First Baptist Church | Grand Forks

Are the Gospels historically reliable? In this episode, I sit down with renowned New Testament scholar Craig Keener to discuss his book Christobiography: Memory, History, and the Reliability of the Gospels. We explore how the Gospels fit within the genre of ancient biography (bios), what that means for their historical accuracy, and how eyewitness testimony shaped the accounts of Jesus' life. Keener also addresses common objections about memory, oral tradition, and historical reliability, offering insights that challenge both skeptics and believers. Craig S. Keener (Ph.D., Duke University) is F. M. and Ada Thompson Professor of Biblical Studies at Asbury Theological Seminary. He is author of 37 books, 5 of which have won awards in Christianity Today. More than a million copies of his books are in circulation; the most popular is The IVP Bible Background Commentary: New Testament, which provides cultural background on each passage of the New Testament. Craig is also the New Testament editor for the NIV Cultural Backgrounds Study Bible, which won the International Book Award for Christianity and Bible of the year in the Christian Book Awards. Craig is editor of the Bulletin for Biblical Research and is past president of the Evangelical Theological Society. Craig's wife, Dr. Médine Moussounga Keener, was a refugee in her home country of Congo; their story appears in Impossible Love: The True Story of an African Civil War, Miracles, and Hope against All Odds (Chosen, 2016). https://www.ryleyheppner.com https://www.instagram.com/ryleyheppner/ For all collaboration requests (speaking, advertising, etc.) go to: https://www.ryleyheppner.com/collaboration

What is the heart of Paul's message in Galatians, and why does it still matter today? In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Thomas R. Schreiner to explore the powerful themes of his book, Christ Crucified: A Theology of Galatians. We discuss justification by faith, the role of the law, Christian freedom, and the centrality of the cross in one of Paul's most urgent and passionate letters. Dr. Tom Schreiner is an Associate Dean for the School of Theology and the James Buchanan Harrison Professor of New Testament Interpretation and Professor of Biblical Theology. Prior to joining Southern, he taught New Testament at Azusa Pacific University. He also taught at Bethel Theological Seminary for 11 years. Schreiner is a Pauline scholar who has written extensively on this subject. He is married to Diane and they have four children. Schreiner is a member of Clifton Baptist Church in Louisville, Kentucky. https://www.ryleyheppner.com https://www.instagram.com/ryleyheppner/ For all collaboration requests (speaking, advertising, etc.) go to: https://www.ryleyheppner.com/collaboration

Joshua Porter has lived a life of raw creativity and radical faith. From fronting a beautifully chaotic band to becoming an author, filmmaker, and pastor, his journey has been anything but conventional. In this episode, we dive into his unexpected path—exploring music, storytelling, and the intersection of art and faith. Joshua S. Porter is pastor of teaching and creative vision at Van City Church in Vancouver, Washington. He is also a former member of the experimental art-punk band, Showbread, and the author of With All Its Teeth, Death to Deconstruction, novel Punk Rock Vs. More. His upcoming book is entitled How to Die: A Spiritual Odyssey through Christian Discipleship.  https://www.ryleyheppner.com https://www.instagram.com/ryleyheppner/ For all collaboration requests (speaking, advertising, etc.) go to: https://www.ryleyheppner.com/collaboration

In this episode, I talk with wakeboarding legend Shaun Murray about the role of faith in his life and career. We discuss what it means to trust God through the ups and downs of professional sports, how his faith has shaped his perspective on success and identity, and the lessons he's learned along the way. Shaun shares how he stays grounded, what keeps him passionate about coaching and mentoring others, and why his relationship with Christ is at the center of it all. Whether you are into wakeboarding or just interested in the intersection of faith and perseverance, this is a conversation worth hearing! Shaun Murray is a four-time world champion wakeboarder. His wakeboarding career started in 1995 and was full of innovation and accomplishment, including many pro tour and world championship titles. Murray invented several wakeboard tricks, including the Bel Air, Tweety Bird, Square Raley, Crook, Crow 5, Heelside frontside and more. He promoted his own "Backyard Tour" with pro rider and friend Gerry Nunn; has been featured in many wakeboard movies, magazine and television pieces; created his own wakeboard instructional series entitled "Detention;" and was the star of his own video game, Wakeboarding Unleashed. In the summer of 2004, Murray dislocated his knee while riding. He tore his ACL, PCL, and MCL. After reconstructive surgery he was told he might not ride again. But, just months later he was back riding. He helped develop signature products that include boats, wakeboards, life jackets, wet suits and clothing lines. Murray was the first wakeboarder to land a 900 (Regular Heelside) in a competition, and he is the only rider ever to hold World, Pro Tour and National Championship titles at once. https://www.ryleyheppner.com https://www.instagram.com/ryleyheppner/ For all collaboration requests (speaking, advertising, etc.) go to: https://www.ryleyheppner.com/collaboration

Matthew's Gospel is more than just a historical account—it's a masterpiece of theology, fulfillment, and discipleship. In this episode, I sit down with New Testament professor Charles Quarles to explore the depth, structure, and significance of The Gospel According to Matthew, and to talk about his new Matthew commentary in the Evangelical Biblical Theology Commentary series. Charles Quarles is an experienced pastor, missionary, and theological educator. He served as Senior Pastor of three churches in North Mississippi and East Tennessee for over ten years. He served as a missionary of the International Mission Board of the Southern Baptist Convention in Bucharest Romania from 1999 to 2002. He has served as a professor of New Testament and Greek at Clear Creek Baptist Bible College, the Bucharest Baptist Theological Seminary, the University of Bucharest, New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary, and Louisiana College (now Louisiana Christian University). Turkey, and Cuba. He is the editor or author of a dozen books including The Sermon on the Mount: Restoring Christ's Message to the Modern Church; The Illustrated Life of Paul; A Theology of Matthew; Matthew in the Exegetical Guide to the Greek New Testament series; and Matthew in the Evangelical Biblical Theology Commentary series. https://www.ryleyheppner.com https://www.instagram.com/ryleyheppner/ For all collaboration requests (speaking, advertising, etc.) go to: https://www.ryleyheppner.com/collaboration

In this episode, I sit down with renowned biblical scholar Beverly Gaventa to discuss her latest work, a groundbreaking commentary on Paul's letter to the Romans. We explore the rich theology of Romans, focusing on its central themes of grace, righteousness, and the transformative power of the Gospel. Beverly shares her insights on how this letter speaks to the church today, the challenges of interpreting Paul's complex arguments, and what makes Romans a timeless theological masterpiece.  Dr. Beverly Roberts Gaventa is Distinguished Professor of Religion in Baylor University's College of Arts and Sciences. She is a graduate of Phillips University (BA), Union Theological Seminary (MDiv) and Duke University (PhD). Dr. Gaventa is one of the leading New Testament scholars in the world who engage in theological and historical interpretation of the Christian Scriptures, particularly the letters of Paul, and has lectured on university and seminary campuses around the world. The author or editor of 14 books, including Our Mother Saint Paul and When in Romans, she also has published more than 70 articles and essays and is currently writing a commentary on Paul's Epistle to the Romans for the New Testament Library Series. https://www.ryleyheppner.com https://www.instagram.com/ryleyheppner/ For all collaboration requests (speaking, advertising, etc.) go to: https://www.ryleyheppner.com/collaboration

In this episode, I sit down with Jonathan Holmes, author of Grounded in Grace: Helping Kids Build Their Identity in Christ. We discuss the challenges kids face in today's culture, from performance-driven identities to issues of gender and peer pressure. Jonathan shares practical insights for parents, youth leaders, and mentors on fostering gospel-centered conversations and guiding children toward a secure, Christ-centered identity. Whether you're a parent or someone invested in the spiritual growth of the next generation, this conversation is packed with wisdom and encouragement. Jonathan Holmes, MA, is the Founder and Executive Director of Fieldstone Counseling. He previously served for fifteen years on the pastoral teams of Parkside Church and Parkside Green. He is the author of several books, including Counsel for Couples, Rescue Skills, and Rescue Plan. Jonathan serves as a visiting faculty member and on the board of trustees for CCEF (Christian Counseling & Educational Foundation), as well as an instructor at Westminster Theological Seminary. He and his wife, Jennifer, have four daughters. https://www.ryleyheppner.com https://www.instagram.com/ryleyheppner/ For all collaboration requests (speaking, advertising, etc.) go to: https://www.ryleyheppner.com/collaboration

In this episode I dive into a conversation about faith, skateboarding, and Nitro Circus with professional skateboarder Beaver Fleming. From his journey into action sports to joining the legendary Nitro Circus team, Beaver shares the highs and challenges of his career, the wildest stuff he's attempted, and the lessons he's learned along the way. We explore how his faith in Christ has shaped his life and career, keeping him grounded in a culture often focused on thrill and self-promotion. Whether you're a fan of skating, inspired by bold faith, or curious about how to balance passion and purpose, my hope is that this conversation will encourage you to trust God's plan and live for His glory, no matter where He's placed you. Beaver is a skateboarder originally from Knoxville, TN, who embarked on his skateboarding journey at the age of 10. Beaver's enthusiasm for skating led him to be invited to join Nitro Circus in his final semester of high school, where his skills quickly gained recognition. Notably, he clinched the Simple Sessions "Best Trick" award three times, showcasing his innovation and prowess in the world of skateboarding. In 2017, Beaver Fleming made a mark at the Nitro World Games, securing an impressive 2nd place. With a unique style and a history of standout achievements, this skateboarder continues to leave a mark on the skateboarding scene. https://www.ryleyheppner.com https://www.instagram.com/ryleyheppner/ For all collaboration requests (speaking, advertising, etc.) go to: https://www.ryleyheppner.com/collaboration

In this episode, I sit down with film critic and author Abby Olcese to discuss her new book, "Films for All Seasons." Abby highlights how the changing seasons influence our emotional connection to movies, how certain films reflect the rhythms of life in profound and unexpected ways and how Christians can engage thoughtfully with film. Abby Olcese is a writer on film, popular culture, and faith. Her work has appeared at Think Christian, Sojourners, Paste, RogerEbert.com, and /Film. She is also the film editor for The Pitch, a website and magazine serving the greater Kansas City, Missouri, area. She lives in Kansas City. https://www.ryleyheppner.com https://www.instagram.com/ryleyheppner/ For all collaboration requests (speaking, advertising, etc.) go to: https://www.ryleyheppner.com/collaboration

I had the immense privilege today of getting to chat with renowned biblical scholar G.K. Beale to explore the profound depths of the Book of Revelation. Known for his expertise in biblical theology and his groundbreaking works on Revelation, Dr. Beale unpacks the book's rich symbolism, its connections to the Old Testament, and its enduring message for the Church today.  Dr. Gregory K. Beale is Professor of New Testament at RTS Dallas. He has had a long and distinguished academic career, teaching at Grove City College, Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary, Wheaton Graduate School, and Westminster Theological Seminary. Before joining the RTS Dallas faculty in 2021, he served as Westminster's J. Gresham Machen Chair and Research Professor of New Testament and Biblical Interpretation. He is a past president of the Evangelical Theological Society. Dr. Beale is a native Texan and a graduate of Southern Methodist University (SMU), Dallas Theological Seminary, and Cambridge University. https://www.ryleyheppner.com https://www.instagram.com/ryleyheppner/ For all collaboration requests (speaking, advertising, etc.) go to: https://www.ryleyheppner.com/collaboration

In this episode, I sit down with Kevin S. Chen, author of "Wonders From Your Law: Nexus Passages and the Promise of an Exegetical Intertextual Old Testament Theology." Kevin shares insights into the "nexus passages"—key texts that bridge themes, stories, and promises across Scripture—and why they matter for understanding the Bible as a whole.  Whether you're a seasoned Bible reader or just beginning to dive into Scripture, I hope this conversation (and ultimately Kevin's new book) will deepen your appreciation for the richness and wonders of God's Word. Kevin S. Chen is professor of Old Testament Studies at Gateway Seminary in Ontario, CA. He previously taught at Christian Witness Theological Seminary in San Jose, CA, and Union University in Jackson, TN. He is the author of The Messianic Vision of the Pentateuch and is a contributor to the Worldview Study Bible. https://www.ryleyheppner.com https://www.instagram.com/ryleyheppner/ For all collaboration requests (speaking, advertising, etc.) go to: https://www.ryleyheppner.com/collaboration

In this episode, I sit down for a second time with James McGrath to discuss his fascinating new book, "John of History, Baptist of Faith: The Quest for the Historical Baptizer." We dive into the life and legacy of John the Baptist, exploring his historical significance, his relationship with Jesus, and how his ministry shaped the Gospel story. James shares insights from his research, including the role of non-canonical texts like the Mandaean scriptures, and tackles misconceptions about John's character and mission.  James Frank McGrath is the Clarence L. Goodwin Chair in New Testament Language and Literature at Butler University. He is known for his work on Early Christianity, Mandaeism, criticism of the Christ myth theory, and the analysis of religion in science fiction. McGrath received his Ph.D. from Durham University in 1998.

In this episode, I am joined by Jeremy Lundgren to explore his new book, The Pursuit of Safety: A Theology of Danger, Risk, and Security. Jeremy challenges assumptions about safety in modern life, asking how a biblical worldview reshapes our understanding of risk, fear, and trust in God. Together, we discuss what it means to follow Christ in a world obsessed with security, how Scripture invites us to embrace faithful risk-taking, and the implications for the church, mission, and daily discipleship. Jeremy Lundgren (PhD, Wheaton College) is director of Nicolet Bible Institute and coordinator of the MA in Biblical and Theological Studies program at Wheaton College. https://www.ryleyheppner.com https://www.instagram.com/ryleyheppner/ For all collaboration requests (speaking, advertising, etc.) go to: https://www.ryleyheppner.com/collaboration

In this episode, I sit down with Bonhoeffer scholar, Matthew D. Kirkpatrick to discuss his new book, "Bonhoeffer for the Church: An Introduction." Kirkpatrick offers a fresh and accessible look at the life, theology, and enduring legacy of Dietrich Bonhoeffer, one of the most influential Christian voices of the 20th century. In our conversation we explore how Bonhoeffer's insights on discipleship, community, and faithfulness in times of crisis remain profoundly relevant for the church today.  Matthew D. Kirkpatrick is Tutorial Fellow in Christian ethics and doctrine at Wycliffe Hall, the University of Oxford. He has published widely on Bonhoeffer's thought, including Attacks on Christendom in a World Come of Age (2011), Bonhoeffer's Ethics (2011) and, as editor, Engaging Bonhoeffer (2016). https://www.ryleyheppner.com https://www.instagram.com/ryleyheppner/ For all collaboration requests (speaking, advertising, etc.) go to: https://www.ryleyheppner.com/collaboration

In this episode, I sit down with pastor and author, Jim Essian,  to discuss his latest book, "Send: Loving Your Church by Praying, Giving, or Going." Jim shares about his journey from professional baseball to church planting and founding the Plant Fort Worth network, which has helped plant 15 churches in just six years. He unpacks the heart of his new book, what it means to "live sent," and how churches and individuals can embrace God's global mission. Jim Essian planted The Paradox Church in 2011 in Downtown Fort Worth and serves as Lead Pastor. He played eight years of professional baseball in the Kansas City Royals, Los Angeles Dodgers, and Detroit Tigers organizations, prior to planting. He founded the church planting network Plant Fort Worth, which has seen 15 churches planted in the Greater Fort Worth area in the last 6 years. He is the author of Jesus For You: He Became Like You So You Could Become Like Him. Jim is married to Heather and they have three girls: Harper Grace, Hollis Jane, and Hadden Faith. https://www.ryleyheppner.com https://www.instagram.com/ryleyheppner/ For all collaboration requests (speaking, advertising, etc.) go to: https://www.ryleyheppner.com/collaboration

In this episode I have the amazing privilege of getting to sit down with Sonny Sandoval, the legendary frontman of P.O.D., to talk about his upcoming autobiography, Son of Southtown: My Life Between Two Worlds. This conversation was one of, if not the highlight of this podcasting thing so far. Sonny was one of a kind. The nicest guy, and clearly so passionately fixated on Christ. Hope you enjoy and are encouraged by our conversation. And I hope you go grab a copy of Sonny's new book on February 25th. It is absolutely worth the read. Sonny Sandoval is the lead singer and lyricist of the multi-platinum band P.O.D. (Payable on Death) and cofounder of The Whosoevers. He is a product of Southtown, the southern part of San Diego that approaches the border with Mexico. He is the founder and president of the Youth of the Nation Foundation, which reaches out to children from underprivileged neighborhoods and gives them the opportunity to find their self-worth and value. Sonny is married to his high school sweetheart, Shannon, and they have three children. https://www.ryleyheppner.com https://www.instagram.com/ryleyheppner/ For all collaboration requests (speaking, advertising, etc.) go to: https://www.ryleyheppner.com/collaboration

In this episode, I was joined by Dr. Janette H. Ok, a leading New Testament scholar, to discuss her contribution as editor and commentator in the groundbreaking commentary, "The New Testament in Color." Dr. Ok shares the inspiration behind this project and reflects on how her own cultural background has shaped her approach to Scripture. We explore what "in color" signifies—not just diversity, but also interpretive depth and theological nuance—and how this approach can challenge traditional readings of the New Testament. Janette H. Ok is associate professor of New Testament at Fuller Theological Seminary. She is the author of Constructing Ethnic Identity in 1 Peter (T and T Clark). She is currently writing a commentary on the Letters of John (NICNT, Eerdmans) and To Be and Be Seen, coauthored with Jordan J. Cruz Ryan (Baker Academic). https://www.ryleyheppner.com https://www.instagram.com/ryleyheppner/ For all collaboration requests (speaking, advertising, etc.) go to: https://www.ryleyheppner.com/collaboration

In this episode I chat once again Timothy Larsen, this time to discuss his wonderful new book, "12 Classic Christmas Stories: A Feast of Yuletide Tales" (Moody Press). Whether you're a lover of classic literature or simply looking to deepen your appreciation of Christmas traditions, and connect them to Christ, this book will do it, and hopefully this conversation as well! Timothy Larsen is McManis Professor of Christian Thought and Professor of History at Wheaton College, an Honorary Fellow, School of Divinity, University of Edinburgh, and an Honorary Research Fellow, School of Theology, Religious Studies and Islamic Studies, University of Wales Trinity Saint David.  He has been a Visiting Fellow at Trinity College, Cambridge, All Souls College, Oxford, and Christ Church, Oxford and is a Fellow of the Royal Historical Society and a Fellow of the Royal Anthropological Institute. He has been elected President of the American Society of Church History for 2025. He is the author or editor of twenty books including Crisis of Doubt: Honest Faith in Nineteenth-Century England, A People of One Book: The Bible and the Victorians, The Slain God: Anthropologists and the Christian Faith, John Stuart Mill: A Secular Life and The Oxford Handbook of Christmas (all with Oxford University Press). https://www.ryleyheppner.com https://www.instagram.com/ryleyheppner/ For all collaboration requests (speaking, advertising, etc.) go to: https://www.ryleyheppner.com/collaboration

In this episode, I sit down with well-known author and blogger, Tim Challies, to discuss his book Running to Win: The Lifelong Pursuits of a Godly Man. We dive into the spiritual disciplines and habits that shape a faithful life, exploring the parallels between the Christian walk and the discipline of running a race. Tim shares insights on marriage, doctrine, self-control and the importance of commitment to godly living in all seasons of life. Tim Challies is a pastor, noted speaker, author of numerous articles, and a pioneer in the Christian blogosphere. Tens of thousands of people visit Challies.com each day, making it one of the most widely read and recognized Christian blogs in the world. Tim is the author of several books, including Visual Theology, The Next Story, and, most recently, Pilgrim Prayers: Devotional Poems That Awaken Your Heart to the Goodness, Greatness, and Glory of God.   https://www.ryleyheppner.com https://www.instagram.com/ryleyheppner/ For all collaboration requests (speaking, advertising, etc.) go to: https://www.ryleyheppner.com/collaboration

In today's episode, we're diving into one of the most challenging topics in biblical interpretation: how to approach the Bible's violent texts in a way that is faithful, thoughtful, and pastoral. I'm thrilled to be joined by Dr. Eric Seibert, a renowned scholar, author, and professor, formerly at Messiah University, whose work has been instrumental in helping Christians wrestle with difficult passages in Scripture.  In his new book, "Redeeming Violent Verses: A Guide for Using Troublesome Texts in Church and Ministry," Eric equips pastors, ministry leaders, and everyday readers with tools to interpret these texts responsibly, making sense of their historical and theological contexts while addressing real-world questions of faith, justice, and morality.  Dr. Eric A. Seibert is a writer, speaker, pastor and until recently a Professor of Old Testament at Messiah University. He enjoys helping people deal with problematic portrayals of God in the Old Testament and is the author Disturbing Divine Behavior: Troubling Old Testament Images of God, and most recently, "Redeeming Violent Verses: A Guide for Using Troublesome Texts in Church and Ministry," https://www.ryleyheppner.com https://www.instagram.com/ryleyheppner/ For all collaboration requests (speaking, advertising, etc.) go to: https://www.ryleyheppner.com/collaboration

Today's episode was with Amy Peeler out of Wheaton College. Amy has just released a new and wonderful Hebrews commentary in Eerdmans' "Commentaries for Christian Formation” series and I had the wonderful chance to chat with her today about it. Our conversation ranged from what led to her initial excitement about Hebrews, to what value it holds for the church today, to how we can overcome the barriers of understanding and applying it. The Rev. Amy Peeler, Ph.D. is an Associate Professor of New Testament at Wheaton College, IL and an Associate Rector at St. Mark's Episcopal Church in Geneva, IL. Author of Women and Gender of God (Eerdmans, 2022), “You Are My Son”: The Family of God in the Epistle to the Hebrews (T&T Clark, 2014), and co-author with Patrick Gray of Hebrews: An Introduction and Study Guide (T&T Clark, 2020), she continues to research, write, and speak on Hebrews and familial language in the New Testament. She received her BA in Biblical Languages from Oklahoma Baptist University, M. Div. and Ph. D. in New Testament from Princeton Theological Seminary, and served as a Senior Research Fellow with the Logos Institute at the University of St. Andrews.  She is an active member of the Institute for Biblical Research, Society of Biblical Literature, and a Fellow with the Center for Pastor Theologians.  https://www.ryleyheppner.com https://www.instagram.com/ryleyheppner/ For speaking requests or inquiries, go to: https://www.ryleyheppner.com/speaking-request      

In this episode I have the privilege of chatting with New Testament scholar Dr. Clifton Black to explore his journey as a biblical scholar, his recent book Mark's Gospel, and his deep insights into the unique qualities of this often-underappreciated Gospel. Dr. Black offers valuable insights on how Mark's Gospel can deepen our understanding of the Christian faith and its significance for the modern church. Dr. C. Clifton Black, Princeton Theological Seminary's Otto A. Piper Professor of Biblical Theology, earned his MA in theology from the University of Bristol, his MDiv from Emory University, and his PhD from Duke University. He is an ordained elder in the Western North Carolina Conference of The United Methodist Church. While his research interests concentrate in the New Testament's Gospels, particularly in Mark, he publishes in many fields, including biblical theology, New Testament rhetoric, and the history of biblical interpretation. He offers a broad array of courses, including New Testament introduction, the exegesis of Mark's Gospel, biblical theology and the practice of ministry, the parables of Jesus, major themes in New Testament theology, the biblical and Shakespearean visions, prayer in the New Testament, series in faith and film, as well as several doctoral-level seminars. He is the author, editor, or collaborating author of 20 books, and has published more than 200 essays, articles, and reviews. Black is a member of the Society of Biblical Literature, the Catholic Biblical Association, Studiorum Novi Testamenti Societas, the Center of Theological Inquiry, and the American Association of University Professors. He serves as secretary of the American Theological Society.

The scandal of the Gospel. That a perfect God would substitute himself in the place of the guilty. More than that, in the place of enemies. As Charles Wesley so wonderfully wrote, "How can it be That Thou, my God, should die for me?"

How do you live as a faithful Christian in such politically polarized times? How do you follow Jesus and participate in politics? How do you be salt and light in the world and love your neighbour well and contribute politically to our society? There are so many pressing questions like these when it comes to the relationship with between faith and politics. Thankfully there are people like Miranda Zapor Cruz who providing biblical answers! I was so privileged to get to talk to Miranda today about her new book, “Faithful Politics: Ten Approaches to Christian Citizenship and Why it Matters.” I hope you enjoy our conversation and that you are challenged and edified by it! Miranda Zapor Cruz is professor of historical theology at Indiana Wesleyan University. She holds a PhD in religion, politics, and society from Baylor University's J. M. Dawson Institute of Church-State Studies and an MDiv from Princeton Theological Seminary.

In today's episode I chat with Tod Bolsinger about his new four book series, Practicing Change. In our conversation Tod briefly unpacks each book in the series, walking me through what it looks like to lead a church through positive change and transformation in the midst of crisis and resistance, while building trust and staying on mission. If you are a Christian leader of any sort, Tod's new series is a must read, and hopefully this episode is a good precursor to it! Tod Bolsinger is the founder and principal at AE Sloan Leadership Inc., the executive director of the DePree Center Church Leadership Institute, and associate professor of leadership formation at Fuller Seminary. He is the author of Canoeing the Mountains and Tempered Resilience. Tod and his wife, Beth, split their time between Pasadena, California, and Ketchum, Idaho.  

Today I had the chance to chat with Kevin Gushiken about his new book out of Kregel Press, “A Theology of Play: Learning to Enjoy Life as God intended.” It is such a unique topic of study and one that hasn't received that much focus. To think that God created play, gives us the freedom and permission to play, and that he actually delights in his people playing. How incredible! In our conversation, I asked Kevin every question about play that came up for me as I read his book. I hope they are questions that you have asked and wondered about too. Enjoy and as always, consider picking up this book. Whether you struggle to make time for play, or you struggle with shame in your play, this one is well worth the read. Kevin M. Gushiken (PhD, Trinity Evangelical Divinity School) serves as the PhD and Leadership Director at Lancaster Bible College, Capital Seminary & Graduate School. Prior to this, he served as a senior pastor in Chicago for seventeen years.

I had the wonderful privilege today of getting to speak with, author and biblical scholar Christopher Ash. Ash has most recently released through Crossway a four volume commentary called The Psalms: A Christ Centred Commentary, which was the topic of our conversation today. We talked about how to find Christ in the Psalms, how to read the Psalms of vengeance, how important the Psalms are to the church, and many more things to do with the beauty and intricacy of the Psalms I hope you enjoy, are blessed, are challenged, and are taken deeper into knowing Jesus through the Psalms! I also hope you'll pick up Christopher's commentary, even if you just start with volume one. You will not look at and read the Psalms the same again. Christopher Ash is a preacher, teacher, and writer. After working in telecommunications and as a teacher of math, Christopher studied theology at Oxford, where he was awarded the Denyer and Johnson prize. He was ordained and served as an Assistant Minister in St. Andrew the Great in Cambridge, before leading a church plant to All Saints, Little Shelford, in 1997. In 2004 he and Carolyn moved to London where Christopher served as Director of the Proclamation Trust's Cornhill Training Course until July 2015. He is now writer in residence at Tyndale House in Cambridge. He and his wife, Carolyn, are members of a church in Cambridge, and they have four children and numerous grandchildren.

Just ten simple things that have helped me be more disciplined in and get more out of my time in God's Word. Maybe they'll be helpful to you too! 1. Read it daily. 2. Read it in strange places. 3. Read it while you're waiting. 4. Read it with multiple bookmarks. 5. Read it with a plan. 6. Read the Psalms once a month. 7. Buy new Bibles because you wear them out. 8. Read it with a commentary 9.  Read it without rushing. 10. Read it with prayer.

I had the awesome privileged today of getting to talk to pastor and author, Mark Vroegop about his latest book, “Waiting isn't a Waste: The Surprising Comfort of Trusting God in the Uncertainties of Life." Our conversation covered, among other things, the motivation for the book, why waiting is both normal and difficult, how it is an opportunity for Christ to shine in and through us, and how waiting can reveal the idolatrous parts of our hearts. Hope you enjoy, that you are encouraged and challenged and that you inspired to go out and grab this book quick! Mark Vroegop (MDiv, Grand Rapids Theological Seminary) is the lead pastor of College Park Church in Indianapolis and the author of the ECPA 2020 Christian Book of the Year Dark Clouds, Deep Mercy: Discovering the Grace of Lament. He's married to Sarah, and they have four children and three daughters-in-law.

There is an old adage that goes something like this, "What would you attempt to do if you knew you could not fail?” Now let me reword it for you and ask it again, “What you would attempt for Christ, if you knew His love for you could not fail?”

Today's conversation is with Professor of History and Christian thought, Dr. Timothy Larsen. Dr. Larsen's latest project is the reissue of a powerful devotional from the 19th century Scottish author and minister, George MacDonald, Diary of an Old Soul, in which Dr. Larsen provides an introduction and explanatory notes throughout the book. We talked lots about George Donald, about his Christian faith, his influence on people like Tolkien and C.S. Lewis, the uniqueness and ongoing relevance of this devotional Diary of an Old Soul, and what exactly an Old Soul even is. Dr. Larsen is McManis Professor of Christian Thought and Professor of History at Wheaton College, an Honorary Fellow, School of Divinity, University of Edinburgh, and an Honorary Research Fellow, School of Theology, Religious Studies and Islamic Studies, University of Wales Trinity Saint David.  He has been a Visiting Fellow at Trinity College, Cambridge, All Souls College, Oxford, and Christ Church, Oxford and is a Fellow of the Royal Historical Society and a Fellow of the Royal Anthropological Institute. He has been elected President of the American Society of Church History for 2025. He is the author or editor of twenty books including Crisis of Doubt: Honest Faith in Nineteenth-Century England, A People of One Book: The Bible and the Victorians, The Slain God: Anthropologists and the Christian Faith, John Stuart Mill: A Secular Life and The Oxford Handbook of Christmas (all with Oxford University Press).

Today I was joined by New Testament Professor and Bible Translator Dr. Mark Strauss, to talk about his new book, 40 Questions About Bible Translation. Our conversation ranged from gender neutral decisions in the NIV, to the difficulties, challenges and ongoing debates in Bible Translation, to the differences between a translation and paraphrase. Hope you enjoy and that you are left both challenged and encouraged! Dr. Mark L. Strauss serves as Professor of New Testament at Bethel Seminary, where he has been since 1993. He is the author/coauthor of 20 books and many articles, and editor/co-editor of 40 volumes. His works include Four Portraits, One Jesus (Zondervan, 2007; 2020), commentaries on Mark's Gospel in the Zondervan Exegetical Commentary Series (2014) and Expositors Bible Commentary, vol. 9 (2010) and on Luke in the Illustrated Bible Background Commentary (2002); Jesus Behaving Badly (InterVarsity, 2015); How to Read the Bible in Changing Times (Baker, 2011) and The Davidic Messiah in Luke-Acts (Sheffield Press, 1996). He serves as Vice Chair of the Committee on Bible Translation for the New International Version and as an associate editor for the NIV Study Bible.

Rejection always hurts, no matter what I am being rejected from. It always makes me squirm; makes me want to disappear. And yet, I have come to realize through the years and over the course of many rejections that God can and does use rejection in my life to do a myriad of beautiful things. These days, even though rejection is still uncomfortable, I find myself almost eagerly anticipating it because of what I know God is going to do through it and how He is going to be glorified by it.      

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In today's conversation I chat with New Testament Scholar, Dr. James McGrath, about his most recent books, The A to Z of the New Testament: Things Experts Know That Everyone Else Should Too, as well as Christmaker: A Life of John the Baptist. Dr. McGrath discusses, among other things, whether the eye of the needle really was a gate in the city wall, if there is a book in the Bible called Revelations, and if John the Baptist was a lone hermit or a charming herald. I hope you enjoy our conversation and that you consider picking up one if not both of these excellent reads! Dr. James F. McGrath is Clarence L. Goodwin Chair in New Testament Language and Literature at Butler University in Indianapolis, Indiana, USA. He has a Diploma in Religious Studies from the University of Cambridge, a BD from the University of London, and his PhD from Durham University. He is the author of John's Apologetic Christology, The Only True God, Theology and Science Fiction, and The Burial of Jesus, as well as (with Charles Haberl of Rutgers University) the two-volume Mandaean Book of John: Critical edition, Translation, and Commentary. Also author of numerous articles (and a few science fiction short stories) and the editor or co-editor of several volumes.

In today's episode I have the privilege of talking to Jeff Medders and Doug Logan Jr. about their new book "The Soul Winning Church: Six Keys to Fostering a Genuine Evangelistic Culture." In our conversation Jeff and Doug share about the their individual experiences in the church that led to this book being written; why they think we struggle so hard as churches to focus on soul-winning; and how we keep evangelism from just becoming another ministry in the church. The book is published by The Good Book Company and will be on book shelves August 1st! J.A. Medders is the Director of Theology and Content for Send Network, a preacher, podcaster, and the author of multiple books including Humble Calvinism and The Soul-Winning Church. He is pursuing a Ph.D. in biblical spirituality from the Southern Baptist Theology Seminary. Jeff is a native of Houston, Texas, where he lives with his wife, Natalie, and two children. You can follow his writing and ministry at spiritualtheology.net. Dr. Doug Logan, Jr. is the President and Dean of Grimké School of Urban Ministry. He also serves as a Council member of The Gospel Coalition. He is the Pastor of Church Planting at Remnant Church in Richmond, Virginia, and the author of The Soul-Winning Church and On The Block: Developing a Biblical Picture for Missional Engagement. In 2011, he planted Epiphany Fellowship of Camden, New Jersey, with his wife, Angel. They have three adult sons, four grandchildren, and one great-grandchild.

Are there any biblical reasons for Christians to at least get in control of their smart phone use? I think there are lots of reasons but I will just give you 10!

Who are the poor in spirit and how on earth does the Kingdom of God belong to them?

In part three of our ongoing series, "A Conversation About Church," Ben and I discuss where the local church should fit in our lives in terms of priorities. What should be our commitment level to the church? How involved should we be? Is the church important? Essential? Optional? What if we've been hurt by/in the church?

Today I was privileged to be joined by Biblical Scholar, Dr. Peter Bolt. In my conversation with Dr. Bolt we discussed, among other things, the Gospel of Mark, some of his work in the area of demonology, and a few of his favourite writings from Karl Barth. Dr. Bolt is the Director of Academic Strategy at Sydney College of Divinity, the founding Director of the Centre for Gospels and Acts Research, the editor of the Journal of Gospel and Acts Research, and a member of the Editorial Board of SCD Press. His publications on the Gospels include Jesus' Defeat of Death: Persuading Mark's Early Readers (2003), The Cross from a Distance: Atonement in Mark's Gospel (2004), Matthew: A Great Light Dawns (2014), and The Narrative Integrity of Mark 13:24–27 (2021). From 1990 to 2015 he lectured in Biblical Theology and New Testament at Moore College, Sydney, where he was also Head of the Department of New Testament and Greek.

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Today I was joined by pastor, professor and biblical counselor, Dr. Ernie Baker. Our conversation focused primarily on the topics in Dr. Baker's latest book and contribution to the biblical counseling world, Biblical Counseling and the Psychologies.  Dr. Baker (D.Min., Westminster Theological Seminary) serves First Baptist Church as the Interim Senior Adult Pastor. He is also a professor at The Master's University (Santa Clarita, CA) where he continues to serve as the chair of the online biblical counseling program. He is a fellow with the Association of Certified Biblical Counselors and a certified conciliator with The Institute for Christian Conciliation. He has contributed to numerous books and is the author of Marry Wisely, Marry Well, a blueprint for personal preparation, Help! I'm in a Conflict, and most recently Biblical Counseling and the Psychologies. 

In Luke 10 Jesus encounters Mary and her sister Martha and it is a powerful picture of the distracting dangers of serving Him rather than sitting with Him.

I am joined by author and theologian, Dr. Grace Ji-Sun Kim, to talk about her new book "When God Became White: Dismantling Whiteness For a More Just Christianity." In our conversation Dr. Kim describes the origins of her new book, briefly unpacks the roots of and the damage done by painting God as a white, and speaks to how the Church can begin to correct the narrative of Whiteness. Grace Ji-Sun Kim (PhD, University of Toronto) is professor of theology at Earlham School of Religion in Richmond, Indiana. She is the host of the Madang podcast and has published in TIME, Huffington Post, US Catholic, and The Nation. She is an ordained PC(USA) minister and enjoys being a guest preacher on most Sundays. She is author or editor of 24 books, including Healing Our Broken Humanity, Embracing the Other (Eerdmans, 2015), Christian Doctrines for Global Gender Justice (Pallgrave Macmillian, 2015), and Intercultural Ministry (Judson PR, 2017). She and her spouse, Perry, have three young adult children and live in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania.

When I was four my parents took me into my first skateboard shop and bought me my first skateboard. I tell you all that not for no reason, but because that has a lot to do with how and why I started really following Jesus and then how and why I became obsessed with His Word.

The church that does not know the purpose for which it exists will inevitably misplace its focus, misuse its resources, and miss out on so much of God intended for it. The church has got to know its primary purpose. Thankfully its in Ephesians 3, and it is truly a glorious purpose with mind blowing proportions.

What is God like toward His children? What is the extent of His goodness? How does He give us rest? Psalm 23 has something to say on it!

Before reading the genealogy in Matthew chapter 1, one might expect that it would be most boring passage in Matthew's entire book. But nothing could be further from the truth. It is simply incredible how many treasures Matthew packed into just 17 verses, and how he uses a genealogy of all things to so beautifully and poetically setup the rest of the story of Jesus.

More hard words from Jesus, but there is no getting around it. Are we the overeager disciple or the undereager? What are the things that we have not fully surrendered; the costs we have not truly counted? What are the things we use to justify the putting off of following Jesus with our whole hearts?

What is the Gospel? It seems like a simple question, yet how many of us struggle to put the gospel into words?

In our ongoing conversation about the Church, today we were joined by a good friend and brother, Reverend Austin Spry. Austin is a Priest in the Anglican Church of Canada, and as such he brings a unique experience and much needed perspective to the conversation. Our questions for Austin covered topics like liturgy, Anglican church models, children in services, centrality of the Scripture, and more.