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Series: Church CultureTitle: A Communal ChurchSpeaker: Pastor Bruce Burkett
What story are you living in? In this episode, Trevin Wax joins me to explore how the church can root itself more deeply in the story of Scripture. We talk about The Gospel Way Catechism, the ancient practice of catechesis, and why discipleship is more than just memorizing truths - it's learning to walk in the way of Jesus. Along the way, Trevin shares why true freedom is found in submission to God, how cultural narratives like the American Dream can subtly reshape our faith, and why the global church is vital for our own spiritual health. This conversation invites us to reexamine the stories shaping us and to rediscover the flourishing life Jesus offers.Trevin Wax is vice president of research and resource development at the North American Mission Board and a visiting professor at Cedarville University. A former missionary to Romania, Trevin is a regular columnist at The Gospel Coalition and has lectured on Christianity and culture at Oxford University. His new book is The Gospel Way Catechism.Trevin's Book:The Gospel Way CatechismTrevin's Recommendation:The Years of Lyndon JohnsonSubscribe to Our Substack: Shifting CultureConnect with Joshua: jjohnson@allnations.usGo to www.shiftingculturepodcast.com to interact and donate. Every donation helps to produce more podcasts for you to enjoy.Follow on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, Threads, Bluesky or YouTubeConsider Giving to the podcast and to the ministry that my wife and I do around the world. Just click on the support the show link belowSubscribe today at shiftingculture.substack.com Support the show
Send us a textThis time we're talking about contemplation and the contemplative life. What is it and why do we think it's only for monks and hermits?Support the show If you have any questions about the subjects covered in today's episode you can find us on Facebook at the links below or you can shoot me an email at joe@buddywalkwithjesus.com One Stop Shop for all the links Linktr.ee/happydeamedia
What if healing doesn't happen in isolation, but only in community? In this episode Toni Collier talks about her new book Don't Try This Alone and the hard-won lessons she's learned about vulnerability, resilience, and the necessity of others in our journey toward healing. Toni shares her story of brokenness and betrayal, the seasons of hopelessness she's endured, and how confessional community became the place where God met her through the presence of others. We wrestle with questions of trust, forgiveness, church hurt, and what it takes to build relationships that reflect the love and presence of Jesus.Toni Collier is the founder of an international women's organization called Broken Crayons Still Color and helps women process through brokenness and get to healing and hope. Toni is a speaker, host of the Still Coloring podcast, and author of two books: Brave Enough to be Broken and her latest release, a children's book, Broken Crayons Still Color. Toni is teaching people all over the globe that you can be broken and still worthy, or feel unqualified and still be called to do great things.Toni's Book:Don't Try This AloneToni's Recommendations:Good Boundaries and GoodbyesForgiving What You Can't ForgetSubscribe to Our Substack: Shifting CultureConnect with Joshua: jjohnson@allnations.usGo to www.shiftingculturepodcast.com to interact and donate. Every donation helps to produce more podcasts for you to enjoy.Follow on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, Threads, Bluesky or YouTubeConsider Giving to the podcast and to the ministry that my wife and I do around the world. Just click on the support the show link belowSubscribe today at shiftingculture.substack.com Support the show
The church should be a lighthouse that points people to Jesus! How can we build an evangelistic church culture?
Send us a textThis time we're talking about what it means to find God in the Everything!Support the show If you have any questions about the subjects covered in today's episode you can find us on Facebook at the links below or you can shoot me an email at joe@buddywalkwithjesus.com One Stop Shop for all the links Linktr.ee/happydeamedia
Series: Church CultureTitle: A Christ Centered ChurchSpeaker: Pastor Bruce Burkett
In this conversation, Kyle Thompson discusses his journey in creating Undaunted Life and The Daily Blade, focusing on the need for a strong, biblical masculinity among Christian men. He explores the cultural influences that have led to a perceived softness in Christian masculinity, the importance of creating man-friendly churches, and the role of physical health in a man's life. The discussion also highlights the significance of equipping men to push back against darkness in society and the success of The Daily Blade as a daily devotional for men. Want more of Kyle's content? Access The Daily Blade Know more about Sathiya's work: GET A FREE COPY OF THE LAST RELAPSE JOIN DEEP CLEAN INNER CIRCLE Submit A Question (Anonymously) Through This Form Watch Sathiya on Youtube For More Content Like This Chapters: (00:00) Introduction to Undaunted Life (03:02) The Evolution of Christian Masculinity (05:50) Cultural Influences on Masculinity (09:04) Creating a Man-Friendly Church Environment (11:48) The Role of Truth in Church Leadership (14:55) Navigating Modern Cultural Shifts (17:47) The Impact of Messaging on Audience Reception (21:03) Engaging in Healthy Discourse (23:53) Conclusion and Final Thoughts (27:43) Engaging in Honest Conversations (29:56) Intellectual Honesty and Disagreement (32:31) Understanding Biblical Identity (35:40) The Role of Expository Preaching (39:51) Raising Children with Biblical Values (43:23) The Dangers of Youth Sports and Technology (46:54) The Importance of Physical Health (50:39) Introducing The Daily Blade Podcast
In this episode of the Pastor to Pioneer podcast, Jim Britts shares his transformative journey from a traditional pastoral role to pioneering a disciple-making movement. He discusses his early faith experiences, the pivotal moments that led him to church planting, and the importance of hearing God's voice. Jim emphasizes the significance of personal stories, finding persons of peace, and the challenges of navigating change within church culture. He also highlights the role of family in ministry and the impact of international connections on his understanding of disciple-making movements. Jim's insights provide valuable lessons for pastors and leaders seeking to foster authentic community and make disciples in today's world. www.pastortopioneer.com
Open Forum: Pastor Amos led an open forum to announce continued study of Revelation and plans for live events and local Bible studies in Atlanta, while expressing a need for more volunteer leaders to launch national Bible studies. He outlined a vision for flexible CFE Bible studies that could evolve into churches, with support from individuals like Micah and Anya who had prior experience. Pastor Amos stressed empowering ministry leadership, encouraging initiative without excessive oversight, and shared insights from an FBI negotiator to illustrate ownership in ministry. He discussed the ideal age for church leadership as the forties or fifties, citing personal growth and counseling maturity. La shared her struggles with church culture and leadership, to which Pastor Amos responded empathetically. He addressed the hidden struggles of young pastors, advocating for authentic ministry over institutional service. A story shared by Shanelle illustrated church transformation through social events, and Pastor Amos concluded with reflections on Israel Houghton's marriage controversy, highlighting the importance of grace, communication, and authentic calling in ministry. Partner with Us: https://churchforentrepreneurs.com/partner Connect with Us: https://churchforentrepreneurs.com
Subscribe to Lead Time for real talk about leading in the LCMS today.Why are so many LCMS churches stuck in cycles of insecurity, burnout, and unhealthy culture? In this episode, Dr. Kirk Triplett joins Tim Ahlman and Jack Kalleberg to expose the deeper issues plaguing leadership culture in the Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod. From toxic feedback loops to forgotten celebration, from unclear mission to constant comparison—this conversation digs deep into what's quietly killing joy and mission in our churches.We explore:- How the LCMS avoids clarity by hiding behind “love God, love people”- The difference between behavioral values and organizational values- Why too many pastors are driven by insecurity and the 2% who complain- What the church can learn from Starbucks, big toes, and baby baptismsIt's time to rest, rejoice, and relax—without losing momentum.Support the showJoin the Lead Time Newsletter! (Weekly Updates and Upcoming Episodes)https://www.uniteleadership.org/lead-time-podcast#newsletterVisit uniteleadership.org
Send us a textToday we are kicking out our look at the foundational elements of a relational experience with God by looking at a common phrase used in many churches. Many of us have heard the phrase "Walk with God" but what does it actually mean? Support the show If you have any questions about the subjects covered in today's episode you can find us on Facebook at the links below or you can shoot me an email at joe@buddywalkwithjesus.com One Stop Shop for all the links Linktr.ee/happydeamedia
Send us a textIt's the end of Christian AF… for now. And possibly the most on-brand way to wrap it all up.After years of beers, Bible hot takes, snarky one-liners, and genuinely vulnerable faith convos, Jesse, Jen, and Evan sit down one last time (for now) to say goodbye. Or at least… hit pause.We talk about:Why we started this thing in the first placeWhat we learned from showing up (even when we didn't want to)The beauty and chaos of faith that doesn't have all the answersAnd what might come next (spoiler: who knows?)There's also a brief return to Evan's “burn it all down” phase, a wholesome moment with the words of listeners, and—naturally—shots poured out for heresies past.This isn't a sad farewell. It's a hell yes, we did that moment.So grab a drink. Raise a glass. And thank you for listening. We couldn't have done it without you.
We linked up with the OGs Project Pat & Michael Mon Dozier Brown for a powerful convo on music, culture, and the life-changing work Gofoundation is doing in prison ministry.From the grind of hip-hop to the grind for souls this one's unfiltered, impactful, and full of purpose.
We've heard debates about whether it is biblical to have a large mega church or a small house church. Now more than ever we need to put our preferences aside and join together with doctrinally sound communities as one Church, cheering each other on rather than trying to compete for who's the best or the biggest. Join host Andrew Marcus as he spends time with his dear friend Brett Landry, pastor of Christ City Church, as they unpack what it looks like to reach your community for Christ.
Contact us. We'd love to serve youGive financially to support the work of helping pastors thriveRegister for the Advancing the Church Conference. Write a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify Resources(03:51) Biblical Framework and setting up the topic (08:57) Biographical Background (13:47) Challenges for Modern Pastors (22:58) Time Management and Ministry Responsibilities(30:43) Adapting to Changing Church Cultures (36:20) Generational Differences in Ministry (38:17) Final words and Prayer
Contact us. We'd love to serve youGive financially to support the work of helping pastors thriveRegister for the Advancing the Church Conference. Write a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify Resources(03:51) Biblical Framework and setting up the topic (08:57) Biographical Background (13:47) Challenges for Modern Pastors (22:58) Time Management and Ministry Responsibilities(30:43) Adapting to Changing Church Cultures (36:20) Generational Differences in Ministry (38:17) Final words and Prayer
Don't miss this week's message by Lead Pastor, Jeff Evans.
In this episode, we visit Hillsong's mothership in Baulkham Hills so you don't have to! We unpack the atmosphere, the music, the offering, the supposed miracles, the sermon and the continued exploitation of volunteers. Join us as we reflect on the evolving, yet somehow still familiar landscape of the 'new' Hillsong and its diminishing impact on those of us who have left the faith.Key takeaways:Atmosphere and Scale: Hillsong's grand scale and corporate feel can be both impressive and overwhelming, reflecting its status as a mega church.Volunteer Involvement: The church relies heavily on volunteers, highlighting the importance of community involvement in its operations.Sermon Analysis: Pastor Robert Ferguson's sermon emphasized movement and miracles, but raised questions about interpretation and relevance for exvangelicals.Cultural Diversity: The diverse congregation at Hillsong showcases the church's broad appeal and the changing demographics of modern Christianity.Community Connection: Despite the large scale, the sense of community and belonging remains a strong draw for attendees.Comparative Reflections: The visit prompted reflections on past church experiences and the evolution of evangelical practices.Emotional Responses: The service evoked a range of emotions, from nostalgia to skepticism, among those familiar with evangelical culture.Impact on Exvangelicals: The experience highlighted the ongoing influence of mega churches and their role in the faith journeys of those who have left. ---We're now on video on YouTube here.Want more? Check out our exclusive Patreon episodes here.Our blog is here.Join the conversation and connect with others here.The transcript of this episode is here.All our other links are here. Doubting your beliefs? Have questions about changing or leaving your faith? You are not alone, and Recovering from Religion is here to help.
The Carey Nieuwhof Leadership Podcast: Lead Like Never Before
What if our culture's biggest crisis isn't political, but spiritual and relational? New York Times columnist, bestselling author, and Atlantic columnist David Brooks talks about how American culture has changed in our lifetime and why he thinks it's overpoliticized and undermoralized. Plus, he shares how he became a Christian, his friendship with Tim Keller, and why he writes for 5 hours to get 1200 words each day.
Professor Ralph Hancock of BYU discusses the dilemmas facing the church and the complexities of navigating politics as Latter-day Saints work within a secular world. Ralph's Articles on Alive and Intelligent Substack - https://aliveandintelligent.substack.com Cwic Media Website: http://www.cwicmedia.com
God's people are represented in more than just your immediate Christian circle and cultural context. And if we are as Christ followers are indwelt with the Holy Spirit, there's always something to learn from one another. The Perrys reflect on their experiences inside of different church settings, denominations, and faith expressions throughout their ministry. They've learned that God is too big for us to limit Him to our preferences or the church culture we're a part of. Jackie and Preston discuss how we have to go in with open minds and humble hearts, not walking in arrogance if people's worship looks different than ours. This Episode is Sponsored By: https://weekendtoremember.com — Get $100 off when you use code PERRY at checkout!https://fieldofgreens.com — Get 20% off and free shipping with code PERRY at checkout! Scripture references:Philippians 2 Subscribe to the Perrys' newsletter.To support the work of the Perrys, donate via PayPal.www.withtheperrys.comboldapparel.shopwww.jackiehillperry.comwww.preston-perry.com
Associate Professor Brent Yergensen has just written the most comprehensive and clarifying work on the Pride movement within the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. His conclusion? A Shadow Faith has risen in the church! His Paper, Shadow Faith or Organizational Breakoff? Inflection Points and the Symbolic Convergence of Latter-day Saint Subculture was recently published by an academic journal. Here is the paper - https://cdr.creighton.edu/server/api/core/bitstreams/8c5efbfa-87d1-4c0f-b037-3ad6a76cdfa5/content Brent Yergensen (Ph.D., University of Nebraska-Lincoln) is Department Chair and Associate Professor of Communication at The University of Texas at Tyler. His research focuses on the intersections of religion, science, politics, and history with mass media, especially film. He teaches primarily in media theory and history, rhetorical theory and criticism, research methods, and organizational communication. Cwic Media Website: http://www.cwicmedia.com
Send us a textToday we're talking about this past weekend and jumping into the perspective we should have when trying to wrap our minds around all of this. Support the show If you have any questions about the subjects covered in today's episode you can find us on Facebook at the links below or you can shoot me an email at joe@buddywalkwithjesus.com One Stop Shop for all the links Linktr.ee/happydeamedia
Brenna link in bio: linktr.ee/bunonmyhead nobigdyl. link in bio: https://ffm.bio/nobigdyllielisten to nobigdyl. on all streaming platforms
Jeff Strong worked nearly 30 years in the consumer products industry as a senior executive at Procter & Gamble and global president and chief customer officer at Johnson & Johnson. He then taught in the Marriott School of Business at Brigham Young University and worked as an advisor to the Church before serving as a mission leader in the Arkansas Bentonville Mission. Jeff has since spent several years doing research on why people are leaving the Church. While not a professional researcher, his career involved a large amount of research and the research he shares in this podcast was done with the help of some of the top Latter-day Saint researchers in the world. Today, Jeff lives in Midway, Utah, and stays busy with a little lavender farm, some business consulting, and enjoying family. Links Share your thoughts in the Leading Saints community Transcript coming soon Get 14-day access to the Core Leader Library Highlights In this conversation, Jeff dives deep into the tension between church culture and personal beliefs, and how embracing it can lead to growth and understanding within our church community. He discusses the findings from a comprehensive survey that aimed to understand disaffiliation and the tensions members experience in their church lives. A key takeaway is the importance of understanding what members love about the Church, revealing the core values that bind members together, despite the tensions they may feel. Jeff talks about the tensions present in church culture, emphasizing the dual facets of this conflict: the tension between tradition and change, and the tension arising from our differences. He explores how members often feel a significant conflict in their church experience, with many expressing discomfort with the culture. Jeff presents data indicating that nearly half of the respondents felt a significant conflict, and more than half did not feel a strong sense of belonging in their congregations. Throughout the conversation, he emphasizes the importance of recognizing and embracing this tension rather than attempting to eliminate it. 00:02:40 - Purpose of the Survey on Disaffiliation 00:05:12 - Survey Response Insights 00:07:38 - What People Love About the Church 00:10:30 - Core Values of Church Members 00:12:33 - Strengths of the Church 00:13:10 - Tension Between Tradition and Change 00:16:00 - Navigating Cultural Differences 00:19:15 - Understanding Tension in Church Experience 00:22:10 - Data on Comfort and Belonging 00:23:38 - Recognizing Conflict in the Congregation 00:30:02 - Tension Between Personal and Cultural Values 00:35:44 - Embracing Tension in Leadership 00:40:08 - Creating a Safe Space for Tension The award-winning Leading Saints Podcast is one of the top independent Latter-day Saints podcasts as part of nonprofit Leading Saints' mission to help Latter-day Saints be better prepared to lead. Learn more and listen to any of the past episodes for free at LeadingSaints.org. Past guests include Emily Belle Freeman, David Butler, Hank Smith, John Bytheway, Reyna and Elena Aburto, Liz Wiseman, Stephen M. R. Covey, Elder Alvin F. Meredith III, Julie Beck, Brad Wilcox, Jody Moore, Tony Overbay, John H. Groberg, Elaine Dalton, Tad R. Callister, Lynn G. Robbins, J. Devn Cornish, Bonnie Oscarson, Dennis B. Neuenschwander, Kirby Heyborne, Taysom Hill, Coaches Jennifer Rockwood and Brandon Doman, Anthony Sweat, John Hilton III, Barbara Morgan Gardner, Blair Hodges, Whitney Johnson, Ryan Gottfredson, Greg McKeown, Ganel-Lyn Condie, Michael Goodman, Wendy Ulrich, Richard Ostler, and many more in over 800 episodes. Discover podcasts, articles, virtual conferences, and live events related to callings such as the bishopric, Relief Society, elders quorum, Primary, youth leadership, stake leadership, ward mission, ward council, young adults, ministering, and teaching.
Watch the Live: Click here Should churches have the right to close their doors and ask for thousands from the pulpit?When Marvin Sapp's clip resurfaced, it set off a viral firestorm. In this episode, Marcus Norman and Karmea Wells break it all down. SUBSCRIBE @GentlemanStylePodcast for more bold conversations every week What happens when faith, money, and leadership collide? In this live discussion, Marcus and Karmea unpack the controversial resurfaced video of Marvin Sapp asking for a $40,000 collective offering—and telling ushers to “close the doors.” Was it about stewardship or spiritual manipulation? This thought-provoking conversation dives into accountability in church leadership, transparency in church finances, and the burdens placed on congregations. The duo also explores deeper concerns around gender roles in church service, equitable fellowship opportunities, and what it really means to be a “cheerful giver.” Marcus Norman is the creator and host of the Gentleman Style Podcast, a platform dedicated to discussing real-world topics impacting business, relationships, faith, and finance. Karmea Wells is the Unorthodox Southern Belle, co-host of the show known for her bold takes, heartfelt truth, and fierce sense of humor.
What does it take to shift a church from programs to real discipleship? In this episode, Jessie Cruickshank talks with Bunny Correa and Sheldon Lacsina about their journey transforming a traditional, performance-based church into a community of everyday disciple makers.They share how deep friendship, vulnerability, and years of holding space with the Holy Spirit led to a slow but lasting cultural shift. From certificates and classes to shared leadership and relational trust, Bunny and Sheldon reflect on the joys, challenges, and breakthroughs of learning to lead like Jesus. If you're contending for deeper discipleship in your church or community, this conversation offers hard-won wisdom and real hope.ORDER Jessie's newest book, Ordinary Discipleship: How God Wires Us for the Adventure of Transformation → https://a.co/d/51j86DGFor more great stuff, check out: Ordinary Discipleship by Whoology: https://whoology.coFollow us on social media:https://instagram.com/ordinarydiscipleshiphttps://facebook.com/ordinarydiscipleshipFollow Jessie on social media:Instagram: https://instagram.com/yourbrainbyjessFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/jessica.s.cruickshank/Twitter: https://twitter.com/yourbrainbyjessJessie Cruickshank is a disciple-maker, wilderness guide, and ordained minister. She has trained thousands of people how to survive when their life depended on it and earned a Master's degree in experiential education at Harvard to learn how the brain works to help people train more effectively.The key to discipleship is not more information, but learning how to create intentional environments where people can learn and grow. By working with the brain and treating individuals as whole persons, you too can discover how God wired our brains for transformation. You already have all the tools you need, it is time to activate them in you and your church. ORDER Jessie's newest book, Ordinary Discipleship: How God Wires Us for the Adventure of Transformation → https://a.co/d/51j86DGFor more great stuff, check out: Ordinary Discipleship by Whoology: https://whoology.coFollow us on social media:https://instagram.com/ordinarydiscipleshiphttps://facebook.com/ordinarydiscipleshipFollow Jessie on social media:Instagram: https://instagram.com/yourbrainbyjessFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/jessica.s.cruickshank/Twitter: https://twitter.com/yourbrainbyjessJessie Cruickshank is a disciple-maker, wilderness guide, and ordained minister. She has trained thousands of people how to survive when their life depended on it and earned a Master's degree in experiential education at Harvard to learn how the brain works to help people train more effectively.The key to discipleship is not more information, but learning how to create intentional environments where people can learn and grow. By working with the brain and treating individuals as whole persons, you too can discover how God wired our brains for transformation. You already have all the tools you need, it is time to activate them in you and your church.
Today's conversation is a bit of a departure from our usual worship leader/worship industry conversation. I'm talking with Stanley Hauerwas. Here's his bio: Stanley will turn 85 this year. I'm new to Stanley's work but absolutely devoured his new book Jesus Changes Everything as well as his landmark work, Resident Aliens. I find his thinking […] The post #360: The Church, Culture, & How Jesus Changes Everything with Stanley Hauerwas appeared first on Beyond Sunday Worship.
“Stop sleeping with the pastor!” Vashti Ennis, after a 10-year relationship with Pastor Brian Carn, is calling him out on Facebook for infidelity, betrayal, and spiritual gaslighting. She's not just coming for the man—she's questioning the entire church culture and its habit of “praising publicly, bleeding quietly.” Screenshots. Love notes. Screens everywhere! Church leaders may have options, but are congregants blinded by spiritual authority? This episode dives into messy romance, power, and accountability in sacred spaces.Need relationship advice? Text Dr. Gabe. Text bandwidth to 94000 to stay up-to-date on all things Bandwidth.Gabriel Powell MerchUse the code BAND10 for 10% off.WebsiteSupport the Bandwidth PodcastCash App $bandwidthpodcastConnect with Bandwidth Facebook | Instagram | TikTok | Twitter Connect with Dr. GabeInstagram | YouTube | WebsiteIf you are interested in advertising on this podcast or having Dr. Gabe as a guest on your Podcast, Radio Show, or TV Show, reach out to info@gabrielpowell.co
In this episode, PD sits down with Joe Latuszek, Immanuel's Praise Team Director. to unpack the dramatic shifts in music consumption, media trends, and cultural identity over the last two decades. From the shared soundtrack of the early 2000s to today's fragmented playlist culture, they explore how platforms like TikTok have reshaped music discovery and erased decade-defining sounds. The conversation dives into the generational divide fueled by fast-moving tech, evolving worship styles in church, and the search for authenticity in a curated world. Whether you're a pastor, a creator, or a culture watcher, this episode offers fresh insight into navigating the digital age with faith, wisdom, and discernment.
What is church production like in Australia? Hillsong Church's Reid Wall joins us to discuss the differences in church tech down under, the origins of Hillsong Church and the creative solutions he has created. In this episode you'll hear: 1:00 – Journey Church: Behind-the-Scenes Tech Story6:00 – Reid Wall Joins the Show11:00 – The Origin of Hillsong Church15:00 – Church Culture & Tech in Australia19:30 – What to Expect at Gather 2025 (Church Production Focus)25:45 – Baffle Blake: Sponsored by HouseRight30:30 – Real Church Tech Problems & Creative Solutions39:15 – Church Tech Fail: Production Disaster Story44:30 – Tech Takeaway: Who Are You Mentoring?Whether you're looking for your next job opportunity or looking for an integrator partner for your next project, you have to check out our friends at HouseRight. Apply for ChurchGear Tech Jobs HereResources for your Church Tech Ministry Sell Us Gear: Does your church have used gear that you need to convert into new ministry dollars? We can make you an offer here. Buy Our Gear: Do you need some production gear but lack the budget to buy new gear? You can shop our gear store here. Connect with us: Sales Bulletin: Get better deals than the public and get them earlier too here! Early Service: Get our best gear before it goes live on our site here. Instagram: Hangout with us on the gram here! Reviews: Leaving us a review on the podcast player you're listening to us on really helps the show. If you enjoyed this episode, you can say thank you with a review!
You aren't a real Christian until God changes your entire life.Dr. Gabe delves into the true meaning of the Gospel and challenges common misconceptions about salvation, being born again, and the difference between calling yourself a Christian and actually living as a disciple of Jesus.Throughout the message, Dr. Gabe passionately addresses the tendency to blame the pulpit for a lack of spiritual growth, instead calling on every believer to take ownership of their walk with God beyond Sunday service. He unpacks what it really means to repent—not just to apologize, but to turn and follow Christ with your whole life. With boldness, he confronts pride, legalism, and the dangers of going through the motions of religion without true transformation.If you've ever wondered what the Gospel asks of us, why real faith is more than rituals or titles, or how to truly encounter God beyond the church walls, this episode will inspire and challenge you to go deeper. Support the showText encounteratl to 94000 to stay up-to-date on all things Encounter.Worship with EncounterSundays at 9 AM ET | Wednesdays at 7:30 PM ETSupport EncounterText egive to 77977 Connect with EncounterFacebook | Instagram | TikTok | YouTube | WebsiteConnect with Dr. GabeInstagram | YouTube | Website
While a debate continues about what constitutes doctrine versus policy in the restored Church of Christ, what role does its culture play, both good and bad?
Terry Crist returns to Shifting Culture to talk about the transformative power of rest, the necessity of Sabbath, and finding true refuge in God. Terry, an experienced pastor and insightful communicator, helps us rethink productivity, loneliness, bitterness, and forgiveness, inviting us into a deeper relationship with God's perfect love. In this episode, you'll discover how to shift your approach to rest, see productivity as a natural outflow of abiding in God, and break free from cycles of striving and bitterness. Join us for a meaningful conversation that will leave you with renewed peace, purpose, and perspective.Terry Crist is the co-lead pastor of City of Grace in Phoenix alongside his wife, Judith. He has a Th.M. and a D.Min. and has a business certificate in nonprofit management from Harvard Business School. Terry is also passionate about community transformation and promotes adoption and foster care through his work in state government. An avid outdoorsman and gifted communicator, he has adventured and preached the gospel in 65 nations. Terry and Judith have three married sons and four grandchildren. They live in Arizona.Terry's Book:Now You Can Stop RunningTerry's Recommendations:Crushing ChaosA Teachable SpiritLit Up With LoveSubscribe to Our Substack: Shifting CultureConnect with Joshua: jjohnson@allnations.usGo to www.shiftingculturepodcast.com to interact and donate. Every donation helps to produce more podcasts for you to enjoy.Follow on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, Threads, Bluesky or YouTubeConsider Giving to the podcast and to the ministry that my wife and I do around the world. Just click on the support the show link below Friar TimeThrough meaningful interviews and heartfelt conversations, Friar Time, hosted by Fr....Listen on: Apple Podcasts SpotifySupport the show
Don't miss this week's message with Women's Ministry Director and Teaching Pastor, Teresa Breeding.
Send us a textThis week we're jumping into the topic of Gender Dynamics within the church. What does in mean to be masculine? Can women lead churches? How should couples address each other?Support the show If you have any questions about the subjects covered in today's episode you can find us on Facebook at the links below or you can shoot me an email at joe@buddywalkwithjesus.com One Stop Shop for all the links Linktr.ee/happydeamedia
In today's episode, we're exploring intimacy - a concept that's far more complex than most of us realize. My guest, Erin Moniz, has been studying how we connect, disconnect, and misunderstand relationships in our current cultural moment. We'll dig into some critical questions: What does intimacy actually mean beyond romantic relationships? How have cultural messages - both inside and outside the church - distorted our understanding of connection? And what might a more holistic approach to knowing and being known look like? Erin brings a unique perspective as a college chaplain who's counseled countless emerging adults navigating relationships. We'll discuss how technology impacts our connections, why friendships matter as much as romantic partnerships, and how the gospel offers a different framework for understanding human relationships. This isn't a prescriptive how-to conversation, but an exploration of our fundamental human need for genuine connection. We'll challenge some assumptions about singleness, marriage, and community, and hopefully provide a more nuanced view of intimacy. So join us.Rev. Erin F. Moniz (DMin, Trinity School for Ministry) is a deacon in the Anglican Church in North America and associate chaplain and director for chapel at Baylor University, where she disciples emerging adults and journeys with them toward healthy, gospel-centered relationships. She is a trained conciliator, mediator, and conflict coach. She enjoys content creation, playing music, being outdoors, and narrating the inner monologue of her two cats. She lives in Waco, Texas, with her husband, Michael.Erin's Book:Knowing and Being KnownErin's Recommendations:Becoming the Pastor's WifeThe Anti-Greed GospelHouseholds of FaithThe Marriage You WantSubscribe to Our Substack: Shifting CultureConnect with Joshua: jjohnson@allnations.usGo to www.shiftingculturepodcast.com to interact and donate. Every donation helps to produce more podcasts for you to enjoy.Follow on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, Threads, Bluesky or YouTubeConsider Giving to the podcast and to the ministry that my wife and I do around the world. Just click on the support the show link below Support the show
Send us a textWe're jumping into a conversation about denominations, worship practices and Catholicism. Support the show If you have any questions about the subjects covered in today's episode you can find us on Facebook at the links below or you can shoot me an email at joe@buddywalkwithjesus.com One Stop Shop for all the links Linktr.ee/happydeamedia
When church becomes a place to pretend, everyone loses.In Part Three of our Church Hurt series, we dive into one of the biggest reasons people walk away from church: hypocrisy. Jesus didn't come for those who have it all together—He came for those honest enough to admit they don't. This message explores the pressure to perform, the harm of image management, and the freedom to embrace your imperfections. You don't have to fake it. You can bring your hurt to church.⏱️ Timestamps:0:00 – A Place for the Hurting or the Performing?5:51 – Jesus Calls Out the Fakes10:02 – Red Flags in Church Culture17:05 – The Crushing Weight of Image Management25:30 – You Can Be Flawed, Just Don't Be Fake
Andrew Arndt is back on the podcast today. He's a pastor and author who's challenging how we typically understand the gospel. His new book, "A Strange and Gracious Light," explores what it means to see Jesus as a living presence that intersects with our real, complicated lives. We'll discuss how the gospel isn't just about personal salvation or afterlife insurance, but a transformative story that speaks directly into our current cultural moment - with all its complexity, pain, and potential. Andrew brings a fresh, albeit an ancient perspective on how Jesus encounters us in our everyday struggles, political tensions, and personal challenges. This conversation is about reimagining the good news of Jesus as something far more expansive and immediate than we've traditionally understood. We'll explore what it means to experience Christ's presence in a way that's both deeply personal and broadly transformative. So join us as we facilitate encounters with the living God. Andrew Arndt is the Lead Pastor of New Life East (one of seven congregations of New Life Church in Colorado Springs), where he also hosts the Essential Church podcast, a weekly conversation designed to strengthen the thinking of church and ministry leaders. Prior to joining New Life's team, he served as Lead Pastor of Bloom Church: a neo-monastic, charismatic, liturgical, justice-driven network of house churches in Denver. He received his MDiv from Trinity Evangelical Divinity School, is working on his Doctor of Ministry at Western Theological Seminary, and has written for Missio Alliance, Patheos, The Other Journal, and Mere Orthodoxy. He lives in the Springs with his wife Mandi and their four kids.Andrew's Book:A Strange and Gracious LightSubscribe to Our Substack: Shifting CultureConnect with Joshua: jjohnson@allnations.usGo to www.shiftingculturepodcast.com to interact and donate. Every donation helps to produce more podcasts for you to enjoy.Follow on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, Threads, Bluesky or YouTubeConsider Giving to the podcast and to the ministry that my wife and I do around the world. Just click on the support the show link below The Signpost Inn PodcastFind peace, clarity, and companionship for your spiritual journey.Listen on: Apple Podcasts SpotifySupport the show
This is a Men in the Arena podcast highlight from EP 684, Healing from Porn: Your Ultimate Purity Resource List w/ Sam Black Get Jim Ramos' USA TODAY Bestselling book, Dialed In: Reaching Your Full Capacity as a Man of God This episode is sponsored by MTNTOUGH Fitness Lab, a Christian-owned fitness app. Get 6 weeks free with the code ARENA30! Want access to an ad-free, early-release version of the podcast? Get it with Arena Access on Patreon. Have questions you wish you could ask Jim about life, marriage, men's ministry, or manhood? Join his monthly live Zoom Q&A by joining The Locker Room on Patreon.
God chooses you at the level of your heart posture. In a sermon entitled, How To Be Chosen, Dr. Gabriel Allen Powell explores what it truly means to be "chosen" by God, using the story of Mary as a profound example. He challenges listeners to embrace humility, break free from pride and societal expectations, and fully submit to God's calling in their lives—reminding us that destiny often favors the unlikely and overlooked.Support the showText encounteratl to 94000 to stay up-to-date on all things Encounter.Worship with EncounterSundays at 9 AM ET | Wednesdays at 7:30 PM ETSupport EncounterText egive to 77977 Connect with EncounterFacebook | Instagram | TikTok | YouTube | WebsiteConnect with Dr. GabeInstagram | YouTube | Website
What if humility isn't about shrinking, but about seeing clearly? Zach Meerkreebs knows something about unexpected transformations. A Jewish kid from the East Coast who became a Christian pastor, he found himself at the epicenter of the Asbury outpouring - a spiritual moment that swept through a small Kentucky campus, touching 100,000 people - after delivering what he initially thought was a "stinker" of a sermon. In this episode, Zach takes us on a deeply personal journey through grief, faith, and the radical nature of Jesus' humility. From losing a daughter to navigating a profound spiritual awakening, he offers a raw, unfiltered look at what it means to walk with God when life doesn't make sense. We'll explore how true humility isn't about being small, but about understanding who we are in relationship with God. Get ready for a conversation that may reshape the way you think about pride, pain, and the transformative power of seeing yourself through God's eyes. This is an invitation to a different way of living - one marked by grace, honesty, and unexpected hope. So join us as we go lower. Zach Meerkreebs is the proud husband of Kristin and father to three little girls: Eden, Esther, and Mercy. He is thankful for the opportunity to have served within churches by coaching and catalyzing church plants, traveling and speaking, and most recently had the gift of a lifetime as he preached on February 8, 2023, where he had a front row seat to see God moving amidst the Asbury outpouring where a small town and university experienced sixteen days of unending prayer and worship. More than one hundred thousand guests from around the country--and the world--experienced the peace and power of God.Zach's Book:LowerZach's Recommendations:How to FastBeholding and ThirstingSubscribe to Our Substack: Shifting CultureConnect with Joshua: jjohnson@allnations.usGo to www.shiftingculturepodcast.com to interact and donate. Every donation helps to produce more podcasts for you to enjoy.Follow on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, Threads, Bluesky or YouTubeConsider Giving to the podcast and to the ministry that my wife and I do around the world. Just click on the support the show link belowShifting Culture Productions Support the show
Today, I'm sitting down with Kara Powell, researcher and co-author of "Future Focused Church," to talk about the challenges and opportunities facing churches right now. We'll explore how churches can better connect with younger generations, what real discipleship looks like, and how communities of faith can adapt in a rapidly changing world. Kara brings insights from her research at Fuller Youth Institute about identity, belonging, and purpose - key questions that are driving how people, especially young people, think about faith. We'll discuss practical strategies for church leaders, the importance of listening to younger generations, and how churches can become more outward-focused and missional. We'll also dig into some of the current challenges - like pastor burnout, church transitions, and the shifting religious landscape - but with a hopeful perspective on what's possible. If you're a church leader, ministry worker, or just someone interested in how faith communities might evolve, this conversation is for you. So join us. Kara Powell, PhD, is the chief of leadership formation at Fuller Theological Seminary, the executive director of the Fuller Youth Institute, and the founder of the TENx10 Collaboration. Named by Christianity Today as one of "50 Women to Watch," Kara speaks regularly at national parenting and leadership conferences. Kara has authored or coauthored numerous books, including Faith Beyond Youth Group, 3 Big Questions That Shape Your Future, 3 Big Questions That Change Every Teenager, Growing With, Growing Young, The Sticky Faith Guide for Your Family, and the entire Sticky Faith series. Kara and her husband, Dave, are regularly inspired by the learning and laughter that come from their three young adult children.Kara's Book:Future-Focused ChurchKara's Recommendation:The Friction ProjectSubscribe to Our Substack: Shifting CultureConnect with Joshua: jjohnson@allnations.usGo to www.shiftingculturepodcast.com to interact and donate. Every donation helps to produce more podcasts for you to enjoy.Follow on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, Threads, Bluesky or YouTubeConsider Giving to the podcast and to the ministry that my wife and I do around the world. Just click on the support the show link belowEmail jjohnson@allnations.us, so we can get your creative project off the ground! Support the show
Join Chris Sonksen as he explores effective church growth strategies with Pastor Joshua in this enlightening episode of Fly on the Wall podcast. This session is filled with valuable insights on fostering a transformative culture within the church community.In This Episode, You'll Discover:The Challenge of Change: How to navigate the complexities of modifying church culture to meet modern needs.Strategic Approaches: Practical steps for implementing lasting cultural change within a church setting.Leadership Dynamics: Tips on aligning church leadership with visionary goals for comprehensive community impact.Don't miss this essential discussion designed to equip you with the knowledge to lead your church towards sustainable growth and vibrant community engagement.
Send us a textThis week we're talking about the appropriate relationship we are called to have with God. Should we be afraid of God and what He might do if we mess up? What does it mean to work out your salvation with fear and trembling?We're talking about that and much more!Support the show If you have any questions about the subjects covered in today's episode you can find us on Facebook at the links below or you can shoot me an email at joe@buddywalkwithjesus.com One Stop Shop for all the links Linktr.ee/happydeamedia
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Steve Hitz is a co-founder of Launching Leaders Worldwide, a faith-based nonprofit leadership program which helps young adults examine their lives, determine where they are now, where they want to be, and how to create their future while embracing their faith. He has founded companies, served as a young single adult bishop, and considers himself a Baby Boomer with a Millennial heart. Steve and his wife Ginger are blessed with three sons, two daughters, and eleven beloved grandchildren. Links Igniting the Holy Flame: Building Communities of Love from the Ashes of Negative Religious Culture Launching Leaders Worldwide Launching a Rising Generation of Leaders | An Interview with Steven Hitz and Michael Leonard Coming Alongside Youth & Young Adults | An Interview with Steve Hitz Steve Hitz articles at LeadingSaints.org Share your thoughts in the Leading Saints community Transcript coming soon Get 14-day access to the Core Leader Library Highlights Steve shares his personal journey following the loss of his son to suicide, which prompted him to explore the intersection of faith, community, and mental health. He discusses concerning statistics regarding church attendance and the challenges faced by young adults in maintaining their faith, particularly within the context of negative religious cultures that often emphasize rules and conformity over love and understanding. Steve introduces the concepts of "fabricated fellowship" and "harmful religiosity," explaining how these elements contribute to feelings of shame and disconnection among church members. He advocates for a shift towards authentic fellowship, where relationships are built on genuine care rather than obligation. The conversation delves into the idea of orthodoxy, contrasting "tight-fisted orthodoxy" with "open-hand orthodoxy," and emphasizes the need for leaders to be flexible and responsive to the spiritual needs of their congregations. Throughout the episode, Steve shares anecdotes and insights that illustrate the importance of love, mercy, and grace in religious practice. He encourages listeners to embrace a more holistic approach to worship that prioritizes personal connection and understanding over rigid adherence to rules. The episode concludes with Steve reflecting on the positive feedback he has received from readers of his book, who have found solace and inspiration in its message. 01:41 - Introduction to Igniting the Holy Flame by Steve Hitz 02:32 - The Impact of Personal Tragedy on Faith 06:04 - Statistics on Religious Attendance and Faith 09:24 - The Role of Questions in Faith 10:13 - Defining Religious Culture 12:27 - The Importance of Authentic Fellowship 13:36 - The Balance of Doctrine and Culture 15:41 - Understanding Orthodoxy: Open vs. Closed Fist 20:22 - The Role of the Holy Spirit in Leadership 23:06 - The Need for Authentic Relationships 25:06 - The Concept of Fabricated Fellowship 27:52 - Solutions for Authentic Fellowship 30:30 - The Importance of Living the Gospel 32:27 - Celebrating Individual Experiences in Faith 34:57 - Keeping the Fire of Faith Alive 36:41 - Feedback and Impact of the Book The award-winning Leading Saints Podcast is one of the top independent Latter-day Saints podcasts as part of nonprofit Leading Saints' mission to help Latter-day Saints be better prepared to lead. Learn more and listen to any of the past episodes for free at LeadingSaints.org. Past guests include Emily Belle Freeman, David Butler, Hank Smith, John Bytheway, Reyna and Elena Aburto, Liz Wiseman, Stephen M. R. Covey, Elder Alvin F. Meredith III, Julie Beck, Brad Wilcox, Jody Moore, Tony Overbay, John H. Groberg, Elaine Dalton, Tad R. Callister, Lynn G. Robbins, J. Devn Cornish, Bonnie Oscarson, Dennis B. Neuenschwander, Kirby Heyborne, Taysom Hill Anthony Sweat, John Hilton III, Barbara Morgan Gardner, Blair Hodges, Whitney Johnson, Ryan Gottfredson, Greg McKeown, Ganel-Lyn Condie, Michael Goodman,