Beyond the Mic with Mike
Mike Yates
Welcome to Beyond the Mic with Mike, a nurturing space dedicated to empowering new ministers across denominational lines. Hosted by Mike, a seasoned pastor with the United Pentecostal Church International, this podcast dives deep into the heart of ministry, offering actionable tips, personal encouragement, and a supportive community for those answering the call to serve. Whether you're an Apostolic minister or from another Christian tradition, you'll find invaluable guidance, inspiration, and fellowship here. Beyond the Mic is more than a podcast; it's a journey together towards making a profound impact in the lives we touch through our ministries. Join us!
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Top 10 Beyond the Mic with Mike Episodes
Goodpods has curated a list of the 10 best Beyond the Mic with Mike episodes, ranked by the number of listens and likes each episode have garnered from our listeners. If you are listening to Beyond the Mic with Mike for the first time, there's no better place to start than with one of these standout episodes. If you are a fan of the show, vote for your favorite Beyond the Mic with Mike episode by adding your comments to the episode page.
Mastering the Clock
Beyond the Mic with Mike
10/08/24 • 28 min
**Episode Title: Mastering the Clock: Balancing Spirit-Led Preaching and Practical Time Management**
**Episode Summary:**
In this episode of the podcast, titled *Mastering the Clock*, the host explores a key challenge for preachers: balancing the flow of the Spirit with practical time management during sermons. He emphasizes that while being Spirit-led is the top priority, it's also crucial to consider factors like audience engagement, church traditions, and service timing. The episode offers advice on how to tailor sermon lengths to different congregations, maximize impact in shorter sermons, and ensure practical considerations don't overshadow the Spirit's leading.
**Key Takeaways:**
1. **Spirit-Led Preaching**: The most important factor in delivering a message is sensitivity to the Holy Spirit. Preaching isn't just about conveying information but delivering a message directly inspired by God, which may require adjusting your sermon in real time.
2. **Understanding Your Audience**: Every congregation is unique. What works for one church may not work for another. Preachers must be aware of their audience's expectations and cultural context, adjusting their message's length and style accordingly.
3. **Time Considerations**: Whether it's a typical Sunday service, a special holiday event, or ministry in unique environments (like prison), time constraints play a role in sermon delivery. Preachers need to be mindful of these constraints without compromising the Spirit’s guidance.
4. **Attention Span**: Research shows that adult attention spans typically peak between 10-20 minutes. Structuring sermons to hit key points early helps maintain engagement and ensures the message is received, even if attention wanes later.
5. **Adaptability**: While longer sermons may work for some congregations, the growing trend (according to Pew and Barna research) leans toward shorter, 20-40 minute messages. Preachers should remain flexible, focusing on the quality and depth of their message rather than simply extending time.
6. **Preaching Tips for New Ministers**:
- Develop points fully and avoid rushing through critical arguments.
- Use storytelling and illustrations to engage the audience.
- Amplify messages with scripture, practical applications, and reflective questions.
- Prepare and study thoroughly to ensure depth in both content and delivery.
**Speaker Highlights:**
The host shares personal experiences of being a “short preacher,” admitting that while his natural preaching style is brief, he recognizes the need to balance Spirit-led inspiration with the congregation's practical expectations. He offers practical advice for both long-winded preachers and those who struggle to expand their messages.
**SEO Optimized Keywords:**
Spirit-led preaching, sermon time management, preacher time balance, practical sermon tips, attention span sermons, audience engagement, Barna Group sermon research, mastering the clock sermon, effective sermon length, Holy Spirit preaching guidance.
A Vision for Personal Growth with Michael Ensey
Beyond the Mic with Mike
11/15/24 • 74 min
Episode Summary: Vision for Personal Growth with Pastor Michael Ensey
In this episode, Pastor Michael Ensey, Senior Pastor at Christian Life Center in Heath, Ohio, shares his powerful insights on developing a vision for personal growth. Drawing from his journey in ministry and leadership, including his time as General Youth President of the United Pentecostal Church, Pastor Ensey discusses key principles for fostering growth, setting purposeful goals, and handling challenges.
Key Takeaways:
1. Growth vs. Goal-Oriented Mindset
Pastor Ensey explains the importance of a growth mentality over merely hitting goals. Success lies in maximizing one’s potential, not just reaching specific milestones.
2. Aligning Actions with God’s Purpose
Ensey shares his “test of purpose,” urging listeners to align every decision with God’s purpose and avoid distractions. This alignment helps ensure all actions contribute to fulfilling a greater mission.
3. Challenges as Teachers
Reflecting on personal hardships, Ensey emphasizes that challenges and adversity are key to growth, teaching lessons of obedience and submission in our spiritual journey.
4. Value Yourself to Grow
Pastor Ensey stresses the importance of self-worth. To invest in one’s growth, it’s essential to value oneself, embrace a balanced life, and reject comparison and self-doubt.
5. Taking Action Without Delay
Ensey encourages listeners to avoid being paralyzed by preparation. Begin today, taking even small steps, to move towards your vision and purpose.
About Pastor Michael Ensey:
Pastor Ensey is an influential leader dedicated to helping others grow personally and spiritually. His book, Coffee with Anthony, offers ten life lessons on maximizing potential and leaving a lasting impact.
For more insights, visit Pastor Ensey’s website: [michaelensey.com](http://michaelensey.com).
The Balance of Compassion and Wisdom
Beyond the Mic with Mike
10/18/24 • 14 min
In today’s episode, the host discusses a key challenge in ministry: knowing when to help others and when to let them face the consequences of their actions. This lesson is inspired by Pastor Jay Jones from Kentwood, Michigan. The host highlights the delicate balance between compassion and wisdom, drawing from biblical teachings and personal ministry experiences.
### Key Points:
1. **Discerning When to Help**: One of the hardest decisions in ministry is knowing when to help someone and when to let them learn from their mistakes. Offering compassion at the wrong time can sometimes hinder their spiritual growth.
2. **Sowing and Reaping (Galatians 6:7)**: Scripture reminds us that people will always reap what they sow. Intervening too quickly may prevent them from experiencing the lessons God is teaching through consequences.
3. **The Role of Consequences**: Allowing someone to face the results of their choices is often part of God’s plan for their growth. Constantly rescuing people can keep them stuck in a cycle of poor decisions.
4. **Compassion vs. Codependency**: Ministers must avoid developing a "Messiah complex," where they feel responsible for fixing everyone’s problems. This can create a dependency on the minister rather than fostering reliance on God.
5. **Balancing Love and Discipline**: Discipline, as seen in Hebrews 12:6, is a form of love. Just as God disciplines His children, sometimes tough love in ministry is necessary for true transformation.
6. **Biblical Examples**:
- **Prodigal Son**: The father allowed his son to face consequences, which led to repentance.
- **Jesus and the Adulterous Woman**: Jesus showed mercy but also commanded, "Go and sin no more," combining compassion with an expectation for change.
7. **Principles for Discernment**:
- Understand the role of consequences.
- Focus on long-term restoration rather than short-term relief.
- Assess the heart condition—are they truly seeking change?
- Seek counsel and mentorship from more experienced leaders.
- Set healthy boundaries to prevent burnout and ensure spiritual growth.
8. **The Reality of Ministry**: People may not always show gratitude for the effort put into their restoration, but ministers must remember they are working for God, not for human recognition (Colossians 3:23).
### Reflection:
The episode emphasizes that wisdom in ministry involves stepping back when necessary, trusting God’s plan, and allowing individuals to grow through their hardships. Tough love, though often uncomfortable, is sometimes the most loving thing one can offer.
### SEO Keywords: ministry discernment, Galatians 6:7, consequences in spiritual growth, tough love in ministry, balancing compassion and wisdom, biblical discipline, long-term restoration.
How Do We Do This?
Beyond the Mic with Mike
02/03/24 • 19 min
**Title: Navigating Uncertainty in Ministry - "How Do We Do This?"**
**Podcast Summary:**
In this episode of "Beyond the Mic," host Mike Yates discusses the challenges of undertaking ministry or tasks without prior experience. Titled "How Do We Do This?", this episode explores the apprehensions and practicalities of diving into new responsibilities in ministry, especially when there's a lack of formal training or clear direction.
**Key Insights:**
1. **Jumping In with Preparation:**
Mike shares his personal journey of starting the podcast, highlighting that while he didn't have prior podcasting experience, he didn’t let that stop him. Instead, he emphasized the importance of preparing as much as possible and then taking the plunge. This approach can be paralleled in ministry, where sometimes you need to start a project or role without being an expert.
2. **Dealing with Criticism:**
Yates recounts an incident where someone criticized his initial efforts harshly, which led to a reflection on how criticism is perceived and handled, especially when starting something new. The key takeaway is not to be deterred by negative feedback when you are in the learning phase.
3. **Embracing Imperfection in Ministry:**
Mike discusses the concept of starting ministry tasks with what you know and learning through the process. He stresses that the fear of imperfection should not prevent one from engaging in ministry work. This is particularly significant for listeners who may feel unqualified or inexperienced.
4. **Learning from Every Situation:**
Reflecting on the reality that not every situation in ministry can be foreseen or prepared for, Mike encourages embracing each challenge as it comes and learning on the go. He uses the biblical story of Elisha and the Shunammite woman to illustrate how unforeseen challenges in ministry require faith and adaptability.
5. **The Importance of Action Over Inaction:**
Yates challenges his listeners to consider whether fear of failure or a desire for perfection is holding them back from acting on God’s call. He advocates for action, emphasizing that doing something imperfectly is better than doing nothing out of fear.
**Conclusion:**
Mike Yates' message is a powerful reminder that ministry isn't about having all the answers or being perfectly prepared. It’s about stepping out in faith, using the resources and knowledge available, and trusting that God will guide through the uncertainties. This episode is particularly encouraging for new ministers or anyone feeling unqualified in their calling, urging them to take action and trust in their divinely given abilities.
Real Ministry Behind the Pulpit with Pastor Lee Wells
Beyond the Mic with Mike
02/09/24 • 39 min
**Title: Real Ministry Beyond the Pulpit with Pastor Lee Wells**
**Podcast Summary:**
In this episode of "Beyond the Mic," Mike Yates speaks with Pastor Lee Wells of Rock Landmark in Rockwall, Texas. Pastor Wells is not only a minister but also an entrepreneur with significant experience in both the corporate world and as a ranch to table restaurant owner. The discussion delves into the essence of real ministry beyond traditional pulpit preaching, emphasizing practical Christianity in everyday life.
**Key Insights:**
1. **Ministry is More Than Preaching:**
Pastor Wells challenges the traditional notion that ministry primarily occurs within the four walls of a church or on a pulpit. He underscores that true ministry happens in everyday interactions, much like Jesus ministered through personal relationships rather than grand sermons.
2. **The Importance of Genuine Connection:**
Emphasizing authenticity, Pastor Wells discusses how Jesus connected with people from various walks of life, not by endorsing their lifestyles, but by being genuinely present and compassionate. This connection often led to profound transformations as individuals felt seen and valued.
3. **Service in Secular Settings:**
Pastor Wells shares personal anecdotes from his restaurant, where he engages in meaningful interactions with customers. These encounters often serve as ministry opportunities, demonstrating that one's business or workplace can be a fruitful ground for touching lives and sharing God’s love.
4. **Redefining Success in Ministry:**
The conversation shifts towards a broader definition of ministry success, which isn't measured by the size of one’s congregation or pulpit but by the impact one has on individuals' lives through daily actions and integrity.
5. **Encouragement for Young Ministers:**
Pastor Wells advises young ministers to focus on developing real, transparent relationships both within and outside the church. He stresses the importance of being relatable and accessible, rather than maintaining a distant or overly polished image.
**Conclusion:**
This episode with Pastor Lee Wells offers profound insights into practicing ministry in everyday settings, emphasizing that every Christian is called to minister through their life, actions, and interactions with others. It’s a compelling reminder that the heart of ministry lies in genuine love and service to others, far beyond the pulpit.
Better 50 Year Olds
Beyond the Mic with Mike
01/20/24 • 27 min
**Podcast Summary: Introduction to "Beyond the Mic with Mike"**
**Episode Title:** "Introduction: My Purpose for the Podcast"
**Host:** Mike Yates
**Episode Overview:**
In the inaugural episode of "Beyond the Mic with Mike," host Mike Yates shares his passion for ministerial training and his journey to starting this podcast. Yates discusses his long-standing commitment to developing training programs for young ministers and his challenges in realizing this vision, which ultimately led to the creation of the podcast.
**Key Insights:**
1. **Commitment to Training:**
Yates has consistently emphasized the importance of training within his various ministerial roles, from youth leader to pastor. Despite setbacks, including an unfulfilled resolution to create a sectional training program, his dedication to educating and mentoring young ministers has remained steadfast.
2. **Adaptation and Innovation:**
Faced with challenges like the COVID-19 pandemic and changing dynamics in his congregation, Yates adapted his approach to training. The podcast format emerged as a solution to provide ongoing, accessible ministerial education that wasn't confined to physical meetings or specific schedules.
3. **Inclusivity and Reach:**
Recognizing the limitations of traditional in-person training sessions, Yates envisioned the podcast as a way to extend his reach, allowing ministers at various stages of their careers to engage with the content on their own terms. This approach aims to create a more inclusive and flexible learning environment.
4. **Personal Experiences and Challenges:**
Yates shares personal anecdotes that highlight both his frustrations with traditional training methods and his innovative approaches to overcoming these challenges. His journey underscores the importance of perseverance and adaptability in ministry.
5. **Vision for the Future:**
The podcast is positioned as a platform for growth, not just for new ministers but for the ministerial community at large. Yates expresses a desire for the podcast to be a catalyst for improvement and innovation in how ministerial training is approached.
**Conclusion:**
The introductory episode sets the stage for a series focused on empowering ministers through practical advice, personal experiences, and accessible training content. "Beyond the Mic with Mike" promises to be a valuable resource for anyone involved in ministry, offering insights that are both reflective of past lessons and forward-looking in terms of ministerial needs and opportunities.
The Call of God on Your Life with Jarred Turner
Beyond the Mic with Mike
03/01/24 • 59 min
**Title:** The Call of God on Your Life with Campus Pastor Jarred Turner
**Podcast Summary:**
Today’s episode featured Rev. Jared Turner, campus pastor at Indiana Bible College (IBC), who shared invaluable insights on discerning the call of God for young ministers. With his extensive experience mentoring youth and his deep spiritual background, Rev. Turner provided a comprehensive guide for those feeling the pull towards ministry.
**Key Insights:**
1. **Understanding the Call:**
- Rev. Turner emphasized that every Christian has a role in God’s kingdom, not just to attend church but to actively engage in God's work. However, there's a distinct calling for those meant to lead congregations and preach the word of God. This calling, akin to the biblical prophets, is characterized by a direct, undeniable pull to preach and teach God's word.
2. **The Primacy of Preaching:**
- Preaching is central to the ministry, differentiating it from other forms of Christian service. Those called to preach will feel a compulsion to share God's word, different from simply teaching Bible studies or participating in music ministries. This compulsion is a hallmark of those destined for pastoral roles or other positions within the fivefold ministry.
3. **Dealing with Ambition:**
- Turner warned against pursuing ministry out of ambition for recognition or platform. True calling should not be confused with a desire for fame or attention. The motivation to serve should stem from a divine directive rather than personal gain, ensuring the purity and authenticity of one’s ministerial intentions.
4. **Practical Steps Post-Calling:**
- For those who have affirmed their calling, Rev. Turner advised keeping the matter confidential, initially only sharing with one’s pastor or close, spiritually mature family members to avoid premature exposure and to maintain humility. He also emphasized the importance of immersing oneself in scripture, not for sermon preparation but for personal growth and alignment with God’s word.
5. **Service and Preparation:**
- Being called to ministry involves readiness to serve in any capacity within the church, demonstrating a servant’s heart irrespective of the task’s glamour or visibility. Turner's personal anecdotes highlighted that those truly called will find fulfillment and confirmation in serving, which often opens further doors in ministry.
**Conclusion:**
Rev. Jared Turner’s discussion provides a clear pathway for young ministers trying to discern or confirm their call to ministry. His emphasis on the seriousness of this calling, coupled with practical advice for nurturing and confirming one's divine purpose, offers a valuable roadmap for spiritual development and service.
The Cost of Leadership
Beyond the Mic with Mike
03/09/24 • 21 min
**Title:** The Cost of Leadership
**Podcast Summary:**
In today's episode, we delve into the often overlooked costs associated with leadership. While time and money are commonly recognized sacrifices, the focus here is on the more subtle yet significant impact leadership has on personal relationships and life choices.
**Key Insights:**
1. **The Personal Costs of Leadership:**
- Leadership demands not just time and financial resources but also personal sacrifices. Leaders often have to put aside personal goals to meet the demands of their roles. The reality is stark in ministry, where personal aspirations sometimes must be entirely forsaken for the sake of fulfilling one's calling.
2. **Relationship Costs:**
- One of the less discussed costs of leadership is its impact on personal relationships. Leadership positions can strain friendships and family ties, primarily because leaders must often make decisions that prioritize the greater good over individual relationships.
3. **The Burden of Decision-Making:**
- Leaders are tasked with making decisions that can have far-reaching consequences. These decisions can sometimes negatively affect people they care about, which is a heavy burden to bear. Leaders must navigate the delicate balance of doing what is best for the whole while managing the fallout that may come with it.
4. **Unavoidable Misunderstandings:**
- In leadership, actions and intentions can be misunderstood, and leaders often do not get the chance to clarify or defend their decisions. This misunderstanding can lead to isolation and criticism, adding emotional weight to the role.
5. **Loneliness at the Top:**
- Leadership can be a lonely journey. As responsibilities increase, the circle of confidantes often decreases. Leaders must find solace in their convictions and the righteousness of their path, sometimes at the cost of companionship and common understanding.
**Conclusion:**
Leadership is not just about the visible sacrifices of time and money but also involves deep personal costs that can affect a leader's personal goals and relationships. Understanding and accepting these costs is crucial for anyone who aspires to or currently holds a leadership position. The episode challenges listeners to reflect on whether they are prepared to pay the full price of leadership, including the hidden costs that don't often make the headlines but are equally taxing.
Youth Ministry with Shane Clark
Beyond the Mic with Mike
09/20/24 • 58 min
### Episode Title: **"Building a Youth Ministry That Lasts: Insights from Shane Clark"**
#### Episode Summary:
In today’s episode, host Mike welcomes his long-time friend, Shane Clark, an experienced youth minister with over 18 years of service. Shane shares invaluable lessons from his time leading Arkansas Section 3's youth and directing Nexus Student Ministries at New Life Cabot. Together, they discuss the importance of genuine passion for youth ministry, leadership development, and how to cultivate a thriving, spiritually strong youth group.
From building effective teams to creating student leadership opportunities, Shane emphasizes serving with integrity and fostering relationships with both students and parents. His practical advice includes creating ministry handbooks, planning events tailored to student personalities, and building strong communication with your pastor. Throughout the episode, listeners gain powerful insights into the real challenges and triumphs of youth ministry.
#### Key Takeaways:
1. **Passion and Calling Matter**: Youth ministry is not just a stepping stone in ministry. Leaders need to have a true passion for working with young people and a genuine desire to serve.
2. **Building Relationships is Key**: Whether it’s connecting with students in their daily lives or fostering strong ties with parents, youth ministers should prioritize genuine relationships.
3. **The Law of Change**: Earn trust by being authentic. Invest in your students by learning their likes and dislikes, and get involved in their personal lives. Shane highlights the importance of personalized ministry, from knowing favorite snacks to showing up at school events.
4. **Team Building and Leadership**: Successful youth ministry requires a supportive team. Create different roles based on strengths and weaknesses, and gradually bring volunteers onto the team. Allow students to take leadership roles and encourage their growth.
5. **Plan with Purpose**: Balance fun and spiritual activities in your youth ministry. Create annual plans that include teaching key topics like relationships and apostolic doctrine, while incorporating surveys to tailor activities to student interests.
6. **Integrity and Skill Matter**: Lead with integrity and develop practical skills in both ministry and management. Building trust and developing your leadership team is crucial to long-term success.
7. **Parental Involvement**: Winning over parents is vital. When parents support the youth pastor, it opens doors to deeper influence and discipleship with their children.
#### Memorable Quotes:
- **Shane Clark**: “If you lift your staff up, miracles can happen. But if you put your staff down, it will turn into a snake and bite you.”
- **Mike**: "The most important thing to remember is, you’re not the standard. Leadership means letting others grow—even if it’s not exactly how you’d do it."
#### Resources Mentioned:
- **Nexus Handbook**: Shane discussed creating a handbook for youth ministry that sets clear expectations for students, parents, and leaders. Visit [newlifecabot.com](http://newlifecabot.com) under Nexus Student Ministries to view the handbook.
- **Youth Ministry Survey Template**: Shane offered to share a customizable youth ministry survey to better understand students' interests and needs. Reach out to request a copy.
#### Support Shane’s Missionary Work:
Shane is also involved in missionary work in the Philippines. If you’d like to support his efforts, check out his [missions account](http://newlifecabot.com).
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#### SEO Meta Description:
Learn how to build a thriving youth ministry in this episode with Mike and special guest Shane Clark. From leadership developme
Protecting Your Ministry with Pastor David Poe
Beyond the Mic with Mike
03/15/24 • 37 min
**Title:** Protecting Your Ministry with Pastor David Poe
**Podcast Summary:**
Today's episode features a profound conversation with Pastor David Poe of Star City United Pentecostal Church in Arkansas, delving into the essential topic of protecting one's ministry. With years of diverse ministerial roles under his belt, Pastor Poe shares invaluable insights tailored especially for young and new ministers.
**Key Insights:**
1. **Embracing Individuality in Ministry:**
- Pastor Poe emphasizes the importance of authenticity in ministry. Drawing from personal experience and biblical teachings, he advocates for ministers to embrace their unique identities rather than attempting to mimic others. This authenticity not only fosters genuine connections but also aligns with biblical commands to be true to oneself in service to God.
2. **The Definition of Ministry:**
- Ministry is defined broadly as impacting lives and aiding individuals in drawing closer to God. It transcends the pulpit, encompassing all actions aimed at nurturing spiritual growth in oneself and others.
3. **Transparency Versus Concealment:**
- Advocating for transparency, Pastor Poe shares his belief that openness about one's life and challenges can enhance ministry effectiveness. By being transparent, ministers can forge deeper connections and offer more relatable guidance to their congregations.
4. **Respecting the Pulpit and Ministerial Boundaries:**
- The discussion covers the importance of respecting the ministerial spaces of others. Young ministers are advised to honor the established practices and spiritual authority of the churches they visit, promoting unity and respect within the broader church community.
5. **Ministry as a Continuous Commitment:**
- Contrasting momentary enthusiasm with the enduring nature of true ministry, Pastor Poe and his co-host discuss the continuous and all-encompassing commitment required in ministry. They stress the importance of being spiritually prepared and active daily, not just during church services or special events.
6. **The Fragility and Preciousness of Ministry:**
- Highlighting the delicate nature of ministry, likened to treasure in earthen vessels, the speakers underscore the responsibility ministers have to safeguard their calling. They discuss the necessity of maintaining personal holiness and integrity to protect and nurture the ministry entrusted to them.
**Conclusion:**
The episode wraps up with a call to action for ministers to not only protect but also actively invest in their ministry. Listeners are encouraged to reflect on their personal ministry practices, ensuring they align with the principles of authenticity, continuous commitment, and respect for spiritual authority. This reflective practice aims to foster a healthier, more impactful ministerial journey.
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FAQ
How many episodes does Beyond the Mic with Mike have?
Beyond the Mic with Mike currently has 40 episodes available.
What topics does Beyond the Mic with Mike cover?
The podcast is about Ministry, Christianity, Religion & Spirituality, Podcasts, Pentecostal and Apostolic.
What is the most popular episode on Beyond the Mic with Mike?
The episode title 'How Do We Do This?' is the most popular.
What is the average episode length on Beyond the Mic with Mike?
The average episode length on Beyond the Mic with Mike is 36 minutes.
How often are episodes of Beyond the Mic with Mike released?
Episodes of Beyond the Mic with Mike are typically released every 7 days.
When was the first episode of Beyond the Mic with Mike?
The first episode of Beyond the Mic with Mike was released on Jan 20, 2024.
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