05-2937 minThe Jim Bradford PodcastVocation and Sensing A Call to MinistryJim's path to ministry has been an unconventional one. As he shares in this episode, Jim was finishing a Ph.D. in Aerospace Engineering when he began to sense a call to pastoral ministry. We discuss how Jim wrestled with that transition and how God often uses unconventional paths to ministry. I think this conversation will help you process your own vocational interests and the unique path God has you on.2020-05-2934 minThe Jim Bradford PodcastAn Introduction to the PodcastWe want to take a few minutes to introduce you to this podcast. What we hope to offer you are an ongoing series of conversations around life, faith, and leadership. My name is Chase Replogle and I’m a pastor in Springfield, Missouri, and the host of the Pastor Writer podcast. I’ve known pastor Jim for a long time. First, as a college student sitting under his preaching at Central Assembly, then as a staff member at that church. I have several credential cards with his signature and it was our honor to have him officiate our w...2020-05-2912 min