Purpose

The First Baptist Church of Artesia (FBCA) internship aims to train men aspiring to pastoral ministry. It is designed to train men in understanding the Bible, the church, and the Gospel. While the internship does not guarantee a pastoral position, the hope is to train faithful members of the church and future lay and staff pastors. We believe that the local church carries the primarily responsibility in training and recognizing pastors.

The internship spans thirty weeks (two semesters) and involves reading, writing, discussing, observing, and serving.

If you’re interested in applying for the internship, click here and fill out our online application.

What Makes Up the Internship?

1. Reading

Every week, there are assigned readings. Weekly readings are at a relatively fast pace. Please look at the schedule in advance to anticipate the workload.

2. Writing

Papers are due every week on Notion. Every paper should be written in Times New Roman 12pt font with double-spaced spacing. The goal of the papers is not to provide an academic analysis of each work, but to express thoughts, disagreements, and other engagement with the reading.

3. Discussion

John facilitates a weekly three-hour discussion based on the reading and assignments for each given week. You may also make use of other church members and leaders throughout the week to help you process what’s learned.

4. Observation

Interns must be members of FBCA. They will be expected to attend membership classes, Bible Studies, pastors meetings, and the regular Sunday gatherings. They can observe the regular life of the church, including visitations, counseling, membership interviews, staff meetings, and service-planning meetings. They may also shadow John and other church staff in their regular rhythms of ministry.

5. Service Review

Every Sunday after the evening gathering there will be an hour service-review in which interns will give and receive godly encouragement and godly criticism from the day.

6. Preaching Preparation

Interns will learn to prepare preaching worksheets (Simeon Trust) and receive feedback. They may also assist in the upcoming Sunday’s sermon preparation. Opportunities to preach or teach may be scheduled on a case-by-case basis.

7. Prayer

Prayer through the membership directory on a regular basis is expected. Discussion and regular gatherings will also incorporate prayer.

8. Accountability

Interns are expected to pursue holiness and to assist one another in growing in Christlikeness, including confession of sin, accountability, and grace-filled encouragement.

9. Travel

When John travels, interns may be able to accompany him to conferences or events. Travel may or may not be covered depending on the occasion. The internship will likely include one Simeon Trust Workshop in February for preaching.

Details

Hourly Requirements: 12-15 hours a week

Compensation: Books will be provided for the church. Reimbursement for travel expenses may be provided on a case-by-case basis.