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