
Hosted by Mike Neglia · EN

Recorded at the Expositors Collective gathering in Longmont, Colorado, this panel discussion helps pastors and Bible teachers think carefully about how Scripture has been understood, preserved, and proclaimed throughout church history, and why those distinctions still matter for ministry today.The conversation begins with practical clarity around the Apocrypha. The panel explains what the Apocryphal books are, how they relate to the biblical canon, and why pastors should understand their historical role without confusion or alarmism. Rather than treating the topic as merely academic, the speakers show how these questions directly affect pastoral confidence and congregational trust.From there, the discussion broadens to the role of church councils in defining and guarding Christian doctrine. Listeners are reminded that the core beliefs of the faith were not invented late, but carefully articulated in response to real theological challenges. Even historical heresies, the panel argues, served the church by forcing clarity about what Christians believe and why.A major emphasis throughout the session is the importance of distinguishing teaching from preaching. The panel explores why Bible studies should prioritise understanding rather than monologue, and why sermons must move beyond explanation to proclamation. Pastors are encouraged to be clear about their aim in each context, recognising that clarity serves both faithfulness and fruitfulness.The conversation also calls pastors to humility, urging them to learn from faithful voices of the past rather than assuming novelty equals faithfulness. Church history is presented not as a museum of dead ideas, but as a living resource that strengthens discernment and safeguards the gospel.The session concludes with a pastoral appeal for brokenhearted preachers who do more than convey information. The church does not merely need accurate teachers, but faithful proclaimers who handle the truth carefully and speak it with conviction, compassion, and love.For information about our upcoming training events visit ExpositorsCollective.com Join our private Facebook group to continue the conversation: https://www.facebook.com/groups/ExpositorsCollective

In this episode of the Expositors Collective podcast, Jeff Figgs offers a sober and deeply pastoral charge drawn from Paul’s final words to Timothy in 2 Timothy 3:10-11. Speaking from decades of ministry experience, Jeff reminds listeners that Christian leadership is ultimately measured not by recognition or platform, but by faithfulness, character, and endurance.Jeff serves as Senior Pastor of Calvary Chapel Greeley, where he has faithfully taught verse-by-verse through all 66 books of the Bible over the past 28 years. Ordained in 1992, he began the church in 1996 with a small Bible study that grew into a thriving congregation. He also hosts the radio programme Under the Fig Tree, co-hosts Calvary Live on GraceFM Colorado, and serves as a chaplain for the Weld County Sheriff’s Office. That long obedience in ministry gives particular weight to this exhortation.The session is set in the context of Paul’s final imprisonment in Rome. Knowing that his life is drawing to a close, Paul writes to Timothy, his “son in the faith,” warning that the last days will be perilous times. Paul describes a culture marked by misdirected love, counterfeit spirituality, and people who are always learning but never arriving at the truth. Against that backdrop, Paul draws a sharp contrast: “But you have carefully followed…”From there, Jeff walks through the qualities Timothy had observed firsthand in Paul.First, doctrine. Timothy had carefully followed Paul’s teaching from the time he joined him in Lystra on the second missionary journey. Sound doctrine is shown to be essential, not optional. Drawing from Acts 20 and 2 Timothy 2:15, Jeff emphasises diligent study, faithful preparation, and rightly dividing the Word of truth. Congregations, he notes, can tell when the hard work has been done, and the goal is not to impress with humour or stories, but to leave people saying, “We heard from God.”Second, manner of life. Paul does not only point to what he taught, but how he lived. This unique phrase highlights the inseparable connection between message and messenger. Referencing passages such as 1 Corinthians 11:1 and Acts 20:18, Jeff stresses that a godly message must come from a godly life. The call is searching and personal: to be the same person outside the pulpit as inside it, so that those closest to us would never say, “Not you, pastor.”Third, purpose. Ministry is framed as stewardship rather than self-promotion. Faithfulness, not fame, is the true measure of success. Jeff reflects on the seasons of ministry that shape character over time, including suffering, grief, discouragement, and perseverance. He urges leaders to maintain a genuine devotional life, not merely study for sermons, reminding listeners that we cannot lead others where we ourselves are not walking.Throughout the session, one theme remains clear: godly character matters because we carry a godly message. In a world of perilous times and noisy voices, light does not argue, it is seen. Faithful ministry flows from lives shaped by the Word of God, empowered by the Spirit of God, and marked by humility, love, endurance, and integrity.This episode is a timely reminder that the church does not primarily need famous leaders, but faithful ones, men and women who will handle the Scriptures carefully and live them visibly, for the sake of the next generation.Jeff Figgs in 2019 on speech impediments, introversion and the call of God: https://open.spotify.com/episode/3lirX6nlgYk1XDRHlIZsWM?si=515c1d9e1c7c4831For information about our upcoming training events visit ExpositorsCollective.com Join our private Facebook group to continue the conversation: https://www.facebook.com/groups/ExpositorsCollective

Ministry Mentorship: Why Leaders Must Stay Teachablewith Bryan StuparIn this episode of the Expositors Collective podcast, Bryan Stupar reflects on pastoral and ministry mentorship, not as a leadership technique or growth strategy, but as a deeply biblical, historical, and relational pattern of discipleship.Drawing from Scripture, church history, and decades of pastoral experience, Bryan argues that formation in ministry requires proximity, humility, and a posture of lifelong learning. Mentorship, he suggests, is not optional for Christian leaders because even Jesus, in His humanity, learned obedience through suffering. If growth and formation marked the life of Christ, how much more must leaders remain teachable.Bryan begins by rooting mentorship in the Great Commission, showing that discipleship necessarily involves teaching, modelling, and replication. He then explores the relationship between Paul and Timothy as an example of life-on-life formation that extends far beyond content delivery to include conduct, character, faith, and endurance.The episode also addresses the cultural challenges facing leaders today, particularly the pull of expressive individualism and self-centred leadership. Bryan contrasts this with the way of Jesus, which calls leaders to humility, service, and continual growth rather than performance and self-promotion.Along the way, he traces the historical roots of mentorship, from Homer’s Odyssey to pivotal Christian relationships such as Ambrose and Augustine, showing how faithful investment in others has shaped the church across generations. He then turns practical, highlighting the benefits of mentorship: growth through feedback, grace-filled support, and guidance through modelling.Bryan closes with personal reflections from his own pastoral journey, sharing how mentors shaped him through honest conversations, observation, and lived example. His encouragement is simple but challenging: none of us grow alone, and faithful ministry requires inviting trusted voices to speak into our lives.This conversation is a reminder that Christian leadership is formed over time, in community, and always with Jesus as the aim.For information about our upcoming training events visit ExpositorsCollective.com Join our private Facebook group to continue the conversation: https://www.facebook.com/groups/ExpositorsCollective

In this rebroadcast of a classic episode (from September of 2022) of the Expositors Collective Podcast, Dr. Bryan Chapell joins Mike to discuss the vital role of pastoral care and the irreplaceable power of love in pastoral ministry. Dr. Chapell is an internationally recognized preacher, teacher, and author who currently leads the Administrative Committee of the Presbyterian Church in America. He serves as Pastor Emeritus of the historic Grace Presbyterian Church in Peoria, Illinois, and President Emeritus of Covenant Theological Seminary in St. Louis, Missouri. In addition, he teaches on the faculties of numerous seminaries and Bible colleges worldwide and leads pastors’ conferences across the globe each year. Dr. Chapell is also the founder and host of Unlimited Grace, a Bible teaching programme heard across the United States and in over 80 countries, and available online. His many books, including Christ-Centered Preaching, Holiness by Grace, and The Hardest Sermons You’ll Ever Have to Preach, have established him as one of the foremost homiletics instructors of this generation. Join us as Dr. Chapell shares his passion for communicating the transformative truth of God’s grace, which brings joy and peace to those who embrace it. Dr. Chapell and his wife, Kathy, are blessed with four adult children, a growing number of grandchildren, and lives filled with faith, friends, and fishing. Additional Resources: Grace at Work: Redeeming the grind and glory of your job https://www.crossway.org/books/grace-at-work-tpb/ Preparation and Delivery of Sermons Course: https://www.bryanchapell.com/course-sign-up-prep-and-del Application for Empowered Preaching : https://www.bryanchapell.com/course-sign-up-application-for-empowered-preaching Principles and Practice of Sermon Writing and Delivery, Exploring the Unifying Aspect of Grace that Binds all of Scripture Together : https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/course/christ-centered-preaching/ Recommended Episodes: Pastoral Ministry Beyond the Pulpit: https://cgnmedia.org/podcast/expositors-collective/episode/pastoral-ministry-beyond-the-pulpit-brian-brodersen-kike-tores-richard-cimino-manolo-matos Calvin Wittman: https://cgnmedia.org/podcast/expositors-collective/episode/anchoring-truth-from-reporting-the-news-to-preaching-the-good-news David Jackman : https://cgnmedia.org/podcast/expositors-collective/episode/impository-preaching-and-how-to-avoid-it ————— For information about our upcoming training events visit ExpositorsCollective.com The Expositors Collective podcast is part of the CGNMedia, Working together to proclaim the Gospel, make disciples, and plant churches. For more content like this, visit https://cgnmedia.org/ Join our private Facebook group to continue the conversation: https://www.facebook.com/groups/ExpositorsCollective Donate to support the work of Expositors Collective, in person training events and a free weekly podcast: https://cgn.churchcenter.com/giving/to/expositors-collective

Gospel Sanity in a World Gone Mad – This is what Ray Ortlund Jr. aims to offer to the next generation of pastors and leaders. In this conversation with Mike, he discusses the profound value of remembering his own mortality, the importance of gathering and "gospelling" young men, and the encouragement that Christ Himself is preaching through us as we exposit the Word. Ray also shares insights from his latest book, co-authored with Sam Allberry, You're Not Crazy - Gospel Sanity for Weary Churches. In this practical guide, seasoned pastors Ray Ortlund and Sam Allberry help weary leaders renew their love for ministry by equipping them to build a gospel-centered culture into every aspect of their churches. They emphasize that while healthy doctrine is crucial, failing to nurture a healthy culture can lead to frustration, division, and even unbiblical practices. The book provides Scripture-focused advice on honesty, honour, preaching, leadership, and mission, helping leaders regain a beautiful, Christ-centered vision for their ministries. This episode, originally released earlier this year, was the most downloaded episode of 2024. We’re re-releasing it this December to celebrate its impact and ensure even more people benefit from Ray’s wisdom and encouragement. Resources Mentioned: You're Not Crazy book: https://www.crossway.org/books/youre-not-crazy-tpb/ You're Not Crazy Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/2gjO1xAJVSomEdK6dVwnQh?si=1f98570e2bfd4972 Father Mapple's Sermon from Moby Dick: https://etc.usf.edu/lit2go/42/moby-dick/634/chapter-9-the-sermon/ J.I. Packer on Prayer: https://www.ivpress.com/praying Tim Keller - Gospel Christianity Discussion Guide: https://gospelinlife.com/study/gospel-christianity-i-gospel-the-heart-group-study-product/ John Stott on 1 Timothy: https://www.ivpress.com/the-message-of-1-timothy-titus-ebook J.N.D. Kelley on 1 Timothy https://archive.org/details/commentaryonpast00kell/page/n5/mode/2up Recommended Episodes: Ray Ortlund - Leaving Behind our Hidden Shame for His Glorious Grace: https://open.spotify.com/episode/2f8oJk5yovK4D4HDGCqsk8?si=69ef2f62acef4b03 John Koessler - Preaching that is Prayerful and Priestly: https://open.spotify.com/episode/43i46Oq38Zp1suugyQZ6YT?si=47217d32bc2a401d Sam Allberry - Embodied Preaching: https://open.spotify.com/episode/0dtYypnuUzt1kocjYwDDdk?si=6b8dd4c5e768418a For information about our upcoming training events visit ExpositorsCollective.com The Expositors Collective podcast is part of the CGNMedia, Working together to proclaim the Gospel, make disciples, and plant churches. For more content like this, visit https://cgnmedia.org/ Join our private Facebook group to continue the conversation: https://www.facebook.com/groups/ExpositorsCollective Donate to support the work of Expositors Collective, in person training events and a free weekly podcast: https://cgn.churchcenter.com/giving/to/expositors-collective

Dr Alan Stoddard explores the creation of an exegetical sermon outline and its transformation into a preaching outline, offering key insights to enrich your personal study and public speaking. His message includes valuable lessons from his time at Gordon Conwell Theological Seminary under the late Haddon Robinson, along with effective strategies for introductions and applications. This recording was made at our 2023 training event hosted at The Creek Church in Indianapolis, Indiana. Alan has a passion for disciple-making. He has been a pastor for 34 years. He knows the difference between church growth and disciple-making. His passion for disciple making encompasses three things: Good preaching. Intentional disciple-making. Sermon based small-groups. Alan is a graduate of Southwestern Seminary as well as Gordon Conwell Theological Seminary. He teaches online as a adjoint professor for the Calvary Chapel, Bible College, and for Rockbridge Seminary. Alan has been married to Jeana for 37 years. They met her a blind date. Through her he came to know Christ. Alan is the father of Briana who is 23 years old and is about to graduate with a four-year degree debt-free. He is so proud of her. Alan's latest book NEW BELIEVER: How to disciple new believers : https://www.amazon.com/NEW-BELIEVER-How-disciple-believers/dp/B0D91NPLQ8?ref_=ast_author_dp Expositors Collective is an initiative of Calvary Global Network, CGN is a family of churches working together to proclaim the gospel, make disciples and plant churches - thanks for being a part of what we are doing. Suggested Episodes: Alan Stoddard on sermon-based small groups: https://cgnmedia.org/podcast/expositors-collective/episode/sermon-based-small-groups-alan-stoddard Steve Matthewson on lessons learned from Haddon Robinson : https://cgnmedia.org/podcast/expositors-collective/episode/sermon-introductions-and-illustrations-lessons-learned-from-haddon-robinson-and-preaching-the-old-testament Nick Cady on sermon outlines: https://cgnmedia.org/podcast/expositors-collective/episode/episode-64-start-with-the-destination-in-mind ————— For information about our upcoming training events visit ExpositorsCollective.com The Expositors Collective podcast is part of the CGNMedia, Working together to proclaim the Gospel, make disciples, and plant churches. For more content like this, visit https://cgnmedia.org/ Join our private Facebook group to continue the conversation: https://www.facebook.com/groups/ExpositorsCollective Donate to support the work of Expositors Collective, in person training events and a free weekly podcast: https://cgn.churchcenter.com/giving/to/expositors-collective

In this episode, Mike Neglia sits down with Calvin Whittman, the pastor of Green Valley Baptist Church in Henderson, Nevada, to discuss his unique journey to the pulpit and his approach to gospel-centred preaching. Calvin reflects on how his diverse experiences—from serving in the Navy to working as a television and radio news anchor—shaped his communication skills and informed his preaching style. They explore Calvin's emphasis on expository preaching, his disciplined preparation process, and the importance of connecting every sermon to the gospel. Calvin shares practical insights on crafting sermons that are both theologically rich and engaging, including the role of conciseness, transitions, and structure in maintaining audience attention. He also speaks candidly about allowing the Word of God to convict him personally before delivering it to others. Throughout the conversation, Calvin highlights the centrality of the Bible in his preaching, reading full passages to allow Scripture's power to shine through. Whether you're a preacher or someone interested in learning how to communicate with clarity and purpose, this episode is filled with wisdom and encouragement. Bio for Calvin Whittman Calvin Whittman is the pastor of Green Valley Baptist Church in Henderson, Nevada, where he is known for his clear, gospel-centred preaching and his commitment to expository teaching. Calvin felt called to preach at the age of 12, but his journey to the pulpit took him through diverse experiences, including serving in the Navy and working as a television and radio news anchor. His time in broadcast media sharpened his skills in communication, conciseness, and audience engagement—qualities that now define his preaching style. At Green Valley Baptist, Calvin preaches through books of the Bible sequentially, focusing on exposing the truth of the text, connecting it to the gospel, and applying it to contemporary life. His sermons combine thoughtful exegesis, theological depth, and practical application, with a strong emphasis on Christological connections. A disciplined writer, Calvin prepares detailed sermon manuscripts, carefully structuring his messages to ensure clarity and flow. With over 25 years of preaching experience, Calvin continues to grow in his craft, blending theological conviction with engaging delivery. He is passionate about helping others see the power of God’s Word to transform lives, always pointing to the ultimate provision of salvation in Jesus Christ. You can listen to Calvin's sermons here: https://mygvbc.com/ For information about our upcoming training events visit ExpositorsCollective.com The Expositors Collective podcast is part of the CGNMedia, Working together to proclaim the Gospel, make disciples, and plant churches. For more content like this, visit https://cgnmedia.org/ Join our private Facebook group to continue the conversation: https://www.facebook.com/groups/ExpositorsCollective Donate to support the work of Expositors Collective, in person training events and a free weekly podcast: https://cgn.churchcenter.com/giving/to/expositors-collective

In a culture addicted to fast food and instant gratification, are we falling into the same trap when it comes to sermons? In this episode, Pastor Mike Chaddick draws a fascinating parallel between the shallow nourishment of fast food and the modern demand for quick, easy-to-digest preaching. Recorded live at the Expositors Collective preacher training event in Indianapolis, Indiana, Mike challenges us to dig deeper into Scripture using the inductive Bible study method—a three-step process of observation, interpretation, and application. Discover how studying the Bible through the lens of language, grammar, historical context, and genre can lead to sermons that nourish and transform. Mike also highlights the value of consulting multiple Bible translations and offers practical tips for interpreting Scripture through a gospel-centered, doctrinally sound lens. Whether you’re a seasoned expositor or just starting out, this session is packed with insights to help you teach the Word with depth, clarity, and life-changing impact. Don’t miss this thought-provoking episode as we continue to share sessions from our October 2023 event in the Hoosier State. --- About Mike Chaddick Pastor Mike Chaddick is the senior pastor of Image Church in San Juan Capistrano, CA, and a regular contributor to the live radio show *Pastors Perspective* on KWAVE 107.9FM. Raised as a pastor’s kid in the Calvary Chapel movement, Mike had a powerful conversion experience after years of drifting from his faith. With ministerial degrees from Vanguard University, Veritas Evangelical Seminary, and Fuller Theological Seminary, he brings a wealth of theological training and practical experience to his ministry. Mike is currently pursuing a Doctor of Ministry degree and is passionate about writing, fitness, and spending time with his wife, Beth, and their six children. Recommended Episodes: Treat Your Text Like a Crime Scene: https://cgnmedia.org/podcast/expositors-collective/episode/episode-88-treat-your-text-like-a-crime-scene-bonus-episode How to Interpret and Apply the Bible: https://cgnmedia.org/podcast/expositors-collective/episode/how-to-interpret-and-apply-the-bible-cody-king For information about our upcoming training events visit ExpositorsCollective.com The Expositors Collective podcast is part of the CGNMedia, Working together to proclaim the Gospel, make disciples, and plant churches. For more content like this, visit https://cgnmedia.org/ Join our private Facebook group to continue the conversation: https://www.facebook.com/groups/ExpositorsCollective Donate to support the work of Expositors Collective, in person training events and a free weekly podcast: https://cgn.churchcenter.com/giving/to/expositors-collective

In this episode of the Expositors Collective podcast, Mike Neglia interviews David Jackman about his preaching journey and insights from his book Proclaiming the Word. Jackman recounts his early preaching experiences and the influence of mentors like J.I. Packer and Alec Motyer. He emphasizes the balance of hard work and dependence on the Holy Spirit, stressing the importance of thorough sermon preparation. Drawing on the impact of influential figures like John Stott and Chuck Smith, Jackman discusses the growth and challenges of expository preaching and the need for biblically centered sermons. David Jackman shares practical insights on staying "on the line of the text," ensuring that Scripture remains central, and contrasts this approach with preaching styles that either add to or subtract from the Bible. The discussion also touches on Chuck Smith's and Stott’s commitment to letting the Bible speak for itself. Jackman discusses the global spread of expository preaching and its ongoing relevance in addressing cultural challenges. Biography: David Jackman, born in 1942, studied at Downing College, Cambridge, and completed theological training under J.I. Packer and Alec Motyer at Trinity College, Bristol. He served as senior minister at Above Bar Church in Southampton before founding the Cornhill Training Course in 1991 under Dick Lucas, training evangelical preachers in exegesis and communication. Jackman has also written several expository works and served as president of The Proclamation Trust. He currently teaches at Oak Hill Theological College and continues to contribute to evangelical preaching through books and conferences. For more resources, visit: Cornhill Training Course : https://www.proctrust.org.uk/cornhill.php Crossway - Proclaiming the Word : https://www.crossway.org/books/proclaiming-the-word-tpb/ Proclamation Trust: https://www.proctrust.org.uk/index.php Christopher Ash Interview : https://cgnmedia.org/podcast/expositors-collective/episode/seeing-christ-in-the-psalms-avoiding-burnout-and-pastoral-preaching-with-christopher-ash Mentoring the Next Generation of Bible Teachers: https://cgnmedia.org/podcast/expositors-collective/episode/from-age-to-age-mentoring-the-next-generation-of-bible-teachers Support the work of Expositors Collective: https://cgn.churchcenter.com/giving/to/expositors-collective For information about our upcoming training events visit ExpositorsCollective.com The Expositors Collective podcast is part of the CGNMedia, Working together to proclaim the Gospel, make disciples, and plant churches. For more content like this, visit https://cgnmedia.org/ Join our private Facebook group to continue the conversation: https://www.facebook.com/groups/ExpositorsCollective

In this episode of the Expositors Collective Podcast, Mike Neglia interviews Dr. Douglas D. Webster, professor of pastoral theology and preaching at Beeson Divinity School. Dr. Webster reflects on his personal journey into preaching, sharing his early experiences and the wisdom he gained from seasoned pastors. They discuss the prophetic and pastoral aspects of preaching, with Dr. Webster emphasizing the necessity of taking the Word of God seriously in every sermon. He shares insights into the different preaching styles, comparing "rock quarry" and "art gallery" approaches to communication. Dr. Webster also explores the unique challenges of preaching parables and the importance of understanding their Old Testament roots. They discuss the balance between engaging the audience and ensuring faithfulness to the text, highlighting the contrast between implicit and explicit communication in preaching. Personal preaching styles, the importance of manuscripting, and the role of self-denial in delivering effective messages are central themes throughout the conversation. Douglas D. Webster (Ph.D., University of St. Michael’s College) is professor of pastoral theology and preaching at Beeson Divinity School, Samford University. He served as pastor of First Presbyterian Church of San Diego for fourteen years, as well as churches in New York City, Denver, and Toronto. His books include Follow the Lamb: A Pastoral Approach to The Revelation and Preaching Hebrews: The End of Religion and Faithfulness to the End. Resources Mentioned: More Than a Sermon: https://blog.lexhampress.com/2024/05/09/more-than-a-sermon-an-interview-with-doug-webster/ The Parables: Jesus's Friendly Subversive Speech: https://www.kregel.com/douglas-d-webster/the-parables/ Hope, Suffering and Glory - CGN's recent conference based on 1 Peter: https://cgn.org/2024archives/ Beeson Divinity School: https://www.samford.edu/beeson-divinity/ Fellow Beeson Professor Gerald Bray's episode about learning preaching from Chrysostom: https://cgnmedia.org/podcast/expositors-collective/episode/pastoral-preaching-brevity-and-john-chrysostom-gerald-bray For 30% off More than A Sermon, visit: www.LexhamPress.com/Expositors in the month of November for a 30% discount Support the Cause: https://cgn.churchcenter.com/giving/to/expositors-collective For information about our upcoming training events visit ExpositorsCollective.com The Expositors Collective podcast is part of the CGNMedia, Working together to proclaim the Gospel, make disciples, and plant churches. For more content like this, visit https://cgnmedia.org/ Join our private Facebook group to continue the conversation: https://www.facebook.com/groups/ExpositorsCollective