Pastor Pastor

The NETS Center

Welcome to "Pastor Pastor," a podcast designed especially for pastors, church planters, and church revitalizers. Hosted by Wes Pastor, the president of The NETS Center for Church Planting and Revitalization, this series serves as a vital resource for anyone dedicated to gospel-driven ministry. With over three decades of experience as a church planter, pastor, mentor, and coach, Wes brings a wealth of knowledge and lived experience to each episode. Join him as he offers counsel that is both biblical and practical, helping you to navigate the challenges of ministry effectively and enduringly.

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27 episodes
weekly
Avg 37 min
English

Episodes 27

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S4 · E4
Monday · 38 min
All You Need Is Love
What is the defining mark of a healthy church? Wes explores why Jesus places such importance on believers loving one another and why that love says something profound about whether Christ has truly changed us. What does this kind of love actually look like in the life of a church, and what does it communicate to a watching world?
S4 · E3
September 28 · 14 min
Your Catholic Friend
If a friend genuinely loves and follows Jesus but chooses to remain in the Catholic Church, should you try to convince them to leave? Or should we look at Roman Catholicism as simply another Christian denomination? That question feels especially urgent as a younger generation, hungry for antiquity and strong leadership, finds itself drawn to high-church traditions.
S4 · E2
September 21 · 26 min
Addicted
Can a true believer stay hopelessly trapped in pornography or other habitual sins? Joining us for episode two of Season 4, Wes tackles the uncomfortable reality of addiction and grace, exploring why willpower fails, why zero progress demands hard self-examination, and how Christ offers true victory from the inside out. Stream now.
S4 · E1
September 14 · 39 min
The Key to Happiness
Are you tired of a happiness that depends on having a good day? Real joy isn't about easier circumstances: it's about a fundamentally different way of living. In the Season 4 premiere, Wes explores how Jesus maintained an unshakable joy through hardship, and how looking to Him changes everything you value. Press play to discover a joy that lasts.
S3 · E35
September 7 · 47 min
Slave or Free? (encore)
What does it mean to be a Christian? In this thought-provoking conversation, Wes brings a clarity to conversion that has sobering implications both for pastors and the flocks they shepherd. Drawing on his pastoral experience and his PhD studies, Wes exposes the root of conversion confusion and explains what it looks like to have a faith that works.
S3 · E34
August 31 · 45 min
What Did You Say? (encore)
"Churches struggle from ungodly communication more than any single problem." In this encore episode, Wes draws on his decades of experience as both a husband and pastor as he explores what it looks like to speak with truth, love, and clarity. Learn the keys to godly communication and why it's critical to your relationships both at church and at home, and discover what steps you can take today to strengthen your marriage and build up your church.
S3 · E33
August 24 · 48 min
Preaching That Pops
In this encore episode of Pastor Pastor, Wes unpacks the art and craft of preaching, from the early stages of sermon prep to the final moments of delivery. You'll hear how NETS builds on seminary studies in training men to handle God’s Word, and why it's essential to connect with your particular congregation to stir hearts, challenge minds, and call both believers and nonbelievers to repentance.
S3 · E32
August 17 · 51 min
The Happy Wife Test (encore)
In this encore episode, Wes and Sue share what they call the “Happy Wife Test” and how it reveals the foundation of a thriving marriage. Drawing from their 45-year journey in marriage and ministry, they offer practical wisdom on communication, mutual support, and finding joy in partnership. From their early ministry beginnings to their latest church plant, Wes and Sue open up about what it really means to be happy, who’s responsible for it, and how couples can stay connected and effective in both life and ministry.
S3 · E31
August 10 · 38 min
I Thought I Was a Christian (encore)
In this encore episode of Pastor Pastor, we revisit episode 7 of season 1, where we examine the nature of true conversion and the perils of being deceived about our own salvation. Wes reflects on the early years of Christ Memorial Church and the surprising movement of God's Spirit in committed members who were professing faith. As their eyes were opened and their hearts truly transformed, the evidence of God's saving work became clear to those around them. Wes shares how this helped clarify in his own mind the fruit of true conversion, and gently guides us through how we, as shepherds, can support others in this journey.
S3 · E30
August 3 · 52 min
Soul Physician (encore)
This Summer Encore Series episode of "Pastor Pastor" dives deep into the heart of pastoral ministry as Wes answers the critical but often neglected question, "What does it mean to shepherd as a soul physician?" Listen as Wes and Rob explore how pastors can discern the spiritual health of those entrusted to their care without becoming 'soul police'. Their conversation will stretch your understanding of pastoral care and provide biblical tools to help diagnose your flock. It's a topic with eternal consequences for pastors and the souls they shepherd.
S3 · E29
July 27 · 45 min
Expository Preaching (encore)
As part of our Summer Encore Series, Wes explains how the NETS Residency Program equips pastors to become exceptional preachers on "Pastor Pastor." Wes and Rob dive into the heart of the NETS Residency Program's exegesis, theology, and preaching track, and its focus on crafting sermons that stay true to Scripture and are deeply relevant for the congregation. They also discuss the unique challenges and opportunities that set church planters and revitalizers apart. This episode offers practical wisdom for anyone passionate about preaching and church leadership.
S3 · E28
July 20 · 42 min
A Girl Named Sue (encore)
As part of our Summer Encore Series, we're revisiting an inspiring and heartfelt conversation on "Pastor Pastor" with Wes and his wife, Sue, who shares her remarkable journey of faith. You'll hear about Sue's life before Christ and the powerful moment that changed everything. With her practical wisdom, sharp strategic mind, and ability to embrace the present, Sue's story is not just moving—it's empowering. Her passion for the Lord shines brightly as she opens up about her transformation and calling. Plus, you'll get a glimpse into the love story that brought Wes and Sue together and how they've built such a strong, united front in ministry. This episode is packed with insight, authenticity, and plenty of laughter—don't miss this fan favorite!
S3 · E27
July 13 · 44 min
Baptizing Kindergarteners (encore)
In this encore episode of Pastor Pastor, Wes helps us think through what it means to lead with courage, clarity, and compassion. From baptizing young children to guiding church members on communion and leading an elder board, Wes highlights the lead pastor’s pivotal role in helping the church move forward faithfully. This is an important conversation about how the gospel gives pastors the courage to lead with love, even on difficult issues that can leave them feeling vulnerable.
S3 · E26
July 6 · 48 min
Customizing the Gospel (encore)
In this encore episode of Pastor Pastor, Wes helps us think about what faithful ministry requires in the gospel-parched soil of New England. This conversation is a timely reminder that shepherding is never one-size-fits-all. Pastors must know their people, understand their context, and bring the unchanging truth of the gospel without ever compromising it.
S3 · E25
June 29 · 25 min
Faithful Planning
How should pastors think about their finances? In this episode, Wes responds to a pastor’s question about providing faithfully today while preparing wisely for the future. While the conversation is especially aimed at pastors, it offers helpful wisdom for every Christian and encourages churches to care thoughtfully for those who shepherd them.
S3 · E24
June 22 · 40 min
What Is Free Will?
If God is absolutely sovereign, then how can we have free will? Does God merely allow evil, or does He ordain it? In this episode, Wes helps us untangle what the Bible says about free will and how it relates to election, suffering, and salvation.
S3 · E23
June 15 · 26 min
Trustworthy Translations
Why are there so many Bible translations, and does it matter which one you use? A loyal listener asks Wes to explain why today's most popular translations are different, why they exist, and how those differences affect the way we read Scripture. Wes offers practical guidance for choosing a Bible for study, devotional reading, and everyday use, helping you read God's Word with greater understanding and confidence.
S3 · E22
June 8 · 31 min
The Next Chapter
In this episode of Pastor Pastor, Rob and Wes share some exciting news: NETS is partnering with The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary to offer an MDiv on the NETS Center campus starting in fall of 2027. Learn more about this unique program that combines the rigorous theological education Southern is know for with the hands-on pastoral training that has defined the NETS Residency Program for over 25 years.
S3 · E21
June 1 · 24 min
Thoughtful Communication
How do we know when we've truly communicated? In this episode of Pastor Pastor, Wes talks about the hard work that real communication requires, the heart behind it, and how pastors in particular can communicate with clarity and care.
S3 · E20
May 25 · 46 min
Intentional Marriage
Back by popular demand, Sue Pastor joins Wes to share how being proactive about their marriage has kept them well connected for over 45 years. Get a behind-the-scenes look at the interactive, intentional marriage retreat framework they've used for decades to improve communication, set goals, and talk about the critical issues common to all marriages with grace and truth. This episode may be the encouragement you and your spouse need to slow down and firm up your relational foundation so it can stand the test of trials and time.

Showing 1–20 of 27 episodes