Local Theologians

A podcast for everyday Christians and ministry leaders from Midwestern Seminary's Global Campus, hosted by Travis Montgomery. The Global Campus offers fully online, highly contextualized, biblically sound degrees in theology, ministry, philosophy, business, communications, and more from Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary and Spurgeon College. Learn more at mbts.edu/global.

Local Theologians is a religion podcast hosted by Unknown Host, with 44 episodes on record and a Required Pod Score of 80.

Unknown Host hosts Local Theologians, a religion show with 44 episodes published.

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  Episode #1

  Mentorship Makes the Difference | A Conversation with Michael McEwen

  Sep 28, 202632 minS2

  In this episode of Local Theologians, Dr. Travis Montgomery is joined by Dr. Michael McEwen, publisher of B&H Academic, pastor of Hickory Grove Baptist Church, and author of The Devil Reads Nietzsche: A Public Theology for the Post-Christian Age (B&H Academic). Together they discuss the influence of faithful mentors and reflect on the professors, pastors, and teachers who helped shape Michael’s spiritual, intellectual, and ministerial development. Drawing from his time in seminary, Michael shares how relationships with three professors helped cultivate a deeper love for Scripture, theology, philosophy, church history, and Christian discipleship. Their conversation explores the importance of mentorship, hospitality, intellectual curiosity, and Christlike leadership. Travis and Michael discuss the biblical call to imitate faithful examples, the value of asking difficult questions, and the responsibility Christian leaders have to invest in the next generation. The episode also examines the role of theological education in forming both character and conviction, highlighting how faithful teachers can influence a lifetime of ministry and service. About the Podcast Local Theologians is a podcast for everyday Christians and ministry leaders from Midwestern Seminary's Global Campus. Learn more about online theological education at mbts.edu/global. Keywords Michael McEwen, mentorship, discipleship, theological education, Christian formation, seminary, Christian leadership, hospitality, ministry, pastoral ministry, church history, philosophy, theology, The Devil Reads Nietzsche, Christian character Takeaways Faithful mentors help shape both Christian character and theological conviction. The biblical call to imitate faithful examples remains central to discipleship and ministry. Great teachers welcome honest questions and invest personally in their students. Hospitality is an essential component of mentorship and Christian formation. Theological education extends beyond the classroom through mentorship and relationships. Christian leaders should cultivate patience, humility, and a willingness to guide others. Meaningful discipleship often develops through long-term investment rather than short-term influence. Students should take initiative in seeking wisdom from faithful teachers and mentors. Christian scholarship should ultimately serve the church and strengthen faithful witness. Following Christ includes helping others grow in knowledge, wisdom, and Christian maturity.

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  Episode #8

  The Death of Religion? Not Exactly. | A Conversation with Thomas Kidd

  Sep 21, 202635 minS2

  In this episode of Local Theologians, Dr. Travis Montgomery is joined by Dr. Thomas Kidd, Research Professor of Church History at Midwestern Seminary and co-author of The Death of Religion? Nones, Others, and the Flourishing of Faith. Drawing from historical research and contemporary sociological data, Dr. Kidd challenges common narratives about the decline of Christianity in America. Together they explore the rise of the religious “nones,” the overlooked growth of emerging Christian communities, and why reports of religion’s demise may be far more complicated than popular headlines suggest. Their conversation examines trends in American religious affiliation, church participation, human flourishing, and the enduring role of local congregations in society. Travis and Thomas discuss the importance of looking beyond surface-level statistics, the value of longitudinal research, and the historical patterns that have shaped American Christianity for centuries. The episode offers encouragement to pastors, ministry leaders, and church members by highlighting the continued influence of faithful Christian communities and the vital role of the local church in cultivating hope, stability, and spiritual formation. About the Podcast Local Theologians is a podcast for everyday Christians and ministry leaders from Midwestern Seminary's Global Campus. Learn more about online theological education at mbts.edu/global. Keywords Thomas Kidd, Byron Johnson, religion in America, Christianity, religious nones, church attendance, human flourishing, American church history, local church, discipleship, evangelism, faith and culture, Second Great Awakening, sociology of religion, pastoral ministry, Christian commitment, church planting Takeaways Predictions about the death of religion in America often overlook important historical and demographic realities. The growth of religious “nones” does not necessarily indicate a corresponding rise in atheism or secularism. Many Americans who claim no religious affiliation still maintain spiritual beliefs and practices. Church switching and returning to faith communities are common patterns that are often missed in public discussions. Tens of thousands of churches and millions of worshipers may be underrepresented in standard religious surveys. Longitudinal research provides a more accurate picture of faith and religious commitment over time. Religious participation is strongly associated with indicators of human flourishing and personal well-being. The local church offers meaningful community, support, and hope during seasons of suffering and uncertainty. American Christianity has repeatedly experienced periods of renewal despite predictions of decline. Pastors and ministry leaders can confidently call people to deeper commitment to Christ and His church.

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  Episode #7

  Charles Spurgeon and Pastoral Faithfulness | A Conversation with Geoff Chang

  Sep 14, 202624 minS2

  In this episode of Local Theologians, Dr. Travis Montgomery is joined by Dr. Geoff Chang, Associate Professor of Church History and Historical Theology at Midwestern Seminary and Curator of the Spurgeon Library. Together they discuss the life and ministry of Charles Haddon Spurgeon, exploring why the nineteenth-century pastor continues to influence pastors, church leaders, and Christians around the world. Drawing from years of studying Spurgeon’s life, sermons, and pastoral ministry, Geoff highlights the qualities that made Spurgeon a faithful servant of Christ. Their conversation examines the theme of faithfulness in ministry, particularly Spurgeon’s commitment to biblical conviction during seasons of both extraordinary success and intense opposition. Travis and Geoff reflect on Spurgeon’s pastoral care, church membership practices, preaching ministry, and unwavering devotion to Christ. The episode offers a compelling vision of stewardship, perseverance, and Christ-centered ministry that remains deeply relevant for believers today. About the Podcast Local Theologians is a podcast for everyday Christians and ministry leaders from Midwestern Seminary's Global Campus. Learn more about online theological education at mbts.edu/global. Keywords Geoff Chang, Charles Spurgeon, faithfulness, pastoral ministry, church history, preaching, stewardship, discipleship, ecclesiology, Baptist history, Christ-centered preaching, perseverance, ministry leadership, Spurgeon Library, church membership, pastoral care Takeaways Faithfulness is a defining characteristic of effective and enduring Christian ministry. Ministry success should never replace obedience to Christ and commitment to biblical convictions. Pastors are called to steward their responsibilities faithfully rather than pursue popularity or recognition. Church membership and pastoral care require intentional attention, even in seasons of growth and success. Christ-centered preaching remains one of the most important responsibilities of pastoral ministry. Christian leaders should measure success by faithfulness rather than numbers or influence. Historic examples can help modern believers understand and apply biblical principles. The life of Charles Spurgeon demonstrates perseverance through both fruitfulness and controversy. Faithful ministry often involves maintaining conviction when cultural and theological pressures arise. Jesus Christ provides the ultimate example of steadfast obedience and faithfulness to God’s mission.

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  Episode #6

  Bloom Where You're Planted | Learning from Wendell Berry's Novels with Jason Kees

  Sep 7, 202633 minS2

  In this episode of Local Theologians, Dr. Travis Montgomery is joined by Dr. Jason Kees to discuss character through the lens of literary characters, particularly those found in the novels of Wendell Berry. Drawing from Berry's fictional community of Port William, Jason reflects on the themes of community, faithfulness, calling, and the ordinary rhythms of life that shape Christian character. Their conversation explores several of Berry's most memorable characters, including Jayber Crow, Hannah Coulter, and Andy Catlett. Together they discuss the value of asking honest questions, communicating truth with clarity, remaining rooted in community, and embracing God's providential calling. The episode offers a thoughtful reflection on how ordinary faithfulness, long-term commitment, and love for place can help Christians cultivate wisdom, humility, and perseverance in everyday life. About the Podcast Local Theologians is a podcast for everyday Christians and ministry leaders from Midwestern Seminary's Global Campus. Learn more about online theological education at mbts.edu/global. Keywords Jason Kees, Travis Montgomery, Wendell Berry, Port William, Jayber Crow, Hannah Coulter, Andy Catlett, Christian character, community, calling, discipleship, faithfulness, Christian formation, vocation, mentorship, place, providence, perseverance, Christian living Takeaways Christian character is often formed through ordinary acts of faithfulness rather than extraordinary achievements. Healthy communities help believers grow through long-term relationships, shared responsibilities, and mutual care. Believers should not be afraid to wrestle honestly with difficult questions while continuing to trust God. Faithfulness often requires pondering questions over time rather than demanding immediate answers. Clear communication helps make theological truth accessible and understandable for everyday people. God's calling is frequently expressed through service in specific places and among specific people. Long-term investment in a church or community can produce deep spiritual fruit. Prudence and humility help believers embrace God's providence even when alternative opportunities seem attractive. Stories can powerfully illustrate biblical virtues and help Christians imagine faithful living. Christians should seek to love and serve the people God has placed directly in front of them.

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  Episode #5

  Calling and Competency in Ministry: A Panel with Jared Bumpers, Todd Chipman, and Rustin Umstattd

  Aug 31, 202657 minS2

  In this special Local Theologians panel discussion during Midwestern Seminary’s Summer Session intensive classes, Dr. Travis Montgomery is joined by Dr. Jared Bumpers, Dr. Todd Chipman, and Dr. Rustin Umstattd to explore the relationship between character, calling, and ministry. Drawing from personal experience, pastoral ministry, and biblical wisdom, the panel reflects on the mentors and examples who shaped their own lives and discusses why Christian character is essential for faithful leadership. The conversation addresses pastoral qualifications, integrity, spiritual growth, humility, repentance, church hurt, burnout, ministry friendships, and the challenges of sustaining a lifetime of faithful service. Through practical wisdom and theological reflection, the panel encourages believers to pursue Christlikeness before platform, emphasizing that ministry effectiveness flows from personal holiness, faithful discipleship, and a deep dependence upon Christ. About the Podcast Local Theologians is a podcast for everyday Christians and ministry leaders from Midwestern Seminary's Global Campus. Learn more about online theological education at mbts.edu/global. Keywords character, calling, ministry, Christian leadership, discipleship, pastoral ministry, church leadership, repentance, humility, spiritual growth, church hurt, burnout, mentorship, Jared Bumpers, Todd Chipman, Rustin Umstattd, Travis Montgomery, Christian formation Takeaways Christian character is more important than ministry platform, gifting, or influence. Faithful ministry requires integrity between public leadership and private life. Repentance, humility, and confession are essential marks of Christian maturity. Competence matters in ministry, but character ultimately sustains long-term faithfulness. The wider the gap between gifting and character, the greater the potential damage of failure. Godly mentors help shape Christian character through both teaching and example. Healthy ministry prioritizes loving people over maintaining programs or organizational success. Pastors and ministry leaders should actively seek accountability, observation, and honest feedback. Church hurt requires patience, wise care, and environments where healing can take place. Rest, healthy boundaries, and trust in God are essential safeguards against burnout.

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