The Common Good Podcast

Brian From reflects on a whirlwind of cultural moments—from Super Bowl outrage and social media fatigue to a sobering story of a faithful pastor who died suddenly after preaching the gospel. Along the way, he wrestles with big questions about urgency, suffering, contentment in a cost-of-living crisis, and a provocative Christianity Today debate over wine versus grape juice in communion. The episode closes with a reminder that while culture, technology, and circumstances change rapidly, God is the same yesterday, today, and forever—and still invites us to listen for His voice.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Brian From is joined in studio by Darius Holland, whose remarkable journey took him from professional football to pastoral ministry and ultimately into U.S. Army chaplaincy. Darius shares how chasing success in the NFL left him empty, and how walking with soldiers through pain, purpose, and faith has become his true calling. The conversation offers a powerful look at spiritual life in the military and invites pastors and leaders to consider chaplaincy as a mission field where the gospel meets real-life brokenness.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Brian From sits down with Tommy Thompson, pastor of Ashburn Baptist Church, to talk about calling, obedience, and the unexpected journey that brought a Florida pastor to Chicago. Tommy shares how Ashburn has become a hub for church revitalization, helping declining congregations rediscover mission and new life across the Chicagoland area. The conversation is both hopeful and urgent, offering encouragement to pastors and leaders who believe their church’s best days might still be ahead.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Brian From is joined by singer and worship leader Sarah Scarborough McLaughlin to talk about a special benefit concert supporting Pastor Mark Kaufman and his family as they walk through a cancer journey. Sarah shares her heart for worship, songwriting, and why coming alongside people in tangible ways during seasons of suffering matters so deeply. The conversation highlights the power of music, community, and generosity to create a night that is both joyful and meaningful—lifting hearts while meeting real needs.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Brian From is joined by Adam Holz of Plugged In for a wide-ranging conversation about what’s worth watching right now—and why discernment matters more than ever. They discuss a surprisingly sweet Kevin James rom-com, a new Amazon series that offers a raw and honest look at a pastor’s family in crisis, and a challenging film that confronts the reality of human trafficking with sobriety and hope. The episode helps listeners think wisely about entertainment, offering options that range from lighthearted escape to stories that demand reflection and compassion.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Brian From takes on the controversy surrounding the Super Bowl halftime show and questions the habit of framing entertainment choices as moral battles rather than matters of wisdom and discernment. He then turns to a sobering reflection on Bible literacy, responding to a powerful essay by Jen Wilkin that challenges churches to stop lowering the bar and start forming true disciples who know Scripture deeply. The episode weaves together cultural critique, pastoral concern, and spiritual exhortation—calling listeners to prayer that actually prays, faith that trains like an Olympian, and discipleship that embraces both grace and truth.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Brian From is joined by longtime friend and Wheaton College classmate Marcus Nelson, senior pastor of St. John Lutheran Church in downtown Wheaton, to talk about calling, ministry, and the surprising journey that brought Marcus back to where it all began. Marcus shares what he loves most about being a pastor, the unique spirit and community of St. John, and why an “ordinary” Christian life rooted in love and contentment is actually extraordinary. The conversation closes with a pastoral word of hope for anyone feeling weary, reminding listeners that real hope is found in being loved by God and loving others in return.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Brian From reflects on a striking modern-day echo of Ecclesiastes after a revealing comment from the world’s richest man reminds us that wealth can’t deliver meaning or happiness. He explores why chasing money, power, or pleasure ultimately leaves us empty, pointing instead to reverence for God as the true source of contentment. The conversation then turns to the danger of misusing Scripture to justify our own positions, urging listeners to let the whole counsel of God shape their convictions rather than cherry-picking verses to fit a preferred narrative.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Brian From unpacks why church hopping often reflects consumer instincts rather than commitment, and why putting down roots—even in imperfect churches—matters for spiritual growth. He then turns to Super Bowl week and the explosive rise of sports betting, weighing cultural normalization against real financial, relational, and spiritual dangers, especially for young men. The episode rounds out with encouragement on staying anchored in God’s Word, understanding forgiveness as the absorption of debt, and remembering that doubt, service, and perseverance are not signs of weak faith—but marks of an honest one.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Brian From talks with Reverend Joel Hess of St. James Chicago Church and School about his unexpected path into ministry and the joy of proclaiming the gospel as a completely free gift. Joel shares what he’s seeing on the ground in Chicago, where Gen Z is showing renewed curiosity about historic faith, real community, and truth that isn’t performative or partisan. The conversation explores why loneliness, skepticism, and overload are driving people back to church—and how grace, joy, and authenticity are meeting them there.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Brian From reflects on family, faith, and the moments that quietly shape who we become—from a powerful weekend witnessing his daughter’s testimony to the enduring nostalgia of The Wonder Years. He explores what true transformation looks like through Jelly Roll’s bold Grammy testimony, asks hard questions about work-life balance, youth sports, and misplaced priorities, and challenges listeners to consider what actually brings joy to the enemy of our souls. The hour closes with a strong call to resist legalism, remain rooted in grace, persevere in faith, and live with integrity—online and offline—as people who simply refuse to quit.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Brian From talks with Kyle Isabelli, lead pastor of Avenue Christian Church, about stepping into senior leadership at a young age—and doing so just as the pandemic upended everything. Kyle shares how preaching through the book of Romans has sparked honest, healthy conversations about unity, judgment, government, and disagreement in a deeply divided cultural moment. The discussion ultimately points toward a countercultural invitation: slowing down, staying rooted in Christ, and learning to be present with others—even when we don’t see eye to eye.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Brian From talks with John Kuhfahl, Associate Campus Pastor at The Chapel’s Grayslake campus, about leaving a decades-long career in the pharmaceutical industry to step into ministry. John shares how his business background now fuels the Chapel Care Center, the largest food pantry and clothing closet in Lake County, and how serving tangible needs has reshaped the church’s culture and mission. The conversation highlights courage, calling, and the quiet miracles that happen when the church becomes known simply as “the church that helps people.”See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Brian From talks with Pastor Jonathan Bergemann of Good Shepherd Lutheran Church in Downers Grove about leading a congregation through the aftermath of a devastating church fire. Jonathan shares how displacement, uncertainty, and worshiping as nomads clarified what truly defines the church—not programs or buildings, but the unchanging gospel and deep personal relationships. The conversation offers a powerful reminder of perseverance, hope, and how God often does his most meaningful work when everything familiar is stripped away.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Brian From sits down with Jonathan Masters of Park Community Church to talk about pastoring in a city defined by constant movement, change, and opportunity. Jonathan explains Park’s unique model as a family of interdependent churches, the beauty and tension of shared leadership, and why seeing others grow in their gifts brings him the greatest joy. Together, they offer a hopeful picture of what God is doing across Chicago—far beyond the headlines—and why the gospel continues to flourish in the city’s neighborhoods.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Brian From reflects on the surprising rise in Bible engagement through The Bible Recap and what it reveals about a deeper hunger for God’s Word and a belief in a God who does immeasurably more than we can imagine. He then turns to a sobering spiritual question—what could we ever do to repay our debt to Christ—exploring grace, gratitude, and why the answer is ultimately nothing at all. Along the way, Brian challenges cultural trends around money, boredom, productivity, and distraction, calling listeners to move beyond “doing nothing” and instead invest their lives in what truly matters.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Brian From sits down with Philip Miller, senior pastor of Moody Church, to talk about his unexpected calling into ministry and what it’s like to shepherd one of Chicago’s most historic congregations. Philip reflects on preaching through the pandemic, leading a deeply diverse church, and staying faithful without being overwhelmed by the weight of legacy. The conversation highlights the enduring DNA of Moody Church—welcoming the stranger, preaching the Word, and trusting God to transform lives over time.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Brian From sits down with Steve Carter, lead pastor of Christ Church of Oak Brook, to talk about calling, leadership, and stepping into a historic church with deep roots and a strong legacy. Steve shares what he loves most about pastoring, the unique DNA of Christ Church, and how presence, character, and faithful shepherding shape a healthy congregation. The conversation closes with a powerful pastoral word of hope for those walking through grief or hardship, pointing listeners toward perseverance, resurrection hope, and Christ as the anchor for their souls.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Brian From is joined by Chad Negley, campus pastor of Parkview Church, to talk about calling, leadership, and what it really means to shepherd people well. Chad shares his journey into ministry, the unique role of a campus pastor, and why relationships are essential for spiritual growth and breaking down barriers between people and God. The conversation closes with a word of hope for listeners feeling weary or stuck, pointing them toward the rest and renewal Jesus offers to those who come to Him.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Brian From reflects on how Christians can witness with humility and conviction in a post-Christian culture, emphasizing listening, action, and peacemaking over winning arguments. Along the way, he explores stories that spark joy and self-examination—from an orange-juice lottery miracle to a surprising experiment in breaking phone addiction with an old-school landline. The hour closes with a challenge to move from comfort to action, from outrage to peace, and to live out a faith that is visible, rooted in God’s Word, and marked by love for others.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Brian From reflects on the passage of time—from the 40th anniversary of the Bears’ Super Bowl win to the Challenger disaster—and what those moments teach us about pressure, pride, and doing the right thing. Along the way, the episode explores failure and redemption, political double-speak, perseverance in sports, career wisdom from a retiring CEO, and why character must outweigh convenience. Brian closes with a devotional call to courage, resolve, and faithfulness, reminding listeners to stand firm, assume the best in others, and live with integrity in both public and private life.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Brian From talks with pastor and Belonging author Bill Calvin about why people don’t stay in churches for programs or preaching—but because they find real relationships. Drawing on 46 years of ministry, Bill shares practical wisdom on hospitality, shared meals, and creating environments where people belong before they believe. The conversation offers hope both for church leaders seeking to foster deeper community and for listeners who feel lonely, reminding them that helping others belong is often the first step toward finding belonging themselves.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Brian From is joined by Caitlin Connors of Susan B. Anthony Pro-Life America for a clear, timely conversation on the Hyde Amendment and its role in current health care negotiations in Washington. Caitlin explains why Hyde remains a cornerstone of the pro-life movement, what recent comments from the Trump administration mean politically, and why taxpayer funding of abortion remains a central issue for both parties. The discussion also unpacks the realities of the post-Roe landscape, showing why the abortion debate has intensified—not faded—and what listeners can do to engage thoughtfully and responsibly.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Brian From reflects on a tragic shooting in Minneapolis and the need to recover compassion and lament before rushing to political conclusions. The episode also explores the covenant nature of marriage, the surprising benefits of rest and afternoon naps, and why Sabbath matters in an exhausted culture. Brian closes with a deeply personal reflection on resentment and bitterness, challenging listeners to honestly confront unresolved hurt and pursue healing rather than letting pain quietly take root. NYT article about husband feeling sorry for wife grieving affair Afternoon naps are good for your brain — here’s how, and 4 ways to get the most out of it Josh Barzon on X: "The Rise & Fall of “Elephant Room”" / X See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Brian From is joined by Rhonda Robinson, writer and editor at Focus on the Family, for a thoughtful conversation about the growing popularity—and hidden complexity—of at-home DNA tests. Drawing from her own adoption story, Rhonda shares how discovering biological connections can reshape identity, reopen wounds, and surface stories families may not be prepared to navigate. Together, they explore why curiosity about ancestry is deeply human, but why wisdom, discernment, and emotional readiness matter before sending off that DNA sample.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On a brutally cold January day, Brian From reflects on storms, family milestones, faith, and the ways God forms us in ordinary moments. From celebrating his 26th wedding anniversary to wrestling with the need for Christian community, spiritual fruit, and intentional relationships, the episode weaves together personal stories and thoughtful devotional insights. Brian closes by challenging listeners to rethink success—not in terms of status or achievement, but faithfulness, love, character, and a life well-lived before God. Shining Science on X: "

Brian From talks with Pastor Matt Hoffmann of St. Andrew’s Lutheran Church and School in Park Ridge about ministry, leadership, and loving a local community well. Matt shares how a Christian school opens doors for gospel-centered relationships, why he serves as a police chaplain, and what it looks like to walk alongside people in moments of crisis. Joined by Associate Pastor Ethan Luft, the conversation closes with a grounded word of hope for listeners navigating suffering, reminding them that God is present and at work even in the hardest seasons.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Brian From talks with author David McIver about his book Looking for the One and why so many Christians long to share their faith but feel hesitant or unprepared. David shares powerful, ordinary stories of listening to the Holy Spirit, recognizing who Jesus is already pursuing, and discovering that evangelism is something God wants to do through us—not something we perform for Him. The conversation reframes faith-sharing as relational, Spirit-led, and deeply rooted in identity as beloved children of God.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Brian From is joined by Adam Holz from Plugged In to talk about the January “dead zone” at the movies and why so many big releases feel absent right now. They dive into the Netflix-only crime thriller The Rip, starring Matt Damon and Ben Affleck, discussing what parents should know—especially its extreme and distracting level of profanity. The conversation also explores the bigger shift of major Hollywood stars moving to streaming platforms and what that means for movies, storytelling, and family viewing choices.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Brian From is joined by Pastor Derek Buikema of Orland Park Christian Reformed Church to talk about his call to ministry and what he loves most about being a pastor. Derek shares why “ordinary” churches—rooted in preaching, sacraments, and everyday faithfulness—are often where deep discipleship and quiet, life-changing ministry happens. The conversation also touches on church planting, blue-collar faith, and Derek’s surprising side passion: performing Shakespearean improv comedy.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Brian From sits down with Todd Busteed of Gap Digital to explore the careful craft behind audio Bibles and audio drama. Todd shares how accuracy, humility, and even reverence guide the process of recording Scripture, from pronunciation choices to music and dramatic elements. The conversation offers a behind-the-scenes look at how God’s Word is thoughtfully translated into sound—and how creative media can serve the church and inspire the next generation of Christian storytellers.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On Martin Luther King Jr. Day, Brian From reflects on service, legacy, and the call to respond to conflict with wisdom and compassion in an increasingly polarized culture. The episode wrestles with a disturbing church disruption in Minneapolis, the limits of online outrage within Christian circles, and the tension between conviction and grace when faith collides with deeply personal family decisions. most famous MLK quotes Digital natives embrace analog tools like letters and typewriters | AP News The Story of Iran’s Church in Two Sentences John Piper on X: "ChatGPT estimates the number of birds alive in the world at 50 billion. Jesus said God feeds them all. This meticulous providence does not tax or distract him. It proves his attentiveness and care as a Father to us his children. “Look at the birds of the air: they neither sow" / X Ed Stetzer on X: "Praying for @jonathanparnell and @citieschurch, as their worship service was disrupted by protesters today. Parnell is right when he says, "This is unacceptable. It's shameful. It's shameful to to interrupt a public gathering of Christians in worship." Don Lemon (bizarrely) https://t.co/UOU3PwdIBU" / X Protestia on X: "Is This Hypocrisy? SBC Pastor Joe Thorn Attends Same-Sex Wedding" / X Why We Can Confidently Persevere in Prayer | Tim Challies See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Brian From is joined by Adam Holz from Plugged In to talk about the theatrical re-release of The Lord of the Rings extended editions and why the films still resonate 25 years later. They also dive into Plugged In’s new 2026 technology guide for parents, offering practical wisdom on screens, mental health, and digital boundaries for families. Adam closes with a simple, realistic first step for anyone looking to reset their relationship with phones and technology in the new year.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Brian From reflects on how quickly life changes, the fragility of our time on earth, and the steady hope found in a God who never changes. From viral nostalgia trends to global persecution of Christians, conversations about the gospel, grace, and purpose anchor this wide-ranging Friday episode. Brian challenges listeners to live with intentionality, resist shallow substitutes for meaning, and rediscover true adventure and stability in following Christ. Trevin Wax on X: ""We are dependent. And we are workers. Yet we are workers in the hands of a mighty God, working on the mission of a mighty God with the strength of a mighty God. So we work harder than any of them, yet not us, but God who works in us." @NewChurches https://t.co/LDw5CCUx0e" / X The 50 Countries Where It’s Most Dangerous for Christians in 2026 - Christianity Today The Freeness of Grace | Desiring God Gen Z Missionary Bryce Crawford: ‘Jesus Loves You’ Isn’t the Gospel See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Brian From talks with Dr. Leslie Parrott about her new book The Love Language That Matters Most and how the familiar five love languages go deeper through personal “dialects” shaped by personality and experience. They explore how couples at any stage of marriage—whether newlyweds or decades in—can communicate love more clearly, even when things feel stale, busy, or disconnected. This conversation offers practical hope for strengthening relationships by learning how to love in ways that truly land.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Brian Fromm is joined by Focus on the Family issues analyst Jeffrey Johnston to discuss why it’s more important than ever for parents to stay informed about what their children are learning in school. They talk through how cultural and ideological issues are showing up in classrooms, how parents can have age-appropriate conversations with their kids, and what options families have when concerns arise. The conversation also explores the role churches can play in equipping parents, engaging school boards, and advocating for education that respects families and their values.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Brian From explores why Gen Z is intentionally unplugging from their phones, the growing push to limit cell phone use in classrooms, and what those trends reveal about loneliness, attention, and formation. The conversation then turns to politics and faith, including disappointment over renewed Planned Parenthood funding and a thoughtful look at why Christians often misuse Romans 13 when thinking about government authority. The episode closes with reflections on God’s delight in His children, offering a reminder that true hope, joy, and identity are ultimately grounded not in technology or politics, but in how God sees us.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Brian From sits down with Pastor Scott Oberle of First Congregational United Church of Christ in Downers Grove to talk about ministry, calling, and what it means to truly serve a community. Scott shares his journey into pastoral ministry, his experience with street ministry, and how his church centers dignity, hospitality, and presence for people on the margins. Together, they reflect on how churches can move beyond self-preservation to live faithfully as salt and light in their neighborhoods.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Brian From reflects on modern loneliness and cultural change, from a viral “Are You Dead?” app to the fading role of malls as community hubs, asking what real connection looks like today and where the church fits in. The episode also examines self-righteousness, political independence among younger Americans, and why an eternal perspective actually fuels meaningful engagement in the present world. Brian closes with sober but hopeful reflections on integrity, legacy, and what it means to live coram Deo—fully aware that our lives are lived before the face of God. 'Are You Dead' App Is a Smash Hit More Americans now identify as independents: Gallup polling | AP News Ed Stetzer on X: ""If you read history, you will find that Christians who did most for the present world were just those who thought most of the next... Aim at heaven and you will get earth thrown in. Aim at Earth and you will get neither." -C.S. Lewis in Mere Christianity" / X The Sticky Sin of Always Being Right Don't Love a Good Thing Less - Eric Geiger – Eric Geiger, Author and Senior Pastor, Mariners Church Given the Choice, Science Says the Average Employee Would Choose a Fancy Job Title Over a Pay Raise? Are Never Attenders More Secular Today? - by Ryan Burge The Yancey We Never Knew: Living Coram Deo and in Gospel Community Helps Guard Our Hearts Daily Devotional | Ezra: Back to Basics | Today in the Word See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Brian From reflects on perseverance in the face of repeated setbacks, using everything from car trouble to playoff sports comebacks as reminders of faithfulness when life feels stacked against us. The episode explores what it means to leave a meaningful legacy—one shaped intentionally by how we live, love, and follow Christ today. Along the way, Brian highlights viral stories of unusual memorabilia, radical rest, and a grandfather’s powerful gift of Scripture, all pointing back to endurance, hope, and lives grounded in God’s Word.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Brian From invites listeners to rethink resolutions—not around what we want to accomplish, but who we want to become—anchoring the year in Jesus’ call to love God more deeply and love others more faithfully. The episode also tackles financial anxiety in an uncertain economy, asking whether Christ is truly enough and how prayer and contentment reshape our fears about money and the future. Brian closes with a powerful warning about the danger of losing awe and wonder in our faith, urging believers to fight apathy and rediscover the joy that fuels worship, obedience, and a life lived for God. The Danger of Loss of Wonder for Ministry Leaders - Eric Geiger – Eric Geiger, Author and Senior Pastor, Mariners Church Dr. Derwin L. Gray on X: ""The latest data means 2025 saw the weakest annual job growth since 2003, with just 584,000 jobs added last year." https://t.co/yf8z8na8Tc" / X Happy 80th Birthday, John Piper - Christianity Today New Heights on X: "Matt Damon gave us some of the most emotional parenting advice we’ve ever got on this show https://t.co/RbzkmxxHJ4" / X Most People Lie About Their Finances To Make Themselves Seem More Desirable | YourTango See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Brian From reflects on what we discover when connection is suddenly taken away, how our lack of control drives us to prayer, and why empathy should come before outrage in moments of public tragedy. The episode explores the courage found in true encouragement, the call to finish well with integrity, and the steady hope believers cling to when faith feels fragile. From parenting and discipleship to politics, perseverance, and historic Christian witness, this conversation centers on one enduring truth: Christ holds us fast, even when everything else feels uncertain. The Courage in Encouragement California can’t bar teachers from telling parents about student’s gender identity at school, judge rules | The Independent Peter Schrager on X: "Greg Olsen, his father Chris Olsen, Sr. (NJ high school coaching legend), Luke Kuechly, and Jonathan Stewart coach a middle school football team together in Charlotte. You'd think they know it all. They don't. What's the one thing Olsen learned this season? @OmahaProd https://t.co/68bg97k3VD" / X Justin Bass on X: "In the last decade, these men did not finish well: Ravi Zacharias Philip Yancey Bill Hybels Jerry Falwell Jr. Steve Lawson Robert Morris Brian Houston Mike Bickle Carl Lentz Makes me very thankful for men in the public eye who did finish/are finishing well: Alistair Begg" / X When I Fear My Faith Will Fail Cliffe Knechtle Explains How Christians Should Vote—Without Endorsing a Party—at Passion 2026 Operation Auca · Elisabeth Elliot See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Adam Holz discusses the importance of actively engaging with entertainment and technology, especially as the new year begins. He emphasizes the need to shift from passive consumption to a more thoughtful approach, encouraging listeners to consider how their media choices affect their values and relationships. The discussion includes biblical references that guide decision-making in entertainment, highlighting the significance of being aware of the influences of media on one's heart and mind.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On the seventh anniversary of The Common Good, Brian Fromm reflects on the heart of the show—encouraging believers to run the race faithfully, keep the faith, and grow deeper in their love for Christ. The episode weaves together personal stories of parenting, mission trips, and God’s long-game faithfulness with a powerful reminder that Jesus is not merely a moral example, but Lord and Savior. Matt Smethurst on X: "My favorite moment from @WesleyLHuff’s conversation with @JoeRogan. https://t.co/JsuJ7zDhXh" / X De Christian Life on X: "Pastor Craig is a true example of leadership in the body of Christ https://t.co/rBTXYhQ6az" / X Teenager died of overdose 'after ChatGPT coached him on drug-taking' Cheating Husband Sues Restaurant After Promotional TikTok Clip Reveals Infidelity Aaron New on X: "“Author Philip Yancey Confesses Affair, Withdraws from Ministry” Oh man. This one makes me sad. https://t.co/164vk5GvqM" / X Wade Lentz on X: "On this day in 1850, a blizzard in Colchester, England, changed the course of church history. A 15-year-old Charles Spurgeon, burdened by the weight of his sin, was blocked by the snow from reaching his usual place of worship. He ducked into a small Primitive Methodist Chapel on https://t.co/85brN191WZ" / X Why Is There Only One Way To Heaven? | Tim Challies See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Brian From speaks with Pastor Darrell Moore of Greater New Life Church in Roseville. They discuss the church's mission, community outreach efforts, the challenges of starting a church, and the resilience shown after a devastating fire. Pastor Moore shares insights on the importance of church attendance and the excitement of being part of a community, emphasizing the revival he believes is coming to Detroit.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Brian From reflects on the sobering honesty of Dilbert creator Scott Adams as he faces terminal cancer and wrestles publicly with faith, eternity, and the limits of Pascal’s Wager. The episode also pushes back on cultural narratives that portray parenthood as misery, arguing instead that children are a hard but profound gift that reshapes how we understand joy and purpose. Brian closes with a powerful reminder from Martin Lloyd-Jones that what the church needs most today is not novelty or politics, but absolute clarity and confidence in the gospel of Jesus Christ, empowered by the Holy Spirit.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Brian From reflects on a deeply personal parenting moment as his children head out on mission trips, exploring the bittersweet reality of releasing them into independence. Drawing lessons from sports heartbreak, he examines how public failure can feel defining—but why, in Christ, our worst moments do not get the final word. The episode closes with a thoughtful challenge to hustle culture, questioning whether nonstop work is something to admire, and inviting listeners to consider healthier rhythms rooted in grace, rest, and identity rather than achievement. Thomas Sowell Quotes on X: "Elon Musk: "I sleep for about 6 hours on average and I work almost every waking hour. I don't have social dinners really. I literally just will have lunch and dinner during meetings and continue the meeting." https://t.co/QO53l3JDuK" / X ProFootballTalk on X: "Tyler Loop: I just mishit the ball. https://t.co/xaiF4KEAQg" / X Where Your Heart Is, There Your Habits Will Be Also - Christianity Today MTV Music's Last Song: 'Video Killed the Radio Star' redpillbot on X: "Mark Zuckerberg, an outspoken critic of "man-made climate change", shows off his new $300 million, 287-foot mega yacht, powered by four gigantic diesel engines. Yet another stark reminder that Net Zero is only for the peasants https://t.co/5jJ1kPnxjr" / X Nearly 30 Yale undergraduate departments have no Republican faculty, Buckley Institute report finds | New York Post Delighting in the Lord - Eric Geiger – Eric Geiger, Author and Senior Pastor, Mariners Church You Can Tell When War Is Breaking Out Because the Pentagon's Pizza Orders Spike Drastically Josh Moody on X: "No matter who you think you are—too broken or already “good enough”—the gospel meets you where you stand. Jesus saves the unlikely and the self-assured alike. If He saved Paul, He can save you. #JesusSaves #GospelHope #GraceNotWorks #FaithInChrist https://t.co/V2fRD7L2wo" / X See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Brian From is joined by Zachary Mettler of Focus on the Family to discuss Illinois’ newly signed law legalizing physician-assisted suicide and why it raises serious moral, medical, and spiritual concerns. Mettler explains the arguments often used to support the practice—autonomy and compassion—and why they fall short in light of advances in hospice care and the Christian vision of human dignity. The conversation challenges believers to thoughtfully engage a growing “culture of death” and to advocate for a gospel-centered ethic that affirms life, even in suffering.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Brian From is joined by Deana Thayer of Focus on the Family to talk through why the holidays can be especially challenging for stepfamilies and blended families. Deana shares practical guidance on managing expectations, communicating clearly with kids and spouses, and creating new traditions without dismissing old ones. The conversation also offers encouragement for parents facing empty-nest transitions, reminding listeners that flexibility, grace, and proactive planning can turn stressful seasons into meaningful ones.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Brian From is joined by Adam Holz of Plugged In for a thoughtful conversation about how Christians can engage popular entertainment with wisdom and discernment. They discuss the latest episodes of Stranger Things, including its darker themes, spiritual parallels, and a major coming-out storyline that raises important questions about grace and truth. The conversation also explores the religious symbolism in Knives Out and how films like these can become meaningful starting points for deeper family and faith conversations.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As The Common Good returns for its first episode of 2026, Brian From reflects on a turbulent and formative year marked by loss, transition, growth, and God’s quiet faithfulness. He looks back on the stories that shaped the church in 2025, wrestles with bitterness, control, and perspective, and invites listeners to consider not what they want to accomplish this year—but who they want to become. Grounded in Scripture, poetry, and a powerful reminder of grace, Brian challenges us to enter the new year “free and clear,” asking God to lead, guide, and pilot our lives wherever He calls us next. Tom Buck (Five Point Buck) on X: "If your church is so much of a “production” that you feel the need to cancel worship services during Christmas week to give everyone a break, you’ve lost the ultimate purpose of the gathering! “We are the church. Worship is what we do. We gather together to meet with God, to" / X violence taking off in Nigeria, Ukraine, and Gaza, CT’s news team ranked the biggest developments we covered this year: https://t.co/WM2m6VTnm5" / X My Only Plea at New Year’s | Tim Challies Ben Sasse on X: "Friends- This is a tough note to write, but since a bunch of you have started to suspect something, I’ll cut to the chase: Last week I was diagnosed with metastasized, stage-four pancreatic cancer, and am gonna die. Advanced pancreatic is nasty stuff; it’s a death sentence." / X The Most Powerful Message Tim Keller Ever Preached | Crossway The Best Way to Begin a New Year | Tim Challies See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.