Digging Deeper Podcast

In this episode, Jeff and Laura engage with best-selling author Gary Thomas to uncover the deeper meaning of marriage—why holiness matters more than happiness. They discuss scriptural foundations, the role of accountability, and the refining power of marriage as a reflection of Christ's union with the Church. With practical steps for navigating challenges and fostering growth, this conversation frames marriage as a sacred journey toward spiritual maturity. Related Resources: - Learn more about Gary Thomas' writings and ministry at garythomas.com. - Check out Gary's best-selling book, Sacred Marriage.

In this bonus episode of Digging Deeper, Jeff and Laura are joined by Andy Bannister, Director of Solas Centre for Public Christianity, to explore how evangelism can thrive in today's complex cultural landscape. Together, they tackle common fears and misconceptions surrounding sharing the gospel. Andy offers practical strategies for overcoming barriers along with ways to spark meaningful spiritual conversations rooted in genuine curiosity. Whether you're new to evangelism or looking to grow in confidence, this episode offers actionable steps to help you share your faith with clarity and compassion. Additional Resources: - Learn more about the Solas Centre for Public Christianity. - Check out the C.S. Lewis Institute for a variety of training resources. - Read Andy's book, How to talk about Jesus Without Looking Like an Idiot. - Subscribe to our YouTube channel and hit the notification bell to get notified of new episodes.

In this bonus episode of Digging Deeper, Jeff and Laura are joined by Andy Bannister, Director of Solas Centre for Public Christianity, to explore how evangelism can thrive in today's complex cultural landscape. Together, they tackle common fears and misconceptions surrounding sharing the gospel. Andy offers practical strategies for overcoming barriers along with ways to spark meaningful spiritual conversations rooted in genuine curiosity. Whether you're new to evangelism or looking to grow in confidence, this episode offers actionable steps to help you share your faith with clarity and compassion. Whether you're new to evangelism or looking to grow in confidence, this episode offers actionable steps to help you share your faith with clarity and compassion.

In this special episode, Jeff and Laura take a thoughtful pause to look back on this season, The Mission of the Church. They discuss the deep conversations, surprising revelations, and unforgettable guests and share their favorite moments. With ten compelling interviews behind them, they revisit the moments that challenged their perspectives, sparked big ideas, and lingered long after the recording stopped. Jeff and Laura share personal takeaways and behind-the-scenes anecdotes. Whether you've been along for every episode or are just joining in, this is a heartfelt, inspiring close to a season that aimed to explore the core of The Mission of the Church. Additional Resources: - Listen to "The Mission of the Church" sermon series. - Subscribe to our YouTube channel and hit the notification bell to get notified of new episodes.

In this special episode, Jeff and Laura take a thoughtful pause to look back on this season, The Mission of the Church. They discuss the deep conversations, surprising revelations, and unforgettable guests and share their favorite moments. With ten compelling interviews behind them, they revisit the moments that challenged their perspectives, sparked big ideas, and lingered long after the recording stopped. Jeff and Laura share personal takeaways and behind-the-scenes anecdotes. Whether you've been along for every episode or are just joining in, this is a heartfelt, inspiring close to a season that aimed to explore the core of The Mission of the Church.

Today's guest is Sandy Willson—pastor, author, and former interim president of The Gospel Coalition. Join us for a rich conversation about the mission of the church in today's world. Drawing from decades of leadership and pastoral experience, Sandy offers wisdom on the vital balance between local ministry and global engagement. This episode is both an encouragement and a challenge to resist the pull of secularism and materialism and to live with gospel intentionality across generations. Whether you're a church leader, a parent, or simply seeking to live more faithfully, this conversation will inspire you to think bigger, live bolder, and dig deeper into God's global mission. Listen now and be stirred to live on mission—locally, globally, and generationally.

Today's guest is Sandy Willson—pastor, author, and former interim president of The Gospel Coalition. Join us for a rich conversation about the mission of the Church in today's world. Drawing from decades of leadership and pastoral experience, Sandy offers wisdom on the vital balance between local ministry and global engagement. This episode is both an encouragement and a challenge to resist the pull of secularism and materialism and to live with gospel intentionality across generations. Whether you're a church leader, a parent, or simply seeking to live more faithfully, this conversation will inspire you to think bigger, live bolder, and dig deeper into God's global mission. Listen now and be stirred to live on mission—locally, globally, and generationally. Additional Resources: - Read and watch more of Sandy's work at The Gospel Coalition - Subscribe to our YouTube channel and hit the notification bell to get notified of new episodes.

In this episode of Digging Deeper, Jeff Norris and Laura Story Elvington dive into the mission of the Church and God's heart for His people with special guests Carl and K.A. Ellis. Together, they explore the challenges and triumphs of living out a mission-driven life, sharing wisdom, personal stories, and biblical insights that inspire and equip believers to make an impact. Listen as they unpack what it means to live with purpose, walk in faith, and engage in the work God has called us to. We hope this conversation will encourage you to step boldly into God's calling. Additional Resources: - Learn more about K.A. Ellis' work with The Edmiston Center. - Read Carl Ellis' book, Free at Last?: The Gospel in the African-American Experience. - Subscribe to our YouTube channel and hit the notification bell to get notified of new episodes.

In this episode of Digging Deeper, Jeff Norris and Laura Story Elvington dive into the mission of the church and God's heart for His people with special guests Carl and K.A. Ellis. Together, they explore the challenges and triumphs of living out a mission-driven life, sharing wisdom, personal stories, and biblical insights that inspire and equip believers to make an impact. Listen as they unpack what it means to live with purpose, walk in faith, and engage in the work God has called us to. We hope this conversation will encourage you to step boldly into God's calling.

In this conversation, Jeff and Laura sit down with Katie Davis Majors, founder of Amazima Ministries, and discuss her journey from Nashville to Uganda, her experiences in orphan care, and the importance of community and education in transforming lives. Katie shares her insights on the realities of family dynamics in Uganda and the mission of her ministry to support children and families. In this conversation, Katie shares her journey of faith, adoption, and global missions, emphasizing the beauty of connecting with others and the challenges faced while serving in Uganda. She talks about the hardships of living in a different culture, and the lessons learned about God's faithfulness and dependence. The discussion encourages believers in the call to serve locally and globally. Additional Resources: - Learn more about Amazima Ministries on Katie's website. - Check out Katie's latest book, Our Faithful God. - Subscribe to our YouTube channel and hit the notification bell to get notified of new episodes.

In this conversation, Jeff and Laura sit down with Katie Davis Majors, founder of Amazima Ministries, and discuss her journey from Nashville to Uganda, her experiences in orphan care, and the importance of community and education in transforming lives. Katie shares her insights on the realities of family dynamics in Uganda and the mission of her ministry to support children and families. In this conversation, Katie shares her journey of faith, adoption, and global missions, emphasizing the beauty of connecting with others and the challenges faced while serving in Uganda. She talks about the hardships of living in a different culture, and the lessons learned about God's faithfulness and dependence. The discussion encourages believers in the call to serve locally and globally.

In this episode, host Laura Story Elvington is joined by Jimmy Kim to talk with author Rebecca DeYoung. Together they explore her new book, Glittering Vices. They discuss how these vices are not just historical concepts but are relevant to modern life, emphasizing the importance of self-examination and community in spiritual growth. The conversation delves into specific vices like greed and sloth, highlighting their impact on personal and communal life, and the necessity of grace in the journey of faith.

In this episode, host Laura Story Elvington is joined by Jimmy Kim to talk with author Rebecca DeYoung. Together they explore her new book, Glittering Vices. They discuss how these vices are not just historical concepts but are relevant to modern life, emphasizing the importance of self-examination and community in spiritual growth. The conversation delves into specific vices like greed and sloth, highlighting their impact on personal and communal life, and the necessity of grace in the journey of faith. Additional Resources: - Read Rebecca's latest book, Glittering Vices. - Subscribe to our YouTube channel and hit the notification bell to get notified of new episodes.

In this episode, Jeff and Laura are joined in the studio by Russ Ramsey—author, pastor, and storyteller—who reminds us of the deep significance of seeing and honoring people's life stories. Together, they explore how we engage with others as whole people, teaching and relating in ways that reflect the beauty of their unfolding narratives. Russ challenges us to embrace transparency, recognizing our own need for a Savior as we share the hope we have in Christ. Through authenticity and vulnerability, we embody the true mission of the Church—living as a community that extends grace, compassion, and truth. Listen to this powerful conversation on faith, storytelling, and what it means to be the body of Christ in the world today. Additional Resources: - Learn more about Russ Ramsey on his website, Russ Ramseyruss-ramsey.com. - Read Russ' book, Rembrandt Is in the Wind: Learning to Love Art through the Eyes of Faith. - Get Russ' latest book, Van Gogh Has a Broken Heart: What Art Teaches Us About the Wonder and Struggle of Being Alive. - Subscribe to our YouTube channel and hit the notification bell to get notified of new episodes.

In this episode, Jeff and Laura are joined in the studio by Russ Ramsey—author, pastor, and storyteller—who reminds us of the deep significance of seeing and honoring people's life stories. Together, they explore how we engage with others as whole people, teaching and relating in ways that reflect the beauty of their unfolding narratives. Russ challenges us to embrace transparency, recognizing our own need for a Savior as we share the hope we have in Christ. Through authenticity and vulnerability, we embody the true mission of the Church—living as a community that extends grace, compassion, and truth. Listen to this powerful conversation on faith, storytelling, and what it means to be the body of Christ in the world today.

The mission of the church is to make disciples. In today's episode, Jeff and Laura sit down with two Perimeter staff members: Ryan Brown, Executive Director of Life on Life Ministries, and Kelli Means, Women's Discipleship Director. Together, they explore how God works through discipleship to transform lives. The conversation focuses on the biblical model of discipleship that Jesus demonstrated, revealing a pattern woven throughout Scripture—God's presence with His people and His sending of His people. Ryan and Kelli emphasize that the most significant spiritual growth happens when believers walk alongside one another, helping each other deepen their relationship with Christ.

The mission of the Church is to make disciples. In today's episode, Jeff and Laura sit down with two Perimeter staff members: Ryan Brown, Executive Director of Life on Life Ministries, and Kelli Means, Women's Discipleship Director. Together, they explore how God works through discipleship to transform lives. The conversation focuses on the biblical model of discipleship that Jesus demonstrated, revealing a pattern woven throughout Scripture—God's presence with His people and His sending of His people. Ryan and Kelli emphasize that the most significant spiritual growth happens when believers walk alongside one another, helping each other deepen their relationship with Christ. Additional Resources: - Learn more about Life on Life Discipleship - Interested in learning about discipleship at Perimeter? Visit perimeter.org/Discipleship - Subscribe to our YouTube channel and hit the notification bell to get notified of new episodes.

In this episode of Digging Deeper, Jeff and Laura talk with Paul Miller—author and director of See Jesus Ministry—about the vital role of prayer in the church's mission. Paul shares practical insights on overcoming prayer struggles, embracing honesty with God, and understanding His promises, especially in disappointment. He also reflects on his family's journey with disability, the fight against cynicism, and the power of love, faith, and hope. Together, they explore the J-curve—how suffering leads to resurrection—and offer practical ways to overcome prayer fatigue and foster radical dependence on God. Additional Resources: - Learn more about Paul's ministry at seejesus.net - Read (or gift) Paul's book, A Praying Life - Subscribe to our YouTube channel and hit the notification bell to get notified of new episodes.

In this episode of Digging Deeper, Jeff and Laura talk with Paul Miller—author and director of See Jesus Ministry—about the vital role of prayer in the church's mission. Paul shares practical insights on overcoming prayer struggles, embracing honesty with God, and understanding His promises, especially in disappointment. He also reflects on his family's journey with disability, the fight against cynicism, and the power of love, faith, and hope. Together, they explore the J-curve—how suffering leads to resurrection—and offer practical ways to overcome prayer fatigue and foster radical dependence on God. Additional Resources: Learn more about Paul's ministry at seejesus.net Read (or gift) Paul's book, A Praying Life

In today's conversation on Digging Deeper, Jeff and Laura talk with J.D. Greear, pastor of The Summit Church, about the mission of the church and church planting. They discuss the need for churches to equip members for mission rather than catering to consumerism. J.D. discusses the importance of recognizing the call to mission. It's not about if you're called, but where and how God leads you to be on mission for Him. Together, the three discuss the challenges of sustaining passion for their mission in the face of personal struggles and sufferings. They emphasize the significance of the Christian community in providing support and guidance during these times. We hope this episode encourages you to seek opportunities for evangelism in everyday life, being confident that even in times of personal struggle, God can use you to impact others.

In today's conversation on Digging Deeper, Jeff and Laura talk with J.D. Greear, pastor of The Summit Church, about the mission of the church and church planting. They discuss the need for churches to equip members for mission rather than catering to consumerism. J.D. discusses the importance of recognizing the call to mission. It's not about if you're called, but where and how God leads you to be on mission for Him. Together, the three discuss the challenges of sustaining passion for their mission in the face of personal struggles and sufferings. They emphasize the significance of the Christian community in providing support and guidance during these times. We hope this episode encourages you to seek opportunities for evangelism in everyday life, being confident that even in times of personal struggle, God can use you to impact others. Additional Resources: - Learn more about J.D. Greear Ministries Read J.D.'s book, Gaining By Losing: Why The Future Belongs to Churches That Send - Subscribe to our YouTube channel and hit the notification bell to get notified of new episodes.

What does it mean to be spiritually formed? In this episode of Digging Deeper, hosts Jeff Norris and Laura Story Elvington are joined by Dr. Jim Wilhoit, author and retired Wheaton College professor, to explore how spiritual formation is central to the mission of the church. Together, they unpack how transformation happens not just through personal devotion but within the context of community. From Jesus' own formation to the role of suffering in shaping our faith, this conversation challenges the modern tendency toward isolated spirituality. Whether you're a new believer or have walked with Jesus for years, this episode will encourage you to engage more deeply with the church and embrace the lifelong journey of becoming more like Christ.

What does it mean to be spiritually formed? In this episode of Digging Deeper, hosts Jeff Norris and Laura Story Elvington are joined by Dr. Jim Wilhoit, author and retired Wheaton College professor, to explore how spiritual formation is central to the mission of the Church. Together, they unpack how transformation happens not just through personal devotion but within the context of community. From Jesus' own formation to the role of suffering in shaping our faith, this conversation challenges the modern tendency toward isolated spirituality. Whether you're a new believer or have walked with Jesus for years, this episode will encourage you to engage more deeply with the Church and embrace the lifelong journey of becoming more like Christ. Additional Resources: - Subscribe to our YouTube channel and hit the notification bell to get notified of new episodes.

In this episode, Jeff and Laura reconnect with Dr. Michael Reeves to explore the mission of the church, its biblical foundation, and its connection to union with Christ. Michael emphasizes that mission isn't an optional add-on but an essential part of the Christian life, rooted in a deep relationship with God. They discuss how delighting in God naturally fuels a life on mission, making gospel-sharing a joyful overflow rather than a duty. Tune in for a rich conversation on how true mission stems from a heart that enjoys God. Additional Resources: - Books written by Michael Reeves, available in the Perimeter Bookstore: - Delighting in the Trinity: An Introduction to the Christian Faith - Rejoice and Tremble: The Surprising Good News of the Fear of the Lord - Gospel People: A Call for Evangelical Integrity - Rejoicing in Christ - Subscribe to our YouTube channel and hit the notification bell to get notified of new episodes.

In this episode, Jeff and Laura reconnect with Dr. Michael Reeves to explore the mission of the church, its biblical foundation, and its connection to union with Christ. Michael emphasizes that mission isn't an optional add-on but an essential part of the Christian life, rooted in a deep relationship with God. They discuss how delighting in God naturally fuels a life on mission, making gospel-sharing a joyful overflow rather than a duty. Tune in for a rich conversation on how true mission stems from a heart that enjoys God.

In this episode of the Digging Deeper podcast, Jeff and Laura wrap up our series on ‘Kingdom People' with a look at how the Christian grieves with hope. Today's guest is Sandra McCracken, a singer/songwriter and worship leader. She shares her experience with grief, resilience, and maintaining hope as a follower of Christ. The conversation digs into what lament looks like and how lament allows believers to acknowledge pain while still holding on to hope in Christ. Sandra shares her personal experience of what a gift communal lament is and how faith communities can support each other through structured services of lament. This episode offers comforting insights and practical encouragement for anyone seeking to understand how faith sustains us in times of grief. Additional Resources: - Check out Sandra's new book, Send Out Your Light (sandramccracken.com/sendoutyourlight) - Be encouraged by Laura Story's book, When God Doesn't Fix It (perimeter.org/WhenGodDoesntFixIt) - Listen to the hymn Dear Refuge of My Weary Soul by Anne Steele - Check out the recent Digging Deeper episode: The Holy Spirit and Spiritual Gifts (perimeter.org/podcast/the-holy-spirit-and-spiritual-gifts/) - Subscribe to our YouTube channel and hit the notification bell to get notified of new episodes. >

In this episode of the Digging Deeper podcast, Jeff and Laura wrap up our series on ‘Kingdom People' with a look at how the Christian grieves with hope. Today's guest is Sandra McCracken, a singer/songwriter and worship leader. She shares her experience with grief, resilience, and maintaining hope as a follower of Christ. The conversation digs into what lament looks like and how lament allows believers to acknowledge pain while still holding on to hope in Christ. Sandra shares her personal experience of what a gift communal lament is and how faith communities can support each other through structured services of lament. This episode offers comforting insights and practical encouragement for anyone seeking to understand how faith sustains us in times of grief.

Prayer is a vital characteristic of Kingdom People, and the Holy Spirit instills a desire to pray in believers. In this episode of Digging Deeper, Jeff and Laura engage with Dr. Don Whitney, professor at Midwestern Theological Seminary, to explore the significance of prayer in the life of a believer. The three discuss common struggles Christians face in prayer and the transformative practice of praying through Scripture, particularly the Psalms. The conversation also touches on how to hear God through His Word and the importance of praying in alignment with God's will, especially in the context of cultural moments like elections. Learn more about Dr. Whitney's work and ministry at mbts.edu/whitney.

In today's episode of Digging Deeper, Jeff and Laura engage with Don Whitney, a professor at Midwestern Theological Seminary, to explore the significance of prayer in the life of a believer. Prayer is a vital characteristic of Kingdom People, and the Holy Spirit instills a desire to pray in believers. The three discuss common struggles Christians face with prayer and the transformative practice of praying through Scripture, particularly the Psalms. The conversation also touches on how to hear God through His Word and the importance of praying in alignment with God's will, especially in the context of cultural moments like elections. Learn more about Don Whitney's ministry at mbts.edu/whitney/. Related resources: - Subscribe to our YouTube channel and hit the notification bell to get notified of new episodes.

Friendship is a deep, felt need for everyone and requires work and commitment, which is hard to maintain in the busyness of life. Jeff Norris and Laura Elvington sit down with Pastor Bryan Loritts to explore the theme of enduring friendships within the context of faith and community. In this conversation, Dr. Loritts walks through major themes of friendship, emphasizing the importance of deep, meaningful relationships in a world that often prioritizes superficial connections. Listen as they delve into the challenges of maintaining long-term friendships, the lessons learned from the book of Philemon, and the distinction between forgiveness and reconciliation. You'll learn how investing in relationships reflects the heart of the gospel and God's desire for community among His people. Learn more about Dr. Loritts' work on his website, bryanloritts.com. You can purchase his new book, Enduring Friendships, from the Perimeter Bookstore or other retailers.

Friendship is a deep, felt need for everyone and requires work and commitment, which is hard to maintain in the busyness of life. Jeff Norris and Laura Elvington sit down with Pastor Bryan Loritts to explore the theme of enduring friendships within the context of faith and community. In this conversation, Dr. Loritts walks through major themes of friendship, emphasizing the importance of deep, meaningful relationships in a world that often prioritizes superficial connections. Listen as they delve into the challenges of maintaining long-term friendships, the lessons learned from the book of Philemon, and the distinction between forgiveness and reconciliation. You'll learn how investing in relationships reflects the heart of the gospel and God's desire for community among His people. Learn more about Dr. Loritts' work on his website, bryanloritts.com. You can purchase his new book, Enduring Friendships, from the Perimeter Bookstore or other retailers. Related resources: - Subscribe to our YouTube channel and hit the notification bell to get notified of new episodes.

In this episode, hosts Jeff Norris and Laura Story Elvington engage with social researcher and author Shaunti Feldhahn to explore the concept of kindness as a transformative force in relationships and society. They discuss the 30-Day Kindness Challenge, emphasizing how our treatment of others significantly impacts our own well-being and relationships. The conversation also delves into the importance of kindness in civic engagement, especially during politically-charged times, and encourages listeners to embrace kindness as a core aspect of the Christian life. Learn more about Shaunti's work on her website: shaunti.com, or take The 30-Day Kindness Challenge at https://www.jointhekindnesschallenge.com.

In this episode, hosts Jeff Norris and Laura Story Elvington engage with social researcher and author Shaunti Feldhahn to explore the concept of kindness as a transformative force in relationships and society. They discuss the 30-Day Kindness Challenge, emphasizing how our treatment of others significantly impacts our own well-being and relationships. The conversation also delves into the importance of kindness in civic engagement, especially during politically-charged times, and encourages listeners to embrace kindness as a core aspect of the Christian life. Learn more about Shaunti's work on her website: shaunti.com, or take the The 30-Day Kindness Challenge at JoinTheKindnessChallenge.com. Related resources: - Subscribe to our YouTube channel and hit the notification bell to get notified of new episodes.

In this episode of Digging Deeper, Jeff continues to discuss the concept of 'Kingdom People' with Clay Smith, pastor of Johnson Ferry Baptist Church in Marietta, and Dr. Crawford Loritts, founder of Beyond our Generation. Today's conversation focuses on how Christians navigate dual citizenship in both the kingdom of heaven and the worldly kingdom here on earth. They explore the importance of the Beatitudes in parenting, the challenges modern parents face, and the role of the church in supporting families. In this pastor roundtable, the men discuss practical advice for both parents and grandparents on how to model faith and encourage spiritual growth in children.

In this episode of Digging Deeper, Jeff continues to discuss the concept of 'Kingdom People' with Clay Smith, pastor of Johnson Ferry Baptist Church in Marietta, and Dr. Crawford Loritts, founder of Beyond our Generation. Today's conversation focuses on how Christians navigate dual citizenship in both the kingdom of heaven and the worldly kingdom here on earth. They explore the importance of the Beatitudes in parenting, the challenges modern parents face, and the role of the church in supporting families. In this pastor roundtable, the men discuss practical advice for both parents and grandparents on how to model faith and encourage spiritual growth in children. Related resources: - Subscribe to our YouTube channel and hit the notification bell to get notified of new episodes.

In this episode of Digging Deeper, Jeff Norris is joined by Clay Smith, pastor of Johnson Ferry Baptist Church in Marietta, and Jason Cook, pastor of Fellowship Bible Church in Roswell, to discuss the concept of being 'Kingdom People' amidst cultural pressures. They explore the Beatitudes (Matthew 5) and their implications for church unity and peacemaking, especially in a politically charged environment. Part one of this conversation emphasizes the active role of Christians in both the church and society, advocating for a balance between political engagement and spiritual integrity. This episode highlights the importance of community, humility, and the transformative power of the church in addressing societal issues.

In this episode of Digging Deeper, Jeff Norris is joined by Clay Smith, pastor of Johnson Ferry Baptist Church in Marietta, and Jason Cook, pastor of Fellowship Bible Church in Roswell, to discuss the concept of being 'Kingdom People' amidst cultural pressures. They explore the Beatitudes (Matthew 5) and their implications for church unity and peacemaking, especially in a politically charged environment. Part one of this conversation emphasizes the active role of Christians in both the church and society, advocating for a balance between political engagement and spiritual integrity. This episode highlights the importance of community, humility, and the transformative power of the church in addressing societal issues. Topics Covered: - 00:00 Introduction to Kingdom People - 01:56 The Role of the Church in Cultural Pressures - 03:51 Understanding the Beatitudes - 10:06 Peacemaking in a Divided World - 15:53 Engaging Politically as Kingdom Citizens - 21:49 The Active Nature of Peacemaking Related resources: - Subscribe to our YouTube channel and hit the notification bell to get notified of new episodes.

Spiritual gifts are given by God for the glory of God and the edification of the Church. In this special episode of Digging Deeper, we continue our conversation about the Holy Spirit, the third person of the Trinity. Laura Story Elvington takes the host seat to interview senior pastor Jeff Norris and founding pastor Randy Pope, who offer additional thoughts beyond our recent Sunday morning sermon series. Jeff and Randy share their biblically-based insights on the spiritual gifts believers receive from the Holy Spirit upon putting their faith in Jesus. Covering topics not addressed during the Holy Spirit sermon series, this episode aims to enrich your understanding of the Holy Spirit's role in the life of believers and the Church.

Spiritual gifts are given by God for the glory of God and the edification of the Church. In this special episode of Digging Deeper, we continue our conversation about the Holy Spirit, the third person of the Trinity. Laura Story Elvington takes the host seat to interview senior pastor Jeff Norris and founding pastor Randy Pope, who offer additional thoughts beyond our recent Sunday morning sermon series. Jeff and Randy share their biblically-based insights on the spiritual gifts believers receive from the Holy Spirit upon putting their faith in Jesus. Covering topics not addressed during the Holy Spirit sermon series, this episode aims to enrich your understanding of the Holy Spirit's role in the life of believers and the Church. Topics covered in this episode: - A recap of the Holy Spirit sermon series (view at perimeter.org/sermons) - Defining spiritual gifts in three categories - Discovering your spiritual gifts—including a helpful framework provided by Randy - Our church's beliefs on the Pentecost Related resources: - Keeping in Step with the Spirit, by J.I. Packer - Subscribe to our YouTube channel and hit the notification bell to get notified of new episodes.

In this week's episode of Digging Deeper, Jeff and Laura continue the conversation around faith and the next generation with Raymond Chang, pastor, author and member of the Fuller Youth Institute. Raymond lays out what he is seeing the kids that aren't leaving the faith and the common thread of relational discipleship radically centered around Jesus. We hope this last episode in this series, Believe, will be an encouragement to you as we, believers in Jesus, actively live out our faith in front of the next generation. Related Resources: - Learn more about Raymond on his website (raymondchang.org/). - Visit the Fuller Youth Institute to learn more about this organization. (fulleryouthinstitute.org) - Subscribe to our YouTube channel and hit the notification bell to get notified of new episodes.

In this week's episode of Digging Deeper, Jeff and Laura continue the conversation around faith and the next generation with Raymond Chang, pastor, author and member of the Fuller Youth Institute. Raymond lays out what he is seeing the kids that aren't leaving the faith and the common thread of relational discipleship radically centered around Jesus. We hope this last episode in this series, Believe, will be an encouragement to you as we, believers in Jesus, actively live out our faith in front of the next generation.

In this episode, Jeff and Laura are talking with Justin Whitmel Earley, a business lawyer, author, father, and husband. Our hearts tend to follow the habits we practice. Those habits sometimes convince us to believe the lie that we are limitless, omnipotent, and god of our days. Recounting his own experience with stress and anxiety, Justin shares that while we would never speak those untruths out loud, our actions and our habits often demonstrate what our hearts truly believe. Justin gives some practical applications around the habits we keep and how we can model them for the next generation.

In this episode, Jeff and Laura talk with Justin Whitmel Earley, a business lawyer, author, father, and husband. Our hearts tend to follow the habits we practice. Those habits sometimes convince us to believe the lie that we are limitless, omnipotent, and god of our days. Recounting his own experience with stress and anxiety, Justin shares that while we would never speak those untruths out loud, our actions and our habits often demonstrate what our hearts truly believe. Justin gives some practical applications around the habits we keep and how we can model them for the next generation. Related Resources: - Learn more about Justin Earley on his website (www.justinwhitmelearley.com). - Get Justin's book, Habits of the Household, available from our bookstore and wherever books are sold. - Subscribe to our YouTube channel and hit the notification bell to get notified of new episodes.

Jeff and Laura sit down with a special guest, Peter Kasirivu, pastor of Gaba Community Church in Uganda. In this conversation, Pastor Peter shares God's passion and heart for the nations he has seen firsthand through his church. While the church in America is experiencing a great dechurching, people in Uganda are hungry for God. The joy, excitement, and passion young people are experiencing in Uganda are encouraging and remind us that our heart longings are the same. God sees and hears them all, even though His work looks different in every country.

Jeff and Laura sit down with a special guest, Peter Kasirivu, pastor of Gaba Community Church in Uganda. In this conversation, Pastor Peter shares God's passion and heart for the nations he has seen firsthand through his church. While the Church in America is experiencing a great dechurching, people in Uganda are hungry for God. The joy, excitement, and passion young people are experiencing in Uganda is encouraging and reminds us that our heart longings are the same. God sees and hears them all, even though His work looks different in every country. Related Resources: - Learn more about Gaba Community Church. - Read Pastor Peter Kasirivu's blog. - To learn more about Perimeter's missionary partners around the world and how you can get involved in GO Journeys visit perimeter.org/GlobalOutreach. - Subscribe to our YouTube channel and hit the notification bell to get notified of new episodes.

In this episode of Digging Deeper, Jeff and Laura are joined by Courtney Doctor as we continue this series, Believe. Courtney is the Director of Women's Initiatives for the Gospel Coalition. She is passionate about helping women in their local church around the world. In this episode, we take a look at where we see the theme of the book of John and why it is so important. Additional Resources: - Learn more about Courtney Doctor and her work with The Gospel Coalition. - Subscribe to our YouTube channel and hit the notification bell to get notified of new episodes.

In this episode of Digging Deeper, Jeff and Laura are joined by Courtney Doctor as we continue this series, Believe. Courtney is the Director of Women's Initiatives for The Gospel Coalition. She is passionate about helping women in their local church around the world. In this episode, we take a look at where we see the theme of the book of John and why it is so important.

Join Jeff and Laura in today's podcast as they explore the basics of faith and belief with special guest, Gray Sutanto, Assistant Professor of Systematic Theology at Reformed Theological Seminary in Washington D.C. In this discussion, we delve into the essential concepts of salvation and what truly anchors our beliefs to faith. Hear from Gray's educational perspective on how the younger generation grapples with belief, posing fundamental questions like "What does it mean to believe?".

Join Jeff and Laura in today's podcast as they explore the basics of faith and belief with special guest, Gray Sutanto, Assistant Professor of Systematic Theology at Reformed Theological Seminary in Washington D.C. In this discussion, we delve into the essential concepts of salvation and what truly anchors our beliefs to faith. Hear from Gray's educational perspective on how the younger generation grapples with belief, posing fundamental questions like "What does it mean to believe?". Listen to this and more episodes on our Digging Deeper podcast, available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts and other podcast streaming platforms. Additional Resources: - Learn more about Gray Sutanto and his work. - Subscribe to our YouTube channel and hit the notification bell to get notified of new episodes.

In this first episode of this series, Believe, Jeff and Laura sit down with Michael Graham, Program Director for the Keller Center for Cultural Apologetics. Mike unpacks the findings of his latest book, "The Great Dechurching: Who's Leaving, Why Are They Going, and What Will It Take to Bring Them Back?" In it, he looks at the different profiles of Americans who are leaving or have already left the church. Their conversation sets up this series as we look at what it means to believe in the Christian faith, with a great reminder that belief is something we hold to, but it is also God holding on to us.

In this first episode of this series, "Believe," Jeff and Laura sit down with Michael Graham, Program Director for the Keller Center for Cultural Apologetics. Mike unpacks the findings of his latest book, The Great Dechurching: Who’s Leaving, Why Are They Going, and What Will It Take to Bring Them Back? In it, he looks at the different profiles of Americans who are leaving or have already left the church. Their conversation sets up this series as we look at what it means to believe in the Christian faith, with a great reminder that belief is something we hold to, but it is also God holding on to us. Listen to this and more episodes on our Digging Deeper podcast, available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts and other podcast streaming platforms. Timestamps to help you follow along: (3:18) What is dechurching and who is doing it and why did you choose that title? (4:56) Who is leaving the Church? Four profiles of who is leaving evangelical churches: (5:32) Cultural Christians (6:05) Mainstream Evangelicals (7:44) “Ex”vangelicals (10:15) Black & Indigenous Persons of Color (BIPOC) (12:04) How can you relate to each profile? (13:41) What do you mean when you refer to the dechurching issue in America as a discipleship issue? (17:26) What did you learn with the large group of people who just need an invitation? Additional Resources: - Get Michael’s book, The Great Dechurching: Who’s Leaving, Why Are They Going, and What Will It Take to Bring Them Back? - For more on this topic, check out The Gospel Coalition’s As in Heaven podcast - Subscribe to our YouTube channel and hit the notification bell to get notified of new episodes.