Episode 3: A Conversation with Jarrod Everson

Episode 3 of the "View from the Pulpit” podcast, hosted by Ben Smith, explores the significance of preaching in an interview with Jarrod Everson, pastor of Deenwood Baptist Church in Waycross, Georgia.

Show Notes: “View from the Pulpit” Podcast, Episode 3

Episode Theme: Transformative Preaching in a Changing Congregations

In this insightful episode of “View from the Pulpit,” host Ben Smith engages with Jarrod Everson, the pastor of Deenwood Baptist Church in Waycross, Georgia, to explore the vital role of preaching in today’s churches. Together, they delve into the church’s transformation from a predominantly senior congregation to a diverse community, catalyzed by neighborhood changes over the past 15 years.

Key Highlights:

  • Preaching Style and Preparation: Jarrod emphasizes the importance of an expository preaching approach. He shares his preparation routine.

  • Challenges and Growth in Expository Preaching: The conversation addresses the initial resistance faced when introducing expository preaching to a congregation unfamiliar with the method. Jarrod reflects on overcoming these challenges, leading to deeper scriptural engagement among members and his personal growth as a preacher, inspired by his father’s expository preaching.

  • Cultural Shifts and Church Dynamics: Jarrod notes the decline of cultural Christianity in South Georgia and its impact on church dynamics. This shift has fostered a more committed group of believers who prioritize biblical preaching and discipleship.

  • Long-term Ministry and Preaching Impact: The episode underscores the importance of long-term ministry commitment and the transformative power of preaching God’s Word despite initial resistance. Jarrod highlights the need to balance structured worship with spontaneity and cautions against neglecting deeper issues in favor of trivial matters.

Join Ben Smith and Jarrod Everson for a compelling discussion on the enduring significance of preaching and its ability to shape and transform church communities.

Host: Ben Smith

Guest: Jarrod Everson

Ben Smith is the pastor of Central Baptist Church, Waycross, GA.

Jarrod Everson is the pastor of Deenwood Baptist Church, Waycross, GA.

A special thanks to Jim Gibson for permission to use his recording of “Brethren We Have Met to Worship” for this podcast. You can find more information about Jim Gibson’s music and many other recordings at https://www.hickorycovemusic.com/.

Music by Jim Gibson. “Brethren, We Have Met to Worship.” Songs of the South III, @2003 Hickory Cove Music.

Ben Smith

Originally from Columbus, GA, pastor Ben Smith has served churches in Texas, South Carolina, and Georgia. Ben and his wife Dana make their home in Waycross, GA, where Ben has pastored Central Baptist Church since 2012.

Pastor Ben preaches each Sunday at Central Baptist. An audio podcast of his sermons is published weekly. Pastor Ben also posts weekly to his blog, Ponderings.

https://bensmithsr.org
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Episode 2: Why a podcast about preaching?