Trench Talk

Brian Croft talks with pastor Kyle McClellan about his new book "Pastor, What Are You Wearing?", launching the Thriving Pastors series. They unpack why clergy attire matters, five guiding principles for what pastors wear, historical context, and practical wardrobe guidance.

Contact us. We’d love to serve youRequest a stay at a Shepherd’s House LocationGive financially to support the work of helping pastors thriveWrite a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify Resources2:14 – Setting the topic: How should pastors care for older men? Reference to Titus 2 and issues of generational/masculinity crisis4:21 – Examining Titus 2: Practical framework for church life and leadership distinctions5:13 – Reading and discussing Titus 2:1–8: Exhortations for older men6:41 – Diversity in Church: Bond-servant/master relationships as socio-economic analogy7:32 – Practical directions for ministry to older men and their mentoring impact11:04 – Discussion: Why mentoring roles differ for older men and women in the church12:19 – Importance of intentional intergenerational relationships and mentoring14:24 – Private ministry: Building rapport and learning about older men for deeper care17:49 – Tension for young pastors: Shepherding those more experienced and older than themselves19:36 – Public ministry: Avoiding generational hostility and fostering mutual respect21:11 – Calling older men to spiritual vibrancy regardless of age or physical limitations22:56 – Addressing spiritual immaturity in older men: Drawing out life wisdom, incremental growth26:49 – Encouragement: Realistic expectations, creative engagement, and not giving up on older men29:16 – Incremental growth and encouragement for young pastors; closing reflections29:50 – Final word and Prayer

(01:16) The challenge of mending broken relationships within church communities.(02:47) Scriptural and theological foundation for unity, drawing from both Old and New Testaments.(06:38) Real-life examples and historical anecdotes on church conflicts.(10:00) Causes of relational breakdown: disappointment, neglect, unresolved conflict, political/personal differences.(15:00) Practical ways pastors can foster church unity; preaching, prayer, sacraments.(21:38) The role of “stealthy peacemakers” and intervening in private disputes.(27:27) Congregational responsibility for reconciliation and unity.(31:10) Limits of reconciliation and pastoral wisdom; closing prayer.

Contact us. We’d love to serve youWrite a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify ResourcesGrow in your ministry preparation through the FREE Practically Trained Pastors Cohort.Give financially to support the work of helping pastors thrive(02:25) Personal Experiences — Both hosts share stories about being young pastors among older leaders and the unique challenges faced.(03:00) Framing the Issue — Discussion on balancing authority and respect as a young pastor.(03:51) Biblical Perspective — Reflection on 1 Timothy 4:12 and examples from Job regarding age, wisdom, and leadership.(09:36) Practical Advice — Emphasis on patience, humility, asking questions, and building relationships with older church members.(12:51) Earning Trust and Respect — Strategies for younger pastors on servant leadership and earning credibility over time.(19:13) Building Relationships — The importance of acknowledging the contributions of older leaders and fostering mutual respect.(33:55) Final words & Prayer

Contact us. We’d love to serve youGive financially to support the work of helping pastors thriveWrite a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify Resources(02:42) Scriptural perspectives on caring about opinions(05:29) Tensions in pastoral reputation—Paul’s examples(06:30) Brian and Jim reflect from personal experience of caring too much and not enough(13:03) Signs of caring too much(19:13) Signs of not caring enough(26:34) Finding balance: practical advice for pastors(32:17) Final words and prayer for pastors

Contact us. We’d love to serve youGive financially to support the work of helping pastors thriveWrite a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify Resources(02:13) Dr. Smith’s Background: Early life, move to Cincinnati, and family influences.(05:07) Ministry Balance: Balancing family commitments and itinerant ministry; racial reconciliation as a key focus.(07:12) Pastoral Experience: Pastoring New Mission Baptist Church, the importance of pastoral care.(09:02) Teaching at Beeson: Teaching homiletics, a Christ-centered approach, and memorable student stories.(14:37) Impact on Students: Mentoring, celebrating ministry milestones, and the joy of seeing students thrive.(18:31) Advice for Young Preachers: The importance of immersing oneself in Scripture and finding your preaching voice.(24:47) Observations on Ministry: Encouragements and concerns in pastoral ministry today.(34:11) Dr. Smith’s Reassignment: Embracing a new season of ministry, faith in God's guidance.(35:04) Final word and prayer for Dr. Smith ongoing ministry.