Advancing the Cause

Send a text Ministry is often entered with zeal, vision, and a deep sense of calling—but longevity in ministry is shaped just as much by wisdom, patience, and humility as it is by passion. Many of the lessons that sustain a pastor over decades are rarely learned early, and often only through experience. In this episode of Advancing the Cause, Richard Bargas is joined by long-time pastor Bob Rodgers as they reflect on hard-earned lessons from years of pastoral leadership and service alongside godly men. Together they share practical insights they wish they had understood sooner—about endurance, relationships, decision-making, and trusting the Lord through both fruitful and difficult seasons. This episode is especially timely for younger pastors and ministry leaders, but it also offers perspective and encouragement for anyone committed to finishing well in the work God has called them to do. Support the show Advancing the Cause is a proud member and partner with Foundations Media: foundationsmedia.org Learn more about IFCA at www.IFCA.org

Send us a text The modern church world is more fragmented than ever. Independent churches value autonomy and conviction—but many pastors quietly carry the weight of ministry alone, without trusted relationships or shared counsel. In this episode of Advancing the Cause, Richard Bargas reflects on why ministry was never meant to be a solo endeavor and why associations like IFCA continue to matter in fractured times. Drawing from Scripture, history, and years of pastoral experience, the conversation explores the value of doctrinally grounded fellowship, trusted brotherhood, and cooperative ministry without compromise. This episode speaks directly to pastors and church leaders who desire faithfulness, endurance, and meaningful partnership—without surrendering independence or conviction. Support the show Advancing the Cause is a proud member and partner with Foundations Media: foundationsmedia.org Learn more about IFCA at www.IFCA.org

Send us a text Many pastors and ministry leaders labor faithfully week after week with little visible fruit to show for it. Attendance fluctuates, progress feels slow, and encouragement can be scarce. In those seasons, it’s easy to wonder whether the work is making any real difference. In this episode of Advancing the Cause, Richard Bargas speaks directly to those quiet moments of discouragement—when obedience goes unnoticed, and perseverance feels costly. Drawing from Scripture and years of ministry experience, Richard offers a biblical perspective on faithfulness, reminds listeners how God measures success, and encourages weary servants to keep sowing in hope. If you’ve ever questioned whether your labor in the Lord truly matters, this episode is for you. Support the show Advancing the Cause is a proud member and partner with Foundations Media: foundationsmedia.org Learn more about IFCA at www.IFCA.org

Send us a text In this episode of Advancing the Cause, we explore the history and ongoing mission of IFCA International. From its beginnings to its present work, IFCA has existed to serve the local church by proclaiming the authority of Scripture, equipping pastors and congregations for faithful ministry, and defending biblical truth in an increasingly confused cultural moment. We discuss why doctrinal clarity matters, how conviction must be matched with action, and why the church must continue to speak God’s Word with courage, humility, and confidence in our day. Support the show Advancing the Cause is a proud member and partner with Foundations Media: foundationsmedia.org Learn more about IFCA at www.IFCA.org

Send us a text In this episode of Advancing the Cause, Executive Director Richard Bargas takes a practical and pastoral look at one of the ongoing challenges of ministry life—balancing people, projects, paperwork, and the pulpit. Using Scripture, real-life ministry experience, and even a chili cook-off gone wrong, Richard talks candidly about knowing your strengths and weaknesses, working hard without becoming a workaholic, stewarding your time well, and setting healthy boundaries. He also reminds us why prayer, people, and the faithful preaching of God’s Word must always remain at the center of our calling. This episode is especially for pastors and ministry leaders who feel the constant pull of competing demands and want encouragement to stay focused on what truly matters. Ministry requires balance, but more than that, it calls for faithfulness—and resting in Christ’s strength rather than our own. If this conversation encourages you, be sure to subscribe to Advancing the Cause so you don’t miss future episodes. We’d also be grateful if you’d share this episode with a fellow pastor or ministry leader who could benefit from the encouragement. Support the show Advancing the Cause is a proud member and partner with Foundations Media: foundationsmedia.org Learn more about IFCA at www.IFCA.org

Send us a text In this episode of Advancing the Cause, we explore one of the most urgent issues facing Bible-centered churches today: the shrinking pipeline of men preparing for pastoral ministry. How can faithful churches and trusted seminaries work together to identify, train, and launch the next generation of shepherds? Joining host Richard Bargas are two leaders deeply invested in this mission: Dr. Corey Marsh of Southern California Seminary and Dr. Tom Pittman of Shepherds Theological Seminary. Both are members of IFCA International and serve on the front lines of theological education. Together, they discuss the biblical pattern for raising up leaders, the unique roles of both church and seminary, where the process often breaks down, and how intentional partnership can strengthen the future of pastoral ministry. If you are a pastor, elder, seminary student, or church member burdened for the next generation, this conversation will challenge and equip you to take practical steps in your own church. Support the show Advancing the Cause is a proud member and partner with Foundations Media: foundationsmedia.org Learn more about IFCA at www.IFCA.org

Send us a text What does it look like for the local church to truly care for marriages—not just in crisis, but in everyday life and discipleship? In this episode of Advancing the Cause, Richard Bargas sits down with Pastor Jesse and Jenna Randolph of Indian Hills Community Church in Lincoln, Nebraska, to discuss how strong marriages contribute to a strong and healthy church. Together, they discuss: • Why marriage ministry matters in a Bible-teaching church • The most common struggles couples are facing today—inside and outside the church • How pastors and leaders can cultivate a culture where couples seek help before they fall apart • How the church can respond with both truth and compassion when marriages are in crisis Whether you’re a pastor, ministry leader, husband, wife, or someone preparing for marriage, this conversation will remind you that marriage is a ministry… and the church must shepherd it well. Support the show Advancing the Cause is a proud member and partner with Foundations Media: foundationsmedia.org Learn more about IFCA at www.IFCA.org

Send us a text Pastoral transitions are never simple—but what happens when the outgoing pastor is a father, and the incoming pastor is his son? In this episode of Advancing the Cause, host Dr. Richard Bargas sits down with Dr. Gary Gilley and Brian Gilley of Southern View Chapel in Springfield, Illinois, to discuss their ongoing journey through this uncommon and deeply personal transition of leadership. With honesty, humility, and biblical conviction, Gary and Brian share how the Lord led them toward this process, the scriptural principles guiding their decisions, and the safeguards they’ve put in place to ensure the church—not the family—remains at the center. They talk candidly about the emotional challenges of letting go and stepping in, the impact on the congregation, and how they’ve navigated expectations, communication, and accountability. Listeners will hear not only about the difficulties and potential pitfalls of a family pastoral succession, but also about the unexpected blessings—stronger relationships, spiritual growth, and renewed vision for the future of Southern View Chapel. Whether you are a pastor, elder, or church member, this conversation offers wisdom, cautions, and encouragement for anyone facing or preparing for pastoral transition. Learn more about Southern View Chapel here: https://svchapel.org Support the show Advancing the Cause is a proud member and partner with Foundations Media: foundationsmedia.org Learn more about IFCA at www.IFCA.org

Send us a text In a world obsessed with influence, image, and control, how can God’s servants wield authority without becoming authoritarian? Drawing from 2 Corinthians 10:1–6, Dr. Richard Bargas explores how Paul’s example teaches church leaders to exercise divine authority with humility, dependence, confidence, biblical conviction, and an eternal perspective. This episode challenges pastors and ministry leaders to reject the fleshly tactics of our age and instead lead like Christ—strong yet gentle, bold yet meek, confident yet completely dependent on the power of God. Whether you’re a pastor facing criticism, a ministry leader under pressure, or a believer navigating today’s spiritual battles, this episode will equip you to stand firm and lead faithfully—with the authority of Christ and the heart of a servant. 🔔 Don’t forget to subscribe Support the show Advancing the Cause is a proud member and partner with Foundations Media: foundationsmedia.org Learn more about IFCA at www.IFCA.org

Send us a text Chaplains and military families often serve quietly on the frontlines—whether in the military, healthcare, or other high-pressure settings. But who ministers to them? In this episode, we share 5 practical and impactful ways your church can come alongside chaplains and military families with encouragement, support, and gospel-centered care. Whether you’re a pastor, ministry leader, or church member who wants to make a difference, you’ll come away with simple steps your congregation can take to strengthen those who sacrifice so much for others. ✦ Learn how to connect with local chaplains ✦ Discover ways to support military spouses and children ✦ Find out how to meet unique needs with gospel hope 🔔 Don’t forget to subscribe for more conversations on equipping the church for faithful ministry! Support the show Advancing the Cause is a proud member and partner with Foundations Media: foundationsmedia.org Learn more about IFCA at www.IFCA.org

Send us a text False teachers aren’t always easy to spot. They may smile, quote the Bible, and fill stadiums—but Jesus warned they’re “ravenous wolves in sheep’s clothing” (Matt. 7:15). In this episode, we uncover how to recognize spiritual deception, test every teaching against God’s Word, and protect the church from dangerous influences—whether they come from outside or within. You’ll learn: This is a call to sharpen your spiritual discernment and keep the flock safe. Don’t let the wolves roam free. 📖 Scriptures Covered: Matthew 7:15 | 1 John 4:1 | 1 Thess. 5:21 | Acts 20:28–30 | 2 Peter 2:1–3 | and more. #FalseTeachers #Discernment #ChristianPodcast #BibleTeaching #ChurchLeadership #SpiritualWarfare Support the show Advancing the Cause is a proud member and partner with Foundations Media: foundationsmedia.org Learn more about IFCA at www.IFCA.org

Send us a text In this episode of Advancing the Cause, we uncover the true powerhouse behind gospel ministry—not programs, not strategies, but prayer. Drawing from the powerful example of Charles Spurgeon’s “boiler room” and the weighty testimony of Scripture, we explore eight critical ways every church, ministry, and pastor needs prayer to fulfill the mission of Christ. From preparation and preaching to spiritual warfare and leadership, prayer is not a support activity—it is the work. We’ll look to the wisdom of men like Spurgeon, Robert Murray M’Cheyne, and E.M. Bounds, and we’ll walk through key texts from 1 Corinthians, Ephesians, Acts, and more. Whether you’re a pastor, church leader, or faithful believer, this episode will stir your heart to pray and to prioritize prayer as the fuel of God’s mission. https://entrustedconference.org Support the show Advancing the Cause is a proud member and partner with Foundations Media: foundationsmedia.org Learn more about IFCA at www.IFCA.org

Send us a text In this episode of Advancing the Cause, we explore the vital role of clarity in preaching, specifically through the use of propositional statements. Clarity in a sermon isn't just helpful—it's essential. Without it, even the most passionate message can leave listeners confused or unmoved. A clear, concise propositional statement helps anchor the sermon’s main idea, giving the congregation something they can remember, reflect on, and apply. Join us for a practical conversation that will help pastors and teachers sharpen their sermon preparation, communicate God’s truth more effectively, and keep Christ at the center of their message. Whether you're new to preaching or looking to refine your approach, this episode offers tools and encouragement to help you preach with clarity and conviction. 12 Essential Skills for Great Preaching- https://a.co/d/i9f62RH Support the show Advancing the Cause is a proud member and partner with Foundations Media: foundationsmedia.org Learn more about IFCA at www.IFCA.org

Send us a text In this episode of Advancing the Cause, host Richard Bargas shines a light on the unsettling trend of “steeplejacking”—when struggling churches are targeted and taken over by more aggressive ministries. Richard unpacks how this strategy works, why it’s often harmful, and what churches can do to safeguard their health, doctrine, and identity. This episode acts as a call for discernment, wisdom, and faithfulness in the face of pressure and decline. Support the show Advancing the Cause is a proud member and partner with Foundations Media: foundationsmedia.org Learn more about IFCA at www.IFCA.org

Send us a text Join John-Michael Wong, an elder at Evangel Bible Church in Berkeley, CA, and an engineer, as he and Richard Bargas explore integrating faith with work. This discussion delves into the importance of aligning Christian beliefs with professional careers, offering guidance for Christian professionals, young and old, on how to live out their faith without feeling overwhelmed. It addresses common challenges Christians face in secular workplaces, such as maintaining integrity and kindness while being a good employee. The podcast also examines the evolving understanding of faith and work for seasoned professionals, the role of prayer in decision-making, and using careers as a platform to share the gospel. Practical steps for fostering a workplace culture that reflects Christian values, handling workplace conflicts, and navigating ethical dilemmas are also discussed. Additionally, we share advice on balancing career advancement with humility. Discover essential character traits for Christians in the workplace and learn when to stand firm in beliefs or exercise wisdom in silence. Tune in to gain valuable insights and practical strategies for integrating faith into your professional life. Evangel Bible Church in Berkeley Podcast: https://pca.st/gyi4fb0l Support the show Advancing the Cause is a proud member and partner with Foundations Media: foundationsmedia.org Learn more about IFCA at www.IFCA.org

Send us a text In this part 2 of a thought-provoking episode, "The Bible Is Still Sufficient, Part 2," we continue to delve deep into the enduring relevance and authority of Scripture in the modern Christian life. Based on Richard Bargas' lecture, this discussion continues to explore the critical connection between the doctrine of inerrancy and the sufficiency of Scripture, underlining how the Bible remains the ultimate guide for faith, counseling, theology, and daily living. Join us as we address contemporary challenges to the sufficiency of Scripture, including debates within Protestant circles about the role of tradition, creeds, and external authorities. We confront accusations of biblicism and explore the tension between sola Scriptura and the influence of historical-theological frameworks. Learn more about IFCA at IFCA.org Advancing the Cause is a proud member of Foundations Media: foundationsmedia.org Support the show Advancing the Cause is a proud member and partner with Foundations Media: foundationsmedia.org Learn more about IFCA at www.IFCA.org

Send us a text In this thought-provoking episode, "The Bible Is Still Sufficient, Part 1," we delve deep into the enduring relevance and authority of Scripture in the modern Christian life. Based on Richard Bargas' lecture, this discussion explores the critical connection between the doctrine of inerrancy and the sufficiency of Scripture, underlining how the Bible remains the ultimate guide for faith, counseling, theology, and daily living. Join us as we address contemporary challenges to the sufficiency of Scripture, including debates within Protestant circles about the role of tradition, creeds, and external authorities. We confront accusations of biblicism and explore the tension between sola Scriptura and the influence of historical-theological frameworks. Learn more about IFCA and register for our annual convention at IFCA.org Advancing the Cause is a proud member of Foundations Media: foundationsmedia.org To order any books or start a VOICE Subscription, call our home office at (616) 531-1840 or email us at Office@ifca.org Support the show Advancing the Cause is a proud member and partner with Foundations Media: foundationsmedia.org Learn more about IFCA at www.IFCA.org

Send us a text In this powerful episode, we welcome Pastor Rick Gregory and his son, Pastor Rich Gregory, for an inspiring conversation on continuing a lasting legacy of faith through multiple generations. As leaders in their respective ministries and part of a family rooted deeply in Christian values, Rick and Rich share their personal stories, the blessings and challenges of generational faith, and the importance of intentional discipleship within the family. From the foundational faith of their forefathers to the callings they now carry, the Gregorys open up about how spiritual heritage shapes identity, informs ministry, and influences future generations. Whether you’re raising children, leading in your church, or simply seeking to leave a legacy of faith, this episode will encourage and equip you to stay the course and invest in what truly lasts. Tune in for a heartfelt and hope-filled conversation on what it means to pass the torch of faith from one generation to the next—with purpose, conviction, and grace. To learn more about IFCA, visit IFCA.org Support the show Advancing the Cause is a proud member and partner with Foundations Media: foundationsmedia.org Learn more about IFCA at www.IFCA.org

Send us a text In this insightful episode tailored for pastors and church leaders, we delve into the essential task of realigning your ministry with its foundational mission and purpose. Discover practical strategies to revitalize your church's vision, set clear goals, and chart a purposeful direction that resonates with your congregation. Richard Bargas, Executive Director of IFCA International, will share actionable insights and real-world applications to help you navigate the challenges of ministry leadership and ensure your mission remains at the heart of your church's or ministry’s journey. Learn more about IFCA at IFCA.org Support the show Advancing the Cause is a proud member and partner with Foundations Media: foundationsmedia.org Learn more about IFCA at www.IFCA.org

Send us a text Richard Bargas concludes this four-part series on assisting struggling churches in regaining their footing. This episode offers guidance on capitalizing on chances to invite people to your church services and programs, as well as strategies for reaching your community for Christ. However, what about after your visitors arrive? Richard shares valuable insights on developing an effective follow-up program to ensure that those who visit are more likely to return for another visit. Learn more about IFCA at IFCA.org Check out our YouTube channel below! https://www.youtube.com/@AdvancingTheCausePodcast Listen to the other Church SOS episodes below! Part 1: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2084058/episodes/16550359 Part2: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2084058/episodes/16648637 Part 3: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2084058/episodes/16722152 Support the show Advancing the Cause is a proud member and partner with Foundations Media: foundationsmedia.org Learn more about IFCA at www.IFCA.org