The Pastor Theologians Podcast

In this episode, Joel sits down with Gerald Hiestand, CPT Co-Founder and Senior Pastor of Calvary Memorial Church in Oak Park, IL, to discuss his new book, Justification and the Churches: Pastoral Questions at the Heart of Protestant, Catholic, and Orthodox Theology, which explores the distinctive histories of each tradition and their unique respective questions in regards to justification. While maintaining clear theological differences between the traditions, Hiestand seeks to show how misunderstandings of terminology have led to an inaccurate and sometimes ungracious perspectives across the three Nicean traditions of the church. A better understanding of each tradition's approach...

In this episode, Joel sits down with Gayle Doornbos of Dordt University (Sioux Center, IA) and Joey Sherrard of Signal Mountain Presbyterian Church (TN), two CPT fellows who spoke at our conference, Finding Church: Ecclesial Identity in a Time of Cultural Crisis. The three of them discuss major themes and takeaways from the jam-packed two-and-a-half days of the conference.

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In this episode, Joel Lawrence talks with Joe Stevens, Pastor of Redeemer Fellowship in Saraland, AL, who shares the story of his journey as the son of a church deacon and preacher, to becoming a young preacher in need of training, and through a ministry and educational journey that led him to plant and lead a church while completing his PhD. Joe shares how these experiences have given him a deep passion for preaching the gospel and serving his church and the broader church as a Pastor Theologian.

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In this episode, Joel Lawrence talks with Bonnie Kristian, Deputy Editor at Christianity Today and author of In Defense of Evangelicalism: A Response to Its Cultured Despisers. Kristian discusses what evangelicalism is and why it has become so negatively perceived in contemporary culture. While addressing legitimate critiques of the movement, she also discusses why she believes that Evangelicalism's genuine strengths should not be overlooked.

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In this episode, Joel Lawrence speaks with Keith Johnson, Professor of Theology at Wheaton College about his new book, Karl Barth and the Idolatry of the Nation: Confronting Christian Nationalism. The conversation explores Barth's context as an influential theologian amidst the rise of the Third Reich and its influence over the church in Germany during the 1930s. Johnson avoids overly simplified parallels to the modern American church, but suggests many important principles and areas of discernment that can be retrieve from Barth's theological resistance to the cultural pressures upon the church in his day.

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In this episode of the CPT Podcast, Joel talks with CPT Fellow Bobbie Schaeperkoetter about her journey of faith and ministry and her new book, With God Every Day: A Flexible Framework for Spiritual Practice. Bobbie shares how God has shaped her through a surprising journey into pastoral ministry and spiritual formation, and how her work at Capital City Christian Church has centered on helping people develop a deeper relationship with God through daily encounters with Scripture.

The conversation explores practical ways to cultivate life with God through spiritual practices and also encourages pastors to see their...

In this episode of the CPT Podcast, we talk with Dr. Michael Niebauer about his new book, From Word to Worship: How the Lectionary Welcomes You Into Sacred Time Through Story, Symbol, and Sacrament. Michael discusses how the lectionary helps Christians encounter Scripture as a unified story and see connections between biblical texts, the church calendar, and Christian worship. He also shares how his ministry in nursing homes has shaped his understanding of pastoral ministry and preaching.

The conversation explores Niebauer’s approach to reading Scripture, his interest in the interpretive practices of early Christians, and the wa...

The CPT Podcast welcomes one of our Fellows, Joseph Lear, Pastor of preaching and theology at Resurrection Assembly of God in Iowa City, Iowa, to discuss his journey from growing up as a missionary kid in West Africa to pastoral ministry and theological scholarship. Joseph reflects on how his experiences shaped his understanding of the gospel, the church, and ministry across cultures.

The conversation also explores his new book, Resurrecting Worship: A Pentecostal Liturgy for Slow Burn Revival, and the role of worship, liturgy, and dependence on the Spirit in revitalizing the local church. Joseph discusses the...

Join us for 2026 CPT National Conference in Oak Park, IL on October 19-21! This year's theme is Finding Church: Ecclesial Identity in a Time of Cultural Crisis. Register by September 15 for the best rate.

In this week's episode, we welcome Dr. Walter Strickland II, associate professor of systematic and contextual theology at Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary and pastor of Imago Dei Church, to discuss his work on ecclesiology and the contributions of African American Christian traditions to the broader church. Drawing from his own journey across different church traditions and years of theological study, Walter reflects on...

In this summer replay episode, Joel Lawrence and Matt Kim talk with pastor, lawyer, and theologian K. Edward Copeland about how the gospel shapes the church’s engagement with today’s social and political tensions. Ed shares his unique journey—from overcoming a childhood speech impediment to decades of ministry and justice work—and offers a compelling vision of the gospel as God’s reconciling work for people, systems, and the whole cosmos. Drawing on the African American preaching tradition and the posture of exile, he explains how preaching can form Christians who discern cultural idols, process societal events theologica...

This summer replay episode features a conversation with Joey Sherrard about his new book The Augustinian Pastor, exploring how the life and theology of Augustine can shape modern pastoral ministry. Drawing from his own journey—especially rediscovering Augustine during COVID—Sherrard highlights how Augustine’s work as a hands-on pastor was itself the outworking of and context in which he did his theological reflection. Key themes include the importance of pastoral friendship, the ongoing struggle with pride and sin, and the cultivation of humility through dependence on God. Pastors should see their ordinary work not as a barrier to theolo...

In this episode of the CPT Podcast, we welcome Dr. Matt O’Reilly, lead pastor of Christ Church, Birmingham, and a leader in the Global Methodist Church, to talk about what it means to be an ecclesial theologian. O’Reilly describes the ecclesial theologian as a pastor who provides theological leadership from within the local church. Rather than simply translating academic theology for laypeople, ecclesial theologians engage in constructive theology that shapes every aspect of church life—from preaching and discipleship to finances, property, staffing, and mission.  

The conversation explores O’Reilly’s leadership in the emerging Global Meth...

In this Summer Replay episode, CPT Fellow Matt Erickson reflects on his journey into pastoral ministry and the experiences that led him to write The Pastor as Gardener: A Renewed Vision for Ministry. Drawing on biblical images of planting, tending, and growth, Matt offers a vision of pastoral ministry rooted in patience, community, and dependence on God rather than performance or control. The conversation explores how pastors can cultivate a deep life with God, empower others for ministry, and faithfully plant for fruit they may not live to see.

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In this special bonus episode, Joel Lawrence, Rae Paul, and Steve Williamson preview the 2026 CPT Conference, Finding Church: Ecclesial Identity in a Time of Cultural Crisis. They discuss the vision behind this year’s theme, the conference’s unique blend of theology, worship, and community, and what attendees can expect from this gathering for pastors, ministry leaders, and all who love the church. 

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In this Summer Replay episode, Nicole Martin, president of Christianity Today, reflects on the vital role of preaching in shaping the church's theological vision. She discusses why faithful preaching must center on God rather than ourselves, the importance of surrender in sermon preparation, and how the cross—not performance or success—forms both pastors and congregations. The conversation offers a compelling vision of preaching that proclaims God's Word with humility, courage, and trust in his grace.

 Nicole also discusses themes from her book, Nailing It: Why Successful Leadership Demands Suffering and Surrender, which challenges leaders to embrace Chris...

In this short bonus episode, Joel Lawrence and Steve Williamson introduce the Center for Pastor Theologians' two new one-year cohorts, exploring how they equip pastors and ministry leaders through theological formation, rich discussion, and practical reflection on the church, pastoral identity, and the theology of work. 

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In this Summer Replay episode of the Preaching and the Pastor Theologian series, Joel Lawrence and Matt Kim sit down with Jim Samra, senior pastor of Calvary Church in Grand Rapids, Michigan, to explore the vital connection between a pastor's inner life and faithful preaching. Drawing from 1 Timothy 4:16, Samra reflects on what it means to "keep careful watch" over both life and doctrine, arguing that preaching flows not simply from sound preparation but from a deep, ongoing relationship with God. He shares practical rhythms of prayer, fasting, accountability, and sermon preparation that have shaped his ministry over two decades...

In this short, bonus episode of the CPT Podcast, we talk with Matthew Kim about a preaching resource that has profoundly shaped his ministry—Preaching as Reminding: Stirring Memory in an Age of Forgetfulness by Jeff Arthurs. Kim explains how the book reframes preaching as the faithful task of reminding people of what God has already said, rather than striving for novelty or cleverness. He also shares a practical sermon preparation habit—writing each sermon with one specific person in mind—which helps him communicate clearly to both mature believers and newcomers while trusting the Holy Spirit to apply God's...

What makes a church feel truly welcoming? 

In this episode of the CPT Podcast, we welcome one of CPT's Senior Fellows, Dr. Matthew Kim, to discuss his new book, Becoming a Friendlier Church: A Pathway to Genuine Community. Drawing from years of ministry, teaching, and personal experiences visiting churches around the world, Matt explores why many congregations unintentionally create barriers for newcomers and how pastors can foster a culture of authentic hospitality. 

The conversation examines five common obstacles to church friendliness—including insularity, apathy, busyness, comfort, and prejudice—and offers practical, discipleship-centered practices to help church...

Heather Joy Zimmerman shares why the Evangelical Homiletics Society has been one of the most formative influences on her preaching ministry. She discusses the value of a scholarly community devoted to expository preaching, opportunities for pastors and students to grow as preachers, and how meaningful relationships and collaboration can sharpen faithful proclamation of God's Word. 

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In this episode of the Pastor Theologians Podcast, we invite Heather Joy Zimmerman, a member of CPT's St Irenaeus fellowship, to share how profound personal suffering shaped both her faith and her calling. Reflecting on the loss of a close friend, her father's battle with cancer, and her journey through lament, Heather explains how God used Scripture—especially Romans 8 and the Psalms—to deepen her understanding of God's goodness and inspire a lifelong passion for helping others faithfully navigate suffering. 

Heather also traces her path from Moody Bible Institute to Dallas Theological Seminary and Wheaton College, where her a...

In this episode of the Pastor Theologians podcast, we welcome one of our own, Zach Wagner, to discuss his new book, Men of Virtue: How the Fruit of the Spirit Forms Male Character in the Modern World. Zach reflects on his decade of ministry with CPT, his transition into a new season, and the journey behind writing a book that reframes conversations about masculinity through the lens of Christian virtue.

Rather than focusing on cultural ideals of manhood, Zach explores how the fruit of the Spirit—love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, gentleness, and self-control—forms a distinctly Chri...

In this short bonus episode of the Pastor Theologians podcast, Jeff Hubing discusses preaching within the context of his network of house churches. He explains that pastoral leadership is not simply about delivering sermons but about equipping and empowering the whole church to participate in ministry. Jeff recommends Robert Banks’ Paul’s Idea of Community and Gordon Fee’s Paul, the Spirit, and the People of God as influential resources that shape his vision of church leadership, community, and Spirit-led ministry. 

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In this episode of the Pastor Theologians podcast, we invite Jeff Hubing to share his journey into pastoral ministry, shaped by personal tragedy, a deep love for Scripture, and a desire to connect theology with everyday life. He reflects on how his father’s faith influenced his calling, his theological studies, and his work leading a network of house churches in Chicago. Jeff discusses a vision of church leadership centered on family, discipleship, and raising up others—not simply gathering crowds, but equipping and releasing people for the work of ministry.

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In this short bonus episode of the Pastor Theologians podcast, Ben Espinoza shares the preaching resources that have shaped his ministry, highlighting John Stott’s Between Two Worlds and Haddon Robinson’s work on expository preaching. He discusses the importance of bridging Scripture and culture, understanding the world of the Bible alongside the world of today. Ben also reflects on how his Wesleyan theological journey has shaped his preaching through an emphasis on grace, dialogue, and engaging people where they are. 

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In this episode of the Pastor Theologians Podcast, we invite CPT fellow and Wesleyan pastor Ben Espinoza to talk about his new book, The Good News About Self-Care: How Nurturing Your Soul, Yourself, and Your Sanity Honors God. Ben shares his journey into ministry, theological formation, and the experiences that shaped his understanding of Christian self-care.

Ben reflects on how ministry pressures, ambition, and the COVID-19 pandemic exposed unhealthy patterns in his own life. He explains that self-care is not a secular pursuit of comfort, but a theological practice rooted in honoring the image of God within...

In this short bonus episode of the Pastor Theologians podcast, Cole Feix talks about a lesser-known preaching resource that has deeply shaped his ministry: The Pastor of Kilsyth by Islay Burns. Cole reflects on how the life of pastor W. H. Burns reshaped his understanding of preaching—not as a stand-alone skill, but as something rooted in faithful shepherding, pastoral care, and loving a congregation well. 

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In this episode of the CPT Podcast, we welcome Rev. Cole Feix, pastor of Carlton Landing Community Church and a member of the CPT’s St Irenaeus Fellowship. Cole shares his journey from faith exploration and theological formation to pastoral ministry in a unique new urbanist community.

Cole reflects on how intentional spaces, hospitality, and deep relationships create opportunities for spiritual growth, and how his experience pastoring in a walkable, close-knit town has shaped his understanding of the pastor theologian’s calling. We explore questions of place-making, community, discipleship, and what the church can learn from the envi...

In this short bonus interview, Rev. Dr. Ryan shares the influence of books like Haddon Robinson’s Biblical Preaching, Bryan Chapell’s Christ-Centered Preaching, John Stott’s Between Two Worlds, and Tim Keller’s Preaching, highlighting Christ-centered preaching, cultural engagement, and preaching as an encounter with God. Ryan reflects on how his approach has matured over time—from focusing heavily on sermon mechanics to embracing a more conversational, Spirit-led style of communication.

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When everything around a church is changing, how can it rediscover who God has called it to be? 

In this episode we welcome Rev. Dr. Ryan Jackson, Senior Pastor of the Capital Church near Raleigh, North Carolina, to talk about his experience in the CPT's first Church Identity Cohort.

Ryan reflects on 17 years of ministry through seasons of change, staff transitions, and post-pandemic challenges that prompted his church to revisit foundational questions of identity and mission. We discuss the connection between pastoral and ecclesial identity, the role of theological reflection in church life, and the i...

In this short bonus interview, Brad Embry reflects on how Rowan Williams’ Passions of the Soul sharpened his vision for integrating theology, spiritual formation, and pastoral ministry. 

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In this episode we welcome CPT Fellow Brad Embry, pastor of Missions and Outreach at St. Michael’s Anglican Church in Wisconsin. He shares his journey from biblical scholar to Pastor Theologian, reflecting on vocational discernment, transitioning away from academia, and finding a home in the Anglican tradition.

Listen as we discuss the relationship between theological scholarship and the local church, the future of theological education, and the vital role of pastor-theologians in serving God’s people.

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In this episode of the CPT Podcast, we welcome Gregg Allison to discuss his book Complementarity. Allison explains his vision of “complementarity” as a theological framework focused not on gender roles but on the shared dignity, difference, and interdependence of men and women as image-bearers of God. Drawing on biblical theology, church history, and contemporary debates, the conversation explores why identity must precede function, how Christians can move beyond polarized disputes over gender, and why mutual love and honor should be the foundation for discussions of men and women in the church. The episode offers pastors and church leaders a th...

In this episode of the CPT Podcast, we are joined by CPT Fellow pastor Dillon Thornton to discuss his new book, Deathly (De)Vices: Our Ever-Present Portals to Seven Ancient Sins. Drawing from pastoral ministry, personal experience, and the Christian tradition of the seven deadly sins, Thornton explores how smartphones, social media, and emerging technologies subtly deform our hearts and habits. The conversation ranges from envy and vainglory in online life to the spiritual dangers and promises of AI, offering thoughtful reflection on what technology is doing to our humanity, our churches, and our formation as followers of Christ.<...

A bonus conversation with CPT fellow Kyle Fever on life, preaching, books, and music.

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In this episode, we are joined by pastor theologian Kyle Fever to discuss his journey from a Lutheran upbringing and love of biblical scholarship into pastoral ministry. Kyle reflects on the shifting nature of vocation, the challenges of balancing academic aspirations with family life, and how his daughter’s traumatic brain injury profoundly reshaped his understanding of ministry, calling, and faithfulness.

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A short bonus conversation with CPT fellow Matthew LaMaster on a book that has influenced his preaching ministry and his aspiration to write his sermons six months before they are preached.

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In this episode of the CPT Podcast, Matt Lamaster discusses his path into pastoral ministry, from his upbringing in evangelical churches to serving as a pastor in rural Maine. He reflects on the challenges of his first pastorate, the lessons he learned through ministry and theological study, and how his work in the book of Hebrews has shaped his understanding of the pastor theologian’s calling. The conversation explores church leadership, theological formation, and perseverance in ministry.

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Joel Lawrence sits down with Rich Kidd of Mission Leadership to discuss the changing landscape of pastoral leadership. Drawing from years of experience in executive search and ministry, Kidd reflects on the growing need for shepherds, not just speakers, in ministry today, and the challenges churches face in identifying and supporting healthy leaders. How can churches engage in practices that appropriately vet candidates, build trust with congregations, and prioritize a relational approach to ministry?

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A short bonus episode where CPT fellow Joey Sherrard shares discusses St. Augustine's important book, On Christian Teaching.

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