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In this episode of Dear Church, Chris McCurley sits down with Dr. Josh Ketchum and his son Austin Ketchum, co-authors of the book At His Table: Weekly Reflections for the Lord's Supper. Together, they explore the heart behind communion and why this weekly practice continues to be central to Christian worship. Their book offers 53 short reflections designed to help worshippers engage in the Lord's Supper with greater depth, gratitude, and spiritual renewal. As they explain, communion is a sacred tradition handed down from the early church (Acts 20:7), yet it can easily become routine. Their goal is to help Christians approach the table with fresh eyes and a renewed spirit. Whether you're a church leader looking for communion insights or a believer seeking richer moments at the table, this conversation will encourage you to remember, reflect, and be transformed each week. Check it out: https://a.co/d/5hrnjkx Connect with Us: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dearchurch_podcast/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61564673680147 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DearChurch Have a question? Email Chris at chris.mccurley@rippleoflight.com.
In this episode of Dear Church, Chris McCurley sits down with Clint Davison, Associate Minister at the Linder Road Church of Christ in Meridian, Idaho, to discuss the importance of young adult ministry in today's culture. Clint has served at Linder Road since 2006 and brings years of experience working with teens and young adults through his preaching, mission efforts, and speaking at retreats, camps, and lectureships across the country. He is a graduate of the Bear Valley Bible Institute and has done mission work in Ukraine and Guatemala. Clint shares practical insights on helping young adults stay connected to their faith, navigating life transitions, and building stronger bridges between generations within the church. Connect with Us: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dearchurch_podcast/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61564673680147 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DearChurch Website: https://www.rippleoflight.org/ ROL Facebook: http://facebook.com/rippleoflight ROL Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rippleoflight ROL YouTube: http://youtube.com/rippleoflight ROL Rumble: http://rumble.com/rippleoflight Have a question? Email Chris at chris.mccurley@rippleoflight.com. #DearChurchPodcast #YoungAdultMinistry #NextGeneration #Discipleship #ChurchGrowth #ChristianLeadership #FaithAfterHighSchool #LinderRoadChurchOfChrist #ChurchCommunity #ChristianPodcas
Rev. Dr. Jeremy Vaccaro | Modern Service | Revelation 3:7-137 “And to the angel of the church in Philadelphia write: ‘The words of the holy one, the true one, who has the key of David, who opens and no one will shut, who shuts and no one opens.8 “‘I know your works. Behold, I have set before you an open door, which no one is able to shut. I know that you have but little power, and yet you have kept my word and have not denied my name. 9 Behold, I will make those of the synagogue of Satan who say that they are Jews and are not, but lie—behold, I will make them come and bow down before your feet, and they will learn that I have loved you. 10 Because you have kept my word about patient endurance, I will keep you from the hour of trial that is coming on the whole world, to try those who dwell on the earth. 11 I am coming soon. Hold fast what you have, so that no one may seize your crown. 12 The one who conquers, I will make him a pillar in the temple of my God. Never shall he go out of it, and I will write on him the name of my God, and the name of the city of my God, the new Jerusalem, which comes down from my God out of heaven, and my own new name. 13 He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches.'
In this episode of Dear Church, Chris McCurley sits down with Dr. Steve Cloer to discuss the challenges, opportunities, and calling of urban ministry. Dr. Cloer serves as an Associate Professor of Ministry at Harding School of Theology, where he directs the Doctor of Ministry program and the Center for Church and City Engagement. His work focuses on helping congregations understand and participate in God's mission within urban contexts. Before transitioning to full-time teaching, Steve preached for 15 years at the historic Southside Church of Christ in Fort Worth, living and ministering in the heart of the city. His experience in diverse neighborhoods fuels his passion for racial reconciliation, community presence, and equipping churches to engage the city with wisdom and humility. This conversation explores what urban ministry looks like, why cities matter for the Kingdom, and how congregations can faithfully serve their communities. https://www.harding.edu/hst/church-city-engagement/ https://centerforchurchandcity.substack.com Connect with Us: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dearchurch_podcast/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61564673680147 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DearChurch Website: https://www.rippleoflight.org/ ROL Facebook: http://facebook.com/rippleoflight ROL Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rippleoflight ROL YouTube: http://youtube.com/rippleoflight ROL Rumble: http://rumble.com/rippleoflight Have a question? Email Chris at chris.mccurley@rippleoflight.com. #DearChurchPodcast #SpiritualWarfare #FaithInAction #ChristianLiving #RippleOfLight #ChurchOfChrist #ChristianPodcast #ArmorOfGod #FaithOverFear #SpiritualBattle
Rev. Dr. Jeremy Vaccaro | Modern Service | Revelation 3:1-6“To the angel of the church in Sardis write:These are the words of him who holds the seven spirits of God and the seven stars. I know your deeds; you have a reputation of being alive, but you are dead. 2 Wake up! Strengthen what remains and is about to die, for I have found your deeds unfinished in the sight of my God. 3 Remember, therefore, what you have received and heard; hold it fast, and repent. But if you do not wake up, I will come like a thief, and you will not know at what time I will come to you.4 Yet you have a few people in Sardis who have not soiled their clothes. They will walk with me, dressed in white, for they are worthy. 5 The one who is victorious will, like them, be dressed in white. I will never blot out the name of that person from the book of life, but will acknowledge that name before my Father and his angels. 6 Whoever has ears, let them hear what the Spirit says to the churches.
Jon Jo | Modern Service | Revelation 2:-18-2918 “To the angel of the church in Thyatira write:These are the words of the Son of God, whose eyes are like blazing fire and whose feet are like burnished bronze. 19 I know your deeds, your love and faith, your service and perseverance, and that you are now doing more than you did at first.20 Nevertheless, I have this against you: You tolerate that woman Jezebel, who calls herself a prophet. By her teaching she misleads my servants into sexual immorality and the eating of food sacrificed to idols. 21 I have given her time to repent of her immorality, but she is unwilling. 22 So I will cast her on a bed of suffering, and I will make those who commit adultery with her suffer intensely, unless they repent of her ways. 23 I will strike her children dead. Then all the churches will know that I am he who searches hearts and minds, and I will repay each of you according to your deeds.24 Now I say to the rest of you in Thyatira, to you who do not hold to her teaching and have not learned Satan's so-called deep secrets, ‘I will not impose any other burden on you, 25 except to hold on to what you have until I come.'26 To the one who is victorious and does my will to the end, I will give authority over the nations— 27 that one ‘will rule them with an iron scepter and will dash them to pieces like pottery' —just as I have received authority from my Father. 28 I will also give that one the morning star. 29 Whoever has ears, let them hear what the Spirit says to the churches.
In this episode of Dear Church, host Chris McCurley sits down with Chad Garrett, the Connections Minister at Walnut Street, to discuss the complex and often emotional topic of transgenderism. Together they approach the conversation with truth, grace, and compassion, exploring what Scripture says about identity, gender, and the image of God. This episode encourages Christians to respond with both biblical conviction and Christlike love, seeking to understand how to navigate this issue in today's culture while holding firm to God's design. Connect with Us: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dearchurch_podcast/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61564673680147 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DearChurch Website: https://www.rippleoflight.org/ ROL Facebook: http://facebook.com/rippleoflight ROL Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rippleoflight ROL YouTube: http://youtube.com/rippleoflight ROL Rumble: http://rumble.com/rippleoflight Have a question? Email Chris at chris.mccurley@rippleoflight.com. #DearChurchPodcast #SpiritualWarfare #FaithInAction #ChristianLiving #RippleOfLight #ChurchOfChrist #ChristianPodcast #ArmorOfGod #FaithOverFear #SpiritualBattle
Rev. Dr. Jeremy Vaccaro | Modern Service | Revelation 2:12-712 “To the angel of the church in Pergamum write:These are the words of him who has the sharp, double-edged sword. 13 I know where you live—where Satan has his throne. Yet you remain true to my name. You did not renounce your faith in me, not even in the days of Antipas, my faithful witness, who was put to death in your city—where Satan lives.14 Nevertheless, I have a few things against you: There are some among you who hold to the teaching of Balaam, who taught Balak to entice the Israelites to sin so that they ate food sacrificed to idols and committed sexual immorality. 15 Likewise, you also have those who hold to the teaching of the Nicolaitans. 16 Repent therefore! Otherwise, I will soon come to you and will fight against them with the sword of my mouth.17 Whoever has ears, let them hear what the Spirit says to the churches. To the one who is victorious, I will give some of the hidden manna. I will also give that person a white stone with a new name written on it, known only to the one who receives it.
Rev. Dr. Jeremy Vaccaro | Modern Service | Revelation 2:8-118 To the angel of the church in Smyrna write:These are the words of him who is the First and the Last, who died and came to life again. 9 I know your afflictions and your poverty—yet you are rich! I know about the slander of those who say they are Jews and are not, but are a synagogue of Satan. 10 Do not be afraid of what you are about to suffer. I tell you, the devil will put some of you in prison to test you, and you will suffer persecution for ten days. Be faithful, even to the point of death, and I will give you life as your victor's crown.11 Whoever has ears, let them hear what the Spirit says to the churches. The one who is victorious will not be hurt at all by the second death.
In this episode of Dear Church, Chris talks with Blair Schroeder, Chief Strategy Officer at Abilene Christian University, about the future of Christian higher education. They explore why students should consider a Christian university, what makes ACU unique, and the role faith plays in shaping academic and personal growth. Blair brings extensive experience in higher education leadership, strategy, and community engagement, offering valuable insights into how Christian colleges can prepare the next generation of leaders while staying true to their mission and values. Connect with Us: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dearchurch_podcast/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61564673680147 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DearChurch Website: https://www.rippleoflight.org/ ROL Facebook: http://facebook.com/rippleoflight ROL Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rippleoflight ROL YouTube: http://youtube.com/rippleoflight ROL Rumble: http://rumble.com/rippleoflight Have a question? Email Chris at chris.mccurley@rippleoflight.com.
In this episode of Dear Church, Chris sits down with Will Norrid to explore the beautiful, unified story of Scripture. From Genesis to Revelation, the Bible weaves together one powerful narrative that points us to God's plan for humanity. Will, who has served in full-time ministry for over twenty years with the Lebanon Church of Christ in Dresden, TN, brings a deep love for storytelling, teaching, and helping others see how the entire Bible connects as one. His background in ministry, writing, and teaching has shaped his passion for showing how God's Word continues to transform lives today. Connect with Us: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dearchurch_podcast/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61564673680147 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DearChurch Website: https://www.rippleoflight.org/ ROL Facebook: http://facebook.com/rippleoflight ROL Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rippleoflight ROL YouTube: http://youtube.com/rippleoflight ROL Rumble: http://rumble.com/rippleoflight Have a question? Email Chris at chris.mccurley@rippleoflight.com.
In this episode of Dear Church, Chris talks with Landon Talley, an up-and-coming country singer and songwriter who is chasing his passion for music. Together, they explore the intersection of faith and country music, the challenges of pursuing a dream, and the importance of holding onto God while navigating the music industry. Landon shares how faith shapes his journey, inspires his songs, and gives meaning to his pursuit of success. Connect with Us: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dearchurch_podcast/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61564673680147 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DearChurch Website: https://www.rippleoflight.org/ ROL Facebook: http://facebook.com/rippleoflight ROL Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rippleoflight ROL YouTube: http://youtube.com/rippleoflight ROL Rumble: http://rumble.com/rippleoflight Have a question? Email Chris at chris.mccurley@rippleoflight.com.
Dear Church: Revelation 4 | The Throne, The Crown, The Lamb | Benji Horning
It's been a minute, but I'm back on the mic. This one? Whew. I'm talking BeGratitudes, messy church clips, decolonizing faith, and why, after all the drama, we still gotta love anyway. Listen to 'Dear Church, It's Me Tracy - Pt. 1'Love, Truth & No Filters'.
In this episode of Dear Church, Chris sits down with Jeremy Weekley, preaching minister at the West End Church of Christ in Knoxville, TN, and co-host of the Not Just Sundays podcast. Together, they dive into the biblical role of shepherds (elders) in the church and what it truly means to shepherd God's people. They discuss the heart of leadership, the responsibilities of elders, and how shepherding strengthens the church family. Connect with Us: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dearchurch_podcast/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61564673680147 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DearChurch Website: https://www.rippleoflight.org/ ROL Facebook: http://facebook.com/rippleoflight ROL Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rippleoflight ROL YouTube: http://youtube.com/rippleoflight ROL Rumble: http://rumble.com/rippleoflight Have a question? Email Chris at chris.mccurley@rippleoflight.com. #DearChurchPodcast #ShepherdingTheSheep #ChurchLeadership #EldersInTheChurch #SpiritualLeadership #ChristianPodcast #ChurchMinistry #FaithAndLeadership #BiblicalTeaching #Discipleship #ChurchOfChrist #ChristianLiving #PastoralCare #FaithPodcast #ChristianCommunity
Dear Church: SARDIS | Revelation 3:1-6 | Benji Horning
In this episode of Dear Church, Chris talks with JD Schwartz, youth minister at Graymere Church of Christ, about one of the most important questions parents and ministers face: When is a young person ready for baptism? Together they discuss how to discern spiritual readiness, the role of parents in guiding their children, and why rushing or delaying baptism can both bring challenges. Drawing from JD's decades of experience working with teens and families, this conversation offers wisdom and encouragement for anyone navigating this crucial step of faith. Connect with Us: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dearchurch_podcast/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61564673680147 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DearChurch Website: https://www.rippleoflight.org/ ROL Facebook: http://facebook.com/rippleoflight ROL Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rippleoflight ROL YouTube: http://youtube.com/rippleoflight ROL Rumble: http://rumble.com/rippleoflight Have a question? Email Chris at chris.mccurley@rippleoflight.com. #DearChurchPodcast #JDSchwartz #YouthMinistry #Baptism #FaithDecisions #ChristianPodcast #ParentingAndFaith #RaisingFaithfulKids #ChurchOfChrist #ChristianLiving #YouthFaith #FaithJourney #ChristianParents #Discipleship #TeenFaith
Sabbatical Recap: Benji Horning | Dear Church: Letter to Laodicea | Revelation 3:14-22 | Nate Gushwa
In this episode of Dear Church, Chris sits down with Zane Perkins, longtime minister, missionary, and counselor, to talk about Living in Harmony. Zane shares how a Christ-centered perspective and healthy communication can strengthen your home, workplace, and relationships. Drawing from years of ministry experience in Chile and his work with Sunset International Bible Institute, Zane unpacks practical tools for navigating conflict, embracing different perspectives, and building deeper connections that reflect the love of Christ. Connect with Us: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dearchurch_podcast/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61564673680147 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DearChurch Website: https://www.rippleoflight.org/ ROL Facebook: http://facebook.com/rippleoflight ROL Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rippleoflight ROL YouTube: http://youtube.com/rippleoflight ROL Rumble: http://rumble.com/rippleoflight Have a question? Email Chris at chris.mccurley@rippleoflight.com.
Dear Church: Letter to Philadelphia | Revelation 3:7-13 | Bill Dogterom
In this episode of Dear Church, Chris talks with Margaret Cole about her work with Care Net, a pregnancy resource center in Dickson County. They discuss the vital role CareNet plays in supporting women, families, and the community through compassionate care, resources, and faith-driven guidance. Margaret shares how her ministry experience helps her walk alongside those in need and how the church can be a greater partner in this important mission. Connect with Us: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dearchurch_podcast/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61564673680147 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DearChurch Website: https://www.rippleoflight.org/ ROL Facebook: http://facebook.com/rippleoflight ROL Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rippleoflight ROL YouTube: http://youtube.com/rippleoflight ROL Rumble: http://rumble.com/rippleoflight Have a question? Email Chris at chris.mccurley@rippleoflight.com. #DearChurchPodcast #CareNet #PregnancyResourceCenter #FaithInAction #ChristianService #ChurchOutreach #ProLifeMinistry #FaithAndCommunity #ChristianPodcast #ServingOthers #ChurchMinistry #ChristianLiving #FaithJourney #MinistryWork #ServingWithLove
Dear Church: Letter to Thyatira | Revelation 2:18-29 | Rob Chifokoyo
Jack Story and Nick Wolf—two experienced financial advisers—join Chris to talk about how ministers can prepare for retirement, the unique financial challenges they face, and what churches should consider when supporting their ministers long-term. Connect with Us: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dearchurch_podcast/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61564673680147 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DearChurch Website: https://www.rippleoflight.org/ ROL Facebook: http://facebook.com/rippleoflight ROL Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rippleoflight ROL YouTube: http://youtube.com/rippleoflight ROL Rumble: http://rumble.com/rippleoflight Have a question? Email Chris at chris.mccurley@rippleoflight.com. #DearChurch #MinisterRetirement #ChristianFinance #ChurchLeadership #PastorCare #FinancialPlanning #RetirementPlanning #JackStory #NickWolf #ChrisMcCurley #RippleOfLight
Dear Church: Letter to Pergamum | Revelation 2:12-17 | Stevy York
In this episode of Dear Church, Chris McCurley is joined by Lee Snow, minister at the Warm Springs Road Church of Christ in Columbus, GA. Together they explore how ministers can wisely and effectively navigate social media. From outreach opportunities to the challenges of staying authentic online, Lee—who also creates comedic content—shares his experience in using digital platforms to both laugh and connect. This episode offers practical insight for any church leader looking to engage culture while keeping the Gospel central. Connect with Us: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dearchurch_podcast/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61564673680147 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DearChurch Website: https://www.rippleoflight.org/ ROL Facebook: http://facebook.com/rippleoflight ROL Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rippleoflight ROL YouTube: http://youtube.com/rippleoflight ROL Rumble: http://rumble.com/rippleoflight Have a question? Email Chris at chris.mccurley@rippleoflight.com. #DearChurch #ChrisMcCurley #LeeSnow #ChurchOnline #ChristianContent #MinisterLife #SocialMediaMinistry #FaithOnline #ChurchLeadership #ChristianInfluencer
Dear Church: Letter to Smyrna | Revelation 2:8-11 | Stevy York
Have you ever ran out of gas before? You thought you had enough to make it to your destination but not quite.In this message, Pastor Kevin will walk us through running on fumes in our lives.
In this episode of Dear Church, Chris McCurley sits down with Chris Webb, an experienced insurance agent, to discuss the often-overlooked topic of insurance options for ministers. From health and life insurance to retirement planning and church-provided benefits, this conversation highlights what ministers and church leaders need to know about taking care of those who serve. Whether you're in ministry or helping lead a congregation, this episode offers valuable insight into supporting ministers with practical, long-term care. Connect with Us: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dearchurch_podcast/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61564673680147 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DearChurch Website: https://www.rippleoflight.org/ ROL Facebook: http://facebook.com/rippleoflight ROL Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rippleoflight ROL YouTube: http://youtube.com/rippleoflight ROL Rumble: http://rumble.com/rippleoflight Have a question? Email Chris at chris.mccurley@rippleoflight.com. #DearChurch #ChrisMcCurley #MinisterSupport #ChurchLeadership #MinistryLife #MinisterBenefits #InsuranceForMinisters #ChurchFinance #ChristianMinistry #FaithAndFinances
Dear Church: Letter to Ephesus | Revelation 2:1-7 | Rob Chifokoyo
Last week we started talking about how we walk. We are walking in love, light and to walk in wisdom.In this message we get to take a look further into Ephesians 5. We try to fill our lives with wine, with escapes, with lesser things, when God is offering living water. What are you full of? What have you been running to?
Revelation 3:1-6
Revelation / Dear Church, I love you | The Setting | Revelation 1:1-8 | Stevy York