134 Camden Pulliam: Understanding Pastors as Father Figures

On this episode of The Disciple-Making Parent Podcast, Chap Bettis talks with Dr. Camden Pulliam about the biblical connection between parenting and pastoring. Drawing from Camden’s doctoral research, they explore how pastors serve as father figures who help God’s people grow from spiritual immaturity toward maturity.⁠⁠

Together, they examine the fatherhood language used throughout Scripture, the relationship between managing a household and caring for a church, and the humility required of pastors at every stage of ministry. They also discuss the value of spiritual fathers who have earned the trust to offer honest, practical wisdom.

Resources From This Podcast
Dr. Pulliam’s review of Managing Your Households Well
Paternal Pastors: An Evangelical Approach, Dr. Pulliam’s Ph.D. Thesis
Midwestern Seminary’s For the Church Cohorts
Midwestern Seminary’s Shepherds Fellowship

Topics Covered in This Week’s Podcast
03:20 Dr. Pulliam’s background
07:35 Paternal Pastors: Pastors as fathers within the church
17:16 Applications for young and aspiring pastors
25:58 A pastor’s authority as a father figure
35:17 A father’s impact
41:14 Conclusion, more on Midwestern Seminary