New Churches Podcast | Season 4 | Episode 2

Ronnie Martin on Renewal for Church Planters

Ronnie Martin & J.A. Medders

Host Jeff Medders is joined by Ronnie Martin in this special episode of the New Churches podcast for a discussion on the importance of renewal in the life of a church planter. Drawing from his role in leader care at Harbor Network, Ronnie shares insights on avoiding burnout, cultivating spiritual health, and redefining productivity in ministry. Together, they unpack the heart-level habits that sustain long-term pastoral vitality and explore practical ways pastors can prepare for sabbaticals, establish healthy rhythms, and minister from a place of rest and joy.

Published on July 03, 2025

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About the Podcast

New Churches Podcast

The New Churches podcast offers practical answers to your real ministry questions. We aren’t going to provide lofty pie-in-the-sky theories. Instead, we are going to help you in your real ministry context, with your real thoughts, questions, and issues.

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Meet the Authors

Ronnie Martin

Ronnie Martin is Director of Leader Care and Renewal for Harbor Network. He has authored several books including The Unhurried Pastor with Brian Croft, and is co-host of “The Heart of Pastoring Podcast” with Jared C. Wilson.

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J.A. Medders

General Editor New Churches

J.A. (Jeff) Medders is the Director of Theology and Content for Send Network and General Editor for New Churches. He is also an author, a preacher, and a PhD student in biblical spirituality at Southern Seminary, studying Charles Spurgeon and the Song of Songs. Jeff is a native Houstonian, where he lives with his wife and two kids.

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