We're back at it (finally) and sat down with President and Founder of Practical Shepherding, Brian Croft to talk about his book; The Unhurried Pastor. If you're a pastor that's feeling fatigued, frustrated and that there has to be a better way to fulfill your calling give this EP a listen.
If you missed the network gathering we'd love to make a copy of Brian's book available to you, email us at the Association and we'll make sure you get a copy.
Are you looking for more training and encouragement? Consider joining the Practically Trained Pastors Cohort which is accepting applications now.
We're here to serve you Pastor and Ministry Leader - don't hesitate to reach out.
2 Jul 2025
EP 13 Church Renewal - Biblical Target and Means
In this episode of the Ministry Rhythms Podcast, the team welcomes new Church Renewal Strategist Nick Lingle to unpack what true church renewal looks like—moving beyond strategy and structure to rekindle a deep, spiritual love for Jesus at the heart of congregational life. With insights from Andy Davis and practical reflections, the conversation centers on restoring spiritual health through biblical means.
Resources Mentioned:
Revitalize by Andy Davis
Gospel Way Catechism – Thomas West & Trevin Wax
Falling in Love with Jesus – David Jackson (Free via NAMB)
Remember to like, subscribe, leave a comment or drop us a line.
Episode Timeline & Key Moments:
[00:00 – 01:00] Welcome & Updates
Hosts return after a hiatus
Introduction of new staff: Nick Lingle, Church Renewal Strategist (Westwood Pastor, started June 1)
[01:00 – 02:00] Why Church Renewal Matters
80% of SBC churches (including 151 locally) need some degree of renewal
Renewal can be slight or extensive
[02:00 – 03:30] Defining Church Renewal
Andy Davis' Definition:
“The effort to restore by biblical means, a once healthy church from a present level of disease to a state of spiritual health as defined by the Word of God.”
Focus: Both means (biblical methods) and target (spiritual health)
[03:30 – 05:00] Renewal vs. Church Planting
Difference between building from scratch and restoring something broken
Renewal requires reintroducing Scripture-based methods into stalled structures
[05:00 – 07:30] The Heart of the Church
Warning signs of needing renewal:
Activity without love (Revelation letters, especially Ephesus)
Doctrinal correctness but relational coldness
Key question: "Has your love for God grown?"
[07:30 – 09:30] Role of Worship & Affections
Worship gatherings should magnify the risen Christ
It’s not just about saying “good sermon,” but being moved by Jesus
Leaders must evaluate and nurture affections, not just actions
[09:30 – 12:00] Discipleship & Love for Jesus
Renewal is hindered by deficient discipleship
Resources mentioned:
Gospel Way Catechism by Thomas West & Trevin Wax
Rhythms: Worship, Scripture, daily spiritual discipline
It's not about Sunday alone, but continual spiritual rhythms
[12:00 – 14:30] What Crowds Out Spiritual Renewal
Concerns like finances, facilities, and survival often take center stage
Renewal must begin with spiritual vitality, not just strategic change
[14:30 – 16:30] The Pastor’s Heart
Healthy churches begin with healthy pastors
Leaders must maintain their own vibrant walk with Christ
Organizational skill ≠ Spiritual leadership
[16:30 – 18:30] Being With Jesus
Phrase from Tim Wheat (NAMB): “Be with Jesus”
Pastors must be spiritually present—not just programmatically active
Prioritizing time with Christ fuels authentic ministry
[18:30 – 20:30] Lessons from a Child
Nick shares a conversation with his 8-year-old daughter:
“I love Jesus, I think about him, and I want to please him.”
A simple model for personal spiritual health
[20:30 – 22:00] Final Thoughts & Resources
Books mentioned:
Revitalize by Andy Davis
Falling in Love with Jesus by David Jackson (NAMB – free resource)
Structural changes are helpful but secondary
True renewal is spiritual—it begins with the heart
23 Apr 2025
EP12 Dealing with Discouragement w/special Guest Frank Lewis
Hey listeners! We're back with another great EP - this week Pastor Frank Lewis shares practical encouragement to pastors facing discouragement in ministry. If you're struggling in ministry don't hesitate to reach out for help, from a friend, fellow Pastor and to our Association. We have resources and assistance available for you and your family.
In this EP the following are mentioned:
The importance of rest
A great eating plan
Ministry Friends
Spiritual Disciplines
The power of prayer, God's word and hymns
Remember to leave us feedback and share with your friends.
17 Apr 2025
EP 11 DISCOURAGEMENT AND DEPRESSION - PRACTICAL HELPS
In this EP they guys pick back up on their convo about discouragement and depression and turn toward exploring practical helps available to Pastors and ministry leaders. Friends, exercise, good food, intentional conversations and medication. God can use any or all to bring remedy to those enduring heavy seasons.
Mentioned in the Podcast
Spurgeon’s Sorrows by Zach Eswine
NBA (Nashville Area) Pastor Cohorts
Pastor’s Help Line
Depression, Trauma and Medication
Depression Medication
If you need help, don’t hesitate to reach out to a friend, your leaders or for resources, we’re here to help.
8 Apr 2025
EP 10 DISCOURAGEMENT AND DEPRESSION
The guys are back after a couple of week hiatus. This week's topic is a heavy one, but we talk about the substance in an encouraging way.
Depression and Discouragement are realities that every ministry leader will face at some point in their lives.
Discouragement: the temporary emotional and frustrating state of being down
Depression: the persistent and pervasive battle with strong, discouraging emotions
Bob referenced some of his writing here:
Depression Redeemed
Depression and Medication
Depression and Practical Helps
Book Resource: Spurgeon's Sorrows by Zac Eswine
If you are struggling, not sure where to turn, reach out for help. Your spouse or local supportive relationships should be primary. Should you require additional help reach out here, you can even call the Pastor Hotline forassistance. 1-844-PASTOR1
12 Mar 2025
MR9 PREPARING FOR THE CALL TO REPLANT
In this EP the guys kick it to an episode from the Replant Bootcamp: Preparing for the Call to Replant w/Evan Skelton.
Here are some of the highlights
Replanting is a worthy call
Finding a church to Replant takes time
Preparation of the Replanter is essential
Are you interested in Replanting? Contact us at the Nashville Baptist Association and start a conversation today.
5 Mar 2025
EP8 CHURCH PLANTING NASHVILLE W/LEWIS MCMULLEN
Nashville's growth is accelerating, creating the need for more churches. In this EP the guys sit down with Lewis McMullen, Healthy Churches - Church Planting Director for the Tennessee Baptist Mission Board. Some of the highlights include:
Statistics on the need for plants in Nashville
Keys to starting and enduring well as a Church Planter
Understanding the importance of starting with mission not a public worship service
Are you interested in Planting in Nashville? We'd love to begin a conversation with you at the NBA.
26 Feb 2025
EP7 MINISTRY WIVES AND FRIENDSHIPS
Welcome back! In this EP the guys are joined by Lauren Gray and Barb Bickford as they discuss the role of friendships among ministry wives. Listen in as they share some practical encouragement and offer a way for the wives of ministry leaders an opportunity to connect.
Ministry Wife Connection Form
19 Feb 2025
EP6 PRAYER AND MINISTRY LEADERS
Do you feel like a "rookie" when it comes to prayer? The guys break down a few thoughts on prayer in the life of a ministry leader. Gary shares some insights from his cohort experience in the Praying Leader and they recommend a resource: Old Paths, New Power by Daniel Henderson
Remember to like, subscribe and recommend the Podcast on the socials.
12 Feb 2025
EP5 "And They Devoted Themselves" w/special guest Kyle Bueermann
In Today's EP Bob catches up with friend, colleague and author, Dr. Kyle Bueermann. Kyle's book, They Devoted Themselves, is an exposition of Acts 2:42-47. Listen in as the guys unpack the six elements of discipleship in the local church.
Resources Mentioned
They Devoted Themselves
The Lords' Supper is a Meal
The Valley of Vision
Praying the Bible
ReAwaken Hymns
6 Feb 2025
EP4 REACHING PEOPLE THROUGH HOUSE CHURCHES
This week the guys visit with Pastor Dan Eum of Unity Baptist. Dan explains how they employ a House Church model for ministry, connection and mission. Through authentic biblical community and hospitality they are impacting communities across greater Nashville.
Unity Baptist
The House Church
29 Jan 2025
EP3 DISCIPLESHIP RHYTHMS IN THE LOCAL CHURCH
What does discipleship look like in the local church? Scott Patty, Lead Pastor at Grace Community Church talks about the ordinary rhythms associated with creating a discipleship culture. We're grateful for the ministry influence and legacy of Grace Community Church here in Nashville.
Check out Grace Community and be sure and leave some feedback, share this podcast and join in the conversation.
22 Jan 2025
EP2 DISCIPLESHIP GROUPS (D-GROUPS)
This week the guys spend time breaking down the topic of D-Groups (Discipleship Groups) with Pastor Taylor Combs of Kings Cross Church in East Nashville. Joining him is D-Group Leader Mitch Meiss. There are some great insights into the goals, objectives and format of these groups and the way they contribute to helping others follow Jesus.
Kings Cross Church
Weekly D-Group Questions
What does this passage tell you about God?
What does this passage tell you about humanity?
In one sentence, what is the main point of the passage?
Is there anything in this passage you don't understand?
How might this text connect to Christ and the Gospel?
What sinful habit or attitude did this passage convict you of?
15 Jan 2025
EP 1 DISCIPLESHIP PATHWAYS
Discipleship is more than a class, an event or a small group bible study. Pastors Cole Huffman and Tanner Heath stopped by to discuss how The Gospel Church is approaching making Disciples who are formed for Christ's mission through their approach in the Discipleship Pathway.
Check out The Gospel Church, Nashville TN
Resources Mentioned
The Trellis and the Vine
Sojourners and Strangers
6 Jan 2025
Ministry Rhythms EP Zero
Ministry Rhythms, a podcast focused on providing practical encouragement and equipping for Pastors from Pastors. Pursuing Jesus’ mission in and through the local Church.
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