Podcasts about dear church

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  

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.

Rev. Dr. Jeremy Vaccaro | Modern Service | Revelation 2:1-7“To the angel of the church in Ephesus write:These are the words of him who holds the seven stars in his right hand and walks among the seven golden lampstands. 2 I know your deeds, your hard work and your perseverance. I know that you cannot tolerate wicked people, that you have tested those who claim to be apostles but are not, and have found them false. 3 You have persevered and have endured hardships for my name, and have not grown weary.4 Yet I hold this against you: You have forsaken the love you had at first. 5 Consider how far you have fallen! Repent and do the things you did at first. If you do not repent, I will come to you and remove your lampstand from its place. 6 But you have this in your favor: You hate the practices of the Nicolaitans, which I also hate.7 Whoever has ears, let them hear what the Spirit says to the churches. To the one who is victorious, I will give the right to eat from the tree of life, which is in the paradise of God.

Dr. Randy White | Modern Service | Revelation 1:9-20I, John, your brother and companion in the suffering and kingdom and patient endurance that are ours in Jesus, was on the island of Patmos because of the word of God and the testimony of Jesus. 10 On the Lord's Day I was in the Spirit, and I heard behind me a loud voice like a trumpet, 11 which said: “Write on a scroll what you see and send it to the seven churches: to Ephesus, Smyrna, Pergamum, Thyatira, Sardis, Philadelphia and Laodicea.”12 I turned around to see the voice that was speaking to me. And when I turned I saw seven golden lampstands, 13 and among the lampstands was someone like a son of man, dressed in a robe reaching down to his feet and with a golden sash around his chest. 14 The hair on his head was white like wool, as white as snow, and his eyes were like blazing fire. 15 His feet were like bronze glowing in a furnace, and his voice was like the sound of rushing waters. 16 In his right hand he held seven stars, and coming out of his mouth was a sharp, double-edged sword. His face was like the sun shining in all its brilliance.17 When I saw him, I fell at his feet as though dead. Then he placed his right hand on me and said: “Do not be afraid. I am the First and the Last. 18 I am the Living One; I was dead, and now look, I am alive for ever and ever! And I hold the keys of death and Hades.19 “Write, therefore, what you have seen, what is now and what will take place later. 20 The mystery of the seven stars that you saw in my right hand and of the seven golden lampstands is this: The seven stars are the angels of the seven churches, and the seven lampstands are the seven churches

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

The last time we were in Ephesians, we spent 2 weeks talking about what to put off and put on as we walk out the new us.In this message, Pastor Kevin will break down how we get to focus on how we walk.

Revelation / Dear Church, I love you | The Setting | Revelation 1:1-8 | Stevy York

In this powerful episode of Dear Church, Chris McCurley sits down with Drew Kizer, preaching minister at Ashville Road Church of Christ, to discuss the challenges and strength found in preaching through adversity. Drew shares how his 13-year battle with early onset Parkinson's Disease has shaped his faith, perspective, and preaching. With a B.A. in Bible and M.A. in New Testament from Freed-Hardeman University, Drew brings theological depth, vulnerability, and hope to the pulpit. He opens up about how chronic illness has refined his ministry, and how God continues to provide strength in the midst of weakness.   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 #DrewKizer #ChrisMcCurley #ChristianPodcast #PreachingThroughAdversity #FaithAndSuffering #ParkinsonsTestimony #AshvilleRoadChurch #PreacherEncouragement #GodsStrength #MinistryChallenges #BibleTeaching #ChronicIllnessAndFaith #SermonLife #MinistrySupport #NewTestamentTeaching #GospelMinistry #RippleOfLight #FromCaptivesToTheCross #ChurchPodcast