The Pain of Betrayal with Ron Cook

How do you move forward after the pain of ministry betrayal? 

In this deeply honest conversation, host Robby Bolden welcomes Care for Pastors co-founder Ron Cook to illuminate just that. Ron shares the story of a painful attempted "hostile takeover" at the church he planted—how friends became adversaries and the struggle that followed. Listeners will hear Ron’s candid journey through confusion, spiritual crisis, and ultimately, the surprising comfort and growth God unfolded from profound pain. 

Along the way, Ron and Robby explore biblical wisdom for pastors facing opposition, the significance of community when wounded, and the choice to steward pain rather than merely survive it. Through practical insights and powerful storytelling, this episode is a guiding light for anyone recovering from betrayal in ministry.

Ron’s testimony reminds us that even when it seems like the end, God’s plan is at work in the pruning, and no painful season is wasted.

This conversation explores themes of:

• How to respond biblically and healthily to betrayal in ministry
• Why processing pain in safe community is essential
• The stewardship of pain—letting God bring healing and comfort
• How to discern when to confront toxicity and when to let go
• Learning to trust again after deep wounds 

Resources mentioned on the episode:

Care for Pastors

Clergy Killers by G. Lloyd Rediger

Forgiving What You Can't Forget by Lysa Terkeurst

Emotionally Healthy Spirituality by Peter Scazzero

The Pastors’ Ally Private Facebook Group

The Confidante for Pastors’ Wives Private Facebook Group

If this episode speaks to you or someone you know who’s been hurt in ministry, please share it. And be sure to subscribe to the Care for Pastors Podcast so you never miss an episode. Your review also helps others discover the support they need.

About our Guest:

Ron and his wife Rodetta have been married for 47 years and have served in ministry together throughout that time. They are the co-founders of Care for Pastors, where Ron serves by counseling and mentoring hundreds of pastors and spouses each year, both in person and online. With over 46 years of pastoral experience, Ron understands the pressures of ministry firsthand. His passion is to help pastors finish well by drawing from his own longevity in ministry to offer wisdom, encouragement, and care.