{"type":"rich","version":"1.0","title":"More Than a Preacher ","description":"More Than a Preacher | The Ragged Podcast\n\nFrom a life of crime and violence to preaching Christ and pastoring a church plant—Sam Wilkins joins us on The Ragged Podcast to share his remarkable story.\n\nSam, a church planter at Gorgie in Edinburgh, sits down with Mez and Ian to talk about how Jesus saved him and how eight years of intentional discipleship and training prepared him to serve others. Together, they explore the patient, long-term work of growing in faith, the critical role of working-class ministry training, and the essential people who walked alongside Sam on his journey.\n\nIn this honest conversation about grace and changed lives, Mez, Ian, and Sam dive deep into what it truly takes to train people for ministry. They emphasise that when equipping leaders—especially in working-class contexts—they need to be more than a preacher: never less, but always more. Preaching the Word is essential, but faithful ministry requires stepping into the messy, relational reality of being a true pastor who shepherds, loves, and walks with people through everyday life.\n\nKey Themes Covered:\n\nA Transformed Life: Sam’s journey from crime and violence to finding salvation in Christ.\n\nPatient Discipleship: The vital role of an eight-year journey of training, mentorship, and spiritual growth.\n\nWorking-Class Ministry: Preparing gospel workers specifically for the unique opportunities and challenges of working-class communities.\n\nShepherd's Heart: Why preaching alone isn't enough, and why ministry candidates must be formed into holistic pastors.","author_name":"The Ragged Podcast","author_url":"https://audioboom.com/channels/5176460-the-ragged-podcast","provider_name":"Audioboom","provider_url":"https://audioboom.com","width":480,"height":95,"thumbnail_url":"https://audioboom.com/i/43879985/600x600/c","thumbnail_width":600,"thumbnail_height":600,"html":""}