Ever since I became pastor at Calvary Baptist Church, I’ve wanted a way to connect with you beyond Sunday mornings. Preaching is my main calling, but I also carry a shepherd’s heart—and sometimes that means writing things down that I can’t fit into a sermon. That’s why I’m starting this blog.
I have 3 things I want to accomplish by this writing ministry:
- Discipleship - This is my primary aim. I want to help our church think in Biblical patterns so that we can follow Jesus more faithfully. This will be more content and practice-driven with teaching the Bible and applying God’s truth to our lives.
- Local - The Lord has given the church many wonderful resources via the internet and large ministries. Yet, those ministries and resources aren’t answering questions for our local church context. This blog will be focused on issues that we face and must think through for ourselves. Some of what I write will be helpful for those outside of our church, but it is not for them that I write. It is for you.
- Shepherding - As your pastor, I carry a burden for your souls (Heb 13:17). This avenue allows me to extend pastoral care beyond the pulpit by writing as one who walks with you, prays for you, and desires to see you grow in Christ
My aim in all of this remains the same as my aim in preaching - pointing us to Jesus, who is our Good Shepherd.
The name of this blog speaks for itself. The Calvary Shepherd. The most well known imagery the Bible gives us of the work of the pastor is that of a shepherd.
God promises in the Old Testament that he will give his people faithful shepherds after his own heart:
“And I will give you shepherds after my own heart, who will feed you with knowledge and understanding.” Jeremiah 3:15
Paul charges the Ephesian elders:
“Pay careful attention to yourselves and to all the flock, in which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers, to care for the church of God, which he obtained with his own blood.” Acts 20:28
And Peter says the heart of pastoral shepherding is caring for Christ’s flock:
“Shepherd the flock of God that is among you, exercising oversight, not under compulsion, but willingly, as God would have you; not for shameful gain, but eagerly; not domineering over those in your charge, but being examples to the flock. And when the chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the unfading crown of glory.” 1 Peter 5:2-4
My prayer is simple: that God would use these words to build us up in Christ together. This won’t replace preaching or our gathered worship—it’s just another way to walk with you, pray for you, and point you to our Good Shepherd.
In the weeks ahead, I’ll be writing about discipleship, about how we respond to cultural questions in our day, and about what it means to follow Christ together as a church family. I’d love for you to come along on this journey.
Pastor Matt
3 Comments
I will follow, I love this addition, it will help me for sure, we learn so much if we just participate in communication, thanks Pastor Matt
You are a blessing on my life. I so enjoy your sermons words to live by every Sunday in our church. GOD BLESS YOU.
I agree with Carrie. You and your family are a true blessing to us and our church. I look forward to hearing more your insights into the word. You are a wonderful teacher.