Church Talk with Dr. Joe Kidder

Church Talk brings you a dynamic exploration of theology, community, and practical ministry, all through the lens of our Adventist faith. Author, pastor and seminary professor Joe Kidder brings you thought-provoking conversations with theologians, pastors, church administrators, and rising young leaders that will impact your relationship to ministry and the church.

Listen on:

  • Apple Podcasts
  • Podbean App
  • Spotify

Episodes

Thursday Sep 18, 2025

How did the Seventh-day Adventist Church move from early debates and misunderstandings about the Trinity to a clear, biblical understanding of God as Father, Son, and Holy Spirit? In this episode, Dr. John Reeve joins Joe Kidder to trace the journey of Adventist thought—from the pioneers’ struggles, to Ellen White’s growing clarity, to the church’s embrace of the Trinity as central to the gospel. This conversation highlights how our view of God shapes our faith, worship, and salvation.

Thursday Sep 11, 2025

What did the earliest Christians believe about the Trinity—and why does it matter for us today? In this episode, Dr. John Reeve joins Joe Kidder to explore how the early church wrestled with the mystery of one God in three persons. From Scripture’s witness to the debates of the early councils, they trace how believers sought to describe God’s love, character, and saving work without going beyond what the Bible reveals. This conversation will help you appreciate both the mystery and the beauty of the Trinity, and why it remains central to Christian faith and worship.

Thursday Sep 04, 2025

What does it look like to truly listen to people’s stories—and how can that become a powerful way to share the love of Christ? In this episode, worship pastor Jim Moon reflects on lessons from his doctoral journey and ministry experiences, introducing a model of missional prayer called "Ebenezer." With warmth and insight, he explores how listening, noticing, and praying with others can become sacred acts of connection—where our stories, God's story, and someone else's story meet. Along the way, Jim shares moving stories of divine appointments, spiritual discovery, and the surprising places where God shows up.

Thursday Aug 28, 2025

What does it mean to truly worship? Pastor Jim Moon shares how worship is more than music or a weekly routine—it’s a whole-life response to who God is. From singing in church to serving others, from silence to celebration, worship flows from an encounter with God’s grace and presence. Whether you’re part of a large congregation or worshipping quietly at home, this conversation will help you reconnect with the heart of worship and find joy in expressing it every day.

Thursday Aug 21, 2025

Senior adults are one of the church’s greatest untapped resources—but how often are they truly included in ministry? In this inspiring and practical episode, Dr. David Sedlacek joins Joe Kidder to explore how churches can do more than minister to seniors—they can also minister with them. From creating meaningful roles for retirees to launching intergenerational ministries and community outreach, this conversation offers a vision for churches of all sizes to better serve, empower, and learn from their older members. You'll come away with ideas, stories, and resources to help make senior ministry vibrant, relevant, and deeply rewarding.

Thursday Aug 14, 2025

In part two of this insightful conversation about nurturing a child’s faith,  Pastor Ben Martin dives deeper into how any local church—big or small—can create meaningful ministry for children. He shares practical strategies for involving kids in real ministry, empowering parents as disciple-makers, and equipping volunteers without burning them out. With stories, tools, and a contagious passion for the next generation, Ben helps us see that ministering to children isn’t just a program—it’s a mission every church can embrace.

Thursday Aug 07, 2025

What does it really take to nurture a child’s faith? In this episode, Children’s Pastor Ben Martin shares his passion and practical insights for discipling children in the local church. From Deuteronomy 6 to dynamic children-led evangelistic meetings, Ben explains how kids can fall in love with Jesus, grow in their understanding of the Bible, and even lead others to Christ. Whether you're a parent, pastor, teacher, or church member, this conversation offers inspiring ways to invest in the spiritual lives of children—and empower them as full members of the body of Christ.

Thursday Jul 31, 2025

What did Jesus really teach about clean and unclean food? New Testament scholar Dr. Thomas Shepherd joins Joe Kidder to explore a frequently misunderstood passage in Mark 7. Together, they unpack what Jesus meant when He spoke about “defilement”, how it relates to traditions of the Pharisees, and whether He was setting aside Old Testament food laws. Along the way, they explore deeper questions about spiritual purity, our inner life, and what it means to honor God with both heart and habit.

Thursday Jul 24, 2025

What do the Three Angels’ Messages in Revelation have to do with the gospel of Jesus? In this episode, Dr. Thomas Shepherd helps us uncover a powerful connection between the gospel message of Jesus in Mark 1 and the messages of Revelation 14. Together with host Joe Kidder, they explore how Bible prophecy and discipleship are all part of the everlasting gospel—and what it means to live with hope, not fear. 
 

Thursday Jul 17, 2025

In this follow-up to the previous episode on Sabbath theology, Dr. Thomas Shepherd joins host Joe Kidder to explore what it truly means to keep the Sabbath. Drawing from Scripture, personal stories, and a recent sermon series, Dr. Shepherd outlines seven biblical principles—rest, worship, blessing, community, equality, healing, and joy—that invite us to view Sabbath not as a restriction, but as a weekly gift. Whether you're new to Sabbath-keeping or looking to deepen your experience, this episode offers both thoughtful insight and practical encouragement.

Image

Joe Kidder

Dr. Joseph Kidder is a beloved pastor, professor and author who has spent decades exploring how we can do community better. 

He has written articles for Ministry Magazine and other publications, and publishes books in the areas of biblical spirituality, pastoral care, and Adventist history. 

Joe Kidder is a professor at the Seventh-day Adventist Theological Seminary in Berrien Springs, Michigan, where is can often be seen on his daily campus walks - no matter the weather. 

Copyright 2023 All rights reserved.

Version: 20241125