The Craig T. Owens Audio Blog

One of the most difficult—but rewarding—decisions a leader will ever make is to honestly confront themselves on their part in a relationship or organizational problem. Check out the video version of this conversation.  Check out the full conversation Greg and I had on the Craig and Greg Show episode called Growth from the Hard Road. And you may also want to check out a whole series of messages I shared in the series Thankful in the Night. Get more information on my book When Sheep Bite by clicking here. ►► Would you please prayerfully consider supporting this ministry? My Patreon supporters get behind-the-scenes access to exclusive materials. ◀︎◀︎

As the writer of Hebrews instructs saints on how they should interact with their leaders. But what if we flip the script to see how leaders should live in a way that allows others to follow them.  This is part 88 in my series on godly leadership. You can check out all of my posts in this series by clicking here. And you may also want to check out my books for church leaders—Shepherd Leadership and When Sheep Bite. ►► Would you please prayerfully consider supporting this ministry? My Patreon supporters get behind-the-scenes access to exclusive materials. ◀︎◀︎

Jesus was sustained in doing His Father's work by the joy that He knew would be realized in the completed work. This joy in the Holy Spirit is the same thing that keeps Christians delighted in their duties today. Watch the video version of this sermon.  Check out all of the Bible verses in this sermon.  Check out all of the messages in this series about the power of the Holy Spirit in our lives by clicking here. ►► Would you please prayerfully consider supporting this ministry? My Patreon supporters get behind-the-scenes access to exclusive materials. ◀︎◀︎

If you are reading the Gospels with the words of Jesus printed in red, there is one place where the red ink virtually disappears: When Jesus is on trial before Pilate, Herod, and the Sanhedrin. There's an important lesson here for us.  Check out the video version of this clip.  This clip was from a sermon entitled The Essential Confession. The Scripture I reference in this clip is Matthew 16:24-27. I allude to three related blog posts: The point of the Gospel Eloquent silence Should Christians debate? My book When Sheep Bite addresses some biblical responses to the attacks that come our way. I encourage you to check it out. ►► Would you please prayerfully consider supporting this ministry? My Patreon supporters get behind-the-scenes access to exclusive materials. ◀︎◀︎

A true-life story that reads like a fictional crime story. Check out my book review of "Night of the Assassins." Check out my blog, my other podcasts, my books, and so much more at http://linktr.ee/craigtowens  ►► Would you please prayerfully consider supporting this ministry? My Patreon supporters get behind-the-scenes access to exclusive materials. ◀︎◀︎

Temptation isn't sin, but it's an invitation to allow the Holy Spirit to help us overcome temptation's pull, just as He helped Jesus when He was tempted.  Check out the video version of this sermon.  Check out all of the other messages in our series We Are: Pentecostal by clicking here. ►► Would you please prayerfully consider supporting this ministry? My Patreon supporters get behind-the-scenes access to exclusive materials. ◀︎◀︎

When some sort of chemical or toxin is spilled in the environment it doesn't just stay put, it spreads, corrupting everything around it. The same principle is true in our organizations—toxic behaviors that are allowed to fester will spread until they consume your entire team. So put on your hazmat suit and join Greg and me as we address common toxic behaviors and offer strategies on how to root them out before they can take hold. Check out the video version of this conversation.  Check out my blog, my other podcasts, my books, and so much more at http://linktr.ee/craigtowens  ►► Would you please prayerfully consider supporting this ministry? My Patreon supporters get behind-the-scenes access to exclusive materials. ◀︎◀︎

There is a once-in-the-Bible word used in the New Testament, but it's a longing that is seen all throughout the Scripture—a desire for a place of eternal rest in God's presence. Check out my blog, my other podcasts, my books, and so much more at http://linktr.ee/craigtowens  ►► Would you please prayerfully consider supporting this ministry? My Patreon supporters get behind-the-scenes access to exclusive materials. ◀︎◀︎

The Holy Spirit wants to develop the mind of Christ within us. With this mind, our lives will be transformed and we will be empowered to be His witnesses. Check out the video version of this sermon.  Here are all of the verses in this sermon → http://bible.com/events/49612621  Check out my blog, my other podcasts, my books, and so much more at http://linktr.ee/craigtowens  ►► Would you please prayerfully consider supporting this ministry? My Patreon supporters get behind-the-scenes access to exclusive materials. ◀︎◀︎

It's amazing to think that the way I pray could result in Jesus saying, "Amen" at the end of my prayer! Check out the video version of this clip.  I wrote a book of prayers to help pastors pray for themselves and their ministries. Check out Amen Indeed and order a copy today. ►► Would you please prayerfully consider supporting this ministry? My Patreon supporters get behind-the-scenes access to exclusive materials. ◀︎◀︎

Your daily race, run in the perfection of Jesus, matters! Check out my blog, my other podcasts, my books, and so much more at http://linktr.ee/craigtowens  ►► Would you please prayerfully consider supporting this ministry? My Patreon supporters get behind-the-scenes access to exclusive materials. ◀︎◀︎

Have Christians today accepted a life that is sub-normal to what Jesus promised and what we read about the first Christians? If so, how do we address this?  Watch the video version of this sermon.  Check out my blog, my other podcasts, my books, and so much more at http://linktr.ee/craigtowens  ►► Would you please prayerfully consider supporting this ministry? My Patreon supporters get behind-the-scenes access to exclusive materials. ◀︎◀︎

Accountability is a word you might have some negative connotations attached to. Many people have only heard the word in the context of taking ownership for a mistake or a "shape up or else" talk with the boss. In today's episode Greg and I offer a different perspective, discussing how a healthy accountability culture can strengthen and grow your organization. Check out the video version of this leadership conversation.  Check out my blog, my other podcasts, my books, and so much more at http://linktr.ee/craigtowens  ►► Would you please prayerfully consider supporting this ministry? My Patreon supporters get behind-the-scenes access to exclusive materials. ◀︎◀︎

There is a massive difference between serving words and smooth words. This will be made abundantly and eternally clear when Jesus returns and judges our words. Check out my blog, my other podcasts, my books, and so much more at http://linktr.ee/craigtowens  ►► Would you please prayerfully consider supporting this ministry? My Patreon supporters get behind-the-scenes access to exclusive materials. ◀︎◀︎

Godly mothers and grandmothers, know that your life has power today and it has influence that will continue to be felt long after you are gone!  Watch the video version of this sermon.  Check out all of the Scriptures I use in this message → http://bible.com/events/49606740 Check out my blog, my other podcasts, my books, and so much more at http://linktr.ee/craigtowens  ►► Would you please prayerfully consider supporting this ministry? My Patreon supporters get behind-the-scenes access to exclusive materials. ◀︎◀︎

Nearly every church has a pulpit where the pastor stands to deliver the weekly sermon. And almost every evangelical church gathering has the same order of service. Where did these things originate? Check out the video version of this podcast.  I talk more about biblical and non-biblical issues in this video, and in my blog post and video called "Use the right term." The full sermon from which this clip came is here. Check out my blog, my other podcasts, my books, and so much more at http://linktr.ee/craigtowens  ►► Would you please prayerfully consider supporting this ministry? My Patreon supporters get behind-the-scenes access to exclusive materials. ◀︎◀︎

When culture gets a hold of it, morality always decays. But this example from Jesus shows us the cure.  Check out my blog, my other podcasts, my books, and so much more at http://linktr.ee/craigtowens  ►► Would you please prayerfully consider supporting this ministry? My Patreon supporters get behind-the-scenes access to exclusive materials. ◀︎◀︎

Christians have precious, invaluable, life-changing treasures to share, but some aren't ready for it yet. We must be discerning with what we share and with whom we share it.  Watch the video version of this sermon.  Check out all of the Scriptures I use in this message.  Check out my blog, my other podcasts, my books, and so much more at http://linktr.ee/craigtowens  ►► Would you please prayerfully consider supporting this ministry? My Patreon supporters get behind-the-scenes access to exclusive materials. ◀︎◀︎

Gut instinct, a feelings, a sixth sense—we have a lot of different phrases for intuition. Whatever you want to call it, we all have those moments where we just know what the right decision is. Join Greg and I as we discuss why it's important to develop this skill, and how to find the right time to turn your intuition into execution.  Check out the video version of this conversation.  Check out my blog, my other podcasts, my books, and so much more at http://linktr.ee/craigtowens  ►► Would you please prayerfully consider supporting this ministry? My Patreon supporters get behind-the-scenes access to exclusive materials. ◀︎◀︎

God created me to be me. I am the most alive when I am allowing God to work thought my plans, thoughts, and actions.  Check out my blog, my other podcasts, my books, and so much more at http://linktr.ee/craigtowens  ►► Would you please prayerfully consider supporting this ministry? My Patreon supporters get behind-the-scenes access to exclusive materials. ◀︎◀︎

How a person dies and how their body is disposed of makes no difference to where that person will spend eternity.  Watch the video version of this sermon.  Check out all of the Scriptures I use in this message → http://bible.com/events/49599760  Check out more of the questions we have covered in our Is That In The Bible? series by clicking here. ►► Would you please prayerfully consider supporting this ministry? My Patreon supporters get behind-the-scenes access to exclusive materials. ◀︎◀︎

I want to give you a life-changing Bible study tip in just one word.  Check out the video version of this podcast.  Check out my blog, my other podcasts, my books, and so much more at http://linktr.ee/craigtowens  ►► Would you please prayerfully consider supporting this ministry? My Patreon supporters get behind-the-scenes access to exclusive materials. ◀︎◀︎

It all starts with what we are looking at the most attentively.  Check out my blog, my other podcasts, my books, and so much more at http://linktr.ee/craigtowens  ►► Would you please prayerfully consider supporting this ministry? My Patreon supporters get behind-the-scenes access to exclusive materials. ◀︎◀︎

It's a well-known and longed-for sentiment: The lion will lay down with the lamb. Is that in the Bible? You may be surprised by the answer.  Watch the video version of this sermon.  Check out the previous statement we have discussed in this series by clicking here. ►► Would you please prayerfully consider supporting this ministry? My Patreon supporters get behind-the-scenes access to exclusive materials. ◀︎◀︎

Think back to some of the hard times you've been through. Do those times conjure up fond memories and a longing to return to yesteryear? Of course not! Most people do their best to forget these moments as quickly as possible, but a mature leader recognizes the value of the suffering they've endured. Join us for today's episode as we discuss how your most painful moments have the potential to be your biggest opportunities for growth. Check out the video version of this conversation.  In this episode I talk about my book When Sheep Bite. You can find out more about that book here. 

Christians should be known as the best of gentlemen or gentlewomen wherever they go and in whatever circumstances they find themselves.  Check out my blog, my other podcasts, my books, and so much more at http://linktr.ee/craigtowens  ►► Would you please prayerfully consider supporting this ministry? My Patreon supporters get behind-the-scenes access to exclusive materials. ◀︎◀︎

The Bible uses three pictures of the saints that make up the Church. In all three of these images, if we are not maturing in our involvement, then we are declining.  Check out the video version of this sermon.  Check out all of the Scriptures I used in this sermon → http://bible.com/events/49592516  If you've missed any of the messages in this series, you can check them all out here. ►► Would you please prayerfully consider supporting this ministry? My Patreon supporters get behind-the-scenes access to exclusive materials. ◀︎◀︎

I was asked to share one of the funniest things I've seen in church. I didn't exactly "see" this one, but it still ranks as the funniest things ever! Check out the video version of this story.  In all seriousness, we often are looking for "a sign" to help us confirm the direction God may be leading us. I would invite you to check out Knowing God's Will, especially if you are contemplating God's direction for you. Check out my blog, my other podcasts, my books, and so much more at http://linktr.ee/craigtowens  ►► Would you please prayerfully consider supporting this ministry? My Patreon supporters get behind-the-scenes access to exclusive materials. ◀︎◀︎

Other notable people in history have a legacy that lives on after their death, so does it really matter for Christians that Jesus was resurrected from the dead? Check out the video version of this sermon.  Check out all of the messages in this series "I will build My Church" by clicking here. ►► Would you please prayerfully consider supporting this ministry? My Patreon supporters get behind-the-scenes access to exclusive materials. ◀︎◀︎

A lot of people have offered a lot of opinions on Jesus of Nazareth, but let's explore what He said about Himself, His mission on earth, and His eternal Kingdom. Watch the video version of this sermon.  We have been learning what Jesus said about His saints and His Church in our series "I will build My Church." Check out all of the sermons in this series. ►► Would you please prayerfully consider supporting this ministry? My Patreon supporters get behind-the-scenes access to exclusive materials. ◀︎◀︎

Are you in touch with your emotions? While it might sound like something out of a Hallmark movie to some, having a robust emotional quotient is a vital skill for a leader. Join Greg and me as we get all emotional in this episode. Check out the video version of this conversation.  Check out my other podcasts, my books, and so much more by clicking here.

God wants to protect you with His peace. However, if you begin to feel anxiety taking control of your mind, here are two surefire steps to regain the protection of God's peace. Check out my blog, my other podcasts, my books, and so much more at http://linktr.ee/craigtowens  ►► Would you please prayerfully consider supporting this ministry? My Patreon supporters get behind-the-scenes access to exclusive materials. ◀︎◀︎

If Christians have a hard time defining what "Christian" means, is it any wonder that people outside of our church circles sometimes look at us like we're a bit off?  Check out the video version of this sermon.  Check out all of the other messages in this series by clicking here. ►► Would you please prayerfully consider supporting this ministry? My Patreon supporters get behind-the-scenes access to exclusive materials. ◀︎◀︎

I've got something to share with pastors, but for the rest of you—who love your pastors—I hope you will listen in!  Watch the video version of this episode.  A couple of other blog posts that may help you on this topic of servant leadership are: From "servant" to "shepherd" Serve more to lead better CEO or pastor? Praying for your pastor My books are for my fellow pastors. Shepherd Leadership will help us keep the biblical metrics in mind when we are thinking about our leadership roles. When Sheep Bite is an invaluable resource to help pastors continue to serve their flock, even after being painfully attacked. And Amen Indeed is a book of prayers for pastoral effectiveness.

It's very interesting that when Paul writes about "the last days," he warns us about our misplaced love.  Check out my blog, my other podcasts, my books, and so much more at http://linktr.ee/craigtowens  ►► Would you please prayerfully consider supporting this ministry? My Patreon supporters get behind-the-scenes access to exclusive materials. ◀︎◀︎

There is a way to ground our life so that no storm can make us frustrated, afraid, or doubtful. Check out the video version of this sermon.  Check out all of the Scriptures I used in this sermon → http://bible.com/events/49582494 Check out all of the other messages in this "I Will Build My Church" series here. ►► Would you please prayerfully consider supporting this ministry? My Patreon supporters get behind-the-scenes access to exclusive materials. ◀︎◀︎

There is nothing in your spiritual armory that makes the devil afraid of you. But there is one thing that will always cause him to flee from you: When you bow to Jesus. Check out the video version of this clip.  You may also be interested in these related blog posts: The devil isn't scared of you The tactics of fear Devilish scheming My book Amen Indeed is a book of prayers for pastors who are in the midst of spiritual warfare. ►► Would you please prayerfully consider supporting this ministry? My Patreon supporters get behind-the-scenes access to exclusive materials. ◀︎◀︎

Two epistle writers single out mercy as being vitally important for church leaders. If you are interested in going deeper on the topic of pastors as leaders, please check out my book Shepherd Leadership.  Check out my blog, my other podcasts, my books, and so much more at http://linktr.ee/craigtowens  ►► Would you please prayerfully consider supporting this ministry? My Patreon supporters get behind-the-scenes access to exclusive materials. ◀︎◀︎

Tough times come to every organization. This book from John Maxwell will help leaders not just go through those difficulties, but to grow through those difficulties. Check out my blog, my other podcasts, my books, and so much more at http://linktr.ee/craigtowens  ►► Would you please prayerfully consider supporting this ministry? My Patreon supporters get behind-the-scenes access to exclusive materials. ◀︎◀︎

A Christian's essential confession is a lifestyle confession that aligns with a verbal confession. Check out the video version of this sermon.  If you've missed any of the messages in our series "I Will Build My Church", you can find them all here. ►► Would you please prayerfully consider supporting this ministry? My Patreon supporters get behind-the-scenes access to exclusive materials. ◀︎◀︎

Everyone wants to fit in—it's an entirely natural human instinct to desire the approval of those around you. However, when this instinct causes us to change who we are it can become very destructive to us both personally and professionally. In today's episode Greg and I discuss how being a poser is a sneaky leadership killer that can creep in without you even noticing.  Check out the video version of this conversation.  ►► Would you please prayerfully consider supporting this ministry? My Patreon supporters get behind-the-scenes access to exclusive materials. ◀︎◀︎

There are words we need to let go, and there is the Word for which we must stand without wavering or backing down. We must stand firm on God's Word to give biblical meaning to everything we say and do. Check out the video version of this sermon.  You can find all of the other messages in this series called "I will build My Church" by clicking here. You may also be interested in these posts and videos: When non-biblical becomes unbiblical Use the right term ►► Would you please prayerfully consider supporting this ministry? My Patreon supporters get behind-the-scenes access to exclusive materials. ◀︎◀︎

Consistent leaders are exemplary leaders, but consistency doesn't happen automatically. Effective leadership of others starts with effective leadership of yourself.  Watch the video version of this clip.  Check out the full conversation Greg and I had about leadership consistency. You may also want to check out a couple of related posts: Good habits make great leaders Difficult times reveal our habits Self-leadership And I take several chapters in my book Shepherd Leadership talking about the habit that are necessary for us to excel in our ministry positions. ►► Would you please prayerfully consider supporting this ministry? My Patreon supporters get behind-the-scenes access to exclusive materials. ◀︎◀︎

The Don'ts need to be attended to first, which will then enable leaders to do the Dos.  This is part 87 in my series on godly leadership. You can check out all of my posts in this series by clicking here. P.S. You may also want to read my post I Checked Nothing Off My To Do List Today. ►► Would you please prayerfully consider supporting this ministry? My Patreon supporters get behind-the-scenes access to exclusive materials. ◀︎◀︎

A military officer's authority comes from ensuring everyone follows the proper chain of command. As Christians, there is an authority—a chain of command—to which we must bow to be victorious in battle.  Check out the video version of this sermon. If you've missed any of the messages in this series on spiritual warfare, check them all out here. ►► Would you please prayerfully consider supporting this ministry? My Patreon supporters get behind-the-scenes access to exclusive materials. ◀︎◀︎

Like many popular phrases in the lexicon you've probably heard "consistency is key" thousands of times and rarely given it a second thought, but Greg and I want to challenge you to revisit this vital area. In today's episode we discuss how an intentional focus on consistency will make you a better leader—which in turn will make your team more effective and productive. Check out the video version of this conversation.  Check out my blog, my other podcasts, my books, and so much more at http://linktr.ee/craigtowens  ►► Would you please prayerfully consider supporting this ministry? My Patreon supporters get behind-the-scenes access to exclusive materials. ◀︎◀︎

Three Roman soldiers show us the life-changing power in simply doing our duty. Watch the video version of this sermon. Check out my blog, my other podcasts, my books, and so much more at http://linktr.ee/craigtowens  ►► Would you please prayerfully consider supporting this ministry? My Patreon supporters get behind-the-scenes access to exclusive materials. ◀︎◀︎

Greg and I took some time to discuss some of the best traits we've experienced in some memorable leaders in our work careers. Three traits are linked together in a powerful combination.  Watch the video version of this clip. You may also want to check out a blog post and video I shared previously called "Speak the Truth in Love." And speaking of leadership models, my book Shepherd Leadership calls us back to the leadership model that is most consistently used throughout the Bible. ►► Would you please prayerfully consider supporting this ministry? My Patreon supporters get behind-the-scenes access to exclusive materials. ◀︎◀︎

Influence doesn't try to get a following, but people naturally follow a leader who quietly, consistently, and effectively shows up for them.  Check out my book Shepherd Leadership where I dive deeper int the leadership Jesus shows us.  Check out my blog, my other podcasts, my books, and so much more at http://linktr.ee/craigtowens  ►► Would you please prayerfully consider supporting this ministry? My Patreon supporters get behind-the-scenes access to exclusive materials. ◀︎◀︎

What do you want people to remember about your leadership? It's an easy question to overlook, but striving to be remembered well can help you to be a better leader every day. In today's episode Greg and I discuss the attributes of a memorable leader and reminisce about past leaders in our lives. Watch the video version of this conversation.  Check out my blog, my other podcasts, my books, and so much more at http://linktr.ee/craigtowens  ►► Would you please prayerfully consider supporting this ministry? My Patreon supporters get behind-the-scenes access to exclusive materials. ◀︎◀︎

"Real Christianity" is a great read for anyone who is frustrated by the state of affairs in our nation, and is desperate to see a true return to the biblical values of Christianity. Check out my book review.  Check out my blog, my other podcasts, my books, and so much more at http://linktr.ee/craigtowens  ►► Would you please prayerfully consider supporting this ministry? My Patreon supporters get behind-the-scenes access to exclusive materials. ◀︎◀︎