What Do You Say When the World is Watching? Pastoral Wisdom in Crisis | The Church Resource Podcast
Release Date: 10/07/2025
The Church Resource
In this episode, Lucas Pinckard and Dr. Chris Respass dive into the challenge of filling the pulpit. They discuss why pastors need time off, how to find and prepare guest preachers, and what to do when things don’t go as planned—while keeping the focus on faithfully preaching the gospel. If you have any recommendations for Lucas Pinckard and Dr. Chris Respass email us at TheChurchResource@gmail.com
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In this episode of The Church Resource, Lucas Pinckard and Dr. Chris Respass share practical insights on how to approach guest preaching with wisdom and humility. From asking the right questions and choosing the right message to understanding church culture and managing expectations, they cover what it takes to serve another congregation well. Whether you’re new to guest preaching or have years of experience, this episode will help you prepare effectively, avoid common mistakes, and honor the trust you’ve been given. If you have any recommendations for Lucas Pinckard and Dr. Chris Respass...
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What does biblical manhood actually look like today? In this episode, Lucas Pinckard and Chris Respass explore Mansfield’s Book of Manly Men by Stephen Mansfield, a practical resource for building strong, godly men. They discuss its core principles, the importance of friendship and mentorship, and how it helps redefine masculinity with balance, purpose, and faith. Perfect for fathers, leaders, and men’s groups looking for a clear, approachable discipleship tool. If you have any recommendations for Lucas Pinckard and Dr. Chris Respass email us at TheChurchResource@gmail.com
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In this episode of The Church Resource, we discuss the balance between compassion and common sense in ministry. How do you care for people deeply without becoming overwhelmed or ineffective? Through real-life examples, we explore emotional boundaries, wise stewardship, and why sometimes the most compassionate answer is “no.” If you have any recommendations for Lucas Pinckard and Dr. Chris Respass email us at TheChurchResource@gmail.com
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In this episode of The Church Resource, we take a deep dive into one of the most powerful and overlooked tools for studying the Psalms: The Treasury of David by Charles Spurgeon. This isn’t your typical commentary. Spurgeon combines detailed exposition, insights from historic theologians, and practical “hints for preachers” to create something far richer—more like an encyclopedia for understanding and teaching the Psalms. We talk through what makes this resource unique, how it’s structured, and why it can transform your personal study, devotional life, or sermon preparation. Whether...
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In this episode, we tackle a question every pastor and church leader faces: when is it a “my decision” vs. an “our decision”? From governance structures to real-life leadership challenges, we unpack why involving others in decision-making isn’t just helpful—it’s essential. We share practical insights from years of ministry experience, including how collaboration builds trust, creates better outcomes, and strengthens unity within your leadership team. We also discuss the role of accountability, the importance of wise counsel, and how “holy dissenters” can actually protect your...
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How should pastors and church leaders pray for their congregations—especially when there isn’t a specific request? In this episode of The Church Resource, we dive into the practical and biblical side of praying for the people under our care. We discuss the difference between praying for specific needs and praying generally for a congregation, and why both matter. Looking at examples from Scripture—especially the prayers of Paul and the Psalms—we explore simple frameworks that can help pastors, prayer teams, and church members pray more intentionally. We also talk about real-life...
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Are church events really worth it? In this episode of The Church Resource, we have an honest conversation about the role of events in church life. From lock-ins and concerts to conferences and community nights, many churches have built their ministries around events—but are they actually helping people grow, or just burning out volunteers? We talk about the balance between event-driven ministry and churches that avoid events altogether. The key isn’t doing more events—it’s doing the right events with a clear purpose. In this discussion, we cover: - How to know if an event is truly...
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How to Prepare for Resurrection Sunday | Practical + Spiritual Prep In this episode of The Church Resource, Lucas Pinckard and Dr. Chris Respass talk about how churches can prepare for Resurrection Sunday — without overcomplicating it. Is there really a difference between practical and spiritual preparation? How much is too much production? Should you preach a special Easter sermon? And why must the resurrection be preached every single week? If you have any recommendations for Lucas Pinckard and Dr. Chris Respass email us at TheChurchResource@gmail.com
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In this episode of The Church Resource, we tackle the growing interest in the early Church Fathers — the Christian leaders writing in the first few centuries after the apostles. How should we read figures like Augustine of Hippo? Is studying early church history necessary, helpful, or potentially misleading? We discuss why Scripture must remain primary, how doctrine developed over time, common pitfalls (like elevating historical writings to the level of the Bible), and the encouragement we can draw from the bold faith of early believers. We also mention resources like the Center for the...
info_outlineIn this deeply honest and theologically grounded episode of The Church Resource, hosts Lucas Pinckard and Dr. Chris Respass tackle one of the most difficult questions facing pastors, church leaders, and believers today:
How should the church respond to major cultural events—especially tragic or polarizing ones like the assassination of Charlie Kirk?
With humility and wisdom drawn from decades of pastoral experience, they explore the spiritual and practical challenges of preaching through moments of national crisis, political upheaval, and cultural division. From shepherding a congregation with diverse perspectives to discerning what belongs in the pulpit versus what’s best left to private counseling or podcast commentary, Lucas and Chris dive into the hard questions—without offering easy answers.
Together, they reflect on three key groups present in every church during cultural moments:
- Those emotionally or politically invested
- Those with opposing views who still grieve as Christians
- And those caught off guard, confused, or unaware
Their message? Every response must begin not with outrage or opinion, but with humble submission to the Word of God.
Throughout the conversation, they stress a central truth: the gospel must shape how we view culture—not the other way around. Whether you're preaching, counseling, parenting, or mentoring, the goal is the same—proclaim Christ, point to hope, and stand firm in truth while loving the people God has given you to shepherd.
They also unpack the idea that not all events deserve pulpit time, and that pastors are not cowards for focusing on Christ instead of commentary. In fact, courage can look very different depending on the congregation and the context.
Other key themes include:
- Understanding your flock and their expectations
- The dangers of performative preaching
- The pressure to appease versus the call to obey
How God often aligns scripture with culture through His sovereignty Why it’s okay to leave some people disappointed—if faithfulness to God is the goal Lucas and Chris don’t shy away from the painful side of ministry, either—acknowledging the hurt that can come from being “bitten by the sheep.” But they remind viewers that shepherds are called to love and lead regardless, and to expect hardship while clinging to hope.
Whether you're a lead pastor, a youth leader, a Bible teacher, or a believer trying to make sense of a divided world, this conversation will equip and encourage you to stand firm, stay grounded, and speak truth in love—no matter how loud the culture gets.
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