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Advancing the Cause is the podcast of IFCA International (www.ifca.org). Hosted by Executive Director Richard Bargas, Advancing the Cause features discussions with pastors, theologians, and ministry leaders. This podcast is a platform for exploring and deepening the understanding of the historic Christian faith. Each episode presents enriching biblical insights, testimonies, and relevant discussions on Christian living, ministry, and doctrine.
Covering a wide array of topics, Advancing the Cause offers guidance on practical challenges Christians face and engaging with the world through a Christ-centered lens. The podcast also explores the significance of community involvement, missions, apologetics, ecclesiology, practical pastoral ministry, and service. It aims to equip listeners to be faithful proclaimers of God’s Word in their churches and beyond.
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Send us a text Many pastors and ministry leaders labor faithfully week after week with little visible fruit to show for it. Attendance fluctuates, progress feels slow, and encouragement can be scarce. In those seasons, it’s easy to wonder whether the work is making any real difference. In this episode of Advancing the Cause, Richard Bargas speaks directly to those quiet moments of discouragement—when obedience goes unnoticed, and perseverance feels costly. Drawing from Scripture and years of ...
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 contin...
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 r...
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 Se...
Send us a text What does it look like for the local church to truly care for marriages—not just in crisis, but in everyday life and discipleship? In this episode of Advancing the Cause, Richard Bargas sits down with Pastor Jesse and Jenna Randolph of Indian Hills Community Church in Lincoln, Nebraska, to discuss how strong marriages contribute to a strong and healthy church. Together, they discuss: • Why marriage ministry matters in a Bible-teaching church • The most common stru...
Send us a text Pastoral transitions are never simple—but what happens when the outgoing pastor is a father, and the incoming pastor is his son? In this episode of Advancing the Cause, host Dr. Richard Bargas sits down with Dr. Gary Gilley and Brian Gilley of Southern View Chapel in Springfield, Illinois, to discuss their ongoing journey through this uncommon and deeply personal transition of leadership. With honesty, humility, and biblical conviction, Gary and Brian share how the Lord led the...
Send us a text In a world obsessed with influence, image, and control, how can God’s servants wield authority without becoming authoritarian? Drawing from 2 Corinthians 10:1–6, Dr. Richard Bargas explores how Paul’s example teaches church leaders to exercise divine authority with humility, dependence, confidence, biblical conviction, and an eternal perspective. This episode challenges pastors and ministry leaders to reject the fleshly tactics of our age and instead lead like Christ—strong yet...
Send us a text Chaplains and military families often serve quietly on the frontlines—whether in the military, healthcare, or other high-pressure settings. But who ministers to them? In this episode, we share 5 practical and impactful ways your church can come alongside chaplains and military families with encouragement, support, and gospel-centered care. Whether you’re a pastor, ministry leader, or church member who wants to make a difference, you’ll come away with simple steps your congregat...
Send us a text False teachers aren’t always easy to spot. They may smile, quote the Bible, and fill stadiums—but Jesus warned they’re “ravenous wolves in sheep’s clothing” (Matt. 7:15). In this episode, we uncover how to recognize spiritual deception, test every teaching against God’s Word, and protect the church from dangerous influences—whether they come from outside or within. You’ll learn: The biblical tests for identifying false prophets (Deut. 13, Deut. 18, 1 John 4)Why popularity, char...
Send us a text In this episode of Advancing the Cause, we uncover the true powerhouse behind gospel ministry—not programs, not strategies, but prayer. Drawing from the powerful example of Charles Spurgeon’s “boiler room” and the weighty testimony of Scripture, we explore eight critical ways every church, ministry, and pastor needs prayer to fulfill the mission of Christ. From preparation and preaching to spiritual warfare and leadership, prayer is not a support activity—it is the work. We’ll ...
Send us a text In this episode of Advancing the Cause, we explore the vital role of clarity in preaching, specifically through the use of propositional statements. Clarity in a sermon isn't just helpful—it's essential. Without it, even the most passionate message can leave listeners confused or unmoved. A clear, concise propositional statement helps anchor the sermon’s main idea, giving the congregation something they can remember, reflect on, and apply. Join us for a practical conversation t...
Send us a text In this episode of Advancing the Cause, host Richard Bargas shines a light on the unsettling trend of “steeplejacking”—when struggling churches are targeted and taken over by more aggressive ministries. Richard unpacks how this strategy works, why it’s often harmful, and what churches can do to safeguard their health, doctrine, and identity. This episode acts as a call for discernment, wisdom, and faithfulness in the face of pressure and decline. Support the show Advancing t...
Send us a text Join John-Michael Wong, an elder at Evangel Bible Church in Berkeley, CA, and an engineer, as he and Richard Bargas explore integrating faith with work. This discussion delves into the importance of aligning Christian beliefs with professional careers, offering guidance for Christian professionals, young and old, on how to live out their faith without feeling overwhelmed. It addresses common challenges Christians face in secular workplaces, such as maintaining integrity a...
Send us a text In this part 2 of a thought-provoking episode, "The Bible Is Still Sufficient, Part 2," we continue to delve deep into the enduring relevance and authority of Scripture in the modern Christian life. Based on Richard Bargas' lecture, this discussion continues to explore the critical connection between the doctrine of inerrancy and the sufficiency of Scripture, underlining how the Bible remains the ultimate guide for faith, counseling, theology, and daily living. Join us as...
Send us a text In this thought-provoking episode, "The Bible Is Still Sufficient, Part 1," we delve deep into the enduring relevance and authority of Scripture in the modern Christian life. Based on Richard Bargas' lecture, this discussion explores the critical connection between the doctrine of inerrancy and the sufficiency of Scripture, underlining how the Bible remains the ultimate guide for faith, counseling, theology, and daily living. Join us as we address contemporary challenges ...
Send us a text In this powerful episode, we welcome Pastor Rick Gregory and his son, Pastor Rich Gregory, for an inspiring conversation on continuing a lasting legacy of faith through multiple generations. As leaders in their respective ministries and part of a family rooted deeply in Christian values, Rick and Rich share their personal stories, the blessings and challenges of generational faith, and the importance of intentional discipleship within the family. From the foundational faith of ...
Send us a text In this insightful episode tailored for pastors and church leaders, we delve into the essential task of realigning your ministry with its foundational mission and purpose. Discover practical strategies to revitalize your church's vision, set clear goals, and chart a purposeful direction that resonates with your congregation. Richard Bargas, Executive Director of IFCA International, will share actionable insights and real-world applications to help you navigate the challenges of...
Send us a text Richard Bargas concludes this four-part series on assisting struggling churches in regaining their footing. This episode offers guidance on capitalizing on chances to invite people to your church services and programs, as well as strategies for reaching your community for Christ. However, what about after your visitors arrive? Richard shares valuable insights on developing an effective follow-up program to ensure that those who visit are more likely to return for another visit....
Send us a text In this episode of Advancing the Cause, we dive into the vital practice of evaluating your church's facilities and programs from the perspective of a first-time visitor. Often, church leaders and members are so familiar with their surroundings that they overlook small details that can significantly impact newcomers' experiences. Join us as we explore the benefits of taking a step back, walking through your church as if it's your first time, and identifying areas for improvement...
Send us a text In Part 2 of Church SOS, we explore how churches can use the concept of a funnel to assess and refine their programs for greater impact. Just like a doctor’s diagnosis of a sick patient, statistical analysis can reveal strengths and highlight areas that need attention. By examining simple attendance numbers over time, church leaders can gain valuable insights into where their ministry is thriving and where thoughtful reflection, strategic adjustments, and prayerful decisi...
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