Confessions of a High School Bible Teacher

For centuries, so many people have experienced the enneagram as a powerful spiritual direction and personal growth tool that unveils some of our most unhealthy tendencies and pushes us to understand our true selves. It targets our egos, our coping mechanisms, and our systematized ways of hiding. However, when working with teens, who are still … Continue reading "Enneagram for Teens – 043 – CHSBT"

Are evolution, the Big Bang, and separation of Church and State the unholy trinity of science classes? How differently is science taught in the Christian School classroom when compared to our public school counterparts? Chris sits down with seasoned teacher, Michael Robinson, who has spent considerable time teaching science in both contexts. Michael is a … Continue reading "Science in Public vs Christian School – 042 – CHSBT"

Am I just tired, or is it time to leave? With staggeringly high levels of burnout among ministers and teachers, how does a person tell the difference between the need for a sabbatical and the appropriate time to transition out of Christian educational ministry? Wayne shares the story of his family and their process as … Continue reading "Leaving Christian School – 041 – CHSBT"

At the center of the Christian narrative is God sacrificing his own life for the sake of sinners and enemies. However, in other parts of scripture, there are people killing their enemies in the name of God. So how do we as Christians interact with war and violence in the modern world in light of … Continue reading "War and Violence for Christians – CHSBT – 040"

Eating disorders have the highest mortality rate of any mental illness. Many of us are familiar with anorexia, bulimia, and binge eating, but sometimes it’s difficult to recognize (let alone help) students, friends, and family members with these disorders. Maybe we struggle with recognizing it in ourselves. Chris had a chance to sit down with … Continue reading "Eating Disorders w/ Katie and LMFT Christina Zandi – CHSBT – 039"

The Bible is literature… but is it just another book? Should we read it differently than other literary works? In this episode, Chris discusses the Bible with Christine Iskander (a college professor and comparative literature expert) as well as Jon Bennett (high school English teacher and published author). While most of us assume that we … Continue reading "Bible As Literature – CHSBT – 038"

Adolescents in our schools (public or private) are not strangers to self-harm. With as many as 38% of young adults admitting to engaging in self-injurious behavior, it is likely that our students are either closely acquainted with someone who does this, or are struggling with self-harm themselves. In this episode, Chris interviews psychologist Dr. Nate … Continue reading "Self-Harm – CHSBT – 037"

Does God care about safety? Industries, government agencies, policies, and our prayer lives reflect how deeply we value safety… but where does safety fit into the life of faith in Jesus? Chris and Wayne discuss safety and its proper place in the life of a Jesus follower, as well as explore ways to discuss this … Continue reading "Is Safety Important? – CHSBT – 036"

When you meet someone who is rich in spiritual maturity, you can often just feel it in your gut. You can tell that this person is connected to the Divine. But how did they get that way? Dr. Kendra Bailey shares some of her fascinating research with Chris and Wayne about indicators of spiritual maturity … Continue reading "Spiritual Maturity w/ Dr. Bailey – CHSBT – 035"

We had an epiphany! Maybe instead of Chris and Wayne talking about what students think, we should have a podcast that highlights what students think. In this episode, we talk about some Christian school highs and lows with 4 seniors: Pierce, Makenna, David, and Erika. These students insightfully walk us through topics like apologetics, desensitization … Continue reading "Christian Students’ Real Thoughts – CHSBT – 034"

Craft beer, fine wines, and aged spirits… Are these things meant for Christian consumption, or are they all just different manifestations of the Devil’s water!? Even if you’re okay with Christians drinking in moderation, what about Bible teachers? In this episode, Chris and Wayne dive into the Biblical data, ethical boundaries, and guidelines for discussing … Continue reading "Christians Drinking Alcohol – CHSBT – 033"

What happens to students after they leave our school, our youth/college group, or our target ministry demographic? Are they still following Jesus? Are they able to make friends and find contentment? In this episode we talk with Scott Schimmel, the President of The YouSchool, and pick his brain for ministry advice that maximizes the positive long-term … Continue reading "When Students Leave w/ Scott Schimmel – 032 – CHSBT"

The Bible is obviously important to most Christians, but how did we decide that THESE particular books are the canon or sacred scripture, and not others? In this episode with special guest Dr. John Meade, we uncover and discuss some interesting (maybe shocking) information about the formation of the Bible. If this book is a … Continue reading "Where’d The Bible Come From? – 031 – CHSBT"

This is part two of a two-part episode in which we interview two female administrators about their leadership roles in Christian organizations. With our interviewees we discuss what female leadership looks like in the Church and in Christian schools through both the egalitarian (this episode) and complementarian lens. In this episode, Wayne interviews administrator Jen Mounday … Continue reading "Female Leadership in the Church (Egalitarian) – 030 – CHSBT"

This is part one of a two-part episode in which we interview two female administrators about their leadership roles in Christian organizations. With our interviewees we discuss what female leadership looks like in the Church and in Christian schools through both the complementarian (this episode) and egalitarian lens. In this episode, Chris interviews administrator Allie … Continue reading "Female Leadership in the Church (Complementarian) – 029 – CHSBT"

Many Christians treat the avoidance of cussing like a test of orthodoxy, while others feel totally comfortable throwing around four letter words with reckless abandon. But what is cussing, and how should Christians approach the topic? In this episode, Chris and Wayne discuss types of cussing, what Scripture says about our mouths, and how to … Continue reading "Can Christians Cuss? – 028 – CHSBT"

We all consume things… but when does our need for material possessions become consumerism? In this episode, Chris and Wayne explore how to communicate (and live) the truth about material possessions in a school where students carry $400 Supreme Backpacks, wear $600 Yeezys, and drink out of $40 water bottles.

As followers of Christ, what should our fundamental posture be toward the national anthem, the pledge of allegiance, military action, and phrases like “God bless [insert country name]?” In this final episode of Season 1, Chris and Wayne discuss how to maintain fidelity to God while living in societies with potentially distorted versions patriotism. They also … Continue reading "CHSBT-026-Patriots vs Nationalists"

Have you ever had an unproductive or damaging conversation about any of the following topics? Transgenderism. Supporting Donald Trump. Kneeling at the National Anthem. Charlottesville. Building a wall on the Mexican border. Las Vegas. Gun rights. War. In this episode, Chris and Wayne talk about how to properly orient ourselves in conversations within the increasingly … Continue reading "CHSBT-025-Controversial Talk"

Why do we as Christians pray? Once students break through their Santa Clause or Magic Genie understanding of God, a slew of questions about the nature and purpose of prayer emerge. Chris and Wayne discuss expressive prayer, centering prayer, faith-healings, and, as always, deliver a few tips on how NOT to pray.

Do you speak Christianese? Chris and Wayne discuss the necessity of exercising caution when using loaded and esoteric Christian phrases. They share a few of their favorite Christianese phrases, and talk about how we need to have deeper theological understanding while also denying a wholesale dismissal of the usage of these phrases.

How many of our Christian brothers and sisters are silently struggling with depression? This is a topic that is far above Chris and Wayne’s pay grade, so they’ve brought Dr. Nate in to help them tackle this subject. In a natural follow-up of their previous podcast on Fake Joy, they define depression, discuss symptoms, and … Continue reading "CHSBT-022-Depression with Dr Nate"

Why do we often feel like we need to have it all together? Could we shift the Christian culture substantially enough to help people be more honest with how they are really feeling? Chris and Wayne discuss some of the causes and realities of keeping up a front of fake joy. Then, as always, they … Continue reading "CHSBT-021-Exposing Fake Joy"

Helicopter Parents, Mama Bears, and Uncut Umbilical Cords, oh my! In this episode, Chris and Wayne talk with psychologist and friend, Dr. Nate Turner about the relational triad between children, parents, and teachers. Listen as they discuss parental attachment, releasing control, and navigating conflict within that triad.

Does God know everything that will happen, and if so, does God CAUSE everything that will happen? The relationship between predestination and freewill is one that really poses a conundrum for many of our students. Chris and Wayne try to unpack why students are fascinated with this topic, and give guidelines for exploration and teaching … Continue reading "CHSBT-019-All Roads Lead to Foreknowledge"

Grading and evaluating students in classes may actually be damaging student curiosity and learning. How much more does this issue get compounded when we give students grades in BIBLE classes? Chris and Wayne discuss the often overlooked damage that can occur through grading practices and where that damage leads. They also share some strategies for … Continue reading "CHSBT-018-Grades In Bible Class"

Is there room for doubters in the Christian church? In this episode, Chris and Wayne talk with youth pastor and Purpose HSM Podcast host Eric Holstrum about the role of doubt in the life of faith. They follow the story of “Doubting Thomas” in John 20 to explore some guidelines for doubt and practical ways … Continue reading "CHSBT-017-Church for Doubters"

Back to school! Does this phrase inspire depression or joy for you? In this episode, Chris and Wayne explore the emotional and spiritual impact of returning to the daily educational grind. They also share strategies for starting the year well, setting norms, and preparing students for meaningful learning experiences.

What do parents want from us!? Well, we can at least tell you what THESE parents want from Christian educators. Chris and Wayne discuss parenting, church, and Christian education with their friends from the Ventura Vineyard. Special thanks to our guests Brian, Dan, Jared, and Jackie!

“So, how far is TOO far?” If you’ve taught about sexuality in a Christian context, you have probably received some form of this question from students. In this episode, Chris and Wayne deconstruct the question and try to tease out the theological, sociological, and psychological themes that are behind what students are asking.

Is it weird for students and teachers to hang out? Chris and Wayne discuss benefits, boundaries, and guidelines for navigating the unique Christian school climate that allows for discipleship beyond the walls of the classroom.

If Christian life is meant to be missional, what’s the deal with “short-term” missions? Chris and Wayne discuss why Christians engage in this activity and uncover some of the harm that may come from a lot of our charity work. In the process, they also share a few pieces of advice for how to do … Continue reading "CHSBT-012-Short-Term Missions"

The words “End times” and “Apocalypse” are virtually interchangeable in many Christian circles. Chris and Wayne discuss specific elements of apocalyptic literature both within and outside of scripture. In the process they shed light on how to read and teach the book of Revelation and Daniel.

“Doesn’t the Bible say…?” All too often, this phrase rears its head in Bible classes, life groups, and even our adult conversations. Chris and Wayne discuss some of their most common “Doesn’t the Bible say…?” questions and get to the root of why these questions are even asked.

In this natural followup to the burnout episode, Chris and Wayne trade ideas for improving and maintaining spiritual, physical, mental, and emotional health through summer.

BONUS EPISODE! Chris and Wayne both had the privilege of speaking at their school’s baccalaureate service to address the class of 2017. Hear their tag-team speech as they reflect on the book of Ecclesiastes and Deuteronomy.

Burnout is often a perennial reality for teachers and ministry workers, and the situation is often compounded in Christian schools where people are both ministers and teachers. What are the signs of burnout? How did we get here? Why are we always so tired? Chris and Wayne investigate the symptoms, reasons, and roots of burnout, … Continue reading "CHSBT-008-Burnout"

Doubts, questions, and uncertainty are all seemingly inevitable aspects of a life of faith. Chris and Wayne use their own experiences with intellectual and existential doubt as a frame of reference to inform thoughtful and loving ways of helping students and friends in the midst of their own doubt.

Science and religion are often assumed to be two diametrically opposed forces, but maybe the conversation is lacking nuance and a real understanding of what those two words mean. Chris, Wayne, and Robert (their science teacher colleague) team up to explore the relationship between science and the claims of the Christian faith.

Political and economic systems of evil have plagued humanity since ancient times. Chris and Wayne explain how these realities clash with God’s Kingdom, and discuss how these ideas can inspire their students to live meaningfully.

A surprising number of students in Chris and Wayne’s school have expressed an interesting “fear of eternity.” And not just the normal fear of the idea of hell… but fearing existing forever. Why should we be excited about eternity, and how do we help students catch that same excitement? As Chris and Wayne discuss eternity and the … Continue reading "CHSBT–004–Eternity for Teens"

Churches and parachurch organizations (like Christian schools) sometimes find themselves competing for members, marketshare, and money. In this episode, Chris and Wayne explore the difficult and complicated nature of those spaces where local churches and parachurch organizations overlap. Listen as we ask: What is the Church? How do Christian schools fit into that bigger picture? And what … Continue reading "CHSBT-003-Church and Competition?"

The first 11 chapters of Genesis serve as an interpretive battleground for many debates in Christianity. Chris and Wayne share interpretive methods and conversation advice for productive discussions on topics like creation, the fall, Noah’s flood, and the tower of Babel.