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029: Professor and Pastor Joel Dover Talks Life


What You'll Discover in this Episode:

Professor and Pastor Joel Dover gives you insight into his teaching and pastoring. Encouraging others to pursue Christ in all things. As you continue to grow in your walk in Christ and as you are called into ministry it is key to find out where you fit in. At Calvary Chapel University you can discover where you belong and learn from pastors that found there place within the Calvary Chapel. God will call you into the ministry and continue to grow you into that ministry. 


Pastor Joel Dover is a professor of the MDiv and Masters Graduate program at Calvary Chapel University. Joel graduated from the University of North Carolina@ Wilmington with a B.A. in Communication Studies and Theater. He also holds both an M.A.R. and an M.Div. from Liberty Baptist Theological Seminary, and a D.Min. from Luther Rice Seminary. During this episode, Joel shares about his family and church life. 


Conflict resolution is brought up as a topic to be discussed in this episode and the next to follow. Just a sneak peek at what you will here next time, "Conflict is inevitable, but combat is optional." At the end of the day, we need to recognize that when we have disagreements we are dealing with real people that are made in the image of God. Your words have the power to build up and tear down, we must prayerfully consider how we speak to others, how to treat others kindly, and be biblical when it comes to interacting in your conflicts. 



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Highlights from Pastor Jeff and Pastor Joel

  • God will lead you to where He calls you to serve.  There are times when we feel like we don’t fit in, but that’s ok. 
  • No on is immune from the difficulties of life. Pastor Joel expands on God leading him to a Calvary Chapel Church. Where he found out, it was exactly where God wanted him. 
  • Calvary Chapel University is a place where you can receive excellent biblical training. The staff wants to build up the next generation of biblically trained pastors.
  • Read a lot and don't be afraid to learn from different types of people and pastors. There have been pastors that have traveled down the road you might be headed and ready to equip you to handle situations biblically.  
  • Find an older pastor to be your mentor that is not within you church. It is better to have a mentor that is not part of your church and able to give you a different perspective than those in the church.  
  • Next time we will discuss how to handle conflict resolution, but for now if we practice prayer and humility we will be on the right track. Handling situations the way Scripture calls us to handle them. 
  • Conflict is inevitable, but combat is optional. 

Resources:


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  • Brandon James Ingram says:

    I was blessed by this podcast. It especially spoke to me in the issue of a friend who I am ministering to now that is getting deeper and deeper into psychology. It hit me when pastor Jeff shared about the issue of doctrines of demons and I believe this is so true. My friend is really into a different well-known psychologist and watches videos with there teachings all the time. I am very worried and praying that God will work in this person’s life. This lecture opened my eyes and made realize how serious this issue is and we need to combat this with prayer and the word of God in our lives and those around us

  • Bill says:

    It seems to me that we are all on a search for the truth, even the non-believer can agree that seeking truth is a valid pursuit. I find that God’s Word when sufficiently studied and prayed over provides a path to the truth. As believers we are all on a path toward seeking God’s truth, which never changes and is enduring through all time and circumstances. To the extent we disagree or are contentious, we confirm that we are on different parts of our own individual path which might for a time diverge or seem far from one another but we must see that in the end they all lead to one rock solid truth (Jesus). If we start from that point and reverse-engineer our thinking to the point of contention we will find there is no meaningful disagreement left.

    • jeffchristianson says:

      Hi Bill! Welcome to the Podcast 🙂

      Be sure to choose the recent Podcast episode (it’s where all of the current comments and replies are). This episode is 029 and the latest will be released on Monday Nov 4th (Look for episode #32).

      Great to see you here!!

      Jeff

  • Steve says:

    I really like the idea of what Joel communicated Conflicts are inevitable and normal, combat is optional?
    When your addressing conflict or in conflict, your addressing a soul who needs to love and glorify God, try to be sensitive, be biblical, use scriptures, seek wisdom, , be caring, walk in humility have a teachable spirit, be loving and patient.
    One of the lessons Joel learned was just because it is in the bible does not people are going to want to follow that truth? It may take time? This is a good truth to apply Galatians 6:1 Brethren, if a man is overtaken in any trespass, you who are spiritual restore such a one in a spirit of gentleness, considering yourself lest you also be tempted. What helps us to overcome temptations is through humility and prayer with Gods grace, love and truth.

  • Pablo Valdez Acost says:

    / There is always a lesson in everything that we put our heart into specially when it comes to scripture. The message I received was of Hope, of wanting to use gifts and skills that are / given to us at His time and not ours.
    Just amazing how his life was transformed after surrender just plainly motivating.
    Going back to scripture always and finding what he wants to speak to us is fundamental.
    Thank you all
    Blesssings,
    P

  • Erin Knorr says:

    Another great podcast by Pastor Jeff. I can really relate to Dr. Joel Dover in wanting to dive into something deeper in scripture and that is what is so unique about Calvary Chapel. Letting the Word of God be sufficient, which is something that is repeated throughout the Biblical Counseling courses and throughout other courses that I have take through CCU. I think that it also attests to the point that Dr. Joel Dover made about being involved in a ministry that lines up with your philosophy and doctrine. Which is something I was recently thinking about as a job came up, with a nonprofit organization that is Christian but may not hold to all the same doctrinal points. But one thing that I was reminded of, is to go back to the fundamentals, do they believe that the Word of God is sufficient? The second point that Dr. Dover made about being solely who God created you to be and to not compare our ministry with others. It reminded me of how Paul in 1 Corinthians talks about the body of Christ and how there are many parts but one body, we cannot say to the hand we do not need you. God created us all to be unique and to have different gifts for different ministries.

    • Autumn Duncan says:

      I agree Erin! I love diving deeper and have struggled to find a church that dives deep into the word. I really appreciate the pastor’s teaching add Calvery chapel and especially all the knowledge we can gain at the University. It’s wonderful to have a university that lines up with our beliefs!

  • Kristie Gallagher says:

    It’s so nice to hear other Pastors stories and how God has lead them. Pastor Joel was very encouraging. His advice was great, know Who has God wired you to be? Find a place that you fit. Let God use you the way that you are. Readers are leaders. You stand on the books that you read. Experience is a great leader, but reading books and learning from others is a great way to learn. Find an older pastor (or pastors wife) that you can ask questions and learn from. It’s so important to learn from others and to seek help and wisdom from others in the ministry.

    • Alejandro Anchondo says:

      I agree that there was so much practical wisdom shared when these two great bible teachers and leaders got together and talked. Wouldn’t be great to sit in on all these kinds of conversations from the mentors, pastors, and leaders you appreciate?
      The encouragement to read is a heavy one for me. I have learned more from books in total than any one individual I knew in person. Books open your mind to the ministries you would never get a chance to sit in yourself.

      • Autumn Duncan says:

        I couldn’t agree more with you Alejandro, as I would love to be counseled like this by these great men! I think it correlates so well with their discussion about needing a mentor as believers. I think that is why we really appreciate their teachings, these podcasts and our classes at Calvary Chapel University.

    • Erin Knorr says:

      I agree that it was encouraging to hear both the Pastors stories and how God has lead them and how Pastor Joel got to the place he is now. Pastor Joel’s advice on knowing who God has wired you to be, to find a place that you fit was great. Definitely something that I need to hear. I liked how you pointed out to seek out wisdom from leaders who are in the church who have wisdom, thats what the body of Christ is for. We are called to come alongside others and to build them up.

  • Ulyana says:

    Thank you Pastor Jeff and dr. Joel for amazing podcast. I really like this podcast was simple and powerful, to remind again where we stand with the Lord and His heart to seek. Few things stood out for me is Dr. Joel testimony and simple seek the Lord heart in the midst of conflict. I absolutely agree when we dealing with conflict to deal with issue of the conflict not a person. Behind the person is sensitive and hurting person who desperately need Christ. And I believe that every conflict is great opportunity to grow in Christlikeness. I like how dr Joel said simple to live your life and not someone else. I think that is so important, to not to compare but live best full life as God been given us as great gift.

  • Melissa Hermosillo says:

    I loved how Pastor Joel said that we are used to restore people and be an instrument God uses to get them out of bad situations, addictions..ect. and the reason God uses us that way it’s because we have been rescued that way too. We are helped people helping people, and that is something we must remember as God uses us in counseling with other people. We are to be people that love, advice, counsel but also people that can be honest and upfront with the things God has brought us out of. I pray we can always be of inspiration with the knowledge and wisdom God has given us, but may we also be of inspiration with our stories and may we be bold enough to share them and comfort people with them.

    • Erin Knorr says:

      I agree, God gave us a testimony and that is a beautiful thing. Its our own personal stories of redemption and I think we need to be open to telling people what God has brought us through. Its good to be open, honest and real with people. I think that is something that really draws others in is the fact that we are imperfect people but we have a perfect Savior and He is what we need. We do not have to be perfect in order to receive God’s love.

  • Tabitha Lee says:

    I enjoyed the commentary between Pastor Dover and Pastor Jeff. It reminded me a bit of the move our church made when I was a teen from a Non-Denominational Bible Church to joining the Calvary Chapel Family. In my opinion it was one of the best things that could have happened to Grace Church. It changed the trajectory of my life and many of my friends. I agree that it is important for those in ministry to be trained in Biblical studies. We expect other professionals to have extensive training, but often disregard training for ministry. When listening to a session by Bob Hoekstra yesterday he mentioned that education is important, but it is even more important to pray and ask God to teach you and ask the Holy Spirit to enlighten your eyes.
    God is gracious to lead us into the correct ministry when we are dependent on Him and listening for His voice.

  • Tom Zimbelman says:

    What a great conversation – I believe I feel similar to how Dr. Dover must have felt a few years ago – a bit out of place. I am a Calvary Chapel guy and now serve in a church born out of a Reformed Baptist tradition, primarily because of a lack of Calvary Chapels here in this part of Michigan. These are wonderful God-fearing, Jesus-loving, caring people I serve with and to whom I have respect. It’s just different. CC’s are wonderful in their uncompromising priority in verse-by-verse teaching of the Scripture, and a balanced approach to the gifts of the Holy Spirit (based, of course, on Scripture). I appreciate that.

    Dr. Dover made a bold, prayerful, and careful decision to pursue that in which God was leading him.

    • Tabitha Lee says:

      Hello Tom! It is wonderful to hear the journey God has taken you on and how you have seen God’s hand in placing you where He wants you. I served at a non-denominational church for 6 years, and while it was lacking in some areas, I can honestly say that I met some of the most lovely Christians to date in that church. Genuine love of the Lord and His Word changes anyone and everyone!

  • Ulyana Gomes says:

    Thank you Pastor Jeff and dr. Joel for amazing podcast. I really like this podcast was simple and powerful, to remind again where we stand with the Lord and His heart to seek. Few things stood out for me is Dr. Joel testimony and simple seek the Lord heart in the midst of conflict. I absolutely agree when we dealing with conflict to deal with issue of the conflict not a person. Behind the person is sensitive and hurting person who desperately need Christ. And I believe that every conflict is great opportunity to grow in Christlikeness. I like how dr Joel said simple to live your life and not someone else. I think that is so important, to not to compare but live best full life as God been given us as great gift.

    • Tabitha Lee says:

      Hello Ulyana!
      I enjoyed your comment about living our lives, the one God has given us, not comparing or desiring someone else’s life, but trusting that God has given each of us a gift to walk in. Today I ask the Lord to help me be faithful in the little things He has given me, and I look forward to future ministry! People to serve, teach and come alongside in love.

    • Kristie Gallagher says:

      It is always encouraging to hear other peoples stories and how the Lord leads and directs them. God loves each person so much and has a plan. like you said Ulyana it is so important to live our life pleasing to the Lord and not to compare ourself or our calling with someone else.

  • Charlie Colleton says:

    I always enjoy being able to hear the background of how others have come to serve the Lord within Calvary Chapel. This was a great discussion about the Lords faithfulness and guidance in our lives–when we are obedient to listen to Him. As the conversation continued and took the turn towards addressing conversation there were a few key points that I found so insightful; first being what Pastor Joel said “Conflict is inevitable, but combat is optional” Wow–hello conviction. There are TOO many times where we (okay, I’m talking about myself) have allowed what could have been an easy confrontation, turn into something greater than needed. It is so true and such a wonderful reminder that at the end of the day, we really do need to stop and recognize that we are bound to have disagreements and when we do, remember that it is with real people that are made in the image and are loved by God…just like I am.

    • Kristie Gallagher says:

      yes that was so insightful when Pastor Joel said, “conflict is inevitable, but combat is optional.” We all have a choice on how we handle conflict. We choose how we respond to each person in every situation. It should be a goal of ours to treat people with love and to remember that they are created in the image of God and are loved. These are such great reminders.

  • Tom Zimbelman says:

    This has been my current struggle – I believe I feel now how Dr. Dover must have felt a few years ago – a bit out of place. I am a Calvary Chapel guy from SoCal, but now serving in a church born out of a Reformed Baptist tradition, primarily because of a lack of Calvary Chapels here in this part of Michigan. These are wonderful God-fearing, Jesus-loving, caring people I serve with and to whom I have respect. It’s just different. CC’s are a rarity in their uncompromising priority in verse-by-verse teaching of the Scripture, and a balanced approach to the gifts of the Holy Spirit (based, of course, on Scripture). I appreciate that now more than ever.

    Dr. Dover made a bold, prayerful, and careful decision to pursue that in which God was leading him. I have been praying for about a year and a half regarding the burden I feel in my heart as well.

    • Alejandro Anchondo says:

      Brother I feel for you. I have prayed for you and I plan to continue to do so.
      There may be another avenue for you to take, maybe a new venture to start. Whatever the Lord leads you in, I pray that you’ll be obedient and wise as you move forward. There is a special blessing when you are a part of a church and that church is a part of you. But, when you feel out of place a little it can be foothold for the Enemies attacks. I pray that you are also free from the attacks and are able to think about all this with a sober mind, and a prayerful heart. God bless you Tom.

      • Tom Zimbelman says:

        Praise God for you brother – thank you for your prayers! I am currently just waiting on the Lord. I don’t want to be ahead of Him, nor behind Him – just right with Him and wait on His timing and direction.

    • Eric Mendoza says:

      There are seasons in life when God leads us to a new place. I believe He has put you there to grow. Although it may not be what you are used to, God has taken you out of your comfort zone. As long as you stick true to the Word and the convictions you receive from the Holy Spirit, you are still serving in a manner that gives Him glory. Don’t be downcast, but allow this to be an opportunity where God brings about tremendous growth and ultimately uses you for His glory.

      Pastor Eric

      • Tom Zimbelman says:

        Eric,

        Such encouraging words, thank you. I agree it’s good to be taken out of our comfort zones at times and to lean on Him more as a result.

        We seem to live in a strange time within the church, conflicting views on how to approach our current culture and the issues people today are trying to address. It’s just really refreshing to listen to Calvary chapel preachers from afar, it’s so simple and so profound to be directly in the Word of God.

  • Alejandro Anchondo says:

    I really appreciated the talk between you two. The blessing of higher education is of the greatest value. It was really good to hear Dr. Joels heart tonraise up educated leaders for the Calvary Movement.
    I also really liked the testimony he shared. It was great to hear about how the Lord showed him that he didn’t fit within his denomination. The Lord often shows us unexpected things like this. It would have been easy for him to ignore it and try and power through his differences. But, that isn’t real unity and it would have produced conflicts eventually. God will always lead His children to where He can use them most effectively.

    • Tom Zimbelman says:

      Amen-

      I respect Dr. Dover’s obedience in moving on when he felt the Lord calling him to do so. His commitment to the Lord’s leading is evident in his testimony. I was also encouraged by his pursuit of higher education as well. Good stuff. Great advice, too, about continual learning from others’ experience – we don’t have to make ALL the mistakes to learn from!

    • Ulyana Gomes says:

      Alejandro, I did like that too, it was such an encouraging. The Lord will always find the way to our hearts as we seeking Him. My friend from the baptist denomination as well came to Calvary Church, she was so moved by the Spirit and now she is attending to the local Calvary. It was truly a miracle and eyes opening for her.

    • Melissa Hermosillo says:

      Thank you for sharing Alejandro! I agree with you – God is always leading us to places where He will be using us the most. Even if we can;t see it or perceive in in the moment. He is faithful and ready to use us as best as we let Him.

  • Autumn Duncan says:

    This week’s podcast was really timely!! I love it when God does that. I appreciated Pastor Joel sharing how the Lord shifted his path with his path in education and where he was a pastor! I love it when the Lord moves us and uses our gifts to further the kingdom. His three words of advice were so helpful especially finding a person to mentor you and be there for you when needed. I believe this is true in ministry and in life as a whole as we can earn from someone else who has more experience than we do in different areas. Looking forward to the discussion on conflict resolution.

    • Tom Zimbelman says:

      Yes – the mentorship comments were very helpful, and how he recognizes the pressures of pastoral care, but seeking to place his burden on those not under his care – but to those who can truly help carry his load. That’s wisdom right there. Everyone needs to serve, but also to have someone to whom understands their burdens, cares, etc so as the share in the ministry.

    • Ulyana Gomes says:

      Autumn, I really like that as well…I think educational part is so important as well as seeking help from mature person who can mentor us in the midst of it. And always to know that the person who been there will simply have a heart and ears to hear.

    • Melissa Hermosillo says:

      I agree with you Autumn! Having a mentor has been one of the most helpful things in my life and I think everyone should have someone to walk alongside them. We all could learn so much from other’s mistakes by just having them walk with us through ours.

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