The Learning Laborers

The Learning Laborers
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Denver is a missionary, Taylor is a pastor, and Matt is a professor. All of them, however, are passionate about bridging the gap between scholarship and ministry. They want to take the insights gained through academic study of the Bible and bring them directly to the fields of ministry. Sometimes Christians are led to believe they must choose between being a capable scholar and having a fruitful ministry. The Learning Laborers believe that the opposite is true. When brought together in the right way, scholarship enhances ministry and ministry experience also enhances biblical scholarship.

  1. 55 - Why Children’s Ministry Matters with Dr. Theresa Roberts

    ١٦ فبراير

    55 - Why Children’s Ministry Matters with Dr. Theresa Roberts

    Matt, Taylor, and Denver welcome Dr. Theresa Roberts (professor at Ozark Christian College) to discuss why children’s ministry is vital to a healthy church. Roberts argues that the most significant formation happens in the first 13 years of life, making the local church an essential partner - alongside parents - in building a strong foundation of faith and serving as an extended family for children. The conversation covers childhood development (including concrete vs. abstract thinking and how young children process Bible stories), the importance of careful, responsible teaching and vocabulary, and how children also disciple adults through curiosity and theological questions. Roberts critiques common curriculum trends from the past 20–30 years, including entertainment-driven programming, theme-based teaching that forces Bible stories to fit, and behaviorism that bypasses the character of God. She emphasizes asking, “What does this story teach about the character of God?” and highlights the value of live teaching over video-based lessons. We also discuss how to handle difficult biblical stories in age-appropriate ways, the need for children’s and student ministries to coordinate what is taught when, and other topics related to children's ministry. Follow The Learning Laborers on Substack! Support us on Patreon. Check out these recommended resources: Raising Disciples: Guiding Your Kids Into a Faith of Their Own by Teresa RobertsThe Bible Story Handbook by John Walton & Kim Walton00:00 Welcome Back + Why Children’s Ministry Matters (More Than ‘Goldfish’)02:09 Volunteer Shortage & A Call to Action for the Church04:16 Kids Today: A Different World (Tech, Social Media, Discipling Across Generations)05:46 Meet Dr. Theresa Roberts: Children’s Discipleship Expert08:30 Jesus Welcomes Children: The Biblical Case for Prioritizing Kids Ministry10:05 The First 13 Years: Research, Parents, and the Church as Extended Family14:20 Faith Stories from the Hosts: Raised in Church vs. Coming to Christ Later17:32 How Kids Think: Development, Concrete vs. Abstract, and Careful Theology24:32 Kids as the Church Now: Curiosity, Questions, and Mutual Discipleship30:05 From Knowing About God to Knowing God: Worship, Wonder, and Hearing the Spirit33:55 Identity in the Teen Years: Imago Dei as a Lifelong Anchor34:38 Beyond Indoctrination: Teaching Kids to Listen for God in Prayer36:27 Kids Are Watching: Modeling Scripture, Prayer, and Faith at Home38:30 Children’s Ministry Hot Take: When Curriculum Becomes Entertainment & Behaviorism44:05 Fixing the Focus: ‘Discover God’ and Live Teaching Over Screens47:01 Handling the Hard Bible Stories: Age-Appropriate Truth Without Sheltering55:22 Middle School Boys & Small Groups: Build Trust Through Play and Presence01:02:53 Final Charge: Be Intentional—Jesus Welcomes the Little Ones

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  2. 54 - Persecution and Suffering in 1 Peter: A Historical and Pastoral Examination

    ٢٦ يناير

    54 - Persecution and Suffering in 1 Peter: A Historical and Pastoral Examination

    In this episode of the Learning Laborers Podcast, Taylor hosts a conversation with Dr. Matthew McBirth on the themes of persecution and suffering faced by the recipients of 1 Peter. They delve into the historical and sociological contexts of early Christians, discussing how their faith led to social and cultural conflict. The episode surveys scriptural references and relevant historical background to offer nuanced insights into whether these early Christians experienced formal persecution. The discussion addresses the importance of understanding this context for modern-day believers and leaders, providing guidance on pastoral care and the appropriate Christian response to suffering and hostility. Resources mentioned: And Upon This RockChristian Persecution in Antiquity1 Peter by Williams and Horrell1 Peter by Karen Jobes1 Peter by Dennis Edwards1 Peter by Scot McKnight1 Peter by Craig KeenerTaylor's Substack 00:00 Introduction to the Learning Laborers Podcast 00:53 Opening Remarks and Episode Introduction 01:24 Reflecting on the Past Decade 02:07 Exploring First Peter's Political Instructions 03:14 Understanding the Suffering of First Peter's Recipients 04:41 The Social and Familial Conflicts Faced by Early Christians 05:57 Household Codes and Christian Practices 07:15 Public and Private Suffering in the Ancient World 11:12 Distinguishing Suffering from Persecution 17:25 The Importance of Contextualizing Early Christian Suffering 23:41 Debating the Nature of Persecution in First Peter 31:34 Introduction to the Discussion 32:56 Exploring Historical Context 33:26 The Role of Amanuensis in Letter Writing 35:07 Persecution in the Roman Empire 38:10 Pliny and Trajan Correspondence 42:33 Persecution Narratives in Acts 46:45 Economic and Religious Interconnections 49:59 Peter's Pastoral Instructions 53:26 Modern Reflections on Persecution 01:00:10 Conclusion and Recommendations

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  3. 53 - What Makes Jesus a Legitimate Messiah? (Christmas Special)

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    53 - What Makes Jesus a Legitimate Messiah? (Christmas Special)

    In this Christmas episode of the Learning Laborers podcast, Denver and Taylor explore the multi-dimensional nature of Jesus' Messiahship through the lens of Matthew 1-2. Drawing on the work of Novenson, they explore the dynamics of Second Temple Messiah figures - some of who claimed messiahship based on birth, others based on merit. All of these figures, though, are compared to David in one way or another. How does Jesus' birth story fit into this matrix of Messiahship? What makes Jesus the legitimate heir to David's throne? Tune in to to hear a fresh perspective on the Christmas story. The Grammar of Messianism by Matthew Novenson The True Meaning of Christmas by Michael Barber 00:00 Introduction to the Learning Laborers Podcast00:44 Christmas Greetings and Traditions02:20 Exploring Jesus as the Messiah06:39 Understanding the Term 'Messiah'10:16 Messianic Expectations in Second Temple Judaism16:57 Legitimizing Messianic Claims26:05 Matthew's Genealogical Claim for Jesus32:59 Jesus as the New David34:08 The Christmas Story and Prophecies35:06 Herod's Threat and Jesus' Early Life38:42 Jesus' Anointing and Baptism47:22 The Vulnerability of Baby Jesus49:26 Concluding Thoughts and Christmas Wishes

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  4. 52 - An Empathetic Reading of Scripture with Shane J. Wood

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    52 - An Empathetic Reading of Scripture with Shane J. Wood

    In this episode, Matt, Denver, and Taylor welcome Dr. Shane J. Wood, a professor of New Testament at Ozark Christian College and Lincoln Seminary. The discussion delves into Dr. Wood's unique approach to biblical interpretation, which emphasizes empathy and vulnerability. Drawing from his books like Thinning the Veil and ongoing works, Dr. Wood explains how understanding the humanity of biblical characters and allowing the text to unearth personal experiences can lead to profound transformation. The conversation also touches on the challenges and responsibilities of pastors in guiding their congregations through the scriptures. Resources and methods for deeply engaging with the Bible across its various genres are discussed, offering listeners practical insights for their own study and ministry. Thinning the Veil by Shane J. Wood Between Two Trees by Shane J. Wood The Drama of Ephesians by Timothy Gombis Shane's Website 00:00 Welcome to the Learning Laborers Podcast 00:51 Introducing the Hosts and Today's Episode 01:19 Conversation with Dr. Shane J Wood 03:15 Diving into Biblical Interpretation 06:21 Empathy and Vulnerability in Biblical Study 18:06 The Transformative Power of Scripture 40:34 Challenges in Pastoral Ministry 43:16 The Inner Journey and Empathy in Pastoral Work 44:35 Challenges in the Modern Pulpit 46:00 Personal Struggles and Authenticity 48:12 Addressing Congregational Needs and Identity 52:00 The Role of Story in Scripture and Ministry 56:46 Empathy and Understanding in Biblical Context 01:00:36 The Transformative Power of Scripture 01:06:23 Living Out the Biblical Narrative 01:21:35 Final Reflections and Encouragement for Pastors

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  5. 51 - Holy Embrace: Biblical Hospitality in its Ancient Context

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    51 - Holy Embrace: Biblical Hospitality in its Ancient Context

    What did authentic hospitality look like in the ancient world? What were the lifelong implications for those who engaged in hosting and being hosted? How can the church get back to its roots of hospitality today? These questions and more will be explored in this episode of the Learning Laborers, as Matt walks Denver and Taylor through the idea of biblical hospitality. This topic served as the central focus of Matt's doctoral research and so he brings some great insights for us to meditate on together. Resources Mentioned: Saved by Faith and Hospitality by Jipp Exclusion and Embrace by Volf Making Room by Pohl Please don't forget to follow, rate, and review the podcast on your preferred podcast platform. It goes a long way to getting the episodes in front of more learners and laborers!

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  6. 50 - Sacred Bedtime Stories: The Role of Sleep in the Bible

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    50 - Sacred Bedtime Stories: The Role of Sleep in the Bible

    In this episode, Denver invites Matt and Taylor into a discussion of the theme of sleep in the narratives of Scripture. They explore the various Old Testament stories that feature sleep, probing to understand what kind of role it tends to play in these moments of revelation, covenant-making, and vulnerability. These ideas are then brought into conversation with particular stories of Jesus that feature sleep, illustrating how being familiar with the themes and motifs of the Hebrew Bible makes us better readers of the New Testament. Resource Mentioned: Theosomnia: A Christian Theology of Sleep (Bishop) 00:00 Introduction and Episode Setup00:35 Discussing Sleep in the Bible05:40 Famous Sleep Stories in the Hebrew Bible07:23 Sleep as Opportunity for Divine Revelation and Covenant19:16 Sleep as Vulnerability in the Hebrew Bible28:01 Sleep and Death: A Metaphorical Connection35:04 Sleep in the New Testament36:42 Joseph's Dreams and Egypt Connection37:11 Jesus Describing Death as Sleep37:54 Sleep in the Parables of Jesus39:16 Mark 4: Sleeping in the Storm41:19 Jesus and Jonah: A Deeper Connection51:34 Mark 14: Sleep in the Garden of Gethsemane53:45 The Disciples' Weakness and Jesus' Resolve01:00:23 Theological Reflections and Conclusions01:12:37 Final Thoughts and Wrap-Up

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  7. 49 - Church Planting with Dr. Brenton Fessler

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    49 - Church Planting with Dr. Brenton Fessler

    In this episode of the Learning Laborers, hosts Matthew and Denver sit down with Dr. Brenton Fessler, lead pastor at Refuge OC in Orange, California. They discuss the journey and challenges of church planting, the importance of contextualization in ministry, and the key principles derived from Paul's missionary career in the book of Acts. Brenton shares personal anecdotes from his experience, including the unique approach his church has taken to sustain and grow in an expensive urban area. The conversation touches on the value of pastoral care, the significance of building community credibility, and the importance of mentorship and support for new church planters. Whether you're involved in ministry, considering church planting, or just intrigued by the integration of biblical scholarship with church planting principles, this episode will offer you valuable insight and encouragement. Brenton received a Doctor of Theological Ministry (New Testament Context) from Northern Seminary. He is also a contributing author to the volume And Upon this Rock⁠. Other Resources Mentioned: Pastor Paul by Scot McKnightThe First Urban Christians by Wayne Meeks 00:00 Introduction to the Learning Laborers Podcast00:34 Meet the Hosts and Today's Guest00:46 The Absence of Taylor and Its Impact02:02 Introducing Dr. Brenton Fessler02:34 Brenton's Journey to Church Planting03:19 The Practical Side of Church Planting04:54 Diving into the Podcast with Dr. Fessler06:38 The Early Days of Church Planting12:27 Challenges and Realities of Church Planting17:40 Building Community and Credibility21:27 Learning from the Book of Acts23:38 The Role of the Holy Spirit in Church Planting25:51 The Importance of Contextualization33:55 Collaborating with Other Churches34:47 The Importance of Diversity in Church Communities36:25 Promoting Other Churches in the Community37:05 Challenges and Competition in Church Planting38:37 Supporting New Church Plants41:06 The Role of a Parent Church45:27 Personal Reflections on Church Planting55:31 The Evolution of a Church Planter01:03:11 Encouragement for Aspiring Church Planters

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  8. 48 - Becoming God's Family with Carmen Joy Imes

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    48 - Becoming God's Family with Carmen Joy Imes

    The Learning Laborers podcast is honored to host Dr. Carmen Joy Imes. Carmen is an Old Testament professor at Biola University and in this episode, we discuss her forthcoming book - Becoming God's Family: Why the Church Still Matters (which you can pre-order here). The conversation covers the biblical foundation of the "family" metaphor for God's people, examining how both the Old and New Testament share this important motif. Just as the people of Israel formed a community around the presence of God, so too the church has been called to rally together as a family around Christ. Carmen also shares practical ways that churches can learn to foster community and wait on God together, while at the same time appreciating their place in the global family of God. Resources from Carmen: Becoming God's Family Torah Tuesday Video Series LL Episodes Mentioned: Transfiguration Episode⁠Matthew Kimbrough Interview⁠ Other Resources Mentioned: Churches and the Crisis of Decline by Andrew Root Paul and the Resurrection of Israel by Jason Staples The Wingfeather Saga by Andrew Peterson Exodus (The Story of God Bible Commentary) by Christopher J. H. Wright 00:00 Welcome to the Learning Laborers Podcast02:57 Introducing Dr. Carmen Joy IMEs and Her Work03:54 The Church's Identity and Mission: Old Testament Insights09:11 The Importance of Waiting and Faithfulness20:12 Practical Ways to Foster a Posture of Waiting in Church26:11 The Role of Worship and Community in Spiritual Growth37:05 The Analogy of Drifting Off Course38:40 The Ark of the Covenant and Its Significance42:36 Jesus and the Reconstitution of Israel49:50 Challenges of Consumerism in the Church50:56 Practical Steps for Church Unity01:00:17 The Global Family of God01:04:47 Lightning Round and Final Thoughts

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Denver is a missionary, Taylor is a pastor, and Matt is a professor. All of them, however, are passionate about bridging the gap between scholarship and ministry. They want to take the insights gained through academic study of the Bible and bring them directly to the fields of ministry. Sometimes Christians are led to believe they must choose between being a capable scholar and having a fruitful ministry. The Learning Laborers believe that the opposite is true. When brought together in the right way, scholarship enhances ministry and ministry experience also enhances biblical scholarship.

المعلومات

  • صناع العمل
    The Learning Laborers
  • سنوات النشاط
    ٢٠٢٢ - ٢٠٢٦
  • الحلقات
    ٥٦
  • التقييم
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    © The Learning Laborers
  • موقع البرنامج على الويب
    The Learning Laborers

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