Grace Church Members Podcast

In this episode, Scott is in the studio with Matt and Vicki Williams, Bill White, and Tom Merritt to celebrate 30 years of Grace Church by remembering how it all started. We are overwhelmed by God's kindness and provision to our church over the years, and we hope these stories will lead us collectively to worship the Lord for his faithfulness to us.If you have questions or want access to additional resources, be sure to check out the podcast page at https://grace.sc/resources/podcasts/memberspodcast/

In a special edition of the podcast, Scott sits down with Front Porch Housing Director Brian Burgess, NewSpring Greenville Campus Pastor Mike Link, and Grace Church Outreach Director Jennifer Dill to discuss Front Porch's new nonprofit status and their growing community partnerships. They talk about how unity between local churches can push the Kingdom forward and how meeting physical and spiritual needs in the community leads to lasting life change. Link to video: https://vimeo.com/1077366788/3ad56040c4?share=copyIf you have questions or want access to additional resources, be sure to check out the podcast page at https://grace.sc/resources/podcasts/memberspodcast/

In this episode, Scott and Whitney are in the studio with Brad Rhoads and Jeremy Meyer to talk about a biblical vision for God-centered marriage and how we serve our married members as a church. Brad is a former attorney who, along with his wife Marilyn, co-founded Grace Marriage ministry. Jeremy is our Pastor of Marriage and Premarital here at Grace Church.If you have questions or want access to additional resources, be sure to check out the podcast page at https://grace.sc/resources/podcasts/memberspodcast/

Scott and Whitney sit down with Jennifer Dill, our Natural Burial Coordinator to get an update three and a half years after we introduced our natural burial ministry. They review how and why our church wanted to engage this topic, Jennifer explains more about what the process of natural burial looks like, and she shares some stories and encouragement from the past few years. If you have questions or want access to additional resources, be sure to check out the podcast page at https://grace.sc/resources/podcasts/memberspodcast/

In our last episode of 2024, Scott and Whitney invite Joey Altom, one of our pastors, in the studio to discuss the holiday season and some of the unique spiritual challenges it can present. Whether it's loneliness, grief, family tensions, cultural expectations, or just being busy, December doesn't always look the way we hope it will. As a church family, we want to set our hopes higher and look to Jesus for comfort and peace. If you have questions or want access to additional resources, be sure to check out the podcast page at https://grace.sc/resources/podcasts/memberspodcast/

For Giving Tuesday, Scott and Whitney sat down in the studio to expand on the idea of generosity and how God designed us to be generous like him. This flows out of a desire for us to be transformed instead of simply completing a transaction. They discuss the abundance vs. scarcity mindset that Scripture describes and the joy and freedom that awaits those who believe God has their good in mind. If you have questions or want access to additional resources, be sure to check out the podcast page at https://grace.sc/resources/podcasts/memberspodcast/

Scott and Whitney get the chance to interview Fabricio Mendoza, who works with our partner organization in Nicaragua, Christ for the City International, and Wes Cavin, who has served as our Nicaragua team lead for several years. We've partnered with CFCI in Nicaragua for over 20 years now—Fabricio and Wes share how we've been able to support local Nicaraguan churches together and how God has shaped them personally through this ministry. If you have questions or want access to additional resources, be sure to check out the podcast page at https://grace.sc/resources/podcasts/memberspodcast/

In this episode, Scott Mozingo is in the studio with Mitch Miller, the lead pastor at one of our local church partners, Griggs Memorial Baptist Church. Griggs sits just outside downtown Greenville, and Mitch shares about their mission to worship Jesus, revitalize the church, and reach the neighborhood of Poe Mill. They also discuss the impact of Mission Upstate where we get to partner with Griggs and send our high school students as support for their summer camp for neighborhood kids. If you have questions or want access to additional resources, be sure to check out the podcast page at https://grace.sc/resources/podcasts/memberspodcast/

In this episode, Scott and Whitney sit down with Matt and Ashley Gaymon who are members at our Pelham campus, lead high school student groups, and are parenting teenagers of their own. They share stories of their successes and failures as parents and reflect on how Scripture, community, and the local church have shaped their approach to discipling their children. If you have questions or want access to additional resources, be sure to check out the podcast page at https://grace.sc/resources/podcasts/memberspodcast/

After wrapping up our teaching series on Self Made, we sat down with series co-creators Haley Barinowski, Scofield Foster, and Blake Payne to ask some follow-up questions. They expound on topics like healthy emotion and ambition, the most prevalent self made song in our church, performance mentality in serving, singleness, and more.  If you have questions or want access to additional resources, be sure to check out the podcast page at https://grace.sc/resources/podcasts/memberspodcast/

We're switching it up on this episode of the Grace Church Members Podcast to bring you a diversified list of summer reading recommendations from 13 of our incredible staff members. We've included everything from biographies to historical fiction and fantasy, southern gothic mystery and liturgy, and of course some strong Christian reads as well. We hope you find something to read on your own or with your family!  If you have questions or want access to additional resources, be sure to check out the podcast page at https://grace.sc/resources/podcasts/memberspodcast/

In this episode, Scott sits down with  Mike Chibbaro to discuss the value of maintaining humility and curiosity throughout our lives. As an avid reader and learner himself, Mike shares how he has cultivated habits in his own life to prevent complacency and pursue an expanding imagination. If you have questions or want access to additional resources, be sure to check out the podcast page at https://grace.sc/resources/podcasts/memberspodcast/.

In this final installment of celebrating Front Porch, we have three stories from volunteers in various roles. Kady Jacobs is a community leader who provides training for residents around emotional intelligence and community living. Savannah Robinson is a high school student who offers up her afternoons to serve in after-school childcare. Kevin and Mary Tally are empty-nesters who have devoted their time and talents to build the financial coaching program. Stay tuned until the end for more information on how you can get involved at Front Porch! If you have questions or want access to additional resources, be sure to check out the podcast page at https://grace.sc/resources/podcasts/memberspodcast/.

In the second episode of our Front Porch series, Whitney sits down with two residents, Nathan and Graham. Nathan talks about how Front Porch has provided space for him and his daughter to connect over creativity as they designed a fun activity for their neighbors' kids. Graham tells several heartwarming stories of how Front Porch has supported him following his recovery from addiction and shown him what it means to receive the love of Christ. If you have questions or want access to additional resources, be sure to check out the podcast page at https://grace.sc/resources/podcasts/memberspodcast/.

In this three-episode series, we are celebrating the two year anniversary of Front Porch Housing by sharing stories from a variety of perspectives. This episode features Front Porch care coordinators Markis Allen and Eyleen Barnes sharing their experiences with our producer, Whitney Maness. They discuss the wins and challenges of their job and how they draw strength from the Spirit to care for their residents. If you have questions or want access to additional resources, be sure to check out the podcast page at https://grace.sc/resources/podcasts/memberspodcast/.

Description In this episode, we continue our interview with Bernard Kabaru and Ryan Burns as they explain how our medical teams help our partners in Kenya build credibility for their local churches. Scott also sits down with Chris Stalnaker, who recently returned from a mission trip to Kenya. She shares how this mission trip taught her to abide more in the Lord and value being part of the global church. If you have questions or want access to additional resources, be sure to check out the podcast page at https://grace.sc/resources/podcasts/memberspodcast/.

In this two-part series, our friends Bernard Kabaru Mwangi and Ryan Burns join Scott Mozingo in the studio to discuss our 13-year partnership in Kenya, now with LEFTI International. They share personal anecdotes (including Bernard's testimony), the ministry philosophy behind the OVC program, Kenyan cultural context, mission trip goals, and recent praises. If you have questions or want access to additional resources, be sure to check out the podcast page at https://grace.sc/resources/podcasts/memberspodcast/.

In this episode, Scott Mozingo sits down with Bill White and Jim Taylor to discuss our next teaching series: the book of Malachi. They review the historical and cultural context of the original audience, discuss major themes, provide helpful perspectives to engage the book, and share how our teaching team is thinking about upcoming series. If you have questions or want access to additional resources, be sure to check out the podcast page at https://grace.sc/resources/podcasts/memberspodcast/.

In this episode, Scott Mozingo hosts Tanner Corley and Blake Payne to discuss our new core value of Faithfully Gathered. They cover how and why this new language was developed, how it relates to the previous core value of Relationally Connected, and what it looks like for us to implement faithful gathering in our personal and corporate practice. If you have questions or want access to additional resources, be sure to check out the podcast page at https://grace.sc/resources/podcasts/memberspodcast/.

In this episode of the Grace Church Members Podcast, host Chris Rivers, along with Scott Mozingo and Whitney Maness, discuss the concept of abiding in Christ. The conversation covers biblical context, our culture's emphasis on performance, and the practical ways we can move towards abiding and finding rest in Jesus. If you have questions or want access to additional resources, be sure to check out the podcast page at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://resources.gracechurchsc.org/podcasts/memberspodcast⁠

In this episode of the Grace Church Members podcast, Chris Rivers and Scott Mozingo, along with Beth Drake and Daniel Black, discuss the Church's role in foster care and adoption. This  conversation is framed by the nature of the gospel and Scripture's call to support the vulnerable, especially children. Living out the gospel through fostering and adoption transforms children, families, and communities, and we hope you will join us in exploring this important discipleship issue. If you have questions or want access to additional resources, be sure to check out the podcast page at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://resources.gracechurchsc.org/podcasts/memberspodcast⁠

In this episode of the Grace Church Members Podcast, Chris Rivers sits down with Scott Mozingo and Dr. Tim Wardle, a professor from Furman University, to discuss the historical, political, and geographical complexities of the Israeli-Palestinian region. This context can provide a framework for us to understand the significant challenges that Arab Christians face in this region. As we continue to pray, particularly for our brothers and sisters in Christ, we hope you will take time to listen and reflect. If you have questions or want access to additional resources, be sure to check out the podcast page at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://resources.gracechurchsc.org/podcasts/memberspodcast⁠

In this episode of The Grace Church Members Podcast, hosts Chris Rivers and Scott Mozingo discuss honoring and caring for the elderly with Julia Eldred and Joey Altom. Looking at the topic from a biblical perspective, they explore why honoring the elderly is a discipleship issue. As we consider our calling to value God's image in all seasons of human life, it's important to think about how we serve our elders and why it's vital for the health and growth of our church body. If you have questions or want access to additional resources, be sure to check out the podcast page at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://resources.gracechurchsc.org/podcasts/memberspodcast⁠

In this episode of the Grace Church Members podcast, Chris Rivers sits down with Cary Sanders, Grace Church Travelers Rest member and CEO of JUMPSTART. JUMPSTART is a gospel-centered organization that disciples current and former prisoners and assists with re-entry to society. Chris and Cary discuss the history of our ministry partnership with JUMPSTART and the continual development of the Opportunity Center, which will be the heart of the community at Restoration Village—a supportive community for those reentering society from prison in a setting that prepares them to be productive citizens. Cary also shares ways to support JUMPSTART including prayer requests, volunteer opportunities, and ways to give. If you have questions or want access to additional resources, be sure to check out the podcast page at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://resources.gracechurchsc.org/podcasts/memberspodcast⁠

In this episode of the Grace Church Members podcast, Chris Rivers and Scott Mozingo talk with Downtown campus pastor Scofield Foster and volunteer Haley Barinowski about the concept of being self-made. Our culture elevates autonomy and self-reliance, which is an alluring concept, but it fuels our anxiety and loneliness. We can only find freedom, rest, and joy in the One who created us. Key Points: The dangers of self-reliance and the illusion of being "self-made,” particularly around issues of gender and sex The difference between fleeting emotions and timeless wisdom What it looks like to “tie ourselves to the mast” and “sing a better song” to resist the world's allure Finding genuine joy and freedom by placing Jesus at the core of our existence If you have questions or want access to additional resources, be sure to check out the podcast page at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://resources.gracechurchsc.org/podcasts/memberspodcast⁠

In this episode of the Grace Church Members Podcast, Jennifer Dill, the Care and Recovery Director at Grace Church, discusses loss, empathy, and the important ministry of being present with others in crisis situations. Jennifer has served as a hospital chaplain and a hospice worker, and she provides helpful insights into what it means to enter into suffering with others in a way that reflects God's comfort.  If you have questions or want access to additional resources, be sure to check out the podcast page at ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://resources.gracechurchsc.org/podcasts/memberspodcast⁠

In this episode of the Grace Church Members Podcast, Chris Rivers and Jordyn Schirripa speak with Joe Clarey and Madison Carithers in their involvement leading Mosaic, which focuses on discipleship for individuals with disabilities. Mosaic's mission is to equip and disciple individuals with disabilities and integrate them into the church. Joe shares the history and growth of Mosaic, highlighting the crucial role of volunteers in one-on-one discipleship. Madison references biblical passages that demonstrate God's inclusion of individuals with disabilities. They also emphasize the value and purpose of all individuals, regardless of their abilities. Timestamps: 00:14 Description of the Grace Church Mosaic ministry    02:11 Examples of persons with disabilities in Scripture and at Grace Church     11:36 Mosaic mission statement 11:55 Joe and Madison share the paths that led to their involvement in Mosaic 17:26 Three principles developed for the ministry and examples of how they are applied  27:29 How listeners can become involved in the Mosaic ministry If you have questions or want access to additional resources, be sure to check out the podcast page at ⁠⁠https://resources.gracechurchsc.org/podcasts/memberspodcast29:01 Update on Mosaic Inspire: discipleship for adults with disabilities

In this episode of the Grace Church Members podcast, Chris Rivers, Bill White, and Scott Mozingo discuss our teaching series in the Gospel of John. After a summer hiatus, it's helpful to reflect on key narratives from the first ten chapters of John's Gospel and explore the big ideas as we return to finish the series this fall. Time stamps 00:24 - Bill White gives his rationale for the series on the Gospel of John 03:07 - Recap and highlights of John 1-10 12:44 - What Bill hopes for all of us to take away from this study         21:09 - Timing and importance of chapter 11, where Lazarus is raised from the dead  28:40 - John's inspired writing is both simple and profound 37:27 - Bill asks us to pray for the teaching staff and the hearers of this series If you have questions or want access to additional resources, be sure to check out the podcast page at ⁠https://resources.gracechurchsc.org/podcasts/memberspodcast

In this episode of the Grace Church Members Podcast, Chris Rivers and Scott Moziongo interview Derek Nelson and Jenn Comer, members of the Outreach Team at Grace Church. Derek and Jenn discuss our partnerships with Hunger Corp in Puerto Rico, Christ for the City International in Nicaragua, and the OVC program supporting orphans and vulnerable children in Kenya. They also discuss a new partnership with the Association of Baptist Churches in Israel (ABC). In all these countries, long-term relationships with local churches and pastors are essential to Grace Church's outreach efforts. The episode concludes with an invitation for listeners to get involved in various ways with Outreach opportunities that support our discipleship. Time stamps for GCMP: Outreach 00:30 - Jenn and Derek explain their roles in current outreach programs at Grace. Updates on Four International Partnerships: 03:39 Puerto Rico: Partnering with Hunger Corp.; 3-4 trips per year, 5-6 days each, to help poor families rebuild from Hurricane Maria and beyond 08:40 Nicaragua: Christ for the City International (CFCI) A trip of 24 Grace members going in July 2023 16:50 Team dynamics; volunteer leaders 19:50 Kenya: Orphans and Vulnerable Children (OVC) 75-80 children in long-term advocacy program with Grace volunteers 28:24 Israel: Association of Baptist Churches (ABC) Working with Palestinian Christians, a few Muslims in the Nazareth region If you have questions or want access to additional resources, be sure to check out the podcast page at https://resources.gracechurchsc.org/podcasts/memberspodcast

In this podcast episode, Chris Rivers and Scott Mozingo interview Brandon Garcia, campus Pastor of Grace Church's Español campus. Brandon shares his journey of becoming a worship leader at Grace Church Español in Greenville and talks about the unique challenges of serving the Latino population in the Upstate. 00:16 - Brandon tells how he came from Costa Rica to serve at Grace Church Español and how he learned to speak English. 02:36 - Brandon provides background about the Español campus and its importance in the Upstate, including the challenges of having many Spanish-speaking countries represented. 08:10 - Brandon discusses specific initiatives unique to the Español campus that are tied to increasing discipleship. 10:30 - Brandon describes the challenges of teaching Biblical generosity and how the campus has incorporated Money Matters, Mosaic, Re:generation, and various conferences in Spanish. If you have questions or want access to additional resources, be sure to check out the podcast page at ⁠https://resources.gracechurchsc.org/podcasts/memberspodcast

In this podcast episode, Chris Rivers, Scott Mozingo, and Shannon Foster discuss Robby Richard's role in Grace Church's Outreach ministry, particularly with international partnerships. 5:23 Robby shares some experiences that have shaped his thoughts on missions. 11:16 Robby explains why missions is essential for Christian believers. 17:18 Robby discusses the cost of discipleship when it comes to missions. 20:40 Robby shares what disciples of Christ should be willing to give up for missions. Email Robby Richards: rrichard@gracechurchsc.org If you have questions or want access to additional resources, be sure to check out the podcast page at https://resources.gracechurchsc.org/podcasts/memberspodcast

In this episode, Chris Rivers speaks with Matt Rogers, pastor of the Christ Fellowship Cherrydale in Greenville, South Carolina (https://www.cfcherrydale.com/staff), about the importance of reading the Bible and applying it to our daily lives. Utilizing a resource Matt developed called the Seven Arrows, listeners will learn how this tool was developed (1:00), why studying the Scriptures is so integral to our faith (2:25), and how to use the seven questions to analyze a passage (6:53).  If you have questions or want access to additional resources, be sure to check out the podcast page at https://resources.gracechurchsc.org/podcasts/memberspodcast

In this podcast episode, Chris Rivers, Jim Taylor, and Brian Darnell discuss the significance of Pentecost in the context of the church. This conversation explores the historical context of Pentecost and the importance of the Holy Spirit's coming to dwell within believers individually and the church as a body. If you have questions or want access to additional resources, be sure to check out the podcast page at https://resources.gracechurchsc.org/podcasts/memberspodcast

In this episode, Jeff Eenigenburg guides listeners through a 15-minute prayer prompt using the Lord's Prayer found in Matthew 6:9-13 . Following a recent episode (Episode 12) of the Grace Church Members' podcast focused on prayer with Ryan Donell, this resource offers a tangible application of the principles discussed. Listeners will walk through the Lord's Prayer as they orient their hearts and minds towards Christ and actively build the discipline of focused communication with God. Jeff explains how to the exercise will work (02:15) and begins the exercise (03:17).  If you have questions or want access to additional resources, be sure to check out the podcast page at ⁠https://resources.gracechurchsc.org/podcasts/memberspodcast

In this episode, Chris Rivers, Scott Mozingo, LeeAnne Cavin, and Brian Burgess give an update on Front Porch Housing. They discuss the residents it supports (1:01), development/expansion of the organization (3:15), current staff (4:35), ministry opportunities (6:39), and goals for the future (9:45). They also discuss ways we, as members, can partner with and pray for this supportive community (12:36).  As Front Porch Housing at the Cleveland Street location nears its one year anniversary, there is a week-long celebration planned to commemorate this event. It will start with a car show on April 29, 2023.  Each day will highlight a current need and will culminate with a final worship night event on May 6. Access more information on our podcast page at https://resources.gracechurchsc.org/podcasts/memberspodcast for details and to find out more about this growing nonprofit.

In this episode, Chris Rivers, Scott Mozingo, Brian Darnell, and Chris McGowan discuss how we should be preparing for Holy Week (2:00), what people can look forward to about our Good Friday services (13:58), and how we should think about Easter (17:00). Be sure to check out https://gracechurchsc.org/easteratgracechurch mentioned in the episode. If you have questions or want access to additional resources, be sure to check out the podcast page at https://resources.gracechurchsc.org/podcasts/memberspodcast

In this episode, Chris Rivers, Scott Mozingo, and Ryan Donell discuss prayer as a formative practice and explore how prayer can serve as a barometer to what we truly believe about God, the gospel, and our salvation. QUESTIONS FOR REFLECTION In what ways am I cultivating my prayer life so I can experience the fullness of walking with God? What habits and practices have I put in place? What is my view of the gospel and salvation? Do I see it as a channel to get to heaven or simply as life with God? Do I have a desire to pray? How am I seeking to be in his presence and be an active participant in the work he is doing in my life? If you have questions or want access to additional resources, be sure to check out the podcast page at https://resources.gracechurchsc.org/podcasts/memberspodcast

In this episode, Chris Rivers, Scott Mozingo, and Bill White discuss the important role of parents as primary disciple makers in their children's lives and the need for intentionality and engagement from parents as they seek to train the next generation. QUESTIONS FOR REFLECTION Do I view myself as the primary disciple maker of my children, or do I rely on other influences (ie. church, family, friends) to train and guide my children? What is one area where I feel I am “winning” as a parent and what is one area where I am struggling? What aspects of my personality impact the way I parent? What strengths do I bring into my role as a parent? Weaknesses? What is one step I can take to be more engaged with my children? If you have questions or want access to additional resources, be sure to check out the podcast page at https://resources.gracechurchsc.org/podcasts/memberspodcast

In this episode, Chris Rivers and Scott Mozingo host a Q and A with Matt Williams. They pose questions such as: How does Grace decide what series/book of the Bible to teach? Why do we use the NLT? Why is plurality in teaching important for us as a church? What are we trying to develop in our younger teachers? After Matt shares his thoughts and insights regarding these questions, he takes some time to reflect on his favorite books of the Bible and explain how they resonate with him on a more personal level. If you have questions or want access to additional resources, be sure to check out the podcast page at https://resources.gracechurchsc.org/podcasts/memberspodcast

In this episode, Chris Rivers, Scott Mozingo, and Matt Williams discuss how to create space for Bible reading and practical strategies for investing in this area of our spiritual growth. They explore the important role of the Scriptures as a long term investment and as a means of feeding our souls. QUESTIONS FOR REFLECTION What are some short term and long term benefits of personal time spent in God's Word? Can you think of someone in your life who modeled dependence on the Scriptures and who lived out what they read? Can you identify areas in your life where you are starving and need to be fed by God's truth? What practical steps can you take or disciplines can you put in place to incorporate Bible reading into your daily life? If you have questions or want access to additional resources, be sure to check out the podcast page at https://resources.gracechurchsc.org/podcasts/memberspodcast

In this episode, Chris Rivers and Scott Mozingo discuss the concept of generosity as it relates to discipleship. They explore what the Bible says about money and the bigger picture of how God is using the resources in our lives to drive our devotion to him. QUESTIONS FOR REFLECTION Where do most of my ideas about money, generosity, and stewardship come from? Does my view of money align more closely with Scripture, or is it more closely tied to the culture? Is there evidence in my life that I care about the things God cares about? In what ways am I using my resources to evangelize, disciple, and care for the poor? How do I display an attitude of contentment and gratitude for what I have been given? Based on the Giving Guide spectrum, what type of giver would I classify myself as (consuming, casual, reluctant, intentional, or courageous)? What is one practical step I can take to move towards growth in this area? If you have questions or want access to additional resources, be sure to check out the podcast page at gracechurchsc.org/whydiscipleship

In this episode, Chris Rivers, Scott Mozingo, and Jim Taylor discuss the concepts of recovery, addiction, and idolatry and how these are tied to discipleship and our maturity as believers. They explore how the re:gen ministry can be a tool for confronting the nature of our sin, the sin of others, and the brokenness of the world in which we live. By entering into this process with a humble posture and an awareness of our need for God, we find connection with our Creator. QUESTIONS FOR REFLECTION Ecclesiastes 3:11 tells us God “has planted eternity in the human heart.” In what ways have you seen evidence of this in your own life? What idols/addictions have you centered your life around? How have you seen these things lead to destruction? What might it look like to have an unhindered relationship with God? What steps do you need to take personally to reorient your life towards this goal? If you have questions or want access to additional resources, be sure to check out the podcast page at gracechurchsc.org/whydiscipleship

In this episode, Chris Rivers, Scott Mozingo, and Daniel Moore discuss the biblical and historical basis for membership in a local church. From the beginning, we read in the Scriptures how God covenanted with his people (i.e. Abraham, David) to bring salvation to man. The promise was fulfilled in Christ, and believers are now united to Christ and live in communion with him and one another. Salvation is, ultimately, not about me but we. The Church, as established by Christ and the apostles, is the living organism through which Jesus invites people to follow him, to experience life transformation, and to carry out his mission of reconciling the world to himself. Our consumer-driven, self-reliant mindset keeps us isolated from the Body of Christ and hinders our ability to experience healing. We all have blind spots and need others to “see” for us, hold us accountable, and encourage us on the journey. Spiritual formation requires obedience, humility, a willingness to submit to authority, and a commitment to love others as Christ loves us. Because church membership is not something to dismiss or take lightly, Grace Church makes intentional efforts to prepare people for this life-changing commitment. When we commit to the local church, the church is also committing to us. QUESTIONS FOR REFLECTION: What is your current understanding of the local church and its purpose in the lives of Christ's followers, and how have you been challenged by what you've just heard? Daniel Moore discussed the need for all believers to be under spiritual authority. How has your personal experience shaped how you view authority? What concerns and fears do you have about church membership, and what is one step you can take toward the local church? If you have questions or want access to additional resources, be sure to check out the podcast page at gracechurchsc.org/whydiscipleship

In this episode, Chris Rivers, Scott Mozingo, and Matt Kelley discuss death, the natural burial process, and the opportunity to care for and disciple members through this unique season. Matt shares how a conversation with his dad, along with several other contributing factors, spurred discussions about natural burial and what it might look like for Grace Church. Born out of the idea that the Church should take care of its people, not only in life but also in death, natural burial is a practical way to live out this principle. Over the course of time, many parts of the death and after-death process have been outsourced. The church, who rallies towards people when they experience every other kind of grief, was taking more of a hands-off approach to the issue of death. Natural burial creates a communal experience, allowing church members to play an active role in the process and tangibly care for people in their grief. Be sure to check out our podcast page at gracechurchsc.org/whydiscipleship. On this page, you can access additional resources and questions to help you move towards discipleship.

In this episode, Chris Rivers, Scott Mozingo, and Brian Darnell discuss singing and how this act of worship plays a role in maturing us as disciples of Christ. Brian shares how worship comes in many different forms but, at its core, is a personal response to God. One of the most practical ways we can respond to God is through singing. It gives us the opportunity to declare his worth and acknowledge his character. Singing is a way to cultivate our relationship with God while simultaneously benefitting us as individuals and collectively as a church. When we sing, we humble ourselves. We recognize the relationship we have with God and remember what he has done for us. As individuals, singing gives us words to say when we don't know what to say. It allows us to preach truth to ourselves and shapes our ability to be fully devoted to God. As a church, singing has a unifying factor. When we know the struggles others are facing and are able to see them worship through singing, we are encouraged and strengthened as a body. Be sure to check out our podcast page at gracechurchsc.org/whydiscipleship. On this page, you can access additional resources and questions to help you move towards discipleship. 

In this episode, Chris Rivers, Scott Mozingo, and Chris McGowan discuss baptism as worship and how it serves as an “ebenezer” for believers to grow in their devotion to God. In the Old Testament, we read of prophets and leaders setting up stone monuments to remind them of God's help and deliverance. Baptism, likewise, is a powerful, public declaration of what Christ has done for us in rescuing us from sin and death and uniting us with himself. Why be baptized? For Christ - Jesus was baptized, and we demonstrate our obedience to him and identify with him when we humble ourselves publicly to follow him. For ourselves - Baptism is an ebenezer, reminding us that we no longer live for ourselves, but for Christ. We can trust him for cleansing, healing, and new life. Just as Christ was resurrected, so will we be. For others - Christianity is communal. When we are baptized in front of witnesses, we acknowledge our need for others and invite them into our spiritual growth. The church is the vehicle through which Christ carries out his mission. Be sure to check out our podcast page at gracechurchsc.org/whydiscipleship. On this page, you can access additional resources and questions to help you move towards discipleship.

In this episode, Chris Rivers, Scott Mozingo, and LeeAnne Cavin discuss serving and the role it plays in moving us from an outlook oriented on self to an outlook oriented on others. LeeAnne defines the word serving as simply “giving your life away.” She emphasizes it is more than just filling a role or doing a specific job, it is an orientation of the heart. Serving has both a vertical component (“I serve because of what God has done for me”) and a horizontal component (“I serve because I want to lay my life down for others”). LeeAnne shares her own personal experience of moving from a church “consumer” background to a mindset of wanting to serve and genuinely caring about the people she was serving. She reminds listeners that as we strive to make the shift to an outlook oriented on others, we will begin to see the difference between discipleship vs. fulfilling an obligation. We will begin to strive for something bigger than simply preserving our comfort. We will begin asking ourselves the question: “am I serving because I have to or because I want to?” While serving is not always easy and it will often push us out of our comfort zone, it is critical to our walk with Christ. It provides us with opportunities to rely on Christ's comfort and apply the Scriptures as we give our lives away for others. Be sure to check out our podcast page at gracechurchsc.org/whydiscipleship. On this page, you can access additional resources and questions to help you move towards discipleship.

In the first episode of "Grace Church Members" podcast, Chris Rivers and Scott Mozingo discuss the purpose of the podcast and give listeners an idea of what to expect. They address how we are often clear on the “what” behind the mission we are trying to accomplish and the "how" behind achieving our ministry objectives, but forget the "why" behind the ministry we do. They explore how understanding the “why” gives us confidence in what we are doing and allows us to communicate and draw others into the mission. It also challenges us to move beyond the goal of self-improvement and pursue transformational life change. As they address different topics during each episode, they will seek to answer two questions: 1) Why is this a discipleship issue? 2) How does it help me grow in my devotion to God and others? RESOURCES: How does Grace Church View Discipleship? Be sure to check out our podcast page at gracechurchsc.org/whydiscipleship. On this page, you can access additional resources and questions to help you move towards discipleship.