Expository Workshops
In the Great Commission, Jesus commanded us to “make disciples of all nations . . . teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you” (Matt 28:19-20). The spiritual growth of every disciple of Jesus Christ and his church depends on an increasing knowledge of and obedience to the Word of God. This demands that we accurately handle God’s Word as we teach those in our homes and churches. As Paul commanded Timothy, “Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a worker who has no need to be ashamed, rightly handling the word of truth” (2 Tim 2:15).
If we truly want to be faithful teachers of God’s Word, it’s important that we approach the Scriptures carefully to ensure we’re sharing its original message. Plus, we want to share God’s Word in a way that helps others understand it clearly and are compelled to follow its guidance. FBC Lindale has been hosting expository workshops since 2008. Our workshops are here to support you in mastering these vital skills, and we’re excited to help you in these critical tasks.
What is involved in a workshop?
Each workshop lasts two days, during which participants will work through a book to refine their exegetical skills. They will receive instruction on hermeneutical principles and essential tools for uncovering the original meaning of biblical texts, along with guidance on translating their exegetical work into sermons or lessons. Participants will also join small groups to collaboratively practice these principles on assigned texts. Each day concludes with a session where God’s Word is preached.
Upcoming Workshops:
February 24-25, 2026, in Lindale, TX, at First Baptist Church Lindale, with Dr. Carl Hargrove.
Dr. Carl Hargrove is the Associate Professor of Pastoral Ministries at The Master’s Seminary. After graduating from the University of Cincinnati, where he played football, Carl attended The Master’s Seminary. He currently has three degrees from TMS: a Master of Divinity, Master of Theology, and Doctor of Ministry. After graduating from TMS, Carl pastored two churches in the Los Angeles area from 1994–2014 before returning to The Master’s Seminary and Grace Community Church.
April 22-23, 2026, in New Port Richey, FL, at Cornerstone Community Church, with Phil Johnson.
Phil Johnson is the executive director of Grace to You. He has been closely associated with John MacArthur since 1981 and edits most of Pastor MacArthur’s major books. He is an ordained elder and pastor at Grace Community Church and leads the GraceLife fellowship group with Mike Riccardi. Phil also founded several popular websites, including The Spurgeon Archive, The Hall of Church History, and the Pyromaniacs blog.
A Conversation on Expositional Preaching with John MacArthur and Tom Buck
Why Attend a Workshop?
Whether you are a seasoned pastor who wants to grow as an expositor or one who is just beginning on the journey of learning to teach God’s Word, you will greatly benefit from these workshops. Paul told Timothy about his labor in God’s Word, saying, “Practice these things, immerse yourself in them, so that all may see your progress” (1 Tim 4:15). As pastors, we need to be always working to make progress as a biblical expositor.
The busyness of ministry can make us think we just do not have two days to devote to sharpening our exegetical skills. However, we believe that taking the time to grow as an expositor will help you be more effective in ministry.
If you have ever chopped wood, you know the importance of having a sharpened ax. In fact, the sharper your blade, the more efficient you will be in accomplishing the task. If you have a large amount of wood to chop, it can seem like a waste of time to stop and sharpen that ax head. But the more you chop, the duller your ax head becomes. If you would stop and take the time to sharpen the blade, in the end, you will be more efficient and accomplish more than you would have if you had just pressed on.
One reason you should attend a workshop is to sharpen your exegetical skills that naturally become dull over time. It will be well worth your time. And when you return to ministry, you will be better prepared to handle the word of truth and better equipped to strengthen your church through the pulpit.
We hope you will join us for one of our upcoming workshops!