For the Kingdom Podcast

About For the Kingdom Podcast

Welcome to For the Kingdom, a podcast dedicated to empowering pastors and church leaders to thrive in their ministries. We're passionate about supporting those serving in established and legacy churches, as well as those pioneering church plants, replants, and revitalization efforts. Through meaningful conversations with seasoned pastors and church leaders, we'll explore topics that matter most to you, from leadership development and community engagement to spiritual growth and kingdom impact. Our goal is to uplift, edify, and encourage you, so you can continue to serve with renewed passion, purpose, and joy. Join us on this journey as we explore the complexities and triumphs of ministry, and discover how, together, we can build a stronger, more vibrant church that honors God and transforms lives. Done in a seasonal format to help you and your church get the best. For the Kingdom of God

Publisher

For the Kingdom

Category

religion & spirituality

Language

en

Explicit

No

First episode

13 Mar 2025

Latest episode

22 Jun 2026

Latest episodes

18 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   22 Jun 2026

   Episode 8: FTK S2E8 - Marriage Ministry - Part 2

   Building Strong Marriages: A 7-Year Roadmap of 84 Classes (Part 2)In Part 2 of this ongoing conversation, Don and Natalie move from why marriage ministry matters to how the church can intentionally invest in it. Drawing from their vision for long-term discipleship, they introduce a structured plan: 84 classes designed across a 7-year cycle—a comprehensive roadmap to help couples grow, season by season.Rather than offering quick fixes or one-time events, this approach recognizes that strong marriages are built over time. Each year is divided into focused phases, with groups of three sessions forming quarterly units. These units create rhythm, continuity, and depth—allowing couples at every stage of marriage to engage meaningfully without feeling overwhelmed.The classes cover a wide range of topics, including:Foundations of biblical marriage and covenant commitmentCommunication, conflict resolution, and forgivenessSpiritual unity and leading a home in faithParenting, finances, and life transitionsIntimacy, trust, and enduring through hardshipWhat makes this model unique is its intentional design: couples can enter at any point, yet over time, they will walk through a full, balanced framework that strengthens every area of marriage. It’s not about perfection—it’s about progress, consistency, and community.Don and Natalie also explain how this structure fosters deeper relationships within the church. As couples journey through the material together, they build trust, accountability, and lasting connections—turning a program into a true ministry.This episode casts a clear vision: if churches are serious about strengthening families, they must be just as intentional in discipling marriages. These 84 classes aren’t just lessons—they’re an investment in the future of the church, one marriage at a time.

2. 

   15 Jun 2026

   Episode 7: FTK S2E7 Marriage Ministry - Part 1

   Why Marriage Ministry Still Matters TodayIn this episode, drawn from a recent talk with their church, Don and his wife Natalie begin unpacking a question many congregations are quietly wrestling with: Why do we need a dedicated marriage ministry today?Speaking from both personal experience and pastoral insight, they lay out the reality that strong marriages don’t happen by accident—and they certainly aren’t sustained without intentional investment. In a culture that often redefines, minimizes, or even undermines marriage, the church has a unique responsibility to come alongside couples and help them build something rooted in truth, commitment, and grace.Don and Natalie explore how many churches unintentionally assume marriages are “fine” unless there’s a visible crisis, when in reality, many couples are struggling silently—disconnected, overwhelmed, and unsure where to turn. They highlight the need for spaces where couples can grow together, be encouraged, and find biblical guidance before problems reach a breaking point.More than just identifying the problem, this conversation sets the foundation for a vision: a marriage ministry that fosters community, discipleship, and long-term health. It’s not about programs for the sake of programs—it’s about strengthening the very relationships that form the backbone of the church.This episode is the beginning of that conversation—calling churches to be proactive, intentional, and deeply committed to investing in marriages for the glory of God and the good of His people.

3. 

   8 Jun 2026

   Episode 6: FTK S2E6 A Hard Lesson Learned

   Originally Recorded for the Small Town Summits PodcastIn this reflective episode, Don revisits an article he wrote in 2025—later recording it that same year as a personal audio journal—sharing a moment where life forced him to slow down and truly listen.What began as a medical issue became something far deeper. Through the uncertainty, frustration, and recovery, Don came face to face with a lesson he admits he had long overlooked—one that had been present all along, yet hidden in plain sight.With honesty and humility, he walks listeners through that season, unpacking not just the physical challenge, but the spiritual awakening that followed. It’s a story about perspective, about the limits of our own understanding, and about how God often uses disruption to reveal what comfort can conceal.This episode isn’t just a reading—it’s a testimony. A reminder that sometimes the very things we try to push past are the very moments meant to shape us most.Small Town Summits

4. 

   1 Jun 2026

   Episode 5: FTK S2E5 Proper Etiquette for Visiting Pastors — Part 2

   Proper etiquette for pastors visiting other churches isn’t about rigid rules—it’s about honor. Honor for the local shepherd, honor for the gathered body, and ultimately, honor for Christ.When pastors get this right, it strengthens unity across churches and models the kind of servant leadership Scripture calls us to live out.

5. 

   25 May 2026

   Episode 4: FTK S2E4 Proper Etiquette for Visiting Pastors — Part 1

   When a pastor visits another church, he does not stop being a shepherd—but he does change roles. He is no longer the one leading that flock in that moment. He is a guest. And how he carries himself speaks volumes—not only about his character, but about the church he represents and the Christ he serves.This first part looks at the often-overlooked question: What is proper etiquette for pastors when visiting another church?

6. 

   18 May 2026

   Episode 3: FTK S2E3 The Resurgence of Men’s Ministry.

   Why younger men are leading the charge—and why the church can’t afford to miss itAcross many churches, especially here in New England, something unexpected is happening: men’s ministry is coming back to life. Not as a relic of the past or a recycled program—but as a renewed, grassroots movement. And at the center of it? Younger men—Millennials and Gen Z—who are not just participating, but leading the charge.For years, men’s ministry in many churches quietly faded. After the pandemic, some ministries never resumed operations. Others were reduced to occasional breakfasts or sidelined altogether in favor of broader, more generalized programming. But what many leaders assumed was “outdated” is now being rediscovered as essential.A Generation Looking for Something Real

7. 

   11 May 2026

   Episode 2: FTK S2E2 A Lost Episode: Revisiting The Sound of Freedom and the Conversation Around It

   In this previously unreleased episode of the Keeping Moving Forward Podcast, we take a thoughtful look at the film Sound of Freedom—not just as a piece of storytelling, but as a cultural moment that sparked intense conversation.The episode explores both the heart behind the film’s message and the controversy that surrounded its release. We examine the real-world issue it seeks to highlight, how audiences responded across the spectrum, and why it became such a flashpoint in public discourse.Rather than offering quick reactions, this episode aims to slow things down—separating fact from speculation, emotion from evidence—and encourages listeners to think critically while remaining compassionate. It’s an honest, balanced conversation about truth, media, and the responsibility we carry when engaging with difficult topics.Though it never originally aired, this “lost episode” remains deeply relevant—inviting us to keep moving forward with clarity, conviction, and discernment.

8. 

   4 May 2026

   Episode 1: FTK S2E1 Pastor Micah Smith on the Realities of Bi-Vocational Ministry in New England

   In this candid and deeply personal conversation, Micah Smith opens up about the unique challenges of serving as a bi-vocational pastor in New England—a context where ministry often happens quietly, faithfully, and without much recognition.Drawing from his own experience, Pastor Micah sheds light on what many never see: the long hours balancing secular work and shepherding a congregation, the emotional weight of caring for people through life’s hardest moments, and the constant tension of trying to be fully present in both callings. In a region where churches are often smaller and resources more limited, the role demands resilience, sacrifice, and a deep dependence on God.He also addresses a common misunderstanding—many assume pastoral ministry is confined to Sunday mornings, but for the bi-vocational pastor, it’s a 24/7 calling layered on top of everyday responsibilities. From late-night hospital visits to early morning sermon preparation, the work is both unseen and unending.More than just highlighting the struggle, this conversation is a call to greater awareness and support. It invites listeners to better understand, pray for, and come alongside those who are faithfully serving in this dual role—reminding us that behind every sermon is a shepherd carrying far more than most will ever know.

9. 

   6 Apr 2026

   Episode 9: SPECIAL 1: A Great Awakening Special

   In this special episode, we look at the new film, A Great Awakening, and also have an essay on the difference between a revival and an awakening.

10. 

    20 Oct 2025

    Episode 8: FTK S1E8: Rethinking Church Replanting and Revitalization

    In the Season 1 finale, we look at the conversation about church replanting and revitalization is not new, but it has never been more urgent. We live in a moment of paradox — a time when churches close their doors every week, while others attempt to reopen or rebuild from the ruins of decline. Yet beneath the surface of strategies, budgets, and branding lies a deeper issue: the way we think about the Church itself. The challenges of the pastor shortage, the high expense of ministry, the cultural fragmentation between generations, and the unraveling of once-celebrated ministries are not random crises. They are signals. They reveal that God may be calling His people to reimagine what faithful ministry looks like in our time. 1. The Pastor Shortage and the Limits of Traditional Models 2. The High Expense of Ministry and the Idol of Scal 3. The Looming Death of the Megachurch 4. The Wounds of Leadership: Deaths and Downfalls 5. Generational Fracture and the Need for Understanding 6. A New Imagination for the Church What if revitalization meant fewer programs but deeper discipleship? What if replanting meant not saving a building, but rediscovering a mission? What if success were measured not by attendance but by faithfulness?

11. 

    6 Oct 2025

    Episode 7: FTK S1E7: The Pastor Shortage in the U.S

    In this episode, we unpack the growing pastor shortage affecting churches across the United States. From the rising cost of seminary education and unaffordable housing to burnout, building issues, and a shift toward church planting over traditional pastoring, we explore the practical and cultural reasons why fewer people are entering and staying in ministry. You’ll hear why many leaders are hesitant to inherit aging churches, why bi-vocational ministry is becoming the norm, and what churches can do to respond wisely and faithfully. Whether you’re a pastor, church member, or someone concerned about the future of the church, this is a conversation that matters.

12. 

    22 Sept 2025

    Episode 6: FTK S1E6: Steve Blumer-What a Disciple Looks Like and Needs to Grow in Faith

    A true disciple looks like someone who is growing in love for God, obedience to His Word, and commitment to following Jesus in every area of life. This includes a hunger for Scripture, a life marked by prayer, humility, repentance, and a desire to serve others. Disciples aren’t perfect, but they are teachable, faithful, and increasingly reflect the character of Christ. To grow in faith, a disciple needs regular time in God’s Word, meaningful relationships with other believers, a local church community for worship and accountability, and opportunities to live out their faith through service and evangelism. Just as plants need sunlight, water, and good soil, disciples need truth, grace, and spiritual nourishment to mature. Growth doesn’t happen in isolation—it happens in intentional community, under faithful teaching, and through consistent, Spirit-led obedience.

13. 

    8 Sept 2025

    Episode 5: FTK S1E5: Steve Blumer-What is a disciple and how to do discipleship

    A disciple is someone who has committed their life to following Jesus—learning from Him, living like Him, and helping others do the same. Discipleship is the intentional process of spiritual growth where believers are trained to know God’s Word, obey His commands, and grow in Christlike character through community, accountability, and service. It’s more than just attending church or having Bible knowledge—it’s about a transformed life that reflects Jesus in every area. True discipleship happens through relationships, not just programs; it involves walking alongside others, sharing life, asking hard questions, and modeling what it means to live as a follower of Christ. Jesus gave the Church the Great Commission to make disciples, not just converts—meaning every believer is both called to grow as a disciple and to help others grow too.

14. 

    25 Aug 2025

    Episode 4: FTK S1E4: Dr. Mark Ballard on Revelation of the NT Text

    The revelation of the New Testament is the climax of God’s redemptive story, centered on the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. It begins with the fulfillment of Old Testament promises in the person of Jesus, who is revealed as the long-awaited Messiah and Son of God. Through the Gospels, we witness His ministry, teachings, and atoning work on the cross. The book of Acts continues the story with the birth of the Church and the spread of the gospel, empowered by the Holy Spirit. The Epistles provide instruction, correction, and encouragement to believers, grounding them in sound doctrine and Christian living. Finally, Revelation gives a prophetic glimpse of Christ’s ultimate victory and the restoration of all things. The New Testament completes and confirms the Old Testament revelation, offering the full picture of God's plan of salvation and the hope of eternal life through Jesus Christ.

15. 

    11 Aug 2025

    Episode 3: FTK S1E3: Dr. Mark Balard Revelation of the OT Text

    The revelation of the Old Testament text is the unfolding of God's truth to His people throughout history, progressively and purposefully revealed over time. It begins with creation and God's covenant with humanity, and moves through the lives of the patriarchs, the giving of the Law, the establishment of Israel, and the voices of the prophets. Each book contributes to a larger narrative that reveals God's character, His standards of holiness, His justice, and His redemptive plan. Rather than being a random collection of ancient writings, the Old Testament is a cohesive testimony to God's faithfulness, sovereignty, and promise of a coming Messiah. It lays the foundation for understanding the New Testament by pointing forward to Christ, and remains essential for grasping the fullness of God's revelation to mankind.

16. 

    28 Jul 2025

    Episode 2: FTK S1E2: The John Prester Issue

    Churches need to stop falling for voices like John Prester and blindly believing everything without proper fact-checking, because this kind of uncritical acceptance opens the door to misinformation, manipulation, and theological confusion. In a digital age where anyone can sound authoritative with the right tone or platform, churches must return to the Berean mindset—searching the Scriptures daily to see if what is being said is true (Acts 17:11). When churches fail to verify claims or examine teachings carefully, they risk building their ministries on shaky ground, embracing half-truths, and passing along error to their congregations. Sound doctrine requires both spiritual discernment and intellectual diligence—neither of which can thrive when we trade biblical integrity for sensational voices that haven’t been tested.

17. 

    14 Jul 2025

    Episode 1: FTK S1 E1: The Dangers of Mixing Christian Theologies

    Mixing different Christian theologies—known as theological syncretism—can be spiritually dangerous because it often leads to confusion, compromise, and a distortion of core biblical truths. While the intention may be unity or inclusivity, combining conflicting doctrines (such as blending Reformed theology with prosperity gospel teachings or mixing sacramental views from different traditions) can dilute the clarity of the gospel and weaken the authority of Scripture. It may result in Christians adopting contradictory beliefs about salvation, grace, the nature of God, or the role of the Church. Over time, this blending can erode doctrinal foundations, promote false assurance, and lead people away from sound teaching and faithful living. Christian unity should be rooted in truth, not in a fusion of incompatible beliefs.

18. 

    13 Mar 2025

    Welcome to For the Kingdom Podcast

    Don McKinnon, formerly of the Practical Church Revitalization Podcast, introduces us to the vision and format of this new podcast.Welcome to For the Kingdom, a podcast dedicated to empowering pastors and church leaders to thrive in their ministries. We're passionate about supporting those serving in established and legacy churches, as well as those pioneering church plants, replants, and revitalization efforts.Through meaningful conversations with seasoned pastors and church leaders, we'll explore topics that matter most to you, from leadership development and community engagement to spiritual growth and kingdom impact. Our goal is to uplift, edify, and encourage you, so you can continue to serve with renewed passion, purpose, and joy.Join us on this journey as we explore the complexities and triumphs of ministry, and discover how, together, we can build a stronger, more vibrant church that honors God and transforms lives.

Contact For the Kingdom Podcast

Guest appearances

Books guests

Based on episode analysis; this does not confirm that the show is currently accepting guests.